Table 3.

Fundamental elements recommended for capacity building through CME/CPD programs in the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council

Main goals	Special topics to be emphasized	Potential barriers
• Identify existing challenges and existing gaps based on overall long-term goals of country • Strengthen existing skills and knowledge of the current workforce • Strengthening human and institutional resources • Strengthen leadership by encouraging personal and professional development • Support innovation and technology • Develop new – or adhere to existing – health guidelines	• Critical thinking • Preventive medicine • Personalized medicine (genetics) • Health informatics • Control of lifestyle diseases • Self-care: avoiding burnout	• Financial limitations • Unrealistic business plan • Reluctance to seek or accept advice from consultants • Failure to obtain or act on patient feedback • Poorly motivated staff • Unsatisfactory interpersonal relationships between staff members. • Rapid staff turnover