But Goldfinger also says web-based learning presents special challenges. Older physicians are sometimes more reluctant to use new technology. In order to attract an audience, programs must be easy to use.
"No matter where you are, a physician's time is very precious. They don't want to spend eight minutes fumbling into a program," Goldfinger says.
And just because it's online doesn't mean it's interesting.
"A live professor standing in front of a room instead of up on a screen seems to count," he says. "Lots of the [continuing medical education] that's gone online has been print, that's been very dull."
Thus far, online medical education has not been a great success.
"There's lots of [continuing medical education] online but none of it is doing that well," he says. "To me, it's an incredible challenge. Although one approaches it with optimism, it's certainly a venture that may not be as successful as we'd like to see it."
But Goldfinger also says HMS online education could potentially be used for relicensing, which requires continuing education in some states.
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