Continuous Quality Improvement Learning

The AAFP encourages CME based on continuous quality improvement (CQI) learning cycles that focus on the performance needs of physicians in practice settings. The learning cycle should include four phases:

1) a pre-activity assessment of the physician learner's knowledge, attitudes, and/or skills;

2) appropriate CME activity(s) / material(s) that establish benchmark standards;

3) a specific action plan by physician learners, e.g., patient record review, to evaluate treatment deficiency and make necessary corrections; and,

4) a post-CME activity assessment of the physician learner's knowledge, attitudes, and/or skills, which may involve long-range follow-up with physician learners to evaluate impact over time. CME providers must provide the methodology used to determine the actual amount of time the physician learner spends in all the phases of the CQI cycle, including such activities as patient record review, so that CME credits may be designated appropriately.