Navigating continuing education (CE) requirements for Doctors of Chiropractic can be confusing. Amber Henry, Logan University’s director of continuing education, offered some advice for DCs looking to fulfill their CE requirements.
Why do chiropractors need continuing education hours?
As with any profession, it’s important to further your skills and knowledge. Chiropractors are required to hold a state license that is maintained through continuing education. This ensures that all Doctors of Chiropractic are staying current in their field, while continuously learning and experiencing new methods, techniques, data, research and more.
How do chiropractors earn continuing education hours?
Doctors of Chiropractic can earn continuing education credits through several different methods. With the return of in-person events, DCs can attend conferences, symposiums or seminars to earn their continuing education credits. There are also online options like webinars and virtual courses, which are convenient for doctors who may find it hard to travel to in-person events.
Logan University is hosting its 8th annual Symposium April 13-16, 2023, on campus and at St. Louis Union Station. Attendees can earn up to 24 hours of continuing education credits over the course of this event.
How does one know how many continuing education hours they need to keep their chiropractic license in good standing?
The required amount of continuing education hours varies by state, as each state has a different set of requirements. For example, Missouri requires 48 hours of continuing education every two years for Doctors of Chiropractic. It’s best to check with your licensing organization about their requirements, but this website also has a breakdown of requirements by state.
Where can chiropractors find listings of continuing education opportunities?
DCs can find listings of continuing education opportunities online. A great place to start is your alma mater’s website, or another institution that offers a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. Most institutions publish their course offerings on their website, under the department of continuing education.
For example, on Logan University’s website, all continuing education opportunities can be found at logan.edu/continuing-education.
What are the best kinds of continuing education opportunities for chiropractors?
When it comes to continuing education opportunities for chiropractors, there is no “one-size-fits-all” option. When choosing something that will work best for you, consider how you learn best. If you’re more of a hands-on learner, you’ll probably want to attend an in-person event where you can work alongside other doctors. If you like quiet, alone time to focus best, an online option might be best for you.
Regardless of what type of learner you are, your budget, location or level of convenience, you’ll be able to find more than a few options that meet your needs.
What resources are available for chiropractors looking to earn CE credits?
In addition to the websites of institutions that offer DCs degrees, PACE (Providers of Approved Continued Education) is a fantastic resource. The PACE Course Catalog allows you to search and filter by keyword, course format, hours, subjects and more.
Most universities that offer a Doctor of Chiropractic degree will have a department of continuing education. I would encourage you to contact that department at your alma mater with any questions you may have.
At Logan, contact Amber Henry, director of continuing education, at amber.henry@logan.edu or (636) 230-1933.