Sponsorship and Financial Information
Sponsorship plays an important role in supporting the development and delivery of accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities. However, to maintain the integrity, independence, and credibility of these educational programs, all sponsorship—whether financial or in-kind—must adhere strictly to the principles and requirements outlined in the National Standard for Support of Accredited CPD Activities, and Continuing Professional Development's Sponsorship of Accredited/Certified CPD Activities policy.
This section of the application is designed to ensure that any external support received for the CPD activity is managed transparently and ethically, without compromising the educational content or the independence of the Scientific Planning Committee (SPC). Applicants must demonstrate that sponsors have had no influence over the planning, content, speaker selection, or delivery of the activity, and that all sponsorship has been acknowledged appropriately and in accordance with national standards.
Whether your activity is in-person, virtual, or hybrid, the same rules apply: education must remain separate from promotion. This includes how sponsors are recognized, how funds are managed, and how participant information is protected. By following these standards, CPD providers help safeguard against bias, promote trust among participants, and ensure compliance with accreditation requirements.
215. Registration Fees
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to list the registration fees for your CPD activity. If there are no fees, enter “0”. Be sure to include any early bird, discounted, or special pricing options.
Hints for Answering:
- Provide a clear breakdown of all registration fee tiers (e.g., general, early bird, student/resident, physician, faculty).
- If the event is free, explicitly state “0”.
- If fees are waived for specific groups (e.g., residents, fellows, undergraduate students), indicate this clearly.
Tips:
- For sponsored activities, the CPD Office encourages charging a reasonable registration fee to help maintain the perception of independence and value.
- Regardless of sponsorship status, attendee lists and contact information must not be shared with any sponsors or external parties.
- Ensure that your fee structure is transparent and equitable.
Why this is important:
Clearly communicating registration fees ensures transparency and supports ethical standards in CPD delivery. Charging a fee—when appropriate—reinforces the independence of the educational activity and helps sustain high-quality programming. Protecting participant privacy is essential to maintaining trust and compliance with accreditation requirements.
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216. Additional costs, if any, to participants (describe in detail)
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to identify and describe any costs that participants may incur beyond the base registration fee. These may include both mandatory additional costs (e.g., required materials or equipment) and optional costs (e.g., social events, or meals not included in registration).
Hints for Answering:
- List all additional costs clearly, specifying whether each is mandatory or optional.
- For mandatory costs, explain what the fee covers and why it is required.
- For optional costs, describe what is included, the cost, and how participants can opt in.
Tips:
- Use clear labels such as “Required” or “Optional” next to each item to avoid confusion.
- Examples of mandatory additional costs might include required textbooks, simulation kits, or exam fees.
- Examples of optional costs might include a networking dinner, or a post-event workshop.
- Ensure that optional activities are scheduled outside of accredited session times and are not included in the educational agenda.
Example Answer:
In addition to the registration fee, the following costs may apply:
- Printed Program Booklet (Optional): Participants may choose to purchase a printed version of the program booklet for $15. A digital version will be provided at no cost.
- Networking Dinner (Optional): An optional dinner event will be held on the evening of Day 1. Tickets are $60 per person and must be purchased in advance through the registration portal.
- Simulation Materials (Required for Workshop B): Participants registered for Workshop B: Hands-On Simulation are required to purchase a simulation kit at a cost of $40. This fee covers disposable materials used during the session.
- Parking (Optional for On-Site Attendees): On-site parking is available at the venue for $10 per day. Participants are responsible for their own parking arrangements.
All optional costs are clearly identified during the registration process, and participants may choose whether to opt in. Required costs are noted in the session descriptions and are necessary for full participation in those components.
Why this is important:
Providing a full and transparent breakdown of all participant costs supports informed decision-making and helps ensure fairness and accessibility. It also aligns with accreditation standards by clearly separating educational content from non-educational elements and maintaining clarity around what is included in the registration fee.
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217. Is this program self-funded by a for-profit organization?
Short Explanation:
This question asks whether the CPD activity is being developed, delivered, and funded entirely by a for-profit organization.
Hints for Answering:
- Answer “Yes” if the program is fully funded and organized by a for-profit entity.
- Answer “No” if the program is funded by a not-for-profit organization, co-developed with an accredited provider, or supported through unrestricted educational grants.
Tips:
- For-profit organizations include entities whose primary purpose is to generate profit through the sale of goods or services.
