Frequently Asked Questions

Why are some chiropractors called doctors?

The term doctor is an honorary title that qualified chiropractors are permitted to use, although not all do. They are doctors of chiropractic, not medical doctors (unless they have a medical degree or other doctorate).

Note: If a chiropractor uses the term ‘Dr’, the GCC Code of Conduct requires that in promotional materials or advertisements, they must make it clear that they are a Doctor of Chiropractic.

What is the difference between osteopathy and chiropractic?

In many ways, osteopathy and chiropractic are more similar than dissimilar but chiropractors are trained differently and also have different techniques. In general terms chiropractors tend to focus on nerve and joint function. BCA chiropractors are also trained to take and interpret x-rays, which osteopaths are not. However, both professions have statutory regulation.

Is chiropractic treatment available on the NHS?

Chiropractic is sometimes available on the NHS - it just depends on the individual primary care trust. Chiropractic is covered by many healthcare insurance companies including BUPA and PPP, as well as cash plan such as HSA.

Why should I use a BCA chiropractor?

British Chiropractic Association chiropractors are all registered on the General Chiropractic Council register of chiropractors - this is the statutory body for chiropractors in the UK. BCA chiropractors are trained to a very high standard - a minimum of a four year, full-time degree course taken at an internationally recognised college of chiropractic.

Does it hurt?

Generally, BCA chiropractic does not hurt - although there may be some minor short-term discomfort which quickly passes. If you've had a problem untreated for a long time, you might be a little sore afterwards, as your body needs time to adjust You should discuss what after effects you may feel when you see your chiropractor.

Do I have to be referred by a GP or other doctor?

You can 'self refer' to a chiropractor, although we often see patients who hay been referred by GP's or other health professionals. Chiropractors can keep your GP updated with details of your chiropractic treatment.

Can I gain access to my chiropractic treatment records?

Under the terms of the chiropractors' code of conduct, they are legally required to keep the originals of your notes for a period of 8 years after your last visit to them, but under the terms of the Data Protection Act, if you provide a written request, we will of course supply a copy of the notes we hold about you at this clinic We are able to make a reasonable charge for this, to reflect our costs in producing the copies. With x-rays, the chiropractor similarly needs to keep any x-rays or images used as part of the diagnostic or treatment process, even though you may have paid for these. It is possible for a chiropractor to obtain a copy of a scan or x-ray and again, they may need to levy a charge to reflect their costs in obtaining this. The Data Protection Act stipulates that we cannot make a charge in excess of £50 for providing copies c notes/scans/x-rays or other materials relating to your patient record.

Note for BCA member/clinic staff: Under the revised GCC Code of Conduct (June 1st 2005), chiropractors are advised not to release original x-rays/images to patients, as this may leave the chiropractor vulnerable should a future complaint be made. Copies should be obtained if a patient asks for images/x-rays and you can levy a charge for providing copies of notes/images*, although clearly this in not always to the patient’s liking and some chiropractors have copies made at their own expense (there is a reasonably priced service available at AECC and WIOC). If another healthcare practitioner requests a patient’s x-rays on a temporary basis, this can be done (with the patient’s express written permission) but we should advise that the recipient signs a declaration undertaking to return the x-rays within a defined period of time and the chiropractor must keep track of these requests, taking steps to ensure the films are returned. Details of whom the x-rays have been sent to, the patient’s letter of permission and declaration of return should be kept with the notes.

* The Data Protection Act states that you MAY NOT CHARGE MORE THAN £50 for providing copies of notes/images/x-rays and that any charge made must be reasonable (e.g. you cannot charge £20 for providing 2 photocopied sheets). Any cost incurred above £50 has to be paid by the chiropractor.