The Osler Institute is committed to preserving the memory and spirit of Sir William Osler, widely regarded as the father of lifelong learning and continuing medical education for physicians, and as an early advocate for the science and art of medical practice.

The Osler Institute was established on August 17, 1982, as a not-for-profit continuing medical education organization in Indiana to coordinate a new Pathology Board Review Course. Within three years, this course attracted nearly half of all candidates for the American Board of Pathology exam. In 1986, the Institute expanded its offerings to include similar courses in Orthopedics and Otolaryngology. Today, the Osler Institute provides over 50 review courses each year across approximately 20 medical specialties. More than 100,000 participants have earned more than 1 million hours of continuing medical education from the Osler Institute—more than most medical school CME departments.

In 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Osler Institute adapted by launching virtual review courses, aligning with the board's shift to virtual testing.