Developmental issues in chiropractic: a South African practitioner and patient perspective

Area of Science:

• Chiropractic practice
• Healthcare systems
• Professional identity

Background:

• Contemporary chiropractic practice in South Africa is explored.
• Key domains investigated include beliefs, philosophy, professional matters, and education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine chiropractic practice in South Africa.
• To understand practitioner and patient perspectives on chiropractic identity, strengths, and challenges.
• To identify areas for professional and educational development.

Main Methods:

• Purposive sampling of 10 chiropractors and access to 6 patients.
• Semistructured interviews conducted with 16 respondents.
• Computer-assisted thematic analysis used for data interpretation.

Main Results:

• Practitioners perceive chiropractic identity as either 'technician' or 'physician'.
• Patients value chiropractic's social desirability and utility, influenced by personal beliefs and practice models.
• Lack of healthcare system integration leads to confusion regarding professional and educational status.
• Chiropractic lacks coherence in identity, practice models, and interprofessional relationships.
• Education and integration into public healthcare, particularly for Black South Africans, emerged as key developmental themes.

Conclusions:

• International challenges in chiropractic philosophy, professionalism, and education are mirrored in South Africa.
• Increased public sector presence may enhance social awareness and healthcare integration, warranting further study.