What action is required if a psychologist has a deficiency in contact hours?

When a psychologist has a deficiency in contact hours, the appropriate action is to apply to make up the hours in arrears. This requirement reflects the importance of maintaining continuous professional development and ensures that psychologists stay up-to-date with current practices, theories, and regulations.

In Pennsylvania, psychologists are typically required to fulfill a certain number of continuing education credits to maintain their licensure. If they fall short of these credits, they must actively seek approval to complete the necessary hours to comply with the licensing regulations. This application process helps ensure that the psychologist meets the educational standards set forth by the state licensing board, allowing them to continue practicing legally and effectively.

This proactive approach emphasizes personal responsibility and commitment to professional growth, aligning with ethical standards in the field. In contrast, options such as an automatic waiver request or suspension are not standard procedures for addressing deficiencies in continuing education hours. Additionally, a full refund of fees would not be relevant in this context, as it does not address the requirement to meet the professional development standards necessary for licensing maintenance.