Essential Insights on Washington’s Health Equity Requirement: A Must-Read for RNs and LPNs
In response to growing awareness of health disparities, Washington State has introduced new health equity continuing education (CE) requirements for nurses, effective December 22, 2023. This mandate applies to all Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), requiring them to complete 2 hours of health equity CE as part of their total CE requirements every renewal period. Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to navigate Washington State’s Health Equity Requirement, ensuring they meet these new standards while fostering equitable care practices.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to navigate Washington State’s health equity requirement, ensuring compliance and promoting equitable patient care.
Meet Washington State’s Health Equity CE Requirement with Renew Now CE
To meet this requirement, Renew Now CE offers a convenient and comprehensive 2-hour Health Equity CE course tailored to meet Washington State’s new continuing education requirements. Accredited by leading organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), this course equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge needed to reduce health disparities. Specifically, topics include implicit bias, social determinants of health, and culturally competent care. Additionally, with our user-friendly online platform, you can complete the course at your convenience and access your certificate of completion instantly—ensuring you’re fully prepared to meet the 2026 renewal deadline.
Ensure You’re Up-to-Date: What Every RN and LPN Needs to Know About Washington’s New Health Equity CE Requirements
As of December 22, 2023, Washington State has implemented new health equity continuing education (CE) requirements for nurses:
- 2 hours of health equity CE every renewal period.
In Washington State, all Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must renew their licenses annually by their birthday to maintain active status. This annual renewal process requires all nursing professionals to fulfill specific continuing education (CE) requirements, including the new health equity CE hours mandated by the state.
Furthermore, these 2 hours will count toward the total 8 hours of continuing education required for both RNs and LPNs during each renewal period. Therefore, ensuring compliance with Washington’s Health Equity Requirement is not only a legal obligation but also a professional necessity.
Timeline to Complete New Health Equity CE
All licensed RNs and LPNs have until their 2026 renewal date to complete the 2 hours of health equity CE.
- After the 2026 renewal, nurses must complete 2 hours of health equity CE every renewal period.
Nurses applying for a new license have until their 2nd renewal date to fulfill this requirement.
- After the 2nd renewal, they must complete 2 hours of health equity CE every renewal period.
Health Equity Training Course Requirements
Renew Now CE offers a 2-hour Health Equity CE course that fully meets Washington State’s requirements. Led by experienced trainers, the course covers:
- Implicit Bias Training: Strategies to reduce bias in diagnosis, focusing on factors like racism and poverty.
- Intervention Development: Encourages individual and system-level changes, with self-reflection on social position and patient care.
- Cultural Competence: Practical skills for providing inclusive care to diverse communities.
- Health Equity Application: Helps professionals integrate health equity concepts into their daily practice.
This course ensures compliance and equips nurses to deliver equitable care. For further details about the statutory requirements and model rules, please visit the Washington State Board of Nursing.
RN and LPN Continuing Competency Requirements
- 8 continuing education hours (including 2 hours of health equity CE).
- 96 practice hours due every year.
- One-time, 6-hour training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management from a qualified training program.
- e-Notify registration and survey online at Nursys®.
Why Choose Renew Now CE for Your Health Equity CE?
- Nationally accredited and compliant with Washington State Board requirements for health equity.
- CE credits recognized by ADA CERP, ACCME, ANCC, CDR, ASWB, ACPE, AAPA, APA.
- High-quality, peer-reviewed content designed to meet professional standards and improve practice.
- Easy-to-use online platform with instant access to your completion certificate.
- Affordable pricing with discounts available for groups and organizations.
- Dedicated customer support and comprehensive tracking for your CE records.
Ready to Complete Your Washington Health Equity CE Requirements?
Choose Renew Now CE and fulfill your state-mandated 2-hour health equity CE requirement with confidence. Click here to enroll today and ensure compliance by your 2026 renewal date.