The state of continuing education for physicians was examined by a World Health Organization Expert Committee. The study touched on five major areas: (1) the motivation and stimulation during basic medical education and during the physicians professional career; (2) the definition of objectives, selection of instructional methods, and evaluation of educational impact as they relate to the application of modern pedagogy; (3) interprofessional education programs; (4) qualitative and quantitative organizational requirements; and (5) resource requirements in the areas of personnel deployment, training staff for continuing education programs, facilities, and funding. Recommendations suggest: (1) The development of national systems of continuing education for the health professions with clearly defined central and regional administrative authority and responsibility, and the integration of such programs with the national health care system. (2) The development of mechanisms for determining the local health needs and deficiencies of practitioners. (3) The identification and development of more realistic incentives and rewards for physicians to encourage them to engage in continuing education. (4) The development of discussion among specialists with the purpose of delineating jointly the specific objectives and processes or continuing education for the health professions. (5) The development of demonstration projects in interprofessional education. Additional recommendations are included. (MJM)