Why Implicit Bias Training Matters for Osteopathic Physicians in Michigan
As of June 1, 2022, Michigan law requires that all health professions licensed under the Michigan Public Health Code (except veterinary medicine) complete implicit bias training to apply for or renew a license. Michigan Gov+1 This includes osteopathic physicians (DOs), along with MDs, nurses, pharmacists, and other practitioners.
The requirement stems from Michigan Administrative Rule R 338.7004, last revised on March 23, 2023, which updated permissible training modalities and clarified certain details.
Key points:
- New applicants (for a license) must complete 2 hours of implicit bias training within the 5 years immediately preceding licensure.
- Renewing licensees must complete 1 hour of implicit bias training for each year in their license/registration cycle.
- The training must cover topics such as definitions of implicit bias, its effects in healthcare, strategies for mitigation, cultural sensitivity, and more.
- Licensees must retain proof of completion (e.g. certificate) for 6 years, in case of audit.
- The training can now be delivered via asynchronous webinars/teleconferences, in addition to live or interactive formats.
Given this, osteopathic physicians in Michigan should plan ahead to satisfy these requirements and avoid last-minute issues at renewal.
What Has Changed for 2026
- The updated 2023 rule expansion means that asynchronous, on-demand courses are now accepted formats, making compliance more flexible.
- Course offerings have been refreshed to remain current with best practices and accreditation cycles. For instance, the Michigan Physician CME Package, which bundles implicit bias with ethics and pain management, remains active and up-to-date.
- Some older courses will expire, so professionals should verify release/expiration dates before enrollment.
Which Courses Are Available (2026) — Direct Links
Here are some trusted, currently available courses that fulfill the Michigan implicit bias requirement:
- Michigan Implicit Bias – 2 Hour CE (On-Demand) — Meets requirements for new applicants.
Take the 2-hour course - Michigan Physician CME Package (7 hours: Implicit Bias, Ethics, + Pain) — All-in-one bundle that includes the 3-hour implicit bias component.
Explore the package - Other Implicit Bias Webinar Options — Renew Now CE also offers 1-, 2-, and 3-hour implicit bias webinars (on-demand) for various health professions.
View implicit bias webinar options
When selecting, always confirm the course is LARA-compliant and that it covers the required content under rule R 338.7004.
Tips for Osteopathic Physicians to Stay Compliant
- Plan Ahead
Don’t wait until the renewal window. Spread out implicit bias training over your license cycle so the requirement doesn’t pile up. - Match the Hours
- If you’re a new applicant: take a 2-hour course within 5 years before applying.
- If renewing: take at least 1 hour per year of your license cycle. Doing a 2- or 3-hour course can let you cover multiple years in one session.
- Check Course Validity
Ensure your course’s release and expiration dates are acceptable. Courses should be current and accredited. For example, courses in the Michigan Physician CME Package mention an expiration of June 30, 2026 for some components. - Keep Your Certificate
Store it digitally and physically for 6 years — you might be audited. - Bundle When Possible
If you need other mandatory Michigan CME (e.g. medical ethics or pain management), bundle with the implicit bias training to simplify compliance. The Michigan Physician CME Package is an example of that strategy. - Stay Informed of Rule Updates
Since the rule was revised recently (2023), further amendments could follow. Always refer to the Michigan LARA website and Official Rule R 338.7004 for updates.