A gap identified through an objective assessment of a physician's practice can differ significantly from the physician's perception. Identification of this gap in knowledge motivates physicians to use effective educational activities according to their self-defined needs. The profession must provide the means by which individual physicians can satisfy their defined educational needs using their preferred learning methods. Such a system should not be confused with current risk-management techniques mandated for a small proportion of physicians identified by the licensing authorities. Rather, it applies to the whole profession and can be viewed as a mechanism that, if instituted early in a physician's career, might avoid the need for disciplinary action.
Individual physicians are responsible for maintaining their professional competence.
Since learning styles may vary, participation in a particular educational activity should be voluntary. It is believed that a model for maintaining competence can be adapted to the specific requirements of the many types of medical practice in Canada. CMA's role To build consensus by drawing various medical constituencies together not presuming upon their roles and responsibilities. To develop positive expectations by emphasizing that maintenance of competence is facilitative not punitive. To stimulate research and development of the components of maintenance of competence.