Why this is important:
Accreditation standards require that certified CPD activities be developed independently of commercial interests. Identifying whether a program is self-funded by a for-profit organization helps ensure compliance with eligibility requirements and protects the integrity of the educational content.
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218. Has the program been sponsored by one or more external organizations?
Short Explanation:
This question asks whether the CPD activity has received financial or in-kind support from any external organization, including for-profit or not-for-profit entities.
Hints for Answering:
- Answer “Yes” if any external organization has provided funding, services, equipment, or other resources to support the development, delivery, or evaluation of the activity.
- Answer “No” if the program is entirely self-funded by the provider organization and has not received any external support.
Tips:
- Sponsorship includes both financial support (e.g., educational grants) and in-kind support (e.g., donated equipment, logistical services).
- External organizations may include:
- Government departments or agencies
- Professional associations
- Health charities or foundations
- Commercial entities such as pharmaceutical or medical device companies
- If you answer “Yes,” you will be required to provide additional details in subsequent questions, including the nature of the support and how it was managed.
Why this is important:
Identifying whether a program has received external sponsorship ensures transparency and helps confirm that the activity complies with accreditation standards. It also supports the ethical separation of education from promotion and protects the integrity of the learning environment.
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219. Check all sources of sponsorship that apply
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to identify all sources of financial or in-kind support received for the CPD activity. Select all categories that apply.
Hints for Answering:
- Review all funding and support arrangements related to the activity.
- Check every applicable box, even if the support was minimal or in-kind.
- If the source does not fit any listed category, select “Other” and provide a brief description.
Tips:
- Government agency: Includes federal, provincial, or municipal departments or agencies that provide public funding or services.
- Health care facility: Includes hospitals, clinics, or health authorities that contribute resources or funding.
- Not-for-profit organization: Includes professional associations, foundations, or advocacy groups that are not commercially driven.
- Medical device company: For-profit companies that manufacture or distribute medical equipment or devices.
- Pharmaceutical company: For-profit companies involved in the development or sale of medications or biologics.
- Education or communications company: Includes for-profit entities that provide educational services, event logistics, or promotional support.
- Other: Use this option for any sponsor that does not clearly fall into the categories above (e.g., private donors, tech companies, or hybrid organizations).
Why this is important:
Accurately identifying all sources of sponsorship ensures transparency and supports compliance with accreditation standards. It also helps reviewers assess the potential for conflicts of interest and confirm that appropriate safeguards are in place to maintain the independence of the educational content.
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220. Has this program received financial support?
Short Explanation:
This question asks whether the CPD activity has received any external financial support—that is, funding provided by an organization other than the CPD provider or host institution.
Hints for Answering:
- Answer “Yes” if any external organization has provided money to support the development, delivery, or evaluation of the activity.
- Answer “No” if the program is entirely self-funded by the provider organization and has not received any external financial contributions.
Tips:
- External financial support can only be in the form of unrestricted educational grants.
- Do not include in-kind support (e.g., donated equipment or services) here—those are addressed in a separate question.
- If you answer “Yes,” you will be asked to provide further details about the source and amount of the funding.
Why this is important:
Disclosing financial support ensures transparency and helps confirm that the activity complies with accreditation standards. It also allows reviewers to assess how funding was managed and whether appropriate safeguards were in place to maintain the independence of the educational content.
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221. Please list the name of the sponsor(s) providing financial support below
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to identify each organization that has provided financial support for the CPD activity. For each sponsor, you must include the sponsor’s name, the amount received (or expected), and whether the sponsor is a for-profit or not-for-profit organization.
Hints for Answering:
- List each sponsor separately. You can add extra rows as necessary.
- If the exact amount is not yet confirmed, provide an estimate and indicate that it is anticipated.
- Clearly indicate the sponsor’s classification as either for-profit or not-for-profit.
Tips:
- Use the following examples to help classify sponsors:
- For-profit sponsors may include pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, private health care companies, or commercial education providers.
- Not-for-profit sponsors may include government agencies, professional associations, or health-related charities.
- Ensure that all sponsors listed here match those identified in earlier questions (e.g., Question 219).
Why this is important:
Providing a complete and accurate list of financial sponsors supports transparency and helps reviewers assess compliance with accreditation standards. It also ensures that all financial relationships are disclosed and appropriately managed to maintain the independence of the educational content.
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222. Has this program received in-kind support?
