Commitments, learning contracts, and seminars in hospital-based CME: Change in knowledge and behavior

This study examines implementation of learning contracts in the continuing education program of a community hospital. Focused topics included: (1) use of Minoxidil 2% topical solution in the treatment of male-pattern baldness, (2) the management of acute myocardial infarction, (3) new strategies in the treatment of congestive heart failure, (4) management of asthma, (5) evaluation of the dizzy patient, and (6) treatment of sinusitis and nasal obstruction. Physicians were asked to commit to pretests and posttests of knowledge, attendance at seminars, and complete follow-up tests and surveys. Results indicate lasting gains in knowledge and behavioral changes in patient care. The skill and influence of directors of medical education, the quality of needs assessment, the power of commitments from physicians, and the design of educational opportunities are factors that should be carefully considered by community hospitals as they move toward implementation and expansion of continuing medical education programs.