In most professions, learning is an ongoing process, and this is particularly true for rapidly-evolving fields like chiropractic medicine. A commitment to continuing education can place you in the academic vanguard of your profession.

While there are a wide variety of optional continuing education courses available, you will also be required to update your knowledge periodically in order to renew your license.

• The amount of continuing education, or CE, that is required in each state depends on the guidelines of that state’s chiropractic association.
• California, for example, requires 12 hours of continuing education annually, at least four of which must address adjustment techniques. Pennsylvania requires 24 hours of CE every two years for license renewal, and Nevada mandates 36 hours of CE for the years 2011 and 2012. Other states, such as Delaware, require license renewals only on odd- or even-numbered years.
• You will need to investigate the continuing education requirements of your individual state; these requirements should be listed on the state association website.

CE credits or course hours may be available at conferences, seminars, or annual meetings. In addition, the state associations usually offer a list of locations, dates, and times for continuing education courses. Most chiropractic schools also offer continuing education courses at various locations across the U.S.

Another option for acquiring necessary CE hours is to take online courses. For the busy chiropractor maintaining a full-time practice, this is often a favorable option. Many chiropractic schools offer online CE courses designed to satisfy the requirements of various states. In addition, websites such as Chirocredit.com, DCHours.com, and WiseDC.com offer online CE courses for chiropractors. You should be sure to verify that your state licensing board accepts the credits from these websites prior to signing up for any online CE courses.

Continuing Education
You may also voluntarily seek out continuing education for your own edification or specialization. Some chiropractors take additional courses to achieve diplomate status in a particular specialization, such as sports therapy, pediatrics, or geriatric chiropractic medicine. These specializations can help you find the right “niche” for your practice, and can increase your marketability.

Another option is to seek the Advanced Practice Chiropractic-Certified (APC-C) designation, which entitles a chiropractor to an expanded scope of practice. The American Academy of Chiropractic Physicians, or AACP, currently offers training toward the APC-C designation. Regardless of your motivations, acquiring additional education is guaranteed to enhance your perspective, sharpen your skills, and improve the quality of your patient care.