Low attendance by basic science educators at medical education meetings

Background: Recently, concern has been expressed about the perception that few basic science educators (BSE) attend national and regional medical education meetings. Purpose: This study was designed to analyze the issues affecting BSE decisions about whether to attend medical education meetings. Method: An online survey was created and submitted to basic science course directors at the 128 U.S. allopathic medical schools. Results: Responses from 486 BSE suggest that because of the pressure to obtain research funding and achieve academic promotion, participation in medical education meetings is not a high priority with most BSE. Conclusions: BSE attendance at medical education meetings can be improved, but it will require joint efforts by the BSE home institution and medical education organizations.