Multistakeholder perspectives on the strengthening and embedding of mandatory continuing medical education in Georgia: a qualitative study

Objective: Continuing medical education (CME) is a vital component of health systems. Setting up a CME system is a complex task, requiring involvement of stakeholders including educators, learners, institutions and policy makers. The aim of the study was to conduct qualitative research involving multiple stakeholders to explore the perceived effectiveness and shortcomings of the CME system in Georgia, its place in the health system and potential means of improving it.

Design: This is a qualitative study. All data were collected using semistructured individual interviews. The questions were derived from the relevant literature. Data analysis was conducted using comparative strategy.

Participants: We interviewed individuals from CME providers, medical establishments, the professional development board (PDB), and the Regulatory Agency for Medical and Pharmaceutical Activities. We thus interviewed 23 people (11 people from CME providers, 8 people from medical establishments, 3 PDB members and 1 person from Legal Entity under Public Law Regulatory Agency for Medical and Pharmaceutical Activities).

Results: Georgia has had experience of mandatory CME in the past, which had been criticised for its poor quality and bureaucratic processes. CME is viewed as an essential developmental process for medical professionals, the outcome of which is to deliver high-quality medical care. Our interviewees identified a clear need for high-quality CME courses. However, significant challenges that need to be overcome include financial barriers, doctors' attitudes to CME, a lack of CME courses in all medical specialties and relatively weak professional associations.

Conclusion: CME is widely recognised as an essential pillar in providing quality medical care. Establishing high-quality CME requires a strategic and holistic approach. In order to ensure the sustainable and effective implementation of the CME process, we need to take into account stakeholders' interests and expectations, the socioeconomic status and development of the country, and past experiences of all relevant individuals and organisations.