ONLINE vs. IN-PERSON Continuing Education as defined by the Louisiana Administrative Code (LAC title 46 part LXXXV)

The LA Veterinary Practice Act defines interactive webinars as online CE hours, not in-person CE hours. The Board continues to receive questions from licensees concerning the type of continuing education hours required for the annual renewal of licenses – specifically whether interactive, “live” presentations viewed online may be substituted for the physical presence requirements for attendance at seminars, lectures, conferences, or workshops. Further guidance has been requested concerning the definition of “online instruction” which is limited to 50% of the total required hours per CE period (i.e. – fiscal year prior to July 1st renewal opening).

The Board is governed in this regard by the provisions of the Louisiana Administrative Code (LAC title 46 part LXXXV) and in particular Chapter 4, sections 400 and 403 (A) (2) and (3). The LAC addresses continuing education instruction in terms of subject matter, accreditation, and the means of delivery of instruction (medium). The medium of delivery of instruction has specific provisions beyond content and accreditation.

“Contact participation” (i.e.- in-person) is defined in section 400 as “physical attendance at seminars, lectures, conferences, or workshops”. CE hours earned by contact  participation are not limited by the LA Veterinary Practice Act; however, a maximum of 50% of the required CE can be completed through online participation.

“Online participation” is defined in section 400 and includes:

1. pre-recorded, self-test audio or video presentations with third-party grading;
2. non-interactive audio or video presentations in real-time available via the internet; and
3. interactive or “live” audio or video presentations or webinars in real-time available via the internet.