F4CP Launches Public Awareness Campaign: Doctors of Chiropractic in U.S. Complete Seven Years Minimum Higher Education
HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Many Americans may be surprised to learn that doctors of chiropractic
receive a minimum of seven years of higher education, including clinical
patient management. The Foundation
for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP), a not-for-profit organization
dedicated to raising awareness about the value of chiropractic care,
asserts that public perception regarding chiropractic education and
training is seriously flawed and merits improved understanding among
patients, families and health care decision-makers.
“Doctors of chiropractic are not only trained in problems dealing with
the spine, but are formally educated in clinical examination and
diagnosis of the entire human body, with a focus on health care
interventions for the well-being of the whole person,” states Sherry
McAllister, DC, executive vice president, F4CP, pointing to coursework
included in the curriculum of a DC which addresses:
-
Standards Foundation: principles; practices; philosophy and
history of chiropractic -
Basic Sciences: anatomy; physiology; biochemistry; microbiology
and pathology -
Clinical Sciences: physical, clinical and laboratory diagnosis;
diagnostic imaging; spinal analysis; orthopedics; biomechanics;
neurology; spinal adjustment/manipulation; extremities manipulation;
rehabilitation and therapeutic modalities/procedures (active and
passive care); toxicology; patient management; nutrition; organ
systems; special populations; first aid and emergency procedures;
wellness and public health; and clinical decision making -
Professional Practice: ethics and integrity; jurisprudence;
business and practice management and professional communications - Information Literacy and Research Methodology
Much of the development in chiropractic education stems from the
establishment of accreditation efforts in 1938 that ultimately led to
the formation of the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE). The U.S.
Department of Education recognizes the CCE as the accrediting agency for
educational and clinical programs leading to the award of the doctor of
chiropractic (DC) degree. The CCE, a non-profit organization located in
Scottsdale, AZ, sets standards for schools’ curriculum, faculty,
facilities, patient care and research. All 18 programs in the U.S.
offering the DC degree are accredited by the CCE. In addition, these
programs are housed within educational institutions holding status with
the respective regional accrediting bodies such as the Southern
Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) or the Western Association of
Schools and Colleges (WASC).
“Chiropractic college programs are rigorous and thorough,” continues Dr.
McAllister. “The vast majority of DC degree candidates entering their
professional education hold a Bachelor’s degree and exceed the minimum
three years of undergraduate study required for admission. Their
chiropractic college education lasts four years, meaning they graduate
with at least seven years of full-time university-level education. In
their final year, students must also serve a clinical internship.”
Upon graduation and in order to practice in the U.S., individuals must
pass comprehensive national and state licensing exams, similar to those
for other professions.
About Foundation for Chiropractic Progress
A not-for-profit organization, the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress
informs and educates the general public about the many benefits
associated with chiropractic care. To learn more about the Foundation,
please visit us on the web at www.f4cp.com
and www.yes2chiropractic.org
or call 866-901-F4CP (3427).
Contacts
Media
Megan Kivlehan, 201-641-1911 (14)
mkivlehan@cpronline.com
