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Dynamic Chiropractic Staff

ICA Comments on Scope Expansion

The International Chiropractors Association has issued a public statement regarding practice expansion efforts within chiropractic, opposing attempts that include "the prescribing of dangerous drugs and administration of natural substances under certain circumstances." Here are a few excerpts from the statement that addresses patient risks, misleading language and "substandard educational programs" promoting new prescribing rights.

  • " The terminology being presented to legislators by those promoting these changes are misleading. Three terms are particularly problematic – 'administration', 'chiropractic orders' and 'of natural origin.'"
  • "Special medical training, including lengthy and intensive medical residency programs, are normally required in order to be granted the authority to write prescriptions for dangerous drugs including substances of natural origin that will be delivered via injection. At present, there are no CCE accredited chiropractic educational programs that provide this very specialized training."
  • "Authorizing new medical procedures not included in the regular curricula of CCE accredited chiropractic programs poses a danger to the public. ... ICA also opposes extending the scope of practice of chiropractors to grant prescribing rights or to administer invasive techniques such as injections in any manner that circumvents the responsibility of the appropriate Medical and Pharmacy Boards to ensure the safety of the public.

You can read the complete ICA statement on the association's website at www.chiropractic.org/ica-issues-public-statement/.

March 2020
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