Institutional subsidization of medical-school based continuing medical education

The changing financial structure of health care is prompting review of medical school resources allocated to CME units. This study examined the types of subsidization provided to CME by medical schools and the methods of allocation of CME revenue within medical schools. Data are presented for 21 medical schools from different geographic areas of the United States. Medical schools often provide appreciable financial support to CME offices, particularly office space, faculty time, and space for CME meetings. However, the amount of support varies greatly from school to school. Revenue distribution arrangements also vary. Medical schools can use the description of arrangements at other schools in reviewing the appropriateness of their own current arrangements.