Abstract

Background
Continuing professional development (CPD) is essential in maintaining standards in healthcare. While CPD has been widely studied among practitioners, little attention has been paid to the perspectives of those in regulatory roles. This study explores how individuals involved with CPD at the statutory regulators for chiropractic and osteopathy in the United Kingdom perceive the governance, engagement with, and effectiveness of CPD as currently organised.

Methods
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten participants from the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). These included administrative officers, those with strategic positions, or committee members whose remit included CPD issues, such as those with roles on education committees. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify patterns in participants’ experiences and perceptions. A constructivist approach informed the analysis.

Results
Two overarching themes were developed: the value of regulators in supporting public safety and reassurance through CPD, and the necessity for CPD implementation to accommodate varied practitioner roles. Subthemes included trust issues with regulators, perceived quality and relevance of CPD, and systemic limitations linked to resources and legislation.

Conclusions
Regulatory staff view CPD as crucial to safeguarding the public and maintaining trust. However, challenges such as resource constraints, professional isolation, and the absence of formal CPD accreditation mechanisms limit its effectiveness. Improved communication and strategic changes may enhance CPD's impact.