Person-centred care in chiropractic: a foundational but evolving commitment in contemporary practice

Person-centred care (PCC) is widely recognized as a cornerstone of high-quality healthcare, linked to improved outcomes and stronger therapeutic relationships. Its core principles of respect, empowerment, and responsiveness to individual needs, are closely aligned with core elements of the chiropractic approach. Yet, translating PCC into consistent practice remains a challenge.

This commentary explores the value and complexity of PCC in chiropractic, examining barriers such as time constraints, training gaps, patient expectations, and inadequate systemic supports.

This paper argues that while chiropractic is well-positioned to embrace PCC, doing so requires a shift from viewing PCC as an inherent feature of the profession to embracing it as an intentional, ethical, and relational commitment. Strategies for advancing PCC are discussed across clinician, patient, and organizational levels to support its consistent and equitable implementation.

This paper is one of seven in a series exploring contemporary perspectives on the application of the evidence-based framework in chiropractic care. The Evidence Based Chiropractic Care (EBCC) initiative aims to support chiropractors in their delivery of optimal patient-centred care. We encourage readers to review all papers in the series.