Continuing education via telemedicine: analysis of reasons for attending or not attending

This study analyzed factors that influence the decision to attend or not attend tele-education broadcasts via a telemedicine network for continuing education (CE) credits. A questionnaire was developed and sent to all participating sites on our telemedicine network that have attended CE broadcasts. The majority of respondents attend specific types of broadcasts, receiving less than 25% of their CE credits from the tele-education broadcasts. Factors most influencing the decision to attend a broadcast include interest in the topic and perceived utility of the information. The most common reason influencing the decision not to attend is an explicit preference for attending conferences. Tele-education broadcasts may supplement other CE activities but may not replace them. The attraction of attending conferences in person is very high and may be especially so for health-care professionals in rural environments.