Short Explanation:
This question asks whether the CPD activity has received any in-kind support—that is, non-monetary contributions from external organizations that assist with the development, delivery, or evaluation of the program.
Hints for Answering:
- Answer “Yes” if any organization has provided goods, services, or resources instead of money.
- Answer “No” if all support has been financial or if the program is entirely self-funded without external contributions.
Tips:
- In-kind support may include:
- Donated equipment (e.g., ultrasound machines for a simulation session)
- Logistical services (e.g., audiovisual setup, printing, or room rental)
- Volunteer staff time or administrative support
- Access to facilities or platforms at no cost
- In-kind support must be documented and disclosed, even if it does not involve a financial transaction.
- If you answer “Yes,” you will be asked to provide further details in the next question.
Why this is important:
Disclosing in-kind support ensures transparency and helps reviewers assess whether the support was managed in a way that maintains the independence and integrity of the educational content. It also ensures compliance with accreditation standards regarding the separation of education from external influence.
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223. Please list the name of the sponsor(s) providing in-kind support below
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to identify each organization that has provided in-kind (non-financial) support for the CPD activity. For each sponsor, you must include the sponsor’s name, the type of support provided or expected, and whether the sponsor is a for-profit or not-for-profit organization.
Hints for Answering:
- List each sponsor separately in the table provided.
- Clearly and specifically describe the type of in-kind support (e.g., equipment loan, venue access, printing services).
- Select the appropriate sponsor type using the radio buttons: For-Profit Sponsor or Non-Profit Sponsor.
Tips:
- Be specific when describing the type of support. Examples include:
- Use of meeting space or virtual platform
- Donated equipment or supplies for workshops
- Volunteer staff or administrative assistance
- Technical or audiovisual support
Why this is important:
Accurately documenting in-kind support helps ensure transparency and compliance with accreditation standards. It allows reviewers to assess whether the support was appropriate, clearly disclosed, and managed in a way that preserves the independence of the educational content.
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224. Has the CPD provider organization made sure that all sponsorship funds are paid directly to the CPD provider organization/scientific planning committee or third-party non-commercial interest designated by the CPD provider organization?
Short Explanation:
This question asks whether all sponsorship funds—financial contributions from external organizations—have been directed to the appropriate, independent party responsible for the CPD activity. This ensures that sponsors do not directly pay speakers, facilitators, or participants.
Hints for Answering:
- Answer “Yes” if all sponsorship funds are being managed by the CPD provider organization, the Scientific Planning Committee (SPC), or a third-party that is not a commercial interest and has been designated by the provider.
- Answer “No” if any sponsor has paid individuals or vendors directly, or if funds have been routed through a commercial entity.
Tips:
- Sponsors must not pay honoraria, travel, or other expenses directly to speakers, SPC members, or participants.
- Acceptable third parties may include university finance offices, hospital foundations, or other not-for-profit administrative bodies.
- Commercial interests (e.g., pharmaceutical or medical device companies) must not manage or distribute funds on behalf of the CPD activity.
Why this is important:
Ensuring that sponsorship funds are handled by the CPD provider or an approved non-commercial third party protects the independence of the educational activity. It prevents undue influence from sponsors and supports compliance with national accreditation standards.
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225. Does the physician organization have written agreements with sponsors outlining the terms, conditions and purposes by which sponsorship is provided?
Short Explanation:
This question asks whether formal written agreements have been established between the physician organization (or Scientific Planning Committee) and each sponsor. These agreements must clearly define the terms, conditions, and intended use of the sponsorship.
Hints for Answering:
- Answer “Yes” if signed agreements exist (or are in progress) for all sponsors providing financial or in-kind support.
- Answer “No” if no agreements have been created or finalized.
Tips:
- Written agreements are required under national accreditation standards and must:
- Specify the amount or nature of support
- Confirm that the sponsor will have no influence over the educational content or planning
- Be signed by both the physician organization (or SPC) and the sponsor
- It is strongly recommended that applicants use the Sponsorship Agreement Template provided by the CPD office. This template ensures that all required elements are included and that the agreement aligns with the National Standard for Support of Accredited CPD Activities.
- The template includes space to outline sponsor entitlements (e.g., logo placement, exhibit space), while reinforcing that sponsors cannot influence the program’s content or delivery.
Why this is important:
Written agreements protect the integrity of the CPD activity by clearly documenting the boundaries of sponsor involvement. They ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with accreditation standards, and help maintain the independence of the educational content.
