PMDC to implement global CPD framework for dentists and doctors in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) is preparing to launch a globally recognized Continuing Professional Development (CPD) system aimed at elevating the standards of dental and medical practice across the country. This major development is in collaboration with the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), a U.S.-based leader in medical education accreditation.

The upcoming CPD framework will be structured, evidence-based, and internationally aligned, targeting the professional growth of licensed dentists and physicians in Pakistan. The initiative is designed to ensure that practitioners remain current with the latest clinical knowledge, technologies, and best practices throughout their careers.

ACCME delegation holds strategic talks in Islamabad

To accelerate the project, a high-level delegation from ACCME visited the PMDC headquarters in Islamabad. A comprehensive 2.5-day strategy session was held, attended by key stakeholders from Pakistan’s top medical and dental institutions. The sessions focused on:

• Global trends in CPD adoption
• Local needs and challenges in medical education
• Designing an implementation roadmap for Pakistan

What the new CPD system will offer

The CPD system will include a diverse mix of:

• Accredited online and in-person learning modules
• Clinical workshops and hands-on training
• Performance-based evaluations
• Digital tools to track practitioner development and compliance

Importantly, the framework is designed to integrate directly into the licensing and renewal cycle for dental and medical professionals, ensuring long-term adherence and continuous improvement in patient care.

Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj, President of PMDC, called the move a "transformative milestone" for Pakistan's healthcare education.

"By launching a nationally integrated, globally respected CPD system, we aim to uplift both our education standards and the global recognition of our healthcare professionals," he said.

Key benefits of the new CPD system:

✅ Improved clinical outcomes and patient safety
✅ Greater public trust in licensed practitioners
✅ Stronger alignment with global medical education standards
✅ Enhanced international employability for Pakistani healthcare providers

This initiative marks a major step toward strengthening Pakistan’s medical and dental education ecosystem and aligns with the country’s broader goals for healthcare modernization and professional development.