Continuing Professional Development for physiotherapists: The state of play in the European Region of World Physiotherapy

Abstract

Objectives To provide an overview of the Continuing Professional Development frameworks employed by the European Region of World Physiotherapy member organisations. Design and participants Descriptive study using semi-structured interviews based on survey data to explore policy experts' perspectives from 37 European countries. Results Across Europe 19 countries apply a voluntary and 18 countries apply a mandatory CPD framework. The reasons to apply a voluntary system are: (1) responsibility of the physiotherapist, (2) leverage to negotiate fees and benefits and, (3) historical trends. The rationales for mandatory CPD frameworks are: (1) legislation, regulation and policy compliance, (2) license to practice renewal and, (3) maintain professional recognition and standardisation of the profession. Countries with a mandatory CPD framework impose consequences such as the loss of the license to practice, an additional licensure exam or, payment of a fine when physiotherapist do not adhere to the set standards. France and Ireland have a robust system in place with subsequent steps starting with a warning over supervised practice to the physiotherapist's permanent loss of the license to practice. Conclusion Less than 50% of the countries have a mandatory system in place. Currently, only three out of eighteen countries with a mandatory CPD framework use the CPD to standardise practice and ensure professional recognition. Despite its recognised importance in maintaining professional competence, CPD remains largely unstandardised across the Europe Region of World Physiotherapy. Contribution of the Paper center dot The importance of CPD is recognized for health professionals in patient-centered care, professional competency development and evidence-based care. center dot This study provides a first overview of the CPD frameworks for physiotherapists in the Europe Region of World Physiotherapy highlighting key components. center dot European CPD frameworks for physiotherapists should be standardized to foster professional recognition. (c) 2026 Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.