A chiropractor is a member of a regulated health profession, regulated by the Newfoundland and Labrador Chiropractic Board (NLCB) under the Chiropractors Act, 2009. In order for anyone to practice as a chiropractor or use the title of “chiropractor” in Newfoundland and Labrador, an individual must meet the registration requirements of NLCB. These requirements include graduation from an accredited chiropractic college, successful completion of clinical competency and legislation and ethics examinations, and completion of an application and annual renewal for registration with the NLCB. Doctors of chiropractic complete a minimum of 7 years of post-secondary education before becoming registered with the NLCB. As well, as part of being a member of a self-regulated health profession, chiropractors are required to participate in life-long learning, which includes continuing education and professional development, self-assessment and peer and practice assessment.

Chiropractors are authorized to use the title of “Doctor” in providing patient care and communicate a diagnosis within their regulated scope of practice.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Chiropractic Board or NLCB is the regulatory body that licenses chiropractors in our province and sets standards of practice to protect the public. In order to maintain a license to practice, all chiropractors must meet a strict set of guidelines including graduation from an accredited chiropractic college, criminal record check clearance and ongoing education requirements. In addition, all registered chiropractors are required to abide by the Chiropractors Act that was created by the NL Government and the NLCB by-laws. All regulated NL health professions must be licensed under a regulatory board/college. These criteria mean that patients can rest assured that chiropractors are trusted, primary caregivers. Patients also have recourse through the NLCB if they feel they were treated inappropriately under the care of a NL chiropractor. The NLCB investigates and disciplines chiropractors that do not abide by the bylaws or legislation and takes patient concerns very seriously.