Chiropractic program changes facilitated by the European Council on Chiropractic Education Accreditation reports

Area of Science:

• Chiropractic Education
• Higher Education Accreditation
• Health Professions Education

Background:

• The European Council on Chiropractic Education (ECCE) accredits chiropractic programs across Europe and South Africa.
• It is assumed that ECCE evaluations lead to program changes, but this has not been systematically evaluated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess if ECCE evaluation reports facilitate changes and improvements in chiropractic programs.
• To identify the specific changes reported by program heads.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods audit study utilizing questionnaires.
• Quantitative analysis of closed statements on the degree of change (substantial, some, none) to ECCE Standards sections.
• Qualitative thematic analysis of written responses detailing specific changes.

Main Results:

• All 10 accredited programs responded, with 70% reporting changes in at least six ECCE Standards sections.
• The "Educational Program" section saw the most reported changes (8/10 programs).
• Significant changes were noted in "Educational Resources," with 4 programs reporting substantial improvements. Key themes included infrastructure, faculty development, evidence-based practice, and research culture.

Conclusions:

• ECCE accreditation processes effectively stimulate positive changes within chiropractic programs.
• Improvements are particularly evident in infrastructure, faculty development, research integration, and the adoption of evidence-based practices.