CLEAR

New opioid therapy e-learning program for healthcare professionals

The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada has launched a case-based e-learning program for healthcare professionals on the topic of opioid therapy. "The program was developed based on a needs assessment of medical and surgical specialists who identified a number of recurring, complex issues that they face when managing or prescribing opioids for patients with acute or chronic pain." The course focuses on screening practices, identifying patients at risk of harm, ongoing monitoring, and determining how to discontinue or taper opioids appropriately.

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Rhode Island medical board makes changes to CME audit

The Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline has partnered with the American Academy of Family Physicians to allow AAFP members to be exempted from the biennial continuing medical education 9CME) audit for license renewals. This is a first-of-its-kind collaboration, intended to reduce the burden on physicians and also make the Board's audit process more efficient. AAFP will report to the Board physicians that are compliant with CME requirements.

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UK: revalidation of nurses and midwives has positive impact

The Nursing and Midwifery Council in the UK commissioned an independent evaluation of the revalidation program. About two-thirds of nurses and midwives have revalidated with the NMC, and the recent report shows positive attitudes towards the process and a feeling of improved quality of practice. The recent evaluation suggests that revalidation is "encouraging nurses and midwives to analyse the care they give by reflecting on their practice and seeking feedback from colleagues, patients and service users. Reflective practice in particular is viewed as a likely driving force behind changing attitudes and behaviours among nurses and midwives."

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Australia: ACT to require test for builder license renewal

The ACT Government, starting in 2019, will put in place new testing requirements for builders to renew their licenses. Up to 20% of license renewal applicants will need to pass an exam to prove up-to-date skills and technical knowledge, particularly those who have been the subject of complaints or building quality issues. Applicants will have only two attempts to pass the exam. The test requirement will also be in place for those applying for a Class A, B, or C license for the first time. The changes come in response to an increase in complaints about building defects, particularly related to apartment buildings.

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American Nurses Association launches next-gen learning experience

The American Nurses Association, responsible for continuing education and professional development of registered nurses, has launched a next-gen learning experience platform based on the latest principles of brain-based science. Constant changes in the healthcare industry necessitate continuous learning, but reports have indicated that only 57%of registered nurses are involved, excited and engaged in their work. In order to improve engagement, the ANA has created a learning environment "where learners want to be, where they can see the value of their participation and get feedback, and create a sense of community that brings learners together." Key elements of the new program include content delivered in short bursts, coursework that ties in with a learner's experience and social networks, online discussion boards for connectedness with peers, and supplementary videos and articles for in-depth knowledge.

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Update: Philippines to review CPD law

The Professional Regulation Commission has announced that it will review the operational guidelines of the new Continuing Professional Development law in response to a growing number of complaints. CPD Councils from some of the 43 regulated professions have already made adjustments to make CPD more accessible and affordable. A grace period for complying with the new requirements had already been established. Complaints against the new law relate to the added cost to practitioners to undergo CPD training and activities.

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New position statement on nurse fatigue

The American Academy of Nursing has released a position statement promoting emphasis on sleep health for nurses, given the damaging effect long and irregular shifts can have on the natural sleep cycle and thus nurses' ability to function in the delivery of patient care. The statement recommends self-education about the health risks on long shift hours, the establishment of work policies and practices that promote sleep health, and the development of continuing education courses related to workplace interventions to promote sleep health and alertness.

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National Occupational Licensing Database launched

The National Conference of State Legislatures, National Governors Association Center for Best Practices, and Council of State Governments have launched the National Occupational Licensing Database, allowing users to compare licensing data between states for 34 licensed occupations. The partners selected the specific occupations based on interest to policymakers, with projected growth and occupations not needing post-secondary education as part of the criteria. The database includes information on each occupation, such as training requirements, continuing education requirements, cost of licensure and renewal, examination requirements, restrictions for criminal records, interstate licensure recognition, etc.

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ABMS Continuing Certification Directory

The American Board of Medical Specialties has launched a new Continuing Certification Directory to replace the former Maintenance of Certification Directory. The Directory indexes over 600 continuing education activities from over 60 continuing medical education providers. According to ABMS President Richard Hawkins, "The Directory offers a single platform for Board Certified physicians to obtain high-quality, CME activities that cover multiple specialties. Its updated search and navigation capabilities will greatly improve the user experience for diplomates as well as provide CME providers access to additional continuing certification information and resources."

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Great Britain: pharmacist revalidation implementation

The General Pharmaceutical Council has approved a framework for revalidation and developed a timeline for phasing it in throughout 2018 and 2019. Renewal requirements for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians will now include four continuing professional development activities as well as two new requirements - a peer discussion and a reflective account. Beginning February 2018, registrants will receive tailored information and guidance on the requirements. An online portal for revalidation records will be available in March 2018. Registrants whose license expires in 2018 will need to submit four CPD records, and those with licenses expiring in 2019 will need to submit the new requirements.

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