New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Ch - Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Overview: Board of Chiropractic Examiners (Ch)
The Board of Chiropractic Examiners is the official regulatory body in New Hampshire responsible for licensing, regulating, and overseeing the professional practice of chiropractic care in the state. The Ch section of the Administrative Rules contains all the regulations related to the qualifications, licensure, practice standards, renewal, and disciplinary procedures for chiropractors.
Purpose of the Ch Rules
The main goals of the Board of Chiropractic Examiners rules are to:
Ensure only qualified individuals are licensed to practice chiropractic care.
Protect the public by maintaining high standards of professional conduct and care.
Define the scope of chiropractic practice.
Establish procedures for license application, renewal, and discipline.
Provide clear guidelines for continuing education and professional development.
Detailed Breakdown of the Ch Rules
1. Definitions
This part defines key terms used throughout the rules such as:
Chiropractic practice: The examination, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system primarily by manual manipulation.
Board: Refers to the Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
Licensee: A chiropractor licensed under these rules.
License: Legal authorization to practice chiropractic in NH.
2. Licensure Requirements
Education: Applicants must graduate from an accredited chiropractic college recognized by the Board. This typically requires a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree.
Examinations: The Board requires passing scores on:
The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exams, including Parts I, II, and III.
A jurisprudence exam on New Hampshire chiropractic laws and regulations.
Application Process: Detailed instructions on submitting an application, including:
Proof of education
Examination results
Character references or background checks
Payment of application fees
Licensing: Upon meeting all requirements, the Board issues a license allowing the individual to practice chiropractic in New Hampshire.
3. Scope of Practice
The rules clearly describe what licensed chiropractors may do, such as:
Diagnosing spinal and musculoskeletal conditions.
Providing chiropractic adjustments and manipulations.
Ordering or performing certain diagnostic tests within the law.
Providing therapeutic advice related to chiropractic care.
The rules also specify activities not permitted, protecting the public from unauthorized practice outside the chiropractor’s expertise.
4. License Renewal and Continuing Education
Licenses must be renewed periodically (typically every two years).
Licensees must complete a specified number of continuing education (CE) hours during each renewal cycle to ensure they stay current in their field.
Acceptable CE activities include seminars, workshops, conferences, and courses related to chiropractic practice.
The renewal process requires submission of renewal forms, CE documentation, and payment of renewal fees.
5. Professional Conduct and Ethics
The rules set ethical standards expected of chiropractors, including:
Maintaining patient confidentiality.
Avoiding conflicts of interest.
Providing care that meets accepted professional standards.
Not engaging in fraudulent or deceptive practices.
The Board may discipline licensees for violations of these ethical standards.
6. Complaint and Disciplinary Procedures
The Board outlines how complaints against chiropractors are filed and investigated.
Possible disciplinary actions include:
Reprimand or censure.
Suspension or revocation of a license.
Fines or probationary conditions.
The licensee is provided with due process, including hearings and opportunities to respond.
7. Fees
The rules specify fees associated with:
Application
Examination
License issuance
Renewal
Other administrative costs
8. Exemptions and Temporary Licenses
Some rules may allow for temporary licenses or special permits under limited conditions.
Exemptions for certain individuals or activities might also be defined (e.g., chiropractic students practicing under supervision).
Who is Affected by These Rules?
Chiropractors who want to practice in New Hampshire.
Applicants seeking chiropractic licensure.
Patients who receive chiropractic care and benefit from regulated, professional standards.
Employers such as clinics and healthcare facilities that employ chiropractors.
The Board itself, as it enforces and updates these rules.
Importance of the Ch Rules
These rules help ensure that chiropractic care in New Hampshire is provided by qualified professionals who adhere to rigorous standards, protecting the public’s health and safety. They provide clarity to practitioners and the public about the scope of practice, licensure requirements, and the disciplinary system.
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