Continuing Medical Education (CME) requirements for physicians are essential for maintaining medical licenses, certifications, and staying updated on advancements in medicine. The specifics vary depending on state medical boards, specialty boards, and professional organizations.

1. State Licensing Boards:

• Most states require physicians to earn 20-50 CME credits annually or biennially to renew their medical licenses.
• Some states mandate training on specific topics such as opioid management, ethics, cultural competency, or patient safety.

2. Specialty Board Certification:

• Physicians certified by organizations like the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) must meet Maintenance of Certification (MOC) or Osteopathic Continuous Certification (OCC) requirements.
• These often include CME credits alongside other activities like self-assessments and periodic exams.

3. CME Credit Categories:

• Category 1 CME Credits: Typically required by most boards, these are earned through accredited activities like conferences, workshops, or online courses.
• Category 2 CME Credits: Include self-directed learning activities, such as reading medical journals or research.

4. Reporting and Documentation:

• Physicians are responsible for keeping records of their CME activities and reporting them to their licensing boards or certifying bodies as needed.

CME ensures physicians provide high-quality, evidence-based care while adhering to regulatory and professional standards. Always check your specific state and board requirements to stay compliant.