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ACC -- Issues in Chiropractic

1.0 Introduction

The Association of Chiropractic Colleges (ACC) brings together a wide range of perspectives on chiropractic and is uniquely positioned to help define the chiropractic role within health care. in Position Paper #1 (July 1996), the ACC presidents described the practice of chiropractic within the chiropractic paradigm to include:

  • establishing a diagnosis;
  • facilitating neurological and biomechanical integrity through appropriate chiropractic case management; and
  • promoting health.

As part of its on-going commitment to affirming the profession by addressing issues facing chiropractic education, the ACC presidents have drafted a consensus statement on chiropractic scope and practice.

ACC member colleges educate students for the competent practice of chiropractic. These academic institutions have a direct interest in the definition of the chiropractic scope and practice. Clarity on chiropractic scope and practice will:

  • enhance the consistency and excellence of educational outcomes,
  • contribute to a better understanding of chiropractic education and practice, both within the profession and by the public; and
  • provide direction to the profession for the advancement of chiropractic.

This second position paper includes:

  • definition of the chiropractic scope; and
  • a description of the practice of chiropractic with respect to diagnosis, case management, and health promotion.

2.0 Defining Chiropractic Scope

Since human function is neurologically integrated, Doctors of Chiropractic evaluate and facilitate biomechanical and neuro-biological function and integrity through the use of appropriate conservative, diagnostic and chiropractic care procedures.

Therefore, direct access chiropractic care is integral to everyone's health care regimen.

3.0 Defining Chiropractic Practice

A. DIAGNOSTIC

Doctors of Chiropractic, as primary contact health care providers, employ the education, knowledge, diagnostic skill, and clinical judgment necessary to determine appropriate chiropractic care and management.

Doctors of Chiropractic have access to diagnostic procedures and /or referral resources as required.

B. CASE MANAGEMENT

Doctors of Chiropractic establish a doctor/patient relationship and utilize adjustive and other clinical procedures unique to the chiropractic discipline. Doctors of Chiropractic may also use other conservative patient care procedures, and, when appropriate, collaborate with and/or refer to other health care providers.

C. HEALTH PROMOTION

Doctors of Chiropractic advise and educate patients and communities in structural and spinal hygiene and healthful living practices.