We utilize novel Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to deliver free and high-quality continuing medical education (CME) content to doctors and nurses working in resource-constrained regions. The project called, Continuing Medical Education on Stick (CMES) delivers the CME via thumb drives or a Raspberry-Pi, a computer the size of your hand, and smartphone apps. The CME content, available in English, French, and Spanish, covers Emergency Medicine (EM) and Primary Care (PC) topics.
Medical practitioners in resource-challenged countries lack updated continuing medical education (CME), not from lack of initiative but due to complex financial and infrastructure constraints. The main challenges to CME utilization are; lack of travel funds or for the purchase of CME programs; lack of mentors to inspire continuing medical education after graduation; and lack of reliable electricity and internet infrastructure for online CME.
Our low-cost, novel solutions enable the practitioners working in resource-constrained regions to access up-to-date CME content without travel or continuous Internet connectivity. They simply need a charged device to listen or read using thumb drives or smartphone apps.
Provided with quality CME access, these practitioners improve their knowledge, skills, confidence, and performance which translates into improved patient care and health outcomes.
