The Practice Audit Model: A Process for Continuing Professional Education Needs Assessment and Program Development.

Overview & Synopsis

The Practice Audit Model, a direct outgrowth of the Pennsylvania Pharmacists' Professional Development Program, provides a systematic framework in which to assess occupational and professional practitioners' continuing education needs and develop programs to meet those needs. The ultimate objective of the Practice Audit Model is to assist professionals in their attempt to remain competent practitioners through a collaborative effort that uses the particular expertise of educators, professional association representatives, and continuing education professionals. This monograph describes the evolution of the Practice Audit Model in the course of the Pharmacists' Professional Development Program. The experience gained in the pharmacy project suggests that the model can be a useful device for continuing professional education. Its applicability to other professions will be determined during a five-year research program in which the practice audit model will be applied to six other professional groups. (KC)