Fred Wilson

The continuing medical education community lost one of its leaders with the passing in October of Frederic S. Wilson. Wilson, who was 65, died of complications from stem cell transplant surgery for leukemia and multiple sclerosis.

Wilson was a familiar face and voice at CME conferences, and his thoughts informed many articles in this magazine. He retired last January from his position as director of medical education for the ethical drug division of Procter and Gamble Pharmaceuticals. His 39-year career in industry included being a vocal advocate for pharma’s role in ethical CME. His views were summed up in "Ethical Collaboration in Continuing Medical Education," published in 2003 in Clinical Orthopedics and Related Research:

"Collaboration between the pharmaceutical industry and CME providers can be expected to continue to produce educational activities and materials that enhance physicians ability to care for patients, without undue influence; that is, to not influence prescribers in any way less than the best interest of the patient."

Wilson also was an affiliate of the American Medical Association, and he served on the boards of directors of the American Osteopathic Family Physicians Foundation and The Global Alliance for CME. He also chaired the American Medical Associations Taskforce on Provider Industry Collaboration for several years.

Wilson leaves his wife of 37 years, Judith, six children, and nine grandchildren. He also leaves behind a legacy of advocacy and a CME community that many believe is richer for his having been a part of it.