Virtual CME Compliance Guidelines: An Update
Update: 9/3/2020
Back in June 2020, I posted a blog article about the differences between a Live Internet Activity and Instructional Media. The article is correct and I have no changes to that information.
However, I do have a bit of clarity now that the entire continuing education industry has been thrown into full-on virtual events and CME’s only available online.
One question that has remained in my mind and I’ve been unable to answer is –
If we live stream a lecture, or a session, can we record the session and offer credits for those that view it on demand?
The confusion is because CPME document 720 clearly differentiates between a live broadcast of a lecture and a recorded, on-demand lecture. So, can a live-streamed lecture be repurposed for on-demand viewing and credits?
My answer is yes. If you live stream a lecture for credits and record it to offer on-demand, you may offer both options for credits as long as you follow these guidelines.
To get credits for watching the live stream (live internet activity), the attendee must complete a post-event evaluation (survey) as well as an attendance verification during the event (one every 4 hours). Attendance verifications can be in the form of platform reporting with sign-in and sign-out time stamps, a poll, Q&A or chat, as long as it is reported formally by the provider.
To get credits for watching a recording on-demand (instructional media), the attendee must complete a post-event evaluation (survey) as well as complete and pass a post-assessment (quiz of material). This option does not require attendance verification as the quiz serves as evidence the attendee watched and comprehended the information presented.
Keep in mind, I’m a consultant and I work with organizations to help them remain compliant with CPME guidelines, as well as to help bring them into compliance if they are on probation or in danger of being on probation. I am NOT an approved provider.
I’m making these claims based on my discussions with several approved providers who are facing this challenge, my knowledge of document 720, and my observations of what is being done in the industry. I’ve seen several prominent providers record their live lectures and make them available on-demand for credits.
Don’t forget – your material needs to be reviewed and updated as often as necessary, at least every 3 years.
These are unprecedented times. None of us could have anticipated being thrown into a world where all credits have to be earned online for the foreseeable future. I’m sure CPME will release further guidance as we work through this challenge together.
It’s important now, more than ever, to lean on each other, give and share ideas and advice. There is room for every single podiatric meeting and every provider. Share what is working for you and how you interpret the CPME guidelines. We’re all in this together, right?
All that being said, I can’t wait to see you all in person again. Nothing compares to the educational experience provided by a live, in-person event.
<< View the October 2019 version of document 720 here >>
<< View Instructional Media vs. Live Activity communication here >>
If you are interested in sharing your ideas and working collaboratively with other podiatric meeting planners, I moderate a FaceBook group created just for that purpose. Join me over here in the Podiatry Meeting Planner FaceBook Group. << Click here >>
The information provided by Clover Conferences, LLC or Ann Dosen on www.cloverconferences.com or via email is for general informational purposes only. All information is provided in good faith, however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information we provide. Basically, we are not responsible if you take our advice and it doesn’t go well for you.
