Continuing education for physical therapists ensures that the men and women working in this profession are always on the top of their game acim and up to date on the latest techniques, breakthroughs and standards. While it isn’t necessarily a legal requirement in every state for physical therapists to complete a certain number of continuing education hours to stay certified, it’s always a good idea. Some employers require it, and all employers appreciate it. The clients that come to see physical therapists definitely appreciate their continued education, as it enhances the services they are able to provide.
A Variety of Choices
There are many different types of continuing education courses that physical therapists can take, both online and at local schools or professional institutes. While coursework may vary, continuing education classes are generally meant to provide a broad understanding of any new concepts that have developed. The coursework will also typically include information about any changes in rules, regulations, laws, professional standards and best practices that have taken place, which practicing physical therapists may be unaware of.
Not all continuing education courses are the same, and that means some are also of a lower quality than others. If you’re going to invest your time and money in taking a class, it’s important to make sure that it is acceptable to various physical therapy associations. In fact, many of these professional associations provide some sort of continuing education courses, so you can always just contact one of the associations in your state and see what they offer. For example, the American Physical Therapy Association offers many different classes, and if you are a member of the organization, they are free. These classes do not replace the training you got in college; they simply provide a wider array of the latest information so that you can stay on track and continue working towards your professional goals.
Any agent selling any type of insurance is required to complete a certain amount of insurance continuing education courses every 1-2 years. Whether you sell life insurance, health insurance or property and casualty insurance; continuing education is required. Insurance agents need to contact their state to see what insurance classes they need to take and how many hours they need. Many states require an agent to complete their continuing education requirements every other year by their birthday. But, some states require a certain amount of hours every year. Some states also lessen the amount of continuing education credits needed depending on how long you have been licensed. Usually, the longer you have been licensed, the less insurance education you have to complete.
While continuing education for physical therapists isn’t required in every state, it is required in 33 of the states, so there’s more than a 50 percent chance that you have to take these courses every few years to keep your license. Even if it isn’t required, it’s still worth the time, effort and money involved. And if you’re lucky, you can even find courses that are completely free. Online courses are also available so that you can fit the education into your busy lifestyle. Know that, above all, your clients will definitely appreciate the effort you took.
Many agents choose to do their insurance continuing education online because the courses are usually a little easier and more convenient than sitting in a classroom. Most continuing education courses are a simple textbook to read followed by a multiple choice exam. Some states require a monitored exam while others allow an open book exam. If you are in a state that allows an open book exam the agent is able to refer back to the textbook while completing the exam. The only real reason a producer sits in the classroom is because they are scared to take exams. If you attend a class in person you just sign a document stating you were present and avoid any type of test.