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226. Will this activity have an exhibit hall/exhibitor?
Short Explanation:
This question asks whether your CPD activity will include an exhibit hall or exhibitor presence—either in-person or virtual—where organizations can display information, products, or services separate from the accredited educational content.
Hints for Answering:
- Answer “Yes” if there will be a designated space (physical or digital) for exhibitors.
- Answer “No” if there will be no exhibitor presence or promotional displays associated with the activity.
Tips:
- Exhibit halls must be clearly separated from all accredited educational sessions and materials.
- Exhibitor participation must be voluntary for attendees—participants cannot be required to visit exhibit booths.
- Exhibitor content must not include product-specific advertising within or adjacent to educational content.
- For virtual events, exhibitor pages or tabs must be clearly labeled (e.g., “Exhibit Hall”) and separate from the educational platform.
- Exhibitor logos, branding, or promotional materials must not appear on slides, agendas, or within learning environments.
- Sponsor recognition is limited to the opening remarks or slides where financial or in-kind support is formally disclosed. No promotional content may be included in educational materials.
Why this is important:
Maintaining a clear separation between education and promotion is essential to uphold the integrity of accredited CPD activities. Properly managing exhibitor presence ensures compliance with national standards and protects participants from undue commercial influence.
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227. Describe how the exhibit hall will be arranged and how the scientific planning committee has reviewed any incentives offered by exhibitors. If the event is virtual describe how participants will access the virtual exhibit hall
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to describe the layout and management of the exhibit hall, including how the Scientific Planning Committee (SPC) has reviewed and approved any incentives offered by exhibitors. For virtual events, you must also explain how participants will access the exhibit space online.
Hints for Answering:
- Describe the physical or virtual layout of the exhibit area.
- Explain how the SPC has ensured that any incentives (e.g., prize draws, giveaways) are appropriate and not linked to sponsors.
- For virtual events, include details about how the exhibit hall is accessed and how it is kept separate from educational content.
Tips:
- The exhibit hall must be clearly separated from accredited educational sessions.
- Participation in the exhibit hall must be voluntary.
- Incentives must be reviewed and approved by the SPC and must not promote sponsors.
- For virtual events, exhibitors must be placed on a separate tab or page labeled “Exhibit Hall.”
- You must attach the exhibitor prospectus to this application in the Documentation section.
Example answers:
-
In-Person Event:
The exhibit hall will be located in a separate room adjacent to the main conference area. Exhibitor booths will be arranged in rows with clear signage and directional flow. No exhibits will be placed near or within any educational session rooms. The SPC has reviewed all proposed exhibitor incentives and approved a passport-style prize draw that encourages participants to visit multiple booths. No sponsor is linked to the prize, and participation is entirely optional. -
Virtual Event:
The virtual exhibit hall will be hosted on a separate tab within the event platform, clearly labeled “Exhibit Hall.” Each exhibitor will have a dedicated page with general company information. The SPC has reviewed all exhibitor content and approved a randomized prize draw for participants who visit a minimum number of booths. The draw is managed by the CPD provider and is not linked to any sponsor. Access to the exhibit hall is optional and separate from the educational content.
Why this is important:
Clearly describing how the exhibit hall is arranged—and how any exhibitor incentives are reviewed—ensures that the promotional aspects of the event remain separate from the accredited educational content. This protects the integrity of the learning environment and helps prevent any perception of commercial influence. For virtual events, it also ensures that participants can access exhibitor content voluntarily and without disruption to their educational experience. These practices are essential for maintaining compliance with national accreditation standards and upholding the trust of participants.
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229. If the program discusses any sponsor products or services, please list them here
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to identify any products or services offered by sponsors that are mentioned or discussed within the educational content of your CPD activity. This includes direct references to brand names, product features, or clinical applications.
Hints for Answering:
- Review all program materials (e.g., slides, handouts, case studies) for any mention of sponsor-affiliated products or services.
- List each product or service by name, along with the associated sponsor.
- If no sponsor products or services are discussed, state “None.”
Tips:
- Be thorough—this list helps reviewers assess whether promotional content is appropriately separated from education.
- Ensure that any product mentions are clinically relevant and not promotional in tone.
- Use generic names where possible.
Why this is important:
Listing sponsor products or services ensures transparency and helps reviewers confirm that educational content is free from promotional bias.
240. How are payments of travel, lodging, out-of-pocket expenses, and honoraria made to members of the scientific planning committee, speakers, moderators, facilitators and/or authors?
