I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed requirement mandating in-person attendance for continuing education (CE) for Doctors of Chiropractic (D.C.s).  

First, no other professional group licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine is subject to such an in-person CE requirement.  Chiropractors should be afforded the same professional autonomy and respect in choosing whether to complete CE online or in person.  Imposing this requirement exclusively on D.Cs creates an unnecessary and inequitable distinction among the Board's licensees.  

Second, this proposal would undermine the prior Governor's initiative to reduce regulatory burdens for licensed professionals.  Increasing restrictions on how chiropractors fulfill CE obligations moves in the opposite direction, adding complexity and inconveniences rather than reducing barriers.  

Third, requiring in-person CE can disrupt patient care.  Many D.C.s operate solo or small practices and mandatory in-person CE often requires travel and would necessitate closing the office directly limiting patient access and continuity of care.  

Finally, the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of flexible, remote learning options.  If in person CE had been required during 2020-2021, it could have jeopardized public safety by forcing providers to travel and interact in large groups, then return to work in close contact with patients and staff.  Maintaining online CE options is both a public health and professional best practice.  

That said, I do support the proposed removal of the "clinical" content requirement for chiropractic CE.  This change is long overdue and brings our profession into alignment with others under the Board's jurisdiction.  Removing this restriction promotes fairness and professional parity across licensed healthcare providers in the Commonwealth.  

Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration of these comments.