GlaxoSmithKline to limit CME funding in USA

UK dug giant GlaxoSmithKline's US subsidiary has announced new standards for funding accredited, continuing medical education (CME) for health care professionals to ensure the programs result in improved patient health. Starting in 2010, GSK will raise the bar and fund only independent medical education programs that are clearly designed to close gaps in patient care, and that demonstrate support for the optimal performance of health care professionals, the company stated.

"GSK will not support as many medical education programs, but we will continue funding those with the greatest potential to improve patient health," said Deirdre Connelly, president North America Pharmaceuticals. "Continuing medical education offers health care professionals important information on disease prevention, diagnosis and management. Independent and balanced information on the latest discoveries about disease and treatment options helps healthcare professionals make higher quality decisions and achieve better patient health outcomes," she added.

The drugmaker says it will invite grant applications from around 20 medical education providers with a documented track record of developing and delivering high quality medical education programs that have a measurable impact on improved patient health. Potential grant applicants will be limited to academic medical centers and their affiliated teaching and patient care institutions, as well as national-level professional medical associations that represent healthcare professionals responsible for the delivery of patient care. All selected providers must be directly accredited by a recognized accrediting body.

GSK will no longer fund CME by commercial providers including medical education and communication companies under the policy which takes effect immediately, the company stressed.