Federal Council of Medicine

The Federal Council of Medicine (Conselho Federal de Medicina, CFM) is a professional regulatory body in Brazil responsible for overseeing the practice of medicine in the country. It is tasked with ensuring that medical professionals adhere to ethical standards and that the practice of medicine is conducted in a manner that protects the health and well-being of the public.

History

The Federal Council of Medicine was established in 1951, following the enactment of Law No. 3,268. This law was a significant milestone in the regulation of medical practice in Brazil, as it provided a framework for the creation of both the Federal Council and the Regional Councils of Medicine. These councils were designed to regulate the medical profession, ensuring that practitioners meet the necessary qualifications and adhere to ethical standards.

Structure

The CFM is composed of representatives from the Regional Councils of Medicine (CRMs), which are distributed across the various states of Brazil. Each regional council elects its representatives to the Federal Council, ensuring that the interests of all regions are considered in the decision-making process.

Functions

The primary functions of the Federal Council of Medicine include:

• Regulation of Medical Practice: The CFM establishes guidelines and standards for medical practice in Brazil, ensuring that all practitioners meet the necessary qualifications and adhere to ethical standards.

• Ethical Oversight: The council is responsible for maintaining the Code of Medical Ethics, which outlines the ethical obligations of medical professionals in Brazil. It also adjudicates cases of ethical violations and imposes sanctions when necessary.

• Professional Development: The CFM promotes continuous professional development among medical practitioners, encouraging them to engage in lifelong learning to keep up with advancements in medical science and practice.

• Public Health Advocacy: The council advocates for public health policies that improve the health and well-being of the Brazilian population. It works with government agencies and other stakeholders to address public health challenges.

Activities

The CFM engages in a variety of activities to fulfill its mandate, including:

• Issuing Resolutions and Opinions: The council regularly issues resolutions and opinions on various aspects of medical practice, providing guidance to practitioners and informing public policy.

• Conducting Inspections and Audits: The CFM conducts inspections and audits of medical facilities to ensure compliance with established standards and regulations.

• Organizing Conferences and Workshops: The council organizes conferences, workshops, and seminars to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices among medical professionals.

Headquarters

CFM headquarters in Brasília

The headquarters of the Federal Council of Medicine is located in Brasília, the capital of Brazil. This central location allows the council to effectively coordinate with regional councils and engage with national government agencies.

Related pages

• Regional Councils of Medicine
• Code of Medical Ethics (Brazil)
• Medical regulation in Brazil