All unlicensed supportive personnel (chiropractic assistants) who perform professional responsibilities under a chiropractic physician's direction must be properly qualified by education, training and/or experience.

The Board recommends that chiropractic assistants obtain formal chiropractic assistant training. DCOnline is currently offering such training. Individuals who complete the on-line course will receive a certificate from Palmer College of Chiropractic. If you are interested in learning more about this program, please contact the Ohio State Chiropractic Association at www.oscachiro.org or 1-800-837-6721.

OAC § 4734-8-02 Unlicensed Supportive Personnel

(A) A chiropractic physician is responsible for the care of his or her patients. Such responsibility includes ensuring that all unlicensed supportive personnel are competent and properly qualified by education, training, and/or experience to perform their assigned duties.

(B) A chiropractic physician may delegate certain professional responsibilities to unlicensed supportive personnel who are qualified by education, training, and/or experience to perform such duties.

(C) Unlicensed supportive personnel means an individual or individuals who are on the job trained by a chiropractic physician and who participate in chiropractic patient care delivery. Unlicensed supportive personnel do not hold professional licensure and work under the direction of a chiropractic physician utilizing their education, training, and/or experience to perform designated tasks and duties related to the practice of chiropractic.

(D) A licensed chiropractic physician must properly supervise all unlicensed supportive personnel to whom responsibilities are delegated. Properly supervise within the meaning of this rule is defined as initial and ongoing direction, procedural guidance, observation, and evaluation by a licensed chiropractic physician.

(E) Professional responsibilities shall only be delegated by the order of a licensed chiropractic physician. Professional responsibilities within the meaning of this rule include:

(1) Taking measurements for height, weight, blood pressure, respiration, pulse, and temperature;

(2) Recording observable signs and symptoms;

(3) Collecting bodily fluids for diagnostic purposes;

(4) Applying hot and/or cold packs;

(5) Applying mechanical traction;

(6) Applying electrical stimulation;

(7) Applying vasopneumatic devices;

(8) Applying diathermy;

(9) Applying therapeutic ultrasound;

(10) Exercise instruction and supervision of exercise activities;

(11) Supervision of therapeutic procedures;

(12) Assist patients to safely perform activities related to the development of strength and endurance;

(13) Other services or procedures as deemed appropriate by the board.

(F) A chiropractic physician shall not delegate duties to unlicensed supportive personnel in a negligent manner.
Effective: 8-1-07