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to describe the process by which payments or reimbursements are made to individuals involved in the planning and delivery of the CPD activity. This includes travel, lodging, honoraria, and other legitimate out-of-pocket expenses.
Hints for Answering:
- Identify who is responsible for managing and approving payments (e.g., CPD provider organization, university finance office).
- Describe the payment method (e.g., direct deposit, cheque, reimbursement process).
- Confirm that no payments are made directly by sponsors or commercial interests.
Tips:
- All payments must be approved and managed by the CPD provider organization or the Scientific Planning Committee (SPC).
- Payments may be processed by a third-party non-commercial entity (e.g., university department or hospital foundation), but never by a sponsor.
- Ensure that payment procedures are consistent with institutional policies and accreditation standards.
- Keep records of all payments and reimbursements for audit purposes.
Example Answer:
All payments for travel, lodging, honoraria, and out-of-pocket expenses are managed by the CPD provider organization’s administrative office. Individuals submit expense claims with original receipts, which are reviewed and approved by the Scientific Planning Committee (SPC) or designated CPD administrator. Payments are issued via direct deposit or cheque through the university’s finance department. No payments are made by sponsors. All financial transactions are handled by the CPD provider to ensure compliance with accreditation standards and to maintain the independence of the educational content.
Why this is important:
Ensuring that payments are managed independently of sponsors protects the integrity of the CPD activity and prevents any perception of bias or undue influence. It also ensures compliance with national standards, which require that all financial transactions related to accredited activities be handled by the CPD provider, the Scientific Planning Committee, or an approved non-commercial third party.
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241. If the responsibility for these payments is delegated to a third party, please describe how the CPD provider organization or SPC retains overall accountability for these payments
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to explain how the CPD provider organization or Scientific Planning Committee (SPC) maintains oversight and control when a third party (e.g., a university finance office or hospital foundation) is tasked with processing payments for travel, lodging, honoraria, or other expenses.
Hints for Answering:
- Identify the third party responsible for processing payments.
- Describe the approval process and how the CPD provider or SPC maintains decision-making authority.
- Confirm that the third party is a non-commercial entity.
Tips:
- The CPD provider or SPC must retain final approval over all payments, even if a third party handles the logistics.
- Sponsors or commercial interests must never be involved in making or managing payments.
- Maintain documentation of all approvals and transactions for accountability and audit purposes.
Example Answer:
Payments are processed by the university’s finance department, which acts as a non-commercial third party. All payment requests—such as honoraria, travel reimbursements, and lodging—must be submitted with supporting documentation and are reviewed and approved by the SPC Chair or designated CPD administrator before being forwarded for processing.
Why this is important:
Delegating payment responsibilities to a trusted third party can support administrative efficiency, but the CPD provider or SPC must retain full accountability to ensure compliance with accreditation standards and to prevent any undue influence over the educational activity.
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242. How has the physician organization ensured that their interactions with sponsors have met professional and legal standards including the protection of privacy, confidentiality, copyright and contractual law regulations?
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to describe the steps taken by the physician organization to ensure that all interactions with sponsors are conducted ethically and in accordance with applicable legal and professional standards.
Hints for Answering:
- Describe the policies, procedures, or agreements in place to guide sponsor interactions.
- Include how privacy, confidentiality, copyright, and contract terms are protected.
- Reference any internal or institutional oversight mechanisms.
Tips:
- Use written sponsorship agreements (such as the CPD office’s Sponsorship Agreement Template) to clearly define roles, responsibilities, and limitations.
- Ensure that no participant data is shared with sponsors without explicit consent.
- Confirm that all sponsor-related materials comply with copyright and branding guidelines.
- Maintain records of all agreements and communications with sponsors.
- If applicable, reference institutional policies (e.g., university or hospital privacy policies) that govern data handling and legal compliance.
Example Answer:
The physician organization uses a standardized sponsorship agreement template that outlines the terms, conditions, and limitations of sponsor involvement. All agreements are reviewed and signed by authorized representatives of both parties. The CPD provider ensures that no participant data is shared with sponsors, and all communications comply with institutional privacy and confidentiality policies. Sponsor logos and materials are reviewed to ensure they do not infringe on copyright or appear within educational content. All records are securely stored and accessible for audit if required.
