Can trade names be mentioned to provide important background on treatment approaches for a specific condition (not to push a current treatment recommendation)?
The ACCME does not prohibit any use of trade names, but it does take a use-sparingly, only-if-necessary approach. Aim to limit trade names to one or very limited mentions, use text only (no logos/branding), and reference comparable products/services, as highlighting only one trade name among several could be construed as a form of preference or promotion.
Can we claim that our performance focused activity is also changing patient outcomes? Don't they go hand in hand?
Performance changes can lead to patient outcomes in the long run, but to analyze change as a result of an accredited activity, you need to provide evidence of actual changes in patient outcomes. Data sources can include patient reported data (e.g., surveys, quality of life improvements, reported symptoms), clinical data analysis (including chart audits, mortality/morbidity rates, and risk-adjusted metrics), or community health statistics, to name a few.
