Strategic Educational Communication Plans

NCME has planned and produced many CME activities on a variety of topics with the support of educational grants from industry. Before any initiative is started, NCME prepares a comprehensive, written strategic educational communications plan to systematically review each therapeutic category and analyze current and future treatment modalities. The plan is developed in concert with key thought leaders in each therapeutic area and includes:

• a needs assessment, including mail and e-mail surveys to potential target audiences to ascertain current knowledge and practice habits and help identify “educational gaps”

• interviews with clinicians from different areas of the country to help identify regional differences in practice habits

• an analysis of all media to ensure maximum reach and frequency to health care providers, based on amount of grant support

• A review of appropriate congresses, scientific sessions, and other meetings that could represent related opportunities/synergies in conjunction with NCME continuing medical education activities

• A recommendation of a mix of educational modalities to reach a specific audience in ways that conform to individual preferred learning styles (e.g., electronic, print, live)