Free CME for Physicians

Prophylactic Therapies for Migraine Headache

2017-02-08T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Emerging Science of Prophylactic Therapies for Migraine- Patients with frequent migraines and/or who experience functional disability need preventative migraine treatment. However, studies have shown that of the 38% of patients who stand to benefit from prophylactic therapy, only 3-13% of them actually receive it. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies are under clinical investigation and constitute a new prophylactic migraine therapy class. Increased physician attention when individualizing treatment plans to maximize therapy efficacy and minimize side effects as well as managing headache triggers and existing comorbidities continue to be vital strategies as new agents emerge and when maximizing patient function. Illustrate how to factor multiple patient-specific characteristics into the treatment plan when managing migraines. Examine and discuss the emerging science associated with calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and their role in migraine prevention. Highlight strategies and tools to assess the impact of migraine on daily functioning and quality of life in order to generate a more personalized and inclusive treatment plan.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 12/29/17

This activity is supported by an educational grant from Lilly

Zika Virus: The Pandemic Threat

2016-12-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

Zika: The Pandemic Threat- Zika, a mosquitoborne viral infection, is the most recent of four arboviruses (arthropodborne viral diseases) that have spread to the Western Hemisphere in the last 20 years. It follows the dengue virus, which became re-established in the 1990s after the failure of mosquito eradication programs; the West Nile virus that emerged in 1999; and chikungunya in 2013. Zika virus has been identified as a cause of congenital microcephaly, a potentially devastating birth defect in which babies are born with small heads and underdeveloped brains. The virus has also been linked to an increase in Guillain-Barrré syndrome, myelitis, and meningoencephalitis. Identify the signs and symptoms of Zika virus infection Discuss the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for pregnant women and testing of infants with possible congenital infection with Zika virus. List the prevention measures for mosquitoborne illness. Describe how the interprofessional team can collaborate to promote improved outcomes and prevent Zika virus infection.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

This course also offers Free CME for PAs

Free until 2/4/17

Gannett Education

New Trends In Hemodynamics

2016-08-07T09:58:00.001-07:00

New Trends in Hemodynamics: Dynamic Assessments- Fluid balance is paramount, and indiscriminate administration of fluids, either too conservatively or too liberally, is associated with mortality and significant morbidity in a diverse array of patient populations, and conventional, one-size-fits all approaches to fluid management do a disservice to both medical and surgical patients with dynamic needs. In this learning activity, Dr. Paul Marik, MD, FCCP, FCCM, discusses present techniques for assessing fluid responsiveness. Describe the risks of over- and under-resuscitation. Describe the present methods of fluid assessment. Describe the present methods of hemodynamic monitoring. Given patient cases, reason your approach to fluid management under various clinical circumstances.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 3/13/18

This program is supported by an educational grant from Cheetah Medical

New Trends In Hemodynamics

2016-08-07T09:58:00.000-07:00

This program is supported by an educational grant from Cheetah Medical

Suicide Prevention

2016-05-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Where Are We with Suicide Prevention?

Complete and document a suicide risk assessment for all patients with a mental health disorder.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 3/31/17

Improving the Diagnosis and Treatment of Patient's With Alzheimer's Disease

2016-04-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

Applying Science to the Improved Diagnosis and Treatment of Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease- Describe the most current understanding of the pathophysiology of AD, including risk factors. Utilize current criteria for the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD. Discuss the differential diagnosis of MCI and dementia based on individual patients. List the common biomarkers for diagnosing AD. Review criteria for the staging of AD dementia. Discuss current and emerging treatment options for AD. Implement best practices for managing comorbid conditions, and managing treatment expectations.

0.75 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 4/1/17

Infant Formula Stretching- A Guide for Pediatricians

2016-03-17T09:11:00.000-07:00

Infant Formula Stretching: A Pediatrician’s Guide to Addressing the Critical Needs of Food-Insecure Families- Utilize appropriate screening tools to identify families of infants at risk of formula-stretching practices that may result from food-insecurities. Discuss enforced regulations and clinical evidence that support the safety, tolerability, and nutritional comparability of all FDA approved infant formulas. Translate clinical evidence of infant formula switching to effective patient education, addressing family concerns of nutritional value, safety, tolerability, and affordability.

