Continuing Medical Education (CME) Allowance - Physician Contract Glossary

Continuing Medical Education (CME) Allowance

Definition

A designated budget or stipend provided by an employer to cover costs related to educational courses, conferences, and professional development.

Examples in Context

“Physician is eligible for a $3,000 annual CME allowance, inclusive of registration fees, travel expenses, and lodging.”

“Employer shall reimburse Physician for CME-related expenses within 30 days of receipt of proper documentation.”

Implications for Physicians

• Ensures financial support for maintaining board certification and licensing requirements.
• Encourages career growth through skill enhancement and knowledge development.
• Improves networking opportunities through conferences and workshops.

Negotiation Tips

• Negotiate for a higher allowance if your specialty requires frequent travel or expensive courses.
• Request clarity on what expenses are eligible, including travel, meals, and course materials.
• Ask whether unused CME funds can roll over to the following year.

Red Flags and Pitfalls

• Employers that limit CME reimbursement only to tuition or exclude travel costs.
• Restrictions on conference locations or types of educational activities.
• Employers that require CME courses to occur only during unpaid time off.

Related Terms

• Vacation Policy
• Summary Plan Description (SPD)
• Mandatory Reimbursement

FAQs

• “Do CME funds cover international conferences?”
  • Many contracts limit CME reimbursement to domestic conferences; confirm this before registering.
• “Can I use online CME courses?”
  • Yes, most contracts allow accredited online CME programs to qualify for reimbursement.
• “Does CME leave count as vacation time?”
  • Some employers combine CME leave with vacation days; ask for separate allocations to maximize your time off.

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided in this glossary is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, this content is intended to help physicians better understand common contract terms and does not replace professional legal guidance.

For personalized advice regarding your employment contract or other legal concerns, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified attorney who specializes in physician employment contracts.

You can find experienced legal professionals through our Physician Contract Lawyer Directory.