CPD Mission & Goals

Continuing Professional Development Mission Statement

To promote excellence in palliative care by enhancing the competencies of palliative medicine specialists and other physicians interested in palliative care, through effective, needs-based continuing professional development initiatives, enhanced by patient and community contributions that align with the overall vision of the Canadian Society of Palliative Medicine.

Target Audience:

  • All members of CSPM.
  • All palliative medicine specialists and physicians interested in palliative medicine.
  • Any physician wishing to update or further his or her knowledge in the field of palliative medicine.

Measurable Educational Goals:

During its cycle as an accredited CPD Provider, the CSPM will:

  • assess the perceived and unperceived CPD needs of CSPM members and other target audiences at least twice per accreditation cycle.
  • create at least 7 educational activities consistent with identified needs with special attention to competencies needed for improved patient outcomes beyond the Medical Expert Role (CanMEDS).
  • continue to partner with other organizations to create educational opportunities where palliative care intersects with other specialties.
  • offer a variety of educational programming to reach different target audiences including group learning activities self-assessment activities and self-directed activities.
  • co-develop accredited CPD activities in compliance with the Royal College and CFPC standards, along with the National Standard for Support of Accredited CPD Activities.
  • evaluate the effectiveness of our educational programming and its impact on participants’ practice of palliative care at least twice per cycle.
  • engage in continuous quality improvement projects to address any gaps identified in the CSPM’s CPD program at least twice per cycle.

The CSPM accesses a diversity of patient and community contributions through the following initiatives:

  1. Case Studies and Clinical Examples: Detailed case studies of patients who have undergone palliative care can illustrate the progression of various conditions, the effectiveness of different interventions, and the nuances of managing symptoms and providing comfort.
  2. Patient and Family Narratives: The stories and experiences of patients and their families, documented before death, can offer a profound understanding of the emotional, psychological, and practical aspects of end-of-life care. These narratives can be used to teach medical professionals about the importance of empathy, communication, and the impact of care decisions on patients and their loved ones.
  3. Posthumous Contributions: In some cases, patients may leave behind written reflections, journals, or recorded messages about their experiences and preferences. These materials can be used to educate healthcare providers about patient perspectives and the significance of respecting individual wishes and autonomy.
  4. Ethical and Moral Discussions: The care of dying patients raises important ethical and moral questions. Analyzing these scenarios helps medical professionals grapple with issues such as consent, quality of life, and the balance between extending life and ensuring comfort. Discussions around these cases can deepen understanding of ethical principles in palliative care.
  5. Quality Improvement Initiatives: The review of patient outcomes and experiences can lead to improvements in palliative care practices. By examining what worked well and what didn’t in previous cases, healthcare providers can develop better protocols and strategies for future care.