Mandatory continuing education or periodic reexamination?

Abstract

A descriptive study of physical therapists located primarily in the southeastern United States was undertaken to determine their opinions concerning mandatory continuing education or reexamination for license renewal. A majority of the 1,187 respondents favored continuing education rather than reexamination. Of those favoring continuing education, a majority prefer a yearly minimum requirement of at least 10 hours, a three-year review cycle, a sharing of costs by therapists and employers, provision of courses by the national association, approval of courses by the district or state association, and awarding of credit for demonstrated improved performance at the course. Of those favoring periodic reexamination, a majority preferred a five-year cycle, self-assessment methods available prior to reexamination, a sharing of costs by therapists and government, and an oral examination that the national association would compose but academic institutions administer. Both groups favor probationary status for noncompliance. Based on the findings, some implications for adoption and implementation of either system for the physical therapy profession are discussed.