Are New Zealand podiatrists satisfied with mandatory continuing professional development?

Abstract

Background New Zealand (NZ) registered podiatrists are required to participate in continuing professional development (CPD). This study investigated podiatrist’s perceptions and satisfaction surrounding mandatory CPD requirements following the implementation of a new CPD programme. Methods A cross-sectional study of NZ registered podiatrists was conducted between October 9th and December 9th, 2020. Data was collected using a web-based survey. The 39-item survey included questions to elicit participant characteristics, perceptions of CPD, difficulties undertaking CPD, and satisfaction with the new CPD programme. A mixed quantitative and qualitative methodology was used to report the survey findings. Results One hundred and thirty-four podiatrists completed the survey. Most respondents worked in private practice (n = 107, 80%), and were in full-time employment (n = 83, 62%), and had greater than 16 years of work experience (n = 73, 54%). Respondents agreed it was important to engage in CPD (n = 126, 94%) and reported that knowledge gained from CPD contributed to their daily work (n = 78, 58%). Forty-four percent (n = 58) reported difficulties keeping up to date with CPD. The main barriers to CPD participation reported were workload (n = 90, 67%) and lack of time (n = 84, 63%). Three categories (understanding the CPD programme; access to CPD; and time to complete CPD) were identified from the qualitative analysis to describe why it was difficult to meet CPD requirements. Conclusion Overall, NZ podiatrists value CPD and are satisfied with most aspects of the mandatory CPD programme. Facilitation of CPD activities that are flexible, relevant to practitioner’s scope of practice and conducted in the workplace environment may address barriers to CPD access.