0.75 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 3/1/17

Early Diagnosis & Treatment of Parkinson's Disease

2016-03-04T12:00:00.000-08:00

OfficePerspectives: Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: Early Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and Complications- Incorporate strategies for an earlier, and more accurate diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Assess current and emerging therapeutic interventions used to manage motor fluctuations and dyskinesias in Parkinson’s disease. Evaluate the data for therapies used for the treatment of non-motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. Recognize the importance of patient education and counseling for patients with Parkinson’s disease.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 1/22/17

FreeCME.com

Multimodal Therapy for Chronic Migraine

2016-02-18T09:20:00.002-08:00

Selecting Evidence-Based Pharmacologic Therapy and Designing Multimodal Treatment Plans for Migraine and Headache- Establish differential diagnosis for chronic migraine in accordance with the ICHD-III beta criteria and evaluate risk for transitioning from episodic to chronic migraine. Employ validated clinical tools to evaluate migraine-related disability, set treatment goals, and monitor treatment response, including patient adherence to therapy.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 12/10/16

This activity is jointly provided by Global Education Group and HealthmattersCME. This activity is supported by an independent educational grant from Allergan.

Current Recommendations for the Vaccination of Adolescents

2016-01-23T09:30:00.000-08:00

Call to Arms: Overcoming Barriers to Adolescent Vaccination in Primary Care- Describe routine recommendations for vaccination of adolescents based on the current Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) guidelines. Identify adolescents who are at increased risk for vaccine-preventable diseases and thus should be vaccinated. Describe the different vaccines licensed in the United States for adolescents. Provide solutions to patients and physicians to improve vaccination rates.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 12/30/16

Melanoma Updates- A New Therapeutic Age

2016-01-05T09:36:00.000-08:00

Updates in Melanoma 2015: Entering a New Therapeutic Era- Evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy profiles of new and emerging therapies for the treatment of melanoma, including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and intralesional therapy. Assess the clinical utility of available and emerging therapies for the treatment of melanoma. Evaluate strategies for combining and sequencing targeted and immunotherapeutic agents for the treatment of melanoma.

1.25 Free Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 8/1/16

This activity is supported by an educational grant from Merck & Co., Inc

Schizophrenia: Advanced Practice Module

2015-12-04T09:14:00.001-08:00

Advanced Practice Modules in Schizophrenia- Integrate uncommon or conflicting findings in making a complete differential diagnosis of schizophrenia Differentiate appropriate antipsychotic therapies and long-term management strategies according to different stages of schizophrenia, accounting for factors including cognitive function, quality of life, adherence, and side effects. Assess the probability of relapses based on patient history, behavioral patterns, symptoms, and associated precipitating events. Evaluate the quality and strength of evidence from clinical trials on antipsychotic therapies for schizophrenia. Apply recently published efficacy and safety evidence on antipsychotic agents in making treatment decisions for patients with schizophrenia. Develop individualized treatment plans based on patient comorbidities and susceptibility to side effects for complex schizophrenia cases. Incorporate key findings from studies conducted to identify factors that predict better adherence to antipsychotic medications.

4.75 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

The Hospitalist's Role in Prevention and Management of C Diff Infections

2015-11-10T08:06:00.000-08:00

Prevention and Management of Clostridium difficile Infections: Recognizing the Hospitalists' Role- Costridium difficile infection (CDI) places a significant clinical and economic burden on the healthcare system. The rising incidence of CDI is attributed to the emergence of a previously rare and hypervirulent strain of C. difficile. Increased toxin production and high-level antimicrobial resistance have allowed this strain to thrive in healthcare settings. Furthermore, populations previously thought to be at low risk of infection are now being identified as having severe CDI, including those without any exposure to healthcare facilities. Fortunately, new diagnostic techniques have been developed to assist clinicians in the accurate and rapid detection of these infections. Additionally, new treatment options are available to clinicians for the management of initial and recurrent episodes of CDI. The prevention and management of CDI involves multiple disciplines responsible for the care of at-risk patients. As a key patient advocate in the hospital, the hospitalist can play a major role in ensuring that appropriate measures are in place for their patients at high risk for CDI. Hospitalists can also ensure that timely and appropriate diagnostic tests are performed at the early signs of CDI and appropriate treatment selection is based on patient factors. Practice prevention strategies to reduce the incidence of CDI. Recognize patient risk factors that are predictive of serious complications or recurrence of CDI. Select appropriate treatment for initial and recurrent episodes of CDI based on disease severity and patient risk factors.

