Consensus process to develop a best-practice document on the role of chiropractic care in health promotion, disease prevention, and wellness

J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2012 Sep;35(7):556-67. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2012.05.002. Epub 2012 Jun 27.

Abstract

Objective: The purposes of this project were to develop consensus definitions for a set of best practices that doctors of chiropractic may use for promoting health and wellness and preventing disease and to describe the appropriate components and procedures for these practices.

Methods: A multidisciplinary steering committee of 10 health care professionals developed seed statements based on their clinical experience and relevant literature. A Delphi consensus process was conducted from January to July 2011, following the RAND methodology. Consensus was reached when at least 80% of the panelists were in agreement. There were 44 Delphi panelists (36 doctors of chiropractic, 6 doctors of philosophy, 1 doctor of naturopathy, 1 registered nurse).

Results: The statements developed defined the terms and practices for chiropractic care to promote health and wellness and prevent disease.

Conclusion: This document describes the procedures and features of wellness care that represent a reasonable approach to wellness care and disease prevention in chiropractic clinical practice. This living document provides a general framework for an evidence-based approach to chiropractic wellness care.

Publication types

  • Consensus Development Conference
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Chiropractic / standards*
  • Health Promotion*
  • Humans
  • Manipulation, Chiropractic / standards*
  • Physician's Role
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Primary Prevention*
  • Quality of Life*