Suicide prevention CE requirements by state
A handful of states require suicide prevention or suicide assessment training, usually once every few years. Each state sets its own length and approved courses.
2states require it of PTs
4states require it of OTs
| State | Physical therapists | Occupational therapists |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | At least 2 hours on screening for PTSD, suicide risk, depression and grief, and on suicide prevention, in your first year that requires hours and then at least once every 6 years rules | At least 2 hours on screening for PTSD, suicide risk, depression and grief, and on suicide prevention, in your first renewal period and then at least once every 6 years. It must be offered or approved by the Connecticut Occupational Therapy Association, a hospital or other licensed health care institution, or an accredited college. rules |
| Kentucky | Not required | A board-approved training program in suicide assessment, treatment and management (6 or more hours), at least once every 6 years rules |
| Tennessee | Not required | A 2-hour suicide prevention training from a board-approved provider, at least once every 4 years (it counts toward the 24) rules |
| Washington | A one-time 3-hour suicide assessment training rules | At least 3 hours of suicide assessment training every 6 years (the course must meet WAC 246-847-066) rules |
Where to take it
- Washington's training must come from the Department of Health's model list. Tennessee and Kentucky require board-approved providers, and Connecticut lists who may offer it.
Summaries of each board's rules. A state not listed doesn't require this topic as far as its PT and OT rules say. Rules change, so confirm with your board.
Other required topics
- Ethics 21 states
- State law and jurisprudence 25 states
- Human trafficking 3 states
- Implicit bias 3 states
- Cultural competency and health equity 5 states
- Pain management 2 states
- Preventing medical errors 1 state
- HIV/AIDS 1 state
- Child abuse recognition and reporting 2 states
- CPR and basic life support 3 states
- Sexual harassment prevention 1 state
- Dementia recognition 1 state
- Mental health and substance use 1 state