South Carolina Code of Regulations Chapter 25 - DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION- SOUTH CAROLINA BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS
The South Carolina Code of Regulations, Chapter 25 - DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - SOUTH CAROLINA BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS, contains the detailed rules and regulations governing the practice of chiropractic in the state. This chapter is the primary regulatory document for the South Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners, which is tasked with protecting the public by ensuring that chiropractors meet minimum qualifications and adhere to professional standards.
Here's a breakdown of the key areas covered in Chapter 25:
Organization, Administration and Procedure (Section 25-1):
Purpose: States the Board's mission to protect public health, safety, and welfare by establishing minimum qualifications and providing for disciplinary action.
Board Composition: Outlines the structure of the Board, including the number of members, how they are appointed, and their qualifications.
Meetings and Quorum: Defines the requirements for Board meetings and the number of members needed to conduct official business.
Records: Specifies how Board files and records are maintained.
Application for Licensure (Section 25-2):
Requirements: Details the comprehensive requirements for individuals seeking a chiropractic license in South Carolina, including:
Education: Pre-professional and chiropractic college transcripts from accredited institutions.
National Board Examinations: Passing all required parts of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exams (Parts I, II, III, and IV, and Physiotherapy, depending on graduation date).
South Carolina Ethics and Jurisprudence Examination: Passing a state-specific exam on South Carolina law and ethics related to chiropractic.
Verifications: License verifications from all other states where the applicant has held a license.
Photographs and Fees.
Denial of Application: Grounds for denying an application, including acts that would warrant disciplinary action.
Licensure by Endorsement (Section 25-3):
Provides criteria for chiropractors licensed in other states to obtain a South Carolina license without re-taking all exams, often requiring a continuous year of licensure in the previous state and passing the South Carolina Ethics and Jurisprudence Examination.
Volunteer Licensure under Special Circumstances (Section 25-4):
Outlines provisions for temporary or limited licenses, such as for volunteer work, during a state of emergency, or for chiropractors traveling with teams or organizations.
Professional Practices (Section 25-5):
Continuing Education (CE): A critical section detailing CE requirements for biennial (every two years) license renewal.
Minimum Hours: 36 hours of approved professional CE, with no more than half (18 hours) online.
Required Subjects: Specific hours dedicated to South Carolina Board rules and regulations (2 hours, limited to 4 per renewal period) and risk management (2 hours, including boundary or public health issues).
Acceptable Programs: Criteria for approved CE programs and sponsors (e.g., accredited chiropractic colleges, Board-approved instructors/organizations).
Exemptions: Specific exemptions for new licensees, older/long-licensed chiropractors, and those on active military duty.
Therapeutic Modalities: Lists approved machines and therapy procedures within the chiropractic scope of practice (e.g., high/low frequency diathermy, heat/cold therapy, exercise, massage, nutritional therapies).
Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): Specific requirements for performing MUA, including the need for a collaborative treatment team (chiropractor and medical/osteopathic physician) and specialized training.
Diagnostic and Testing Procedures: Clarifies what diagnostic and testing procedures chiropractors may request or perform.
Terms and Definitions: Specifies acceptable professional titles (Chiropractic Physician, D.C., Chiropractor, Doctor of Chiropractic) and prohibits misleading titles like "physical therapist" or "physiotherapist."
Professional Conduct (Section 25-6) and Code of Ethics (Section 25-7):
These sections establish the ethical standards and expected professional behavior for licensees, covering patient care, integrity, and responsibility.
Advertising and Solicitation (Section 25-8):
Regulates how chiropractors can advertise their services, emphasizing ethical, professional, and non-misleading communications. Prohibits deceptive claims, coercive solicitations, and advertising free x-rays without proper explanation. Requires clear indication of chiropractic services.
Disciplinary Actions and Procedures (Section 25-9):
Outlines the grounds for disciplinary action against licensees (e.g., unprofessional conduct, violations of regulations, fraud) and the procedures for investigations, hearings, and imposing penalties (e.g., fines, suspension, revocation).
Inactive Status (Section 25-10):
Rules regarding placing a license on inactive status and the process for reactivation.
In summary, Chapter 25 is the governing document that enables the South Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners to license qualified professionals, regulate their practice, ensure continuing competency through continuing education, and take disciplinary action when necessary, all with the ultimate goal of protecting the public receiving chiropractic care.
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