I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed changes to 18VAC85-20-235, which would remove the requirement for clinical continuing education hours for doctors of chiropractic and mandate that 24 of the 30 annual hours be in-person.

I believe these changes would be detrimental to patient care and professional development. Online continuing education provides an invaluable opportunity for chiropractors to access a broader range of high-quality, specialized courses from experts across the globe. This accessibility is especially critical for those practicing in rural areas or those with limited travel availability. Limiting online learning would not only restrict our educational options but also increase the financial and time burdens associated with travel, lodging, and in-person course fees.

Furthermore, removing the clinical hours requirement would dilute the focus on direct patient-centered skills. Clinical education ensures that we remain current with the latest advancements in diagnostic techniques, treatment protocols, and patient management. These skills are essential for providing safe, effective, and evidence-based care.

The current regulations strike a necessary balance between various learning formats, promoting both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical application. I urge the Board to maintain the existing requirements, which support flexible, accessible, and comprehensive continuing education for all doctors of chiropractic in Virginia.