2.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physians

Expires 5/29/16

Center for Independent Healthcare Education Supported by an educational grant from Cubist Pharmaceuticals, a wholly owned subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc.

First-line Medications & Treatment for PTSD

2015-10-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Psychopharmacology of PTSD- Recognize the three first-line medications for PTSD and which medication class is discouraged in PTSD. Review three common co-morbid conditions with PTSD and discuss a management approach for each one. Explain how to access the VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guidelines on PTSD.

1.0 Free Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 3/20/16

Improving Quality of Life for the Bariatric Patient

2015-08-26T08:34:00.000-07:00

Intimacy, Sexuality and the Obese Patient- As the obesity epidemic progresses, healthcare professionals should look toward educational forums to learn about the most modern advances in research, treatment, and best business practices to improve the quality of life for individuals who are obese and overweight. The conference promotes educational advancement by merging academic and clinical experts with professionals, and provides an opportunity for networking and the exchange of indispensable knowledge Appreciate the obese patient’s unique sexual circumstances. Correlate how physical and emotional self image shape sexual self concept. Recognize how sexual self concept effects intimacy and sexuality. Identify sexual physical areas most affected by morbid obesity. Formulate customized treatment strategies for obese patients with sexual issues.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 9/18/15

Supported by an educational grant from Robard Corporation

Management of CKD Stages 1-3

2015-07-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Management of Chronic Kidney Disease Stages 1–3- The prevalence of chronic kidney disease in the United States is rising for every stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is associated with a number of adverse outcomes, including increased risk for mortality, cardiovascular disease, end stage renal disease, bone loss and fractures, infections, cognitive impairment, and frailty. Treatment of nonprimary CKD is often not directed at the CKD, but rather at underlying conditions or cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension or diabetes. Treatments may include blood pressure lowering medications, such as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), or other nonspecific therapies and other nonpharmacological interventions targeted, for example, at blood pressure control, glycemic control, cholesterol control, and obesity treatment. This continuing medical education activity covers data from a systematic review of existing research that was conducted by the Minnesota Evidence-based Practice Center to evaluate the level of evidence currently available regarding screening, monitoring, and treatments for CKD, stages 1–3. It provides an overview of the comparative benefits and adverse effects of interventions for CKD, stages 1–3. This information is intended to inform patient care decisions by primary care practitioners. Identify the benefits of medications and other interventions used as monotherapy or in combination for the treatment of chronic kidney disease, stages 1–3, with respect to the long-term outcomes of mortality and end-stage renal disease, as well as short-term vascular outcomes. Identify the risks of adverse events resulting from interventions used as monotherapy or in combination for the treatment of chronic kidney disease, stages 1–3, with respect to the long-term outcomes of mortality and end-stage renal disease, as well as short-term vascular outcomes.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 10/31/15

Baylor University

Best Practices in Cardiac Stress Testing

2015-05-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Best Practices for Applying Pharmacological Cardiac Stress Testing- Utilize appropriate guidelines and recommendations when ordering a cardiac stress test in a pre-operative patient. Evaluate efficacy and safety data of pharmacologic agents used to induce cardiac stress. Employ effective communication strategies between internists and cardiologists to ensure the correct test is administered to the right patient. Initiate patient-provider decision sharing and patient education tactics that involve the patient in the management process. Provide appropriate care and counsel to patients and their families. Provide accurate and appropriate counsel as part of the treatment team.

1.25 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 7/31/15

PowerPak CE
Supported by an educational grant from Astellas.

