Journal of CME (07/14/24) McMahon, Graham T.; Alnasser, Manal; Alzouman, Haya; et al.

The continuing professional development (CPD) system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has expanded significantly in the past 20 years. Between 2002 and 2022, the number of CPD accredited activities produced in the KSA and approved by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) increased from 1,000 to 10,500. To achieve this, the health professions regulatory agency conducted an audit of its CPD accreditation system, reviewed internationally recognized CPD accreditation criteria, adopted new standards, and then trained its staff and community about them. Other steps taken include offering programs and grants to support healthcare educators and researchers who participate in CPD, recruiting new staff, and introducing an updated IT system. Nearly 200 educators have since participated in programs about effective CPD methods, and the new standards — which align with best practices outlined by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education — have prompted 396 providers to seek accreditation. "With leadership support, regulatory evolution to align with best practices supports healthcare educators and effectively expands of the diversity and quality of CPD," the researchers write.

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