Continuing education is essential for physical therapists aiming to maintain licensure, stay up to date with evolving practices, and deliver optimal patient care. However, the financial burden associated with CEU courses can be daunting. Fortunately, numerous reputable organizations offer free CEU opportunities, enabling physical therapists to enhance their skills without incurring additional costs.
Key Takeaways
- Free CEU courses are a valuable resource for physical therapists to maintain state licensure and stay current with evolving clinical practices—without the added financial strain.
- Platforms such as Saebo Academy, Wild Iris Medical Education, and APTA Washington offer high-quality, evidence-based continuing education focused on neurological rehabilitation, Long COVID care, and mandated training topics.
- Free and flexible options from providers like OnlineCE.com and AbleNet University allow physical therapists to expand their skill sets in areas like ergonomics, assistive technology, and stroke recovery, making professional development more accessible.
Free CEU Opportunities for Physical Therapists
Saebo Academy's Neurological Rehabilitation Courses
Saebo Academy provides a suite of free, AOTA-approved CEU courses tailored for physical therapists focusing on neurological rehabilitation. One notable offering is the "Saebo Orthotic Training" course, which delves into the application of dynamic orthoses like the SaeboFlex and SaeboReach for patients with upper extremity impairments post-stroke. This comprehensive course covers assessment techniques, fitting procedures, and integration into treatment plans, awarding participants 0.5 CEUs upon successful completion. (Saebo Academy, Saebo Academy)
Additionally, the "SaeboStretch CEU" course introduces the principles of dynamic splinting for neurological recovery, emphasizing the benefits over static splinting methods. This 30-minute course provides insights into the design and application of the SaeboStretch device, offering 0.05 CEUs. (Saebo Academy)
For those interested in evidence-based strategies to enhance motor recovery post-stroke, the "5 Ways to Improve Motor Recovery After Stroke" course presents current research and practical interventions. This 1-hour course is designed to equip therapists with actionable techniques to facilitate patient progress. (Saebo Academy)
Wild Iris Medical Education's Diverse Course Offerings
Wild Iris Medical Education offers a range of online CEU courses accepted in many states, including California. Their courses span various topics pertinent to physical therapy practice. (Wild Iris Medical Education)
Notably, they provide a free "Sexual Harassment Training" course, which is particularly relevant for Illinois healthcare professionals, fulfilling the 1-hour CE requirement mandated by the state. (Wild Iris Medical Education)
Other courses, such as "Stroke: Comprehensive Acute Stroke Care" and "Suicide Intervention and Prevention," offer in-depth knowledge on critical areas, though these may require a nominal fee. (Wild Iris Medical Education)
APTA Washington's Long COVID Rehabilitation Course
APTA Washington has made available a free CEU webinar titled "Rehab of Patients with Long COVID," addressing the emerging challenges associated with post-viral symptoms. This course, led by Dr. Janna Friedly, explores the role of physical therapy in managing Long COVID, providing clinicians with tools to support affected patients effectively. (APTA Washington)
OnlineCE.com's Complimentary Course
OnlineCE.com offers a complimentary 1-hour CEU course designed for physical therapists. This course covers significant topics such as driver rehabilitation and ergonomics, essential areas of knowledge for any practicing PT. This one-hour course is a quick and efficient way to earn free PT CEUs while expanding expertise in these important areas. It’s a prime example of how online continuing education can be both accessible and impactful.
Affordable Membership Options for More CEUs
For more extensive continuing education options, consider affordable membership plans like those from Wild Iris Medical Education and MedBridge. MedBridge offers over 2,700 CEU courses and holds accreditations from APTA and other relevant bodies, ensuring quality and recognition. MedBridge’s subscription plans include features catering to both learning and patient engagement, especially the Premium Plan. Using the promo code ‘PTPRO’ at checkout provides a significant discount, reducing the cost for physical therapists to $274. These affordable options provide unlimited access to high-quality CEU courses, making it easier to meet your continuing education requirements.
How Coral Care Can Help
Coral Care is an exceptional place to work for physical therapists seeking flexibility, support, and competitive compensation. With a strong emphasis on work-life balance, Coral Care offers a flexible schedule that allows therapists to build a caseload that fits their lifestyle. The pay is highly competitive, and therapists gain access to a robust network of professionals and resources that simplify the often complex aspects of being a PT, from documentation to patient management. Whether you're looking to grow your practice or find more autonomy in your career, Coral Care provides the tools and community to help you thrive.
Summary
In summary, there are numerous free CEU opportunities available for physical therapists, each offering unique benefits and areas of focus. From Saebo Academy’s comprehensive tools to specialized courses in neurological rehabilitation and geriatrics, these resources provide valuable professional development without the financial burden. By taking advantage of these free courses, physical therapy professionals can stay current with the latest practices and research, ultimately improving the quality of care they provide to their clients. Embrace these opportunities and continue your journey of lifelong learning and professional growth (Saebo Academy).
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I access APTA Washington's Long COVID Rehabilitation Course?
You can access APTA Washington's Long COVID Rehabilitation Course by visiting their official website and registering for the webinar. The course is available for free and provides valuable insights into managing Long COVID symptoms through physical therapy interventions.(APTA Washington). By leveraging these resources, physical therapists can continue to grow professionally, ensuring they provide the highest standard of care to their patients.
Are the courses offered by AbleNet University APTA-approved?
The courses offered by AbleNet University are not APTA-approved, but they still provide valuable professional development opportunities.
What topics are covered in Wild Iris Medical Education's courses?
Wild Iris Medical Education covers a diverse array of subjects pertinent to the physical therapy profession, including stroke care, mental health, and state-mandated topics like sexual harassment training. This ensures that professionals stay informed and engaged in their field.
How many free CEUs can I earn through Saebo Academy?
Saebo Academy offers several free courses, each providing varying CEU credits. For instance, the "Saebo Orthotic Training" course offers 0.5 CEUs. It's advisable to review each course's details for specific credit information.(Saebo Academy, Saebo Academy)
Are these free CEU courses accepted by all state licensing boards?
Free CEU courses may not be universally accepted by all state licensing boards, so it's crucial to confirm with your specific board for acceptance.
