Continuing education is an integral part of every professional’s career development plan, ensuring that they stay abreast of the latest industry trends and enhance their skills. In Virginia, the Department of Health Professionals mandates continuing education requirements to maintain the competence and proficiency of licensed professionals in the health care industry. In this blog post, we will discuss the essential requirements set by the Virginia Department of Health Professionals (VDHP) for continuing education and how licensed health professionals can stay up-to-date with their requirements.
VDHP Continuing Education Requirements
The requirements set by the VDHP for continuing education vary based on the type of license held. For example, physicians need to complete 60 hours of continuing education every two years, with at least 30 hours being Category 1 credit (AMA PRA Category 1 Credits). Whereas nurses must complete 14 hours of continuing education annually.
Besides, some healthcare professionals need to take specific courses defined by their respective boards. For instance, social workers need to complete continuing education in ethics and cultural competency every two years. Similarly, physical therapists are required to undergo accredited courses relevant to their practice.
Continuing education courses taken by VDHP licensed healthcare professionals must be approved by the department, and an accredited continuing education provider must conduct them.
Staying Up-to-Date With Continuing Education Requirements
Staying up-to-date with continuing education requirements is essential to maintain a valid license and remain competent in one’s field. As licensed healthcare professionals have busy schedules, they must find ways to stay informed, keep track of their continuing education requirements, and meet them effectively.
One of the best ways to stay informed and track continuing education requirements is to subscribe to VDHP newsletters or bulletins. These newsletters provide valuable information and updates on the latest healthcare developments, including continuing education requirements.
Another effective way to stay up-to-date is by joining professional associations related to one’s field of practice. These associations often offer continuing education opportunities, and many of them offer discounts for their members. By attending these events and courses, licensed healthcare professionals can learn new skills, stay informed, and meet their continuing education requirements at the same time.
Conclusion
Continuing education is crucial for licensed healthcare professionals to remain competent in their respective fields. The Virginia Department of Health Professionals mandates continuing education requirements based on the type of license held, and healthcare professionals need to stay informed and keep track of their requirements. By subscribing to VDHP newsletters and joining relevant professional associations, licensed healthcare professionals can stay up-to-date on the latest healthcare developments and meet their continuing education requirements effectively.
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