AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 33; Title 49; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to continuing medical education.
Impact
The bill's passage would simplify the process of compliance for many medical professionals, who may find it more convenient to take courses online rather than attending in-person lectures or workshops. By mandating that the board of medical examiners approve a minimum number of online courses each year, the legislation ensures that a viable option for completing these requirements is available, potentially increasing participation in continuing education programs among medical practitioners.
Summary
House Bill 2273 amends the Tennessee Code Annotated relating to continuing medical education for licensed medical practitioners. The bill allows individuals licensed to practice medicine in Tennessee to fulfill their continuing education requirements solely through online courses that are approved by the board of medical examiners. This represents a significant shift toward greater flexibility in the format through which medical professionals can maintain their education requirements, particularly in an increasingly digital world.
Contention
Notably, while the bill has been designed to modernize the approach to continuing medical education, there could be concerns about the effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional classroom settings. Some stakeholders may argue that in-person interactions and hands-on activities are an essential aspect of medical education that could be compromised by exclusively online courses. The potential for discussions and networking that occurs in face-to-face settings is also a point of contention, as proponents of traditional methods advocate for a balanced approach that incorporates various learning formats.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 33; Title 49; Title 53; Title 55; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to healthcare professions.