Medical practice in the next century: continuing medical education for change.

Dramatic changes have occurred in society since the Second World War. These include great advances in science and medicine. Such changes are likely to continue at an ever increasing rate. The changes and possible implications for health care delivery over the next fifty years are discussed. These changes and their potential implications place special demands on doctors since many will still be in active practice well into the next century. To meet the challenge doctors will need to adapt to and participate in change. Continuing medical education should, therefore, aim to assist doctors to adapt to and participate in change.