The UNC School of Medicine (SOM) has earned a full eight-year continued accreditation from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). This process, which occurs every eight years, allows the School of Medicine to review progress and accomplishments, and evaluate strengths and challenges with respect to medical student education based on LCME accreditation standards and elements.
The LCME is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the accrediting body for medical education programs leading to the MD degree in the United States and Canada. The LCME is sponsored by the Association of American Medical Colleges and the American Medical Association. In determining a medical school’s eligibility for accreditation, the LCME reviews its compliance with 12 LCME standards, covering requirements for curriculum, student services, personnel, educational resources and policies.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the School of Medicine’s LCME site visit was rescheduled from March 2020 to July 2020 and was conducted in a virtual format.
The preparation process for the LCME site visit kicked off in July 2016 with one of three retreats. The SOM initiated its 18 month self-study process in August 2018. The required Data Collection Instrument, Self- Study Summary, and Independent Student Analysis, were submitted to the LCME in December 2019.
The SOM’s self-study committee and self- study sub-committees represented the broad spectrum of the SOM community to include: basic and clinical science faculty, student representation, staff, alumni, and administrators from the School and UNC Health System. Medical students were also involved on the Independent Student Analysis Committee.
“Despite a year of disruptions and uncertainty, we have successfully come together as one great team. The LCME awarding us the longest possible accreditation cycle is a reflection of our hard work and collaborative efforts. I extend my sincerest appreciation to every student, resident, faculty, staff, and LCME Committee members for the integral role you played in helping with this entire process. Your contributions help make the UNC School of Medicine a great place to learn and teach,” said Cristy Page, School of Medicine Executive Dean.
Approximately 100 individuals participated in the self-study, and independent student analysis.
The next full survey visit will take place during the 2027-28 academic year.