Physiotherapy CPD Courses in the Netherlands: Importance, Requirements & Career Guidance

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a vital component of healthcare in the Netherlands, particularly for physiotherapists who aim to maintain their licenses and stay updated with modern treatment protocols. Whether you are a local practitioner or an international physiotherapist seeking to work in the Netherlands, understanding the physiotherapy CPD requirements and opportunities is essential for your career growth and regulatory compliance.

This blog covers everything you need to know about Physiotherapy CPD in the Netherlands, including its importance, the licensing board's audit system, and how you can easily meet your CPD points with flexible PT Online Courses, Physiotherapy Courses, and Free Continuing Education Courses For Physical Therapy.

Physiotherapy in the Netherlands

Physiotherapy in the Netherlands is a well-respected healthcare profession, essential for physical rehabilitation, injury prevention, and long-term recovery. Dutch physiotherapists play a crucial role in multi-disciplinary teams across hospitals, private clinics, rehabilitation centers, and elderly care facilities.

The profession is patient-centered, and emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, continuous education, and ethical responsibility. With the increasing aging population and focus on functional recovery, the demand for highly trained physiotherapists and occupational therapists continues to grow.

Regulatory Body for Physiotherapy in the Netherlands

The primary regulatory authority for physiotherapists in the Netherlands is the BIG-register (Beroepen in de Individuele Gezondheidszorg),which is part of the Dutch Ministry of Health. To practice legally as a physiotherapist, you must be registered with the BIG-register.

In addition to BIG registration, Dutch physiotherapists often join KNGF (Royal Dutch Society for Physical Therapy). KNGF supports physiotherapists with professional guidelines, continuing education opportunities, and CPD compliance assistance.

CPD Courses for Healthcare Professionals in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is not just a recommendation—it is an ethical and often regulatory requirement to maintain clinical competency and licensure. Healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists and occupational therapists, are expected to complete CPD activities regularly.

CPD can include: 

• Accredited Attending accredited PT Courses Online
• Participating in live workshops or webinars
• Publishing clinical research
• Completing Physical Rehabilitation Courses
• Engaging in reflective practice or peer review
   

If you're an OT professional, you can also benefit from Continuing ED Courses For Occupational Therapy and OT Continuing Education Courses available both online and offline.

Important Requirements for CPD in the Netherlands

To remain compliant and competent, physiotherapists in the Netherlands should:

1. Register with the BIG-register to maintain official recognition and the legal right to practice.
2. Join KNGF (optional but beneficial) for support, professional development, and insurance.
3. Complete recognized CPD activities yearly, ensuring alignment with your area of clinical interest.
4. Document all activities with clear learning objectives, outcomes, and time invested.
5. Be prepared for audits and evaluations from the governing body.

How Many CPD Credit Hours Are Required?

While there is no universal hourly mandate in the Netherlands, the KNGF CPD framework recommends at least 160 CPD points over a 5-year period, which is roughly equivalent to 32 CPD points per year.

Each CPD activity is assigned a specific point value, depending on its duration, relevance, and accreditation. For example:

• Accredited live webinars or PT Online Courses = 2-8 points
• Attending national conferences = up to 10 points
• Publishing a paper or case report = 5-15 points
• Mentoring junior therapists or giving lectures = 3-6 points

How CPD Activities Are Audited by the Licensing Board

The BIG-register does not audit CPD activities directly, but KNGF conducts regular CPD audits for physiotherapists who are members. During an audit:

• You may be asked to submit certificates of completion from Continuing Education Courses For Physical Therapy
• You must demonstrate alignment between your learning goals and the CPD activities completed
• Documentation must include dates, learning objectives, course duration, and provider accreditation. 
• Online and offline learning is both accepted if it meet recognized standards

Failure to provide adequate CPD evidence may lead to warnings or loss of KNGF recognition, which can impact insurance coverage and employability.

Ready to Advance Your Career?

Explore our selection of Online Physical Therapy Courses, Live CPD Courses For Physical Therapy, and Free Continuing Education Courses to stay ahead of the curve and achieve your professional goals.

All of our programs are designed to help you meet the Dutch CPD requirements while expanding your clinical knowledge, boosting your resume, and enhancing patient care outcomes.