Case Explorations in the Treatment of Schizophrenia

2015-04-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

Case Explorations in the Treatment of Schizophrenia: A Clinical CliffhangersSM Series- a free online CME activity designed to help physicians explore the benefits and limitations of various therapeutic options available for use in schizophrenia, including the role of long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIAs) and strategies to improve treatment adherence and patient–physician communication. 1-Considerations for the Selection of Initial Maintenance Treatment After a First Psychotic Episode in a Patient With Schizophrenia- Watch the first of three Webcasts that explores effective treatment strategies for patients with schizophrenia. In this first Webisode, faculty expert John Lauriello, MD, explores treatment options for a patient with probable schizophrenia, including appropriate timing for the introduction of long-acting injectables. 2-Addressing Patient and Clinician Barriers to the Use of Long-Acting Injectable Antipsychotics in Schizophrenia- Watch the second of three Webcasts that explores effective treatment strategies for patients with schizophrenia. In this second Webisode, faculty expert John Lauriello, MD, discusses the impact of medication nonadherence in schizophrenia and the potential role of long-acting injectable antipsychotics. 3-Relapse in Schizophrenia: Charting an Optimal Path Forward- Watch the last of three Webcasts that explores effective treatment strategies for patients with schizophrenia. In this final Webisode, faculty expert John Lauriello, MD, evaluates data about proven methods for improving medication adherence and the benefits and limitations of long-acting injectable antipsychotics.

1.5 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 7/10/15

Med-IQ This activity is supported by an educational grant from Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc.

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy

2015-03-17T10:30:00.000-07:00

Single-use Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Systems- Summarize the evolution of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). Explore the process of wound healing. Explain the science of negative pressure wound therapy. Review the incidence of SSIs and delayed wound healing in high risk patients and procedures. Describe the indications and contraindications for single-use NPWT systems. Identify the risk factors to consider before NPWT use. Specify the guidelines for use use for single-use NPWT systems. Discuss evidence-based research specific to patient outcomes. Analyze the cost effectiveness of NPWT systems, including coding for reimbursement. Evaluate physician considerations from wound assessment to discontinuation of NPWT.

2.0 Free AMA Pra Cat 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 12/2015

Presented by Pfiedler Enterprizes . Grants provided by Cardinal Health.

Updates for Treatment of Fungal Infections

2015-02-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

Guideline & Testing Update for Treatment of Invasive Fungal Infections in Hospitalized Patients- The incidence of invasive fungal infections continues to increase, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality, despite the introduction of expanded treatment options. Clinicians require up-to-date knowledge of advances in testing approaches and novel antifungal agents to guide clinician-decision making and ensure that at-risk patients receive prompt, appropriate therapy. Identify patients at risk of invasive fungal infections in critical care and other hospital settings. Compare and contrast the mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of available and emerging antifungal agents. Apply diagnostic and susceptibility testing for invasive fungal infections to ensure prompt, appropriate antifungal therapy. Implement strategies to enhance empiric and definitive antifungal therapy for candidemia.

1.25 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 11/18/15

Supported by an educational grant from Astellas Scientific & Medical Affairs, Inc.

Multiple Sclerosis: A Comprehensive Approach

2015-02-11T10:34:00.000-08:00

A Comprehensive Approach to the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis: Managing the Disease, Its Symptoms, and Quality of Life- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common neurological disorders. While some individuals with MS experience little disability, it is the leading cause of non-traumatic disability in young adults, with as many as 60% of patients unable to walk without assistance 20 years after onset. It is imperative to identify and refer patients early in the course of MS, and emerging evidence suggests potential benefits of treatment as early as the first clinical presentation. Disease-modifying immunomodulatory agents are currently the best available treatment strategy, but the management of MS is rapidly evolving. The need for non-injectable therapy for the treatment of MS has been addressed by the recent development and approval of several new oral agents. Physicians treating patients with MS need to make more complex treatment decisions that involve an individualized approach, and understanding clinical trial data of oral agents and their respective mechanisms of action is critical for the optimal management of patients with MS. It is also increasingly important for physicians to establish effective and open communication with their patients with MS and to guide them on psychosocial as well as medical issues, in order to improve adherence, persistence, quality of life, and outcomes. This online activity focuses on newly approved therapies, symptom management, and optimizing patients’ adherence and persistence to treatment. Describe how to optimally incorporate newly approved treatments into current therapeutic regimens. Assess recent therapy advances in symptom management of patients with MS and how these advances can help to improve the quality of life of patients with MS. Discuss the importance of patient/physician communication in improving adherence, persistence, quality of life, and outcomes in patients with MS.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 12/19/15

