Follow the Money: The Unexpected Economics of CME

Is private equity's growing influence in continuing medical education changing the quality of learning in the health professions?

As a CME professional, you need to navigate an increasingly complex funding landscape where commercial support has dropped, and private equity firms are rapidly acquiring education providers. Understanding these shifts is crucial for developing sustainable, high-quality educational programs and navigating your way as a CME professional.

In this episode, we’ll explore:

1. How CME funding has evolved from primarily university-based to a complex mix of commercial support, registration fees, and private investment
2. Why private equity firms are acquiring CME providers and what this means for content development
3. Key strategies for maintaining educational quality and professional relationships in an environment of frequent mergers and acquisitions

Listen now to gain insights into the $4.23 billion CME industry's funding transformation and position yourself for success in this rapidly changing landscape.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction: The Art of Hustling Pool and CME

00:54 AI Bootcamp for Medical Writers

01:32 The Complex Financial Side of CME

02:06 Evolution of CME Funding

02:42 Pharmaceutical Influence and Regulations

05:47 The Impact of Compliance and Regulatory Codes

07:06 Current CME Funding Landscape

08:21 Private Equity in CME

10:48 Challenges and Questions for CME Professionals

12:08 Conclusion: Ensuring Educational Quality

Resources

• Ratnasekera A, Impact of private equity on graduate medical education: A slippery slope. Am J Surg. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjsurg.2024.116160
• ACCME's Standards for Integrity and Independence in Continuing Education (2020)
• ACCME Data Report. Thriving Through Growth and Innovation—2023.
• ACCME. Toolkit for the Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education

Mentioned in this episode:

Fall Back to School Sale

We're running a back-to-school sale September 2 through 12. Standalone CME writing toolkits, business kits, and quarterly WriteCME Pro membership — all at the best pricing we've offered this year. Everything's at www.alexhowson.com. Link's in the show notes.

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