Why this is important:
Maintaining professional and legal standards in sponsor interactions protects the integrity of the CPD activity, ensures compliance with accreditation requirements, and safeguards the privacy and rights of all participants. It also helps prevent conflicts of interest and reinforces public trust in the educational process.
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243. How has the physician organization ensured that product specific advertising, promotional materials or other branding strategies have not been included on, appear within, or be adjacent to any educational materials, activity agendas, programs or calendars of events, and/or any webpages or electronic media containing educational material?
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to describe the steps taken to ensure that all educational materials and platforms are free from product-specific advertising, branding, or promotional content from sponsors or exhibitors.
Hints for Answering:
- Describe your review and approval process for all materials and platforms.
- Identify who is responsible for ensuring compliance (e.g., SPC, CPD administrator).
- Include how you manage sponsor recognition in a compliant manner.
Tips:
- Product-specific advertising and branding must not appear:
- On slides, handouts, or educational content
- In or near agendas, programs, or calendars of events
- On webpages or digital platforms containing educational material
- Sponsors may be disclosed in a separate sponsorship acknowledgment slide in the opening remarks, using neutral formatting and placement.
- All materials should be reviewed by the SPC or CPD office prior to distribution or publication.
Why this is important:
Maintaining a strict separation between education and promotion is essential to uphold the integrity of accredited CPD activities. Preventing product-specific branding from appearing near educational content ensures compliance with national standards and protects learners from commercial bias.
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244. What arrangements were used to separate commercial exhibits or advertisements in a location that is clearly and completely separated from the accredited CPD program?
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to describe how commercial exhibits or advertisements were physically or virtually separated from the accredited CPD activity to ensure there is no overlap or perceived influence on the educational content.
Hints for Answering:
- Describe the physical layout or digital structure used to isolate exhibits or advertisements.
- Indicate how signage, scheduling, or platform design reinforces this separation.
- Confirm that no promotional content was included in or near educational sessions.
Tips:
- For in-person events, exhibits must be located in a separate room or area from where educational sessions take place.
- For virtual events, exhibits must be hosted on a separate tab or page, clearly labeled (e.g., “Exhibit Hall”), and not embedded within educational content.
- Commercial advertisements must not appear on or adjacent to:
- Slides, handouts, or educational materials
- Agendas or schedules
- Webpages or apps containing educational content
- Participation in the exhibit area must be voluntary and not required for accessing CPD content.
Example Answer:
- In-Person Event:
Commercial exhibits are located in a separate hall adjacent to the main conference area. Clear signage directed participants to the exhibit space, and no exhibits are placed near or within educational session rooms. The agenda does not include exhibit hours within the educational schedule, and participation in the exhibit hall is entirely optional. - Virtual Event:
Exhibitor content is hosted on a separate tab labeled “Exhibit Hall” within the virtual platform. This tab is not linked to any educational sessions or materials. No advertisements or sponsor branding appears on the main program pages, session slides, or within the virtual classrooms. Participants could visit the exhibit hall at their discretion.
Why this is important:
Maintaining a clear and complete separation between commercial promotion and accredited education is essential to uphold the integrity of CPD activities. It ensures compliance with national standards and protects learners from commercial bias or influence.
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245. If incentives are to be provided to participants associated with an accredited CPD program, how will they be reviewed and approved by the physician organization?
Short Explanation:
This question asks you to describe the process by which any participant incentives—such as prize draws, giveaways, or other rewards—are reviewed and approved by the physician organization or Scientific Planning Committee (SPC).
Hints for Answering:
- Identify who is responsible for reviewing and approving incentives (e.g., SPC Chair, CPD administrator).
- Describe the criteria used to determine whether an incentive is appropriate.
- Confirm that incentives are not linked to a specific sponsor or product.
Tips:
- Incentives must be:
- Reviewed and approved by the SPC or CPD provider organization
- Educationally neutral and not tied to a specific sponsor or commercial interest
- Optional for participants and not a condition of attending educational sessions
- Examples of acceptable incentives include:
- Random prize draws for completing evaluations
- Passport-style exhibit hall activities not linked to a single sponsor
- Modest, non-promotional items (e.g., books, gift cards)
Example Answer:
The participant incentives are reviewed and approved by the Scientific Planning Committee (SPC) prior to the event. The committee ensures that incentives are modest, educationally neutral, and not associated with any sponsor or product. The participants who complete the post-activity evaluation may be entered into a draw to win a gift card valued at $25 for a national bookstore chain. The draw is managed independently by the CPD administrator, and participation is entirely optional. The incentive is intended to encourage feedback and enhance the quality of future CPD programming.
