This observational study describes the implementation of the CanMEDS' framework of seven roles in theoretical courses in the Danish medical specialist education as well as it describes educational and competence-based evaluation methods. Based on the specialties' written objectives, we found that in 32% of the cases only the role as medical expert was addressed, and that in 92% of the cases at least one educational method besides traditional lectures was used. In 55% of specialties, different types of evaluation of competence were used. Implementation of all the seven roles of a doctor, the use of evidence-based learning and evaluation methods are still in progress.