Standards of Professional Conduct, Ethics, and Patient Relationships
This domain tests the fiduciary and boundary rules that apply independent of clinical skill. Kansas expects chiropractors to put patient welfare first, communicate honestly, respect autonomy, and avoid exploitation.
Core rules
- Establish clear professional boundaries. Sexual contact with a current patient is prohibited, and so is exploiting a patient financially, emotionally, or through improper dual relationships.
- Obtain informed consent before care, explain reasonable alternatives, and honor refusals. Refer when the condition exceeds chiropractic scope or when the patient needs another opinion.
- Do not abandon patients. If terminating care, give reasonable notice, provide necessary records or referrals, and document the transition.
- Be truthful in billing, records, advertising, and representations of credentials. Avoid conflicts of interest and do not accept improper inducements for referrals.
- Maintain dignity and nondiscrimination; protect privacy in conversations, scheduling, and social-media posts.
Worked example
A long-term patient offers an expensive gift and asks the DC to become a business partner in a supplement company that the DC would recommend. The DC may accept a modest token under an applicable policy, but should decline the business relationship because it creates a financial conflict and could compromise objective recommendations. The discussion and decision are documented, and the patient is assured that care will not change.
Traps
Consent does not cure a prohibited sexual relationship with a current patient. A patient's noncompliance is not automatic grounds for abrupt termination. Posting case details online can breach confidentiality even without a name. Accepting referral payments or lavish gifts can be unprofessional conduct.