For how long should approved continuing education providers retain documentation of courses?

Continuing education providers play a vital role in ensuring that physical therapists maintain their licensure through ongoing education. The correct duration for retaining documentation of courses is 7 years. This requirement is established to ensure that providers have the necessary records to validate the completion of courses in case of audits or inquiries by regulatory bodies. Retaining this documentation for 7 years allows sufficient time for regulatory compliance and provides a defense against any potential disputes regarding course offerings or participant attendance.

The rationale behind this specific period is to align with various legal and professional standards, helping to maintain accountability within continuing education. Additionally, it reflects a balance between practicality and the need for oversight in the continuing education process. By having a concrete period of retention, both providers and participants can ensure that records are up-to-date and reliable for verification purposes.