The Board of Chiropractic Examiners' Enforcement Committee convened on December 19, 2024, to discuss significant updates to the California Code of Regulations, specifically Title 16, Section 312. The primary focus of the meeting was the proposal to revise supervision and training requirements for unlicensed individuals assisting licensed chiropractors.

Over the past 18 months, the committee has worked diligently to develop this proposal, which aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities of chiropractic assistants. Key discussions included defining the term "chiropractic assistant" and establishing minimum eligibility requirements for individuals in this role. The committee emphasized the importance of supervision, noting that chiropractic assistants would operate under either direct or indirect supervision of licensed chiropractors.

A notable point of discussion was the potential requirement for chiropractic assistants to obtain basic life support certification. The committee also aimed to standardize terminology, shifting from "unlicensed individuals" to "chiropractic assistants" to better reflect their role in clinical care.

During the meeting, the committee reviewed a conceptual draft of the regulatory language, highlighting substantial changes made since the last meeting. The draft aims to ensure that chiropractic assistants are adequately trained and supervised, with the ultimate responsibility for their actions resting on the supervising licensee. The committee proposed three pathways for chiropractic assistants working under indirect supervision: examination, education, or experience, while clarifying that the minimum requirements for those under direct supervision would remain unchanged.

Further discussions included refining definitions of direct and indirect supervision, ensuring that chiropractic assistants cannot deviate from the treatment plans set by supervising licensees, and addressing concerns regarding consultations performed by unlicensed staff.

The committee is nearing the completion of this proposal and plans to finalize the regulatory language before presenting it to the board for approval. The next steps will involve further discussions to refine the proposal and address any outstanding concerns. Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to enhancing the standards of practice within chiropractic care in California.