The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program is being revised and the new program will take effect April 1, 2011. The new streamlined program is based on feedback from its members to simplify the documentation process and focus on essential elements that support reflection on learning and the identification of learning outcomes for practice. The new framework of CPD is structured into three sections: Group learning, self learning and practice assessment. This framework will reduce the complexity of the program and support the integration of medical education research findings to align with learning strategies that have an impact on knowledge, clinical behaviour and patient outcomes. The self-learning section will include a broader range of learning activities and simulation is being recognized as an important learning strategy in the practice assessment section. The MAINPORT website is also being revised to make it easier to enter and track learning outcomes and the use of hand-held devices linked to MAINPORT is actively being explored to support continuing professional development.
In addition, the Royal College has created a regional continuing professional development support network. Twelve regional Continuing Professional Development Educators across Canada have been appointed to enhance Fellows’ understanding about upcoming changes to the MOC program and support life-long learning across all the sections of the MOC program. Working in collaboration with the regional advisory committees and other regional and national CPD organizations, the CPD Educator will be responsible to identify and develop educational strategies to address the lifelong learning needs of Fellows and CPD participants, and serve as a facilitator of workshops or other educational activities on topics described above. The initial CPD workshops will focus on educating Fellows and CPD participants on how the new CPD framework and MAINPORT can support and promote lifelong learning linked to professional practice. If you are interested in exploring or arranging a workshop for your hospital, region or organization, please contact Mrs. Ines Martin, Regional Education Coordinator, at imartin@royalcollege.ca or 1-800-668-3740 ext. 559.