[Continuing medical education seminars of the professional society as preparation for specialist certification (surgery specialty and subspecialties)].

The Berufsverband der Deutschen Chirurgen (BDC) established the Academy for Surgical Education and Training and started in 1986 a structured educational program. It consists of an annual congress (Chirurgentag) and different seminars. In the meantime 15 seminars--nine in general surgery and six in surgical specialities such as traumatology and vascular, visceral, and thoracic surgery--are offered annually in 12 different locations in Germany. The basic seminars (since 1986) 5,264 and the specialised seminars (since 1992) have attracted 1,078 participants. The evaluation of these educational efforts by the BDC in respect to the annual certifications by the official authorities (Landesärztekammer, Bundesärztekammer) demonstrates a high level of acceptance.