The World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) is thrilled to announce the development of a ground-breaking global recognition programme for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) accrediting agencies. Building on its long-standing commitment to uphold high standards in medical education, WFME aims to extend its reach to enhance CPD accreditation worldwide.

Since its inception in 1972, WFME has served as a pivotal platform for harmonising principles and standards across the entire spectrum of medical education. Following the successful implementation of a global recognition programme for basic medical education, which now recognises 47 agencies, WFME is setting a new benchmark in professional development for practising physicians.

CPD provides a robust framework for borderless education, adapting to diverse learning formats—from live meetings and digital courses to quality improvement programmes. This initiative not only ensures that medical professionals remain at the forefront of scientific advancements but also promotes professional competency, team collaboration, and overall quality of care.

The role of CPD accrediting agencies is crucial in maintaining educational integrity, ensuring that programming is free from commercial bias, scientifically valid, balanced, and trustworthy. Such efforts are recognised and valued by licensing and certification authorities globally, affirming the necessity for doctors to stay updated in their respective fields.

In the forthcoming months, WFME will establish a Recognition Committee, finalise recognition criteria, and train staff. The WFME website will detail the application process for accrediting agencies seeking recognition and list the accrediting agencies that have achieved recognition.

This initiative is supported by the leadership of the International Academy of CPD Accreditation (IACPDA), which has been instrumental in developing the recognition criteria and instituting a peer-review process for quality improvement in CPD accreditation worldwide.

About WFME: Established in 1972, the World Federation for Medical Education is a non-governmental organisation dedicated to enhancing the quality of medical education globally. WFME promotes the highest scientific and ethical standards in medical education, impacting the training of medical doctors worldwide.

About IACPDA: Founded in 2013, the International Academy for Continuing Professional Development Accreditation is a collaborative network aimed at promoting and enhancing CPD and Continuing Medical Education (CME) accreditation systems across the globe. IACPDA serves as a vital resource for leaders in CPD/CME accreditation, providing a forum for networking and discussion on key issues in professional education.

For more information, please contact us at accreditation@wfme.org  or visit www.wfme.org/recognition/.