State of Arizona
Board of Chiropractic Examiners

 

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Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ's

What is The State of Arizona Board of Chiropractic Examiners?

Regulation exists to protect the public’s health, safety and welfare.  In the State of Arizona, statute provides for the Board of Chiropractic Examiners to handle the licensing and regulation for the chiropractic profession.

Responsibilities include:

ü   To investigate complaints.

ü   To oversee the general application of the laws governing the practice of chiropractic.

ü   To update and develop regulations.

ü   To address scope of practice and to better define both appropriate conduct by professionals and consumer expectations.

ü   To continually review required credentials for doctors to practice safely, effectively and ethically.

ü   To apply appropriate disciplinary action to doctors or chiropractic that break, the public trust through a violation of law.

ü   To function in the global regulatory community to assist other professions or jurisdictions affected by chiropractic.

The Governor appoints the five members of the State of Arizona, Board of Chiropractic Examiners.  The Board is comprised of three doctors of chiropractic and two public members.  The Board employs staff to carryout administrative, licensing and investigative functions of the agency.  An assistant attorney general provides legal counsel to the Board and staff members. 

The Board generally meets monthly.  All Board meetings are open to the public.

What credentials are required to be licensed to practice chiropractic in the State of Arizona?

ü   Be a graduate of an accredited chiropractic college.

ü   Have a certificate of attainment for Parts I, II, and passed Parts III and IV with a minimum score of 375, administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.

ü   Complete a criminal background investigation.

ü   Demonstrate understanding of state law by passing the jurisprudence examination.

ü   Be a person of good character and reputation.

ü   Be physically and mentally able to practice chiropractic skillfully and safely.

What can the public expect from a doctor of chiropractic?

ü   A thorough physical examination to determine conditions which may be appropriate for chiropractic care.

ü   To be referred to another health care provider for conditions not appropriate for chiropractic care.

ü   To understand the type of care to be administered, and what results may be expected.

ü   Discussion with the doctor as the care continues, to evaluate treatment, effectiveness and projected duration.

ü   Financial arrangements are clearly understood.

ü   Appropriate, ethical care delivered in confidence, with respect for privacy and dignity.

What happens if a doctor violates the public trust?

An essential part of the Board of Chiropractic Examiners responsibility is to discipline the small fraction of doctors who violate the laws governing the practice of chiropractic.

Complaints are investigated thoroughly.  If the investigation of a complaint provides enough evidence to demonstrate a possible violation of the law, a formal interview or formal hearing, may be conducted to determine the facts and the severity of the offense.  If a doctor is found to have violated a law or through a consent agreement, the Board may:

ü   Issue an order to cease and desist.

ü   Issue an order of Concern.

ü   Issue an order of Censure.

ü   Impose a fine.

ü   Set terms of probation.

ü   Refuse to renew a license.

ü   Suspend a license.

ü   Revoke a license.

How can you tell if a doctor has been disciplined?

The public can contact the Board office at (602) 864-5088 or click here to determine the status of a doctor's license. The status will reveal if the doctor's license is active and in good standing, suspended, revoked or otherwise limited. In addition, the staff can report on the doctor's complaint and disciplinary history. The public can view the doctor's public records at the Board office at:

State of Arizona
Chiropractic Board of Examiners
5060 N. 19th Ave, Suite 416
Phoenix, AZ 85015