QuintilesMedEd

Best Practice Updates in Prevention & Treatment of Seizure Disorders

2014-12-17T12:00:00.000-08:00

Therapeutic Updates, Best Practices, and Barriers to Care in the Prevention and Treatment of Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders- Epilepsy, which is defined as temporary abnormal excessive synchronous neuronal activity in the brain that results in seizures, is one of the most common neurological disorders and affects more than two million people in the United States. A significant number of patients do not receive sufficient treatment due to inappropriate diagnosis, ineffective treatment and socioeconomic conditions, which results in lower quality of life and poorer health outcomes. In addition, lack of treatment leads to limiting patient’s social life and other normal activities and is associated with cardiometabolic risk factors that predict a shorter lifespan like smoking and obesity. Describe the pathophysiology and the challenges associated with diagnosis of epileptic seizures. Apply existing diagnostic recommendations and criteria to practice in the management of epilepsy. Identify the treatment modalities currently available for management of epilepsy and apply them to patient cases using evidence-based medicine. Evaluate a treatment plan for a specific patient based on seizure history to optimize safety and efficacy, suggesting modifications for improvement. Describe the challenges and barriers to care associated with treating patients with epilepsy.

1.0 Free Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 3/22/15

Scientia

Trends in the Treatment of Gastric Cancer

2014-10-06T10:15:00.000-07:00

Adjuvant Treatment for Gastric Cancer: Chemotherapy versus Radiation-
Summarize trends of adjuvant treatment in gastric cancer.
Describe the potential role of adjuvant chemotherapy versus radiation in gastric cancer.

1.0 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 9/24/15

The Society for Translational Oncology
Grants from Boehringer-Ingelheim and Lilly USA, LLC

Diagnosing, Treating, and Monitoring Pediatric ADHD

2014-09-10T10:01:00.000-07:00

Addressing Clinical Challenges in the Diagnosis, Treatment, and Monitoring of ADHD in Children and Adolescents- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity, but can manifest differently from child to child. The condition is prevalent, occurring in more than 5 million children in the United States between the ages of and 4 and 17, and may negatively impact personal development, academic achievement, and the ability to form and maintain relationships. Because there is no single objective test for diagnosing ADHD, diagnosis can be challenging. In addition, comorbidity is common, with up to 50% of children who have ADHD presenting with at least one comorbidity. Treatment and management of ADHD also presents a challenge. Schedule II stimulants, which were the standard treatment in the past, have been associated with a higher incidence of misuse and abuse, and are being replaced with new agents and different formulations of existing medications.
Discuss the challenges to diagnosing ADHD in children and adolescents, and strategies to overcome these hurdles.
Assess the efficacy and safety of available pharmacologic treatments to effectively manage ADHD in children and adolescents.
Describe how to integrate health care provider/patient communication techniques into the routine care of patients with ADHD.

1.5 Free AMA Pra CAT 1 CME for Physicians

Expires 1/9/15

Sponsored by Quintiles Medical Education
Grant by Shire

Fracture Risk Assessment Tool

2014-08-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

Bone Health, Race/Ethnicity, and Emerging Technologies for Predicting Risk of Fracture and Limitations in Use With Specified Subpopulations- Summarize the evolving role of race/ethnicity as a factor in development of osteoporosis and risk for osteoporosis-related fractures in women and men for purposes of fostering appropriate risk assessment and management in very patient vulnerable to poor bone health, regardless of race/ethnicity. Use the World Health Organization (WHO) Fracture Risk Assessment (FRAX®) model and FRAX® tool as a potential resource for use in clinical evaluation of patients at risk for osteoporosis-related fractures. Evaluate the clinical variables (demographic, clinical, and lifestyle) that are factored into the FRAX® algorithm and identify limitations in clinical usage of the FRAX®.

0.75 Free AMA CME