What must a chiropractor provide to a patient before starting any treatment?

Before initiating any treatment, a chiropractor is required to provide a written informed consent form to ensure that the patient is fully aware of the proposed treatments, potential risks, and alternative options. This practice is rooted in the principle of informed consent, which is critical in healthcare. It emphasizes the patient's right to understand the nature and consequences of the treatment they are receiving.

The informed consent process helps to build trust between the chiropractor and the patient and affirms the patient's autonomy in making healthcare decisions. By having this written form, the chiropractor documents that the patient has been informed about their care, which can offer legal protection for both parties in case of any disagreements or claims of malpractice.

This requirement reflects standards in ethical healthcare practice and aligns with legal obligations that aim to ensure patients are adequately informed before undergoing any medical procedures, which is particularly crucial in chiropractic care where treatment methods can vary widely.