The article is devoted to the role of the Odesa Association of Pediatricians and Neonatologists in the system of continuous professional development of pediatricians and family doctors. The history of the creation of the Odesa Association of Pediatricians and Neonatologists since 1849 and its current achievements are highlighted. The analysis of the formation of the system of continuous professional education in European countries is carried out. The system of continuous professional development of doctors in Ukraine is presented. Examples of formal training in the form of thematic improvement cycles, informal training in the form of seminars, trainings, including using simulation equipment, participation in scientific and practical conferences are shown. Methods and models of continuous professional development in the world and in Ukraine are described. Emphasis is placed on changing the methodology of postgraduate education aimed at mastering skills, mastering competencies in real professional activity instead of obtaining only theoretical knowledge. The role and responsibilities of providers in the continuous professional development of doctors are demonstrated. The active participation of the Odesa Association of Pediatricians and Neonatologists in the postgraduate professional development of pediatricians and family doctors, both in the Odesa region and throughout the country is shown. An opinion was expressed about the involvement of professional associations as providers in the system of continuous professional development of doctors in Ukraine.
Key words: continuing professional development, medical professional associations, pediatricians, family doctors.