CONTINUOUS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS - ANALYSIS OF THE CURRENT STATE

Area of Science:

• Medical Education and Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• Continuous medical education (CME) is essential for motivated professional development among healthcare professionals, adapting to technological and societal changes.
• Effective CME requires stakeholder collaboration, high-quality programs, a strong legislative framework, and a supportive motivational environment for professionals and employers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the evolution and significance of CME in Georgia's healthcare system.
• To highlight the impact of new CME regulations implemented in 2018 on professional development and healthcare quality.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the legislative framework and ministerial orders governing CME in Georgia.
• Review of the implementation of new CME forms, accreditation procedures, and criteria established in 2018.
• Assessment of the challenges posed by the invalidation of previous orders on CME.

Main Results:

• Georgia initiated a new phase of CME for medical staff in 2018 with approved forms, accreditation procedures, and criteria.
• The invalidation of previous orders created difficulties for continuing professional development (CPD) as a mechanism.
• New regulations aim to enhance professional preparedness and competency of the health workforce.

Conclusions:

• Effective CME is crucial for Georgia's healthcare system to achieve sustainable development goals and meet population health needs.
• The 2018 CME reforms are pivotal for improving the quality and evaluation of continuous professional development.
• Strengthening the legislative and motivational aspects of CME is vital for healthcare professionals and employers.