Continuous professional development among biochemical professionals of Argentina and Latin America: motivations and limitations

The traditional model of studying until obtaining a professional degree and working with that acquired knowledge has changed towards another model characterized by a continuous professional update. The objective of this study is to identify the variables that can explain the biochemists' participation in activities related to the professional development as a part of a wider research conducted by the School of Biochemistry of Universidad Nacional del Litoral also aimed at determining the professional profiles of those who perform clinical analyses in Argentina and Latin America. Data was obtained through a self administered questionnaire sent by electronic and postal mail to professionals registered in a database of postgraduate courses of the School of Biochemistry and the Association of Biochemists Entre Rios. Independent study and distance courses combined with presencial ones with printed materials are preferred options. The main motivation is to improve the quality of the services followed by the need to accompany knowledge and technology developments. The main obstacles are: personal factors, geographical access and course costs. An academic proposal aimed at facilitating access to activities of continuous education should consider the above mentioned preferences, facilitators and demotivators. It should also contemplate the enlargement of the educational offer based on distance options and the improvement of spreading strategies.