Cultural Competency Continuing Education (CE)

How to Fulfill the 2-hour Requirement

• Complete two hours of cultural competency education. This education does not need to be accredited or provide continuing education unit hours. 
  
• The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has established a registry of cultural competence training on its website. This registry is updated regularly and includes a list of OHA-approved training opportunities.
  
• Healthcare providers can also find cultural competency CE courses from various providers, such as Quality Interactions and Healthcare Academy, which offer courses designed to meet the needs of healthcare professionals in Oregon. 
  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which providers need to fulfill this requirement? 
   The two-hour education is required for all physicians, physician assistants, acupuncturists, advanced practice nurses, podiatrists, chiropractors, naturopaths, psychologists, and other health professionals. 
2. How many hours do I need? 
   Two hours of Cultural Competency education. 
3. Do I have to take 2 hours of cultural competence CE for renewal of my license?
   Yes. Simply check the box on your renewal application stating that you have completed the requirement.  However, if you haven't taken the two hours of required cultural competence continuing education, then you must do so prior to submitting your renewal.
   
4. Do I have to use a particular CE provider?
   No.  You may locate education on your own, obtain hours from your employer, or choose OHA-approved courses.
5. Does the Board have a list of approved courses from which I can choose?
   No.  The Board does not approve individual courses nor maintain a list of education providers.  You may locate education online, through your employer, or through the OHA-approved courses.
   
6. How do I submit proof of education?
   You do not need to submit proof of education to the Board with your application.  If you are audited, you will need to supply documentation of education completion at that time.
   

7. I'm an Oregon nursing student. Will topics I've studied as part of my nursing program fill the requirement? 
   Oregon-based nursing programs are required to include learning activities related to cultural competency. However, the cultural competency CE is not required for initial licensure. Once you graduate and become licensed, you will need to complete the cultural competency CE every 48 months thereafter.