What Are the Requirements to be a Chiropractic Assistant?

<p>The responsibilities of chiropractic assistants vary by practice and employer, as do the education requirements. Some chiropractic assistants focus on administrative duties and generally hold only high school diplomas. Other chiropractic assistants perform more clinical functions and may be required to complete formal postsecondary training programs. Many community colleges and vocational schools offer certificate programs for both types of chiropractic assistants. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisOccupation">Important Facts About This Occupation</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> Median Salary (2023) </td><td> $34,099*</td></tr> <tr><td> Similar Occupations </td><td> Medical Receptionist, Administrative Assistant</td></tr> <tr><td> Key Skills </td><td> Office administration, customer service, and scheduling</td></tr> <tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031) </td><td> 16% growth (<i>for all medical assistants</i>)**</td></tr> </table><p><i>Sources: *PayScale.com, **U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---OfficeAssistant">Office Assistant</h3> <p>While most of a chiropractic office assistant's work centers around basic reception, you may still benefit from completing formal training. Certificate programs for chiropractic office assistants often begin with an overview of medical terminology as well as the philosophy, law, and ethics surrounding the practice of chiropractic medicine. You'll also learn about various clerical topics, such as office management, insurance processing and billing, bookkeeping, communications, and office technology. Some programs conclude with internships in chiropractic offices. </p> <h3 id="section---ClinicalAssistant">Clinical Assistant</h3> <p>Because chiropractic clinical assistants work closely with doctors and patients during examinations and treatments, these certificate programs focus more on medical training. You'll first learn about human anatomy, biology, and physiology and become acquainted with chiropractic foundations, such as therapeutic methods and manipulation techniques. You might also learn to assess patients, which may include taking notes, medical histories, and vital signs. </p> <p>These certificate programs have a strong emphasis on clinical training. You can expect to learn how to assist doctors during examinations and treatments, as well as how to analyze test results. Some programs include courses in basic radiography. Others focus on alternative treatments, such as massage therapy and acupuncture. You may also take a course in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. </p> <h3 id="section---CertificationAndLicensing">Certification and Licensing</h3> <p>Chiropractic assistants typically don't need to be licensed or certified, though employers often prefer certified job applicants. The Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards offers the Certified Chiropractic Clinical Assistant credential to individuals who have completed high school, 24 hours of postsecondary education and an exam.</p>