On 13 November 2019, the Medical Board of Australia (the Medical Board) released a
public consultation paper on its proposed revised
CPD Registration standard which would make changes to continuing professional development (CPD).
The Medical Board stated that with regards to CPD, the ‘goal [was] to extract more value from existing CPD programs and encourage development and innovation.’
Ninety-nine submissions were received and made public, including from individual doctors, specialist medical colleges, medical insurers, doctor representative organisations, and other relevant stakeholders.
The EAG recommended “a strengthened system of CPD that is robust, evidence-based, flexible to meet future needs and clearly linked to patient safety and improved performance.” The CPD Advisory Group further provided input on principles for CPD homes and high-level requirements for CPD programs.
As a result, medical colleges were approved as CPD homes effective 1 January 2023, with a number of non-college homes accredited shortly thereafter. CPD Australia is now the 21st CPD home to be approved and the 5th non-college home.
Ultimately, the driver for the changes to CPD requirements and introduction of CPD homes is ensure accessible, high-quality professional development that enhances patient care and supports practitioner growth.
