Medical Education Institute, Inc.

Overview

The Medical Education Institute, Inc. (MEI) is a U.S. nonprofit organization established in 1993. It operates as a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering individuals with chronic diseases, particularly those with kidney disease, to manage and improve their health through targeted education for both patients and healthcare professionals.

Purpose and Activities

MEI focuses on providing evidence-based educational programs and tools designed to enhance the quality of life for people with chronic conditions. Their primary activities include systematic research and the development of educational resources for patients and healthcare professionals. MEI is well-known for its comprehensive training tools, particularly in the area of dialysis and end-stage renal disease.

Funding Sources

MEI's funding comes from a variety of sources:

• Licensing fees and product sales: Revenue generated from licensing their educational materials and selling products related to healthcare education.
• Educational grants and sponsorships: Funding received from organizations and individuals supporting their educational initiatives.
• Fee-for-service projects: Income earned from providing educational services on a project basis.
• Government contracts and subcontracts: Funding received from governmental agencies for specific projects.
• Individual donations: Support from individuals contributing to MEI’s mission.

History and Leadership

MEI was founded by Edith Oberley, Paulette Sacksteder, and William Hofeldt. Notably, Dori Schatell has been part of the MEI team since its inception and took on the role of Executive Director in 2001. The organization’s board includes prominent figures such as John Sadler, MD, who serves as Chair and has extensive experience in nephrology.

Recognition and Impact

MEI has received multiple awards for its educational websites and tools, and Dori Schatell received the Annual Dialysis Conference Special Recognition Award in 2015. The organization's educational resources are highly regarded for improving patient outcomes and are used both domestically and internationally.

Financial Profile

As of 2021, MEI reported revenues of approximately $955,127, with expenses totaling $979,928, resulting in a net loss of $24,801. Their net assets stood at $1,143,939. Primary revenue streams included program services, contributions, and net inventory sales[4].

Notable Programs

• Core Curriculum for Dialysis Technicians: A comprehensive training tool designed to enhance the skills of dialysis technicians and nurses, ensuring high-quality patient care.
• eClasses for Patients: Educational resources aimed at empowering individuals with kidney disease to manage their health effectively.

Overall, MEI plays a significant role in advancing the management of chronic diseases, particularly renal conditions, through innovative educational programs and research initiatives.

[1] https://fconline.foundationcenter.org/fdo-grantmaker-profile/?collection=grantmakers&activity=result&key=MEDI050 [2] https://mei.org/about/ [3] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/39-1739731 [4] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/391739731 [5] https://mei.org