A survey was developed to identify how neurologists consume continuing medical education (CME), preferences for CME, and views on the credibility of CME relative to other sources of medical information among Medscape neurologist members.

An online survey consisting of 24 questions was emailed to Medscape neurologist members who treat patients. Responses from 28 neurologists were collected in Feb 2023. Respondents received a $25 honorarium for completion. Respondent confidentiality was maintained, and responses were de-identified and aggregated prior to analyses.

Peer-reviewed publications were selected as the resource that most frequently (93%) impacted practice decisions and were consulted at least once a week by most (68%) responders. 61% of neurologists noted that online CME impacted their clinical decisions and 18% reported participating in online CME at least once per week. When asked about their preferences for CME, 64% noted that they participated in CME to find answers to a question that arose during a patient visit. Neurologists noted approximately equal preference (35%-40%) for engaging in CME across print, online, or live venues. Although online video CME programs that ranged in length from 30 to 60 mins were popular (82%), 15 minute online quizzes were reported to be the most popular (88%) delivery format.  Neurologists reported that independent, online CME had a much higher educational value than information found on either industry-led online education or industry-owned websites.

The results of this survey indicated that peer-reviewed journal articles serve as the informational backbone for almost all neurologists. About two-thirds of neurologists use CME programming to inform evidence-based clinical decision-making. In order to maximize neurologist participation, future CME-certified programming should focus on 30-60 minute online video programming and 15 minute online quiz-based challenges.