A new report from the advocacy group Do No Harm is drawing attention to what it describes as growing political ideology inside continuing medical education tied to the American Medical Association. The findings raise concerns about whether required physician training is prioritizing activism over evidence-based medicine.
The report focuses on Continuing Medical Education courses offered through the American Medical Association, which physicians must complete to maintain licensure in most states. Do No Harm reviewed thousands of course descriptions and found frequent references to topics such as equity, racism, and gender identity, while advanced medical subjects appeared far less often. The group argues that CME should center on clinical science, new treatments, and patient outcomes.
Dr. Kurt Miceli, chief medical officer for Do No Harm, said physicians rely on CME to stay current on best practices. He warned that embedding ideological frameworks into mandatory education risks weakening scientific standards and eroding trust within the medical profession.
The report also highlights CME content discussing gender-affirming care for minors and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Do No Harm stated that some courses reference academic work written by authors without medical degrees, raising questions about clinical relevance and medical oversight.
The Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education responded that complaints about CME activities are reviewed using established procedures to ensure accuracy and balance. The AMA has not issued a public response to the report.
The dispute reflects a wider debate over ideological influence in professional institutions. Critics argue that medical education should remain focused on science, ethics, and patient care rather than social or political agendas.
