Patient-Centred Practices

1. Chiropractic care has been shown to be effective for a range of neuromusculoskeletal conditions for which there is credible research evidence. Communication of the benefits of care should be based on the best available literature and/or reasonable clinical experience.
2. The communication of a diagnosis following a comprehensive patient assessment is a fundamental element of clinical excellence.
3. The provision of a treatment plan with clear markers for evaluation of patient progress and improvement is essential to patient-centred care.
4. The provision of care should be preceded by a discussion of the benefits and risks of the proposed treatment. Patient consent should be documented in the patient’s file.
5. Ongoing treatment of a patient should be based on clinical findings and consideration of objective and subjective improvement. Re-evaluation of the need for care at regular intervals is essential. The absence of re-assessment renders long-term projections of care as conjecture.
6. Referral to or consultation with an appropriate health care provider is warranted when there is a lack of clinical improvement or a diagnosis for which chiropractic care is not indicated.
7. Patient care should not be contingent on conditions such as, but not limited to, requiring pre-payment, tying delivery of treatment to participation in a clinic activity, or requiring other family members to attend the clinic for treatment.
8. Privacy is a right of all patients. Options for privacy must be made available to all patients and the privacy of patients must be respected and accommodated at all times.

June 2008