Need-to-Know Facts About CME Gift Cards
What the ACCME policy change means for clinicians — and what to look for now instead
Gift cards were once a familiar incentive in the CME marketplace. But things have changed.
The ACCME recently adopted a policy that “prohibits the offering or facilitation of gift cards, cash equivalents, or other forms of personal remuneration in connection with accredited CME activities.”
For accredited providers like Oakstone — and clinicians who appreciated CME gift card offers in the past — that means renewed focus on the content itself. .
ACCME’s Stance on Gift Cards and Incentives
The Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) sets standards intended to keep accredited CME independent, objective, and focused on improving clinician knowledge and patient care.
Under the ACCME’s policy, accredited providers may no longer offer gift cards, cash equivalents, or other personal incentives in connection with accredited CME activities.
In plain terms: for accredited CME, gift card offers are no longer part of the equation.
Oakstone’s Commitment to ACCME Compliance
As an ACCME-accredited provider, Oakstone follows ACCME requirements and guidance for accredited CME.
And, that means Oakstone no longer offers gift cards in connection with accredited CME purchases.
This change is about compliance, transparency, and maintaining the standards that govern accredited continuing medical education. While gift cards may have been a familiar promotional tool in the past, they are no longer permitted in this setting.
What CME Buyers Should Focus on Now
If gift cards are no longer available with your CME purchase,, what should matter most when you evaluate a continuing medical education product?
The answer? The same thing you should always focus on: educational value e.
When comparing CME options, consider whether the program helps you to:
- Earn the credits you need
- Stay current in your specialty
- Strengthen clinical judgment
- Improve patient care
- Learn in a format that works with your schedule
Temporary incentives are just that. Temporary.. High-quality CME should deliver lasting value.
Your Employer’s Reimbursement Policy Still Matters
Gift card or no gift card, it’s also smart to review your employer’s CME reimbursement policy before you buy.
Some employers provide stipends or reimbursement for professional education, but policies can vary by organization. Before making a purchase, confirm what is eligible, what documentation is required, and whether any internal restrictions apply.
The safest path is to understand your employer’s rules before using stipend dollars or submitting CME for reimbursement.
Refund and Return Policies Matter, Too
Regardless of any offers or incentives, the underlying purchase terms still matter.
Before purchasing any digital CME product, review the provider’s return and refund policy carefully. In most cases, online educational products are non-returnable and non-refundable because of their format and immediate access.
Knowing the terms upfront helps you make a more confident purchase decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About CME Gift Cards
Are gift cards still allowed with Oakstone CME?
No. Oakstone no longer offers gift cards in connection with accredited CME.
Why did Oakstone stop offering gift cards?
Because Oakstone is an ACCME-accredited provider and must comply with ACCME policy governing accredited CME activities.
Does this apply to all accredited CME providers?
ACCME’s policy applies to accredited CME activities. Oakstone’s changes reflect that policy as an accredited provider.
What should I look for instead of a gift card offer?
Look at the quality of the education, the relevance to your specialty, the number and type of credits available, the convenience of the format, and the overall value of the product.
Should I still check my employer’s reimbursement policy?
Yes. Employer reimbursement rules still matter, even when gift cards are no longer part of the offer.
Are older gift card purchases treated differently?
If you participated in a prior promotion before the policy change took effect, questions about receipt details, reimbursement, or tax treatment should be addressed based on the terms in effect at the time of purchase.
Content Is Still the Priority
CME has always been about more than a promotion.
Whether you’re meeting licensure requirements, maintaining certification, preparing for boards, or staying current in practice, the real value is in education that is credible, practical, and easy to use.
That part has not changed.
Final Thought
Though we’re saying goodbye to gift cards, the need for trusted, high-quality CME remains the same.
Oakstone continues to focus on practical continuing medical education designed to help clinicians stay current, earn credits efficiently, and deliver better patient care.
If you’re evaluating CME options now, compare them based on what matters most: quality, convenience, relevance, and value.
Oakstone strives every day to provide simple solutions for continuing medical education that advance patient care and create value. Please check out our current non-gift card incentives.