Chiropractic provides an alternative method to solve some health issues and this is one of the reasons why it has become more and more popular today. Chiropractic services cannot just be administered to adult patients but to children and infants as well.
When dealing with children chiropractors use a different approach, so that everything from examination to treatment is done appropriately to avoid risks.
ChiroSecure recently interviewed Dr. Amanda Apfelblat, founding member and current President of Michigan Chiropractic Pediatric Association. They talked about the pediatric practice risks and rewards. The following are some takeaways from the interview:
Family-friendly practice – Dr. Amanda emphasizes the importance of having a family-friendly practice. That is having a practice not only for adult patients but is set-up so that the practice is friendly for children as well.
Lecture on chiropractic care for children – It is important to get the message across and explain to parents why their children need chiropractic treatment based on the report findings. Educational lecture is key (e.g. explaining the nervous system and its role to health)
Proper documentations – Dr. Amanda uses different forms for different age brackets (there are forms tailored to specific ages) children and infants have different forms designed for them. Also, part of proper documentation is to see to it that there is parental consent before treating children as well as the inclusion of possible medical conditions (with the specific physician treating those conditions) in the report.
Licensing board requires certain level of documentation – this is another reason why proper documentation is needed.
Protecting possible lawsuit – Chiropractic practices can face lawsuits not only from a parents, but also from a medical facilities. Remember to attain expressed written consent and that your chiropractic malpractice insurance can protect you.
Check your own state board -Lastly, always check your own state board to see what the rules and regulations are for chiropractic practice.