ACCME Delegation Visits Islamabad to Help Shape Country’s Future of Medical Practice
Islamabad, June 30, 2025 – In a landmark move set to transform medical education and healthcare practice in Pakistan, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) has announced the development of a globally recognised Continuing Professional Development (CPD) system, in collaboration with the US-based Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME).
A high-level delegation from the ACCME visited Islamabad for two and a half days of strategic discussions aimed at building a modern, evidence-based CPD framework for Pakistan’s healthcare professionals. The visit and sessions mark a major step toward aligning Pakistan’s medical education with international standards.
The sessions brought together senior leadership from PM&DC and ACCME, including PM&DC President Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj, ACCME President and CEO Dr. Graham McMahon, Vice President Dr. Dion Richetti, and other experts. Together, they engaged with local stakeholders and medical educators to explore global trends and best practices in continuing medical education.
“This new CPD system will ensure that Pakistani doctors and healthcare professionals remain updated, competent, and focused on improving patient care throughout their careers,” said Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj. “It’s about maintaining excellence in medical practice—and making sure our professionals are recognised and employable not just at home, but globally.”
The Chicago-based ACCME accredits continuing medical education across the United States and internationally, making their involvement a critical milestone in Pakistan’s journey toward modernising its healthcare education system.
The CPD initiative is designed to move away from outdated, static training models and instead promote a culture of lifelong learning among healthcare providers. Medical students, young doctors, and seasoned professionals will all be expected to engage in regular, structured learning and skills development as part of their professional responsibilities.
The delegation also held meetings with Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Syed Mustafa Kamal, who expressed strong support for the initiative. “We welcome this step as part of our broader vision to improve healthcare standards and public trust in our medical system,” the minister noted.
PM&DC has been working with local and international experts to embed global best practices into Pakistan’s medical regulation framework. The upcoming CPD system will not only improve clinical competence and patient outcomes but also enhance the credibility of Pakistani qualifications across borders.
“This will be a game-changer for our medical graduates,” said Prof. Dr. Taj. “By making CPD a regulatory requirement, we are setting the stage for a new era of professional development, accountability, and quality care in Pakistan.”
The Council confirmed that implementation of the CPD system will be phased in, with clear guidelines and support for institutions, faculty, and individual practitioners. Once in place, the system is expected to improve employability, enhance international mobility of healthcare professionals, and reinforce Pakistan’s reputation as a provider of quality medical education.
For medical students and young professionals, the message is clear: staying current with medical knowledge is no longer optional—it will soon be a core requirement of professional practice in Pakistan.
– Ends –