In November, the British Chiropractic Association launched its new Patient Charter to its members and the general public, as part of the second phase of its ‘Repositioning Project’ which aims to continue the BCA’s Mission to be ‘the home of chiropractors who put patients first’.

Created by the BCA to provide patients with reassurance. It will act as a transparent agreement between patients and BCA Chiropractors, ensuring that patient-centred, evidence-informed care is provided at all times.

In a bid to end misperceptions and myths about the Chiropractic profession, the Patient Charter highlights that Chiropractic is a strongly regulated and rigorous profession, with regulation helping to provide consistency, such as the standard of education and training required. Chiropractors are regulated by law and required to adhere to strict Codes of Practice, in the same way as dentists and doctors.

Mark from Well Adjusted Health commented, 'The Patient Charter is a pledge that BCA Chiropractors can be proud of. It proudly reiterates the reputation of BCA Chiropractors as being credible, evidence-informed, ethical experts working within the modern healthcare sector.'

'Every BCA Chiropractor recognises their role, as a healthcare professional, to help empower the patient to make an informed decision about their treatment that is based on individual needs.'

The Patient Charter
As a member of the British Chiropractic Association I undertake that I will:
• Always put my patient's interests above any other considerations.
• Develop an individual treatment plan, to the highest standard of clinical care according to the needs of my patient, and adjust it if required over time, in full consultation with my patient and, where appropriate, having secured informed consent.
• Treat on an evidence-informed basis, by using objective research, my own experience, and the wishes and needs of my patient.
• Always give my patient the best clinical advice, to treat their condition as effectively as I can, in order to reduce their symptoms or suffering as soon as is possible.
• Be kind, empathic and caring, respecting my patient's dignity, privacy and rights, and maintaining clear professional boundaries.
•Communicate clearly and professionally to my patient, informing them openly of the progress of their treatment plan, my fees and charges, and the careful way in which I will be recording and handling their confidential information.
• Communicate clearly and professionally to other healthcare professionals to whom I may refer for further treatment and guidance, if my patient's treatment plan requires skills which lie outside my professional limitations.
• Inform my patient immediately and honestly should any of their treatment not go as expected.
• Recommend the appropriate use of imaging and investigations, consistent with that clinically needed through evidence, and to avoid risk to my patient.
• Maintain my skills and knowledge so that I can offer my patient the most up-to-date clinical treatment, advice and support and be reflective as a practitioner so that I can advance my own capabilities, in the interests of my patient and my profession.
• Advertise my services in a way that is honest, decent and legal, ensuring that they are properly understood by potential patients.

About the British Chiropractic Association: The BCA is the largest and longest-standing association for chiropractors in the UK and has been named: ‘Best Professional Body of the Year’ at the Memcom Excellence Awards 2022 for its Repositioning Project which has played a pivotal role in changing the healthcare landscape for the better.

Many of our patients visit Mark at Well Adjusted Health as they really prefer the gentle techniques that he practices. If you would like to talk to us about how we can help you, please do not hesitate to call us.

If you have a specific question regarding any pain or problem areas, or would like to book a Free 15 minute consultation for you or your family please call Well Adjusted Health on 01903 892171