ECM: Ultima chiamata! Dal 2026 scattano le sanzioni

Starting from 2026, healthcare professionals who have not achieved at least 70% of the required ECM credits will not be able to benefit from professional insurance coverage. This is established by an important regulatory change contained in the decree which states:

"Starting from the 2023-2025 training period, the effectiveness of the insurance policies referred to in Article 10 of Law 24 of March 8, 2017, is subject to the fulfillment of at least 70 percent of the individual training obligation of the last useful three-year period in the field of continuing medical education."

Although the obligation of professional liability insurance for freelance healthcare professionals has been in force since 2014 (following the conversion of D.P.R. 137/2012), it is only with the conversion law of DL 152/2021 (PNRR), in force since January 2023, that a key amendment is introduced to Article 10 of the Gelli-Bianco Law.

This amendment establishes a fundamental principle: from the 2023-2025 ECM period, insurance coverage will be subject to compliance with the training obligation.

The President of Co.Ge.A.P.S. raises the alarm:

“From 2026, those who are not in compliance with the training obligation risk losing insurance coverage.”

How to comply

Until December 31, 2025 it is still possible to reallocate ECM credits earned in 2023 to the previous three-year period (2020-2022), through the reserved area of the Co.Ge.A.P.S. portal.

However, for the current three-year period (2023-2025), no compensatory credits are provided and the deadline of December 31, 2025, should be considered final.

The National ECM Commission is evaluating solutions and tools to facilitate recovery and improve adherence to the system, also through the adoption of new training methods.

Metaverse and augmented reality coming soon

The ECM system is evolving towards more dynamic and engaging paths, based on practical simulations, immersive environments, and the use of innovative technologies such as augmented reality and the metaverse. The goal is to offer training that is increasingly close to professional reality, fostering the growth of concrete and transversal skills.

We note with concern that healthcare professionals are constantly being asked for more. The obligation to constantly update is fundamental, but often difficult to comply with when forced to skip rest and holidays, face exhausting shifts and sudden returns. Finding the time—and the energy—for training becomes a challenge, especially for those who also have to take care of their family.

Yet, despite increasing obligations and responsibilities, salaries and working conditions often remain inadequate. It is fair to ask: a lot is demanded, but what is given in return?

To concretely support its members, Nursing Up Emilia-Romagna offers a free ECM course of your choice from those available in the attached flyer. The offer is valid for all members and new joiners.

To join:
Visit the website www.lapaginadinursingup.it/formazione
Fill out the online form
You will be contacted by the provider within about 15 days