Is mandatory continuing education working?

Abstract

Mandatory continuing education (MCE) has been implemented by the states as a means of strengthening the relicensure process by requiring all licensees to participate in certain amounts of continuing education (CE) in hopes that such participation would enhance their performance. After two decades this somewhat controversial method for relicensure is still being questioned though there is evidence that benefits are being derived from such requirements. Licensees who do not actively participate voluntarily in CE are most affected, and they are developing renewed interest in their professions. Research studies are proving that well-designed CE programs do change behavior. Many additional programs become available when MCE is implemented and MCE, also, is helping to focus attention on other ways to improve performance. Information has been drawn from 16 different professions, though this article focuses on the health professions where the MCE movement has slowed significantly.