Introduction
Sir, last June the editorial focussed on the journal's CPD scheme (BDJ2007; 203: 703–704). Whilst I enjoy reading the journal and participate in the CPD quiz, I am surprised that some of the matters raised do not appear to have generated discussion.
Whilst it is clear that the scheme is popular, concern was expressed that for many of the participants it is either their sole or main method of CPD. Although 'the majority of respondents get the majority of questions right most of the time', no mention was made of the simplicity with which such a score can be obtained, or that CPD certification can be gained with a score of zero. I wonder therefore if the popularity of the scheme has more to do with the ease with which CPD hours can be accumulated rather than any other factor.
When I submitted these comments as feedback (perhaps I am one of the 'detractors' referred to in the editorial), the response was that the GDC does not require a pass mark, and that dentists should be trusted to read the papers thoroughly. Even if we assume that this is so (that's quite an assumption), how does the BDJ justify an hour of CPD for a paper that may take only ten minutes or so to read thoroughly?
I am not the first to raise this issue. Dr Storrar did so shortly after the scheme was introduced and the editor at the time responded in a manner similar to your editorial (An easy ride? BDJ2003; 195: 230). It made me wonder why the GDC does not just require dentists to self-certify their CPD at the end of the year.
The BDJ is not alone; other journals offer similar schemes. Verifiable CPD can be obtained in all manner of ways including wandering around a tradeshow, logging into and browsing a website, or answering a few questions about a manufacturer's products. Its value has been diminished, with commercial concerns taking precedence over educational.
Practitioners who are committed to best practice will always keep their skills up to date without the stick of a mandatory CPD scheme. However, it serves an important purpose by allowing us to reflect on our development and demonstrate commitment to excellence in patient care. That activity should therefore have credibility, which infers setting and enforcing quality control standards to which providers of CPD (myself included) should adhere. The General Dental Council needs to address this matter, and I hope that others who are involved in the provision of meaningful postgraduate education share my concerns.