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Background Check

Why Is a Background Check Required?

Healthcare organizations want to ensure patients receive safe care. To help with this, students must complete a Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Criminal Background Check and a Caregiver Background Check before participating in clinical experiences.
Healthcare agencies review background check results when deciding if a student can attend clinicals. Completing a background check is required, but it does not guarantee placement, since each healthcare agency makes its own decision about student participation.
Background Check Requirement

Students in Health Division programs must keep their DOJ Criminal Background Check and Caregiver Background Check current while they are enrolled.

Background checks are valid for four years from the date they are completed. Your background check must remain current through the end of the academic year, which ends in May.

 

When Do I Need a New Background Check?

You will need a new background check if:

  • Your current background check will not remain current (obtained within the last 4 years) through the end of the academic year.
  • You have had any criminal charges since the background check was completed.
  • You have had a legal name change since the background check was completed.

Examples:

Background check expires June 2028
Your background check remains valid through the end of the 2027-2028 academic year, so no new background check is needed.

Background check expires February 2028
You will need a new background check because it will expire before the academic year ends in May 2028.

Can I Use a Background Check from Another FVTC Health Program?

Yes. You may use a background check previously completed through Viewpoint for another FVTC Health Division program if:

  • The background check will remain current (obtained within the last 4 years) through the end of the academic year.
  • You have not had any criminal charges since the background check was completed.
  • You have not had a legal name change.

If any of these conditions apply, a new background check may be required.

Student Responsibilities

As a student, you are responsible for:

  • Keeping your background check current
  • Reporting any changes that may affect your background check
  • Checking documentation requirements and meeting all deadlines
  • Completing any additional requirements requested by your clinical site or healthcare agency

Staying on top of these requirements can help prevent delays in your clinical placement or program progression.

Questions?

If you're unsure if your current background check can be used, contact the Health Division Clinical Documentation team before purchasing a new one.

Health Division Clinical Documentation Team