Chiropractic Technician/ Assistant

Chiropractic technicians (CTs) work under the supervision of chiropractors to provide a wide variety of therapeutic treatments. Chiropractic assistant (CA) is a generic term for any staff member who works with a chiropractor. The term chiropractic technician (CT) is generally used for a CA who has had formal or extensive on-the-job training in the areas of radiology or back-office procedures.

Areas of Specialization
Chiropractic technicians may specialize by working in practices that deal with specific populations, such as the elderly and children, or specific areas such as chiropractic radiology.

Work Environment
Chiropractic assistants might be assigned the following positions: front-desk receptionist, back-office or therapy assistant, exam or x-ray technician, insurance and collections clerk, office or public relations manager, and new-patient advocate.

Job Outlook
Employment opportunity as a chiropractic technician/assistant is more prevalent in larger chiropractic offices. Because employment of chiropractors is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005, the outlook for technicians and assistants is favorable.

Length of Training/Requirements In Texas, the National Academy of Chiropractic Assistants (NACA) offers a four-month training program that covers 16 different subjects and awards a certification of completion diploma.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $18,000 - $24,000.

Educational Programs
Information on training classes may be obtained from the National Academy of Chiropractic Assistants.

Professional Associations
National Academy of Chiropractic Assistants
P.O. Box 140014
Austin, TX 78714-0014
512/928-1745
(No web address available.)