DIGITAL PLATFORMS FOR CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF PHYSICIANS IN THE SYSTEM OF POSTGRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION

Abstract

Digital platforms play an important role in healthcare by providing physicians with access to up-to-date information, educational materials, and opportunities for professional advancement. The purpose of this article is to substantiate the significance of digital platforms in postgraduate medical education and to identify their advantages, limitations, and implementation prospects. To achieve this aim, the following theoretical methods were used: analysis, synthesis, abstraction, induction, and deduction. The study analyzed current approaches to physicians’ continuing professional development and identified the place of digital platforms within this system. The main forms of organizing the educational process include traditional in-person training, distance learning, blended learning, and self-directed learning. Each of these approaches has specific features and can be effectively integrated with digital solutions. The main types of digital educational platforms used for physicians’ professional development are described. Learning management systems (Moodle, Blackboard), massive open online course platforms (Coursera, edX), professional medical education platforms (Medscape, BMJ Learning), and mobile learning applications (Figure 1, UpToDate Mobile) are the most popular among healthcare professionals. Platforms incorporating artificial intelligence elements that can adapt the learning process to users’ needs are also considered. In addition, prospects for using digital platforms and directions for their improvement to enhance the quality of postgraduate medical education are identified. In particular, attention is focused on personalizing learning through adaptive courses, integrating simulation technologies, expanding interactive learning formats, and ensuring content quality. An important aspect is providing technical and digital support for healthcare professionals to strengthen their digital competence. The conclusions emphasize that digital platforms have substantial potential to support physicians’ continuing professional development; however, their effectiveness depends on appropriate implementation and adaptation to users’ needs.