Why this is important:
Reviewing and approving participant incentives ensures that they do not compromise the educational integrity of the CPD activity or create the perception of commercial influence. It also supports fairness, transparency, and compliance with national accreditation standards.
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246. Are there any social events or activities associated with this program?
Short Explanation
This question asks whether any social events (e.g., receptions, dinners, networking sessions) are planned in connection with the CPD activity. If you select “Yes,” you will be prompted to provide additional details in the next question.
Hints for Answering
- Select “No” if there are no social events associated with the program.
- Select “Yes” only if a social event is planned, and be prepared to describe:
- The type of event (e.g., networking reception, dinner).
- When and where it will take place.
- That it occurs outside of accredited learning hours.
- That sponsors are not involved in planning, funding, or promoting the event.
Tips
- Ensure the event is scheduled separately from accredited sessions.
- Do not include unaccredited events in the official program or promotional materials.
- Keep the event modest, professional, and optional.
- Clearly document how the event is funded (e.g., registration fees or non-commercial sources).
- Sponsors must not directly or indirectly be involved in planning, supporting, or subsidizing social events associated with the educational program.
Why this is important
Clearly distinguishing social events from accredited educational content helps maintain the independence and credibility of the CPD program. It ensures compliance with national standards and avoids the perception of bias or undue influence from sponsors.
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247. Describe in detail the social activities related to this program including when these activities take place in relation to the certified learning. What strategies were used to prevent the scheduling of unaccredited CPD activities occurring at same times and locations of accredited activities?
Short Explanation
This question asks for a detailed description of any social events associated with the program, including their timing and location relative to the certified learning sessions. It also requires you to explain how you ensured that unaccredited activities do not interfere with or overlap accredited CPD content.
Hints for Answering
- Describe the type of social activity (e.g., networking reception, dinner).
- Specify:
- When the event occurs (e.g., after the final accredited session).
- Where it takes place (e.g., in a separate venue or room).
- Confirm that the event is not listed in the official agenda of the accredited activity.
- Explain how scheduling decisions were made to avoid overlap or confusion with certified learning (e.g., using separate time blocks, locations, or signage).
Tips
- Use clear language to distinguish between accredited and unaccredited components.
- Ensure that social events are optional and not tied to educational content.
- Avoid any sponsor involvement in the planning or promotion of social events.
- Document the planning process and decisions made to maintain separation.
Example Answer:
A networking reception will be held after the final accredited session on Day 1, in a separate room from the educational activities. It is not listed on the official agenda and is promoted independently. The event is optional, has no sponsor involvement, and was scheduled to avoid any overlap with certified learning. These steps ensure clear separation between accredited content and social activities.
Why this is important
Ensuring that unaccredited activities do not occur at the same time or place as accredited CPD sessions protects the educational integrity of the program. It prevents confusion among participants, avoids the perception of bias, and ensures compliance with national accreditation standards.
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Submitter Comment
Short Explanation:
This is an open text box where you can share any additional information, clarifications, or concerns related to your application. It’s your opportunity to communicate directly with the application reviewer.
Hints for Answering:
- 🗒️ Use this space to:
- Clarify any responses you feel may need context
- Note any pending details or documents
- Ask questions or flag concerns about the application process
- Provide background information that may help reviewers understand your program
Tips:
- Be clear and concise—this field is reviewed by the CPD Office and can help prevent delays or follow-up emails.
- If you’re unsure where to include a specific detail elsewhere in the application, this is a good place to mention it.
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CPD Reviewer Comment
Short Explanation:
This section is reserved for internal use by the CPD reviewer. It allows the reviewer to provide feedback, suggestions, or required revisions based on their evaluation of the application.
Hints for Understanding:
- Applicants cannot edit this field directly.
- Reviewers may use this space to highlight missing information, clarification requests, or recommendations for improvement.
Tips:
- Although you cannot change the content of this section, you should carefully review and implement any suggested revisions.
- Addressing reviewer comments thoroughly and promptly can help expedite approval and ensure your application meets accreditation standards.
- If you are unsure how to respond to a comment, contact the CPD Office for guidance.
Why this is important:
Reviewer comments provide valuable guidance to help align your application with accreditation requirements. Responding to this feedback demonstrates a commitment to quality improvement and increases the likelihood of your activity being approved.
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