ANDPC's future outlined in new law

The future of the National Agency for Continuing Professional Development (ANDPC) became clearer with the 2027 Social Security Financing Bill (PLFSS), which details the agency's transformation and the evolution of mandatory continuing education for healthcare professionals.

ANDPC to be eliminated by 2027

Article 33 of the 2027 PLFSS explicitly states the elimination of the ANDPC. Its responsibilities, including its assets, contracts, information systems, and personnel, will be transferred to the High Authority for Health (HAS) and the Caisse des dépôts et consignation (CDC). This transition will occur by December 31, 2027, at the latest, though the exact date is still to be set by decree.

HAS and CDC to take over roles

The High Authority for Health will be responsible for the scientific management of continuing education, including overseeing the quality of training activities. It will work with the Caisse des dépôts to register, evaluate, and monitor organizations involved in continuing education. The CDC, meanwhile, will handle the administrative and financial aspects, including managing information systems.

DPC requirement continues, with changes

The reform does not eliminate the continuing education requirement for healthcare professionals. For those not part of a professional order, the requirement will be assessed over six years instead of three. For professionals with an order, like pharmacists, the specific DPC obligation will end, but DPC activities validated by the HAS will still help meet certification requirements.

DPC activities support certification

The National Professional Council (CNP) of pharmacy states that DPC activities contribute to periodic certification, especially in areas like knowledge and practices. Pharmacists can use DPC activities to meet certification requirements, benefiting from compensation and oversight. This supports the goal of integrating education with practical improvements in healthcare.

Continuity and transparency in transition

The reform emphasizes continuity to ensure a smooth transition for healthcare professionals. Until the transfer is complete, the ANDPC will continue its current responsibilities, including managing coverage and compensation. The agency’s General Assembly will vote on the 2027 DPC budget in November, with funding expected to remain roughly the same as in previous years.

Changes in coverage and rules pending

Specific changes in coverage levels, the number of required hours, or management rules will be determined after the transfer of responsibilities. These details are still under discussion and will be finalized as part of the new organizational framework.

DPC and EPP in balance

In 2025, 53.3% of pharmacist registrations involved evaluating professional practices (EPP). This reflects an ongoing effort to ensure that continuing education is not just about learning but also about improving practice. The ANDPC has encouraged this balance by setting limits on continuing education hours and offering incentives for EPP-related activities.

DPC obligation changes for pharmacists

Currently, pharmacists and their assistants must complete their DPC obligation over three years and their periodic certification over six. After the reform, periodic certification will be the only mandatory requirement, but DPC activities can still be used to meet it. The DPC obligation for pharmacy technicians will remain, but the timeframe to fulfill it will be extended to six years.