GlaxoSmithKline recently joined Pfizer in changing its continuing medical education granting process to eliminate medical education and communication companies as prospective grantees. In a press release on September 21, the company said that, beginning in 2010, it will be implementing new standards for its CME granting process that “will raise the bar and fund only independent medical education programs that are clearly designed to close gaps in patient care, and that demonstrate support for the optimal performance of healthcare professionals.”

This also means that the number of grants it is providing will shrink, and the number of potential grantees will be limited to 20 providers who will be selected based on a “documented track record of developing and delivering high-quality medical education programs that have a measurable impact on improved patient health.” The amount of each grant will depend on the quality, scope, and complexity involved in closing the clinical gap the provider identifies. In addition to a well-documented needs assessment and clear learning objectives, the proposals also must include plans to assess the impact of the program on professional competence, performance, and patient health.

The 20 or so providers who will be invited to apply will include accredited academic medical centers and their affiliated teaching and patient care institutions, and national-level professional medical associations. According to the press release, MECCs need not apply, effective immediately.

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