Professional Advancement and Continuing Education Council
CME

Calculation of CME Credits

Calculation of CME Credits by the PACE Council

CME (Continuing Medical Education) Calculation typically refers to calculating the number of CME credits or hours earned by a healthcare professional through educational activities.

Basic Formula

CME Credits = Total Learning Time (Minutes) / 60

Examples

Learning Duration CME Credits Earned
30 minutes 0.5 CME Credit
60 minutes 1.0 CME Credit
90 minutes 1.5 CME Credits
120 minutes 2.0 CME Credits
180 minutes 3.0 CME Credits
240 minutes 4.0 CME Credits
300 minutes 5.0 CME Credits

Example Calculation

  • Attended a workshop for 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Total time = 150 minutes

150 ÷ 60 = 2.5

CME Credits Earned = 2.5

Formula for Multiple Activities

If a participant completes several educational activities:

Example:

  • Webinar: 60 minutes = 1.0 CME
  • Seminar: 90 minutes = 1.5 CME
  • Online module: 45 minutes = 0.75 CME

Total CME Credits = 1.0 + 1.5 + 0.75 = 3.25 CME Credits

Important Notes

  • The exact method for awarding CME credits varies by accrediting body and jurisdiction. Some organizations round to the nearest quarter hour or require participants to complete assessments before credits are granted.
  • Always follow the credit-awarding policy specified by the CME provider or accrediting organization.