Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 634 - Chiropractic
Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 634 — Chiropractic
1. Overview
NAC Chapter 634 governs the licensing, practice standards, and professional conduct of chiropractors in Nevada. This chapter operates under the authority of the Nevada State Board of Chiropractic Physicians, which regulates chiropractic practice to ensure that practitioners meet professional, ethical, and competency standards, thereby protecting public health and safety.
2. Purpose and Scope
Establish licensing requirements for chiropractors.
Define standards for professional conduct, patient care, and recordkeeping.
Regulate continuing education and renewal of licenses.
Set procedures for investigation and discipline of licensees.
Ensure chiropractic services are provided safely and ethically in Nevada.
The chapter applies to all licensed chiropractors practicing within the state.
3. Key Provisions of NAC Chapter 634
A. Licensing Requirements
Applicants must hold a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from an accredited institution.
Applicants must pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) examinations and any additional state-specific exams.
Must submit a completed application, fees, and proof of good moral character.
Background checks and verification of credentials are required.
Licenses are subject to renewal every two years with evidence of continuing education.
B. Scope of Practice
Defines chiropractic practice as the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of neuromusculoskeletal disorders through manual adjustment or manipulation of the spine and related structures.
Chiropractors may use adjunctive therapies such as physiotherapy, nutrition counseling, and exercise recommendations.
Prohibits performing surgical procedures or prescribing controlled substances unless separately authorized.
C. Standards of Practice
Requires adherence to accepted chiropractic care standards and current professional guidelines.
Requires accurate and timely patient recordkeeping including diagnosis, treatment plans, informed consent, and progress notes.
Mandates confidentiality of patient information consistent with health privacy laws.
Requires informed consent prior to treatment.
D. Continuing Education
Licensees must complete continuing education (CE) hours every renewal cycle.
CE courses must be approved by the Board and include subjects relevant to chiropractic care, ethics, and patient safety.
E. Professional Conduct and Ethics
Prohibits fraud, deceit, and false advertising.
Prohibits sexual misconduct or exploitation of patients.
Requires compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, including reporting obligations.
Encourages professional collaboration and referral to other healthcare providers when indicated.
F. Disciplinary Procedures
The Board investigates complaints of misconduct, incompetence, or violations of law.
Grounds for discipline include:
Negligence or malpractice.
Substance abuse or impairment affecting practice.
Criminal convictions related to professional conduct.
Failure to comply with Board orders.
Sanctions may include fines, license suspension or revocation, probation, or mandatory remediation.
4. Relevant Case Law and Legal Principles
Case 1: Board’s Disciplinary Authority Upheld
Courts generally uphold the Nevada State Board of Chiropractic Physicians’ authority to discipline licensees for violations of professional standards.
Disciplinary decisions are reviewed under the substantial evidence standard, meaning courts defer to the Board’s expertise unless findings are arbitrary or unsupported.
Case 2: Scope of Practice Boundaries
Courts have reinforced the limits of chiropractic practice, barring chiropractors from performing activities outside their licensure, such as surgery or prescription of medications.
Practicing beyond scope can result in license revocation and legal penalties.
Case 3: Malpractice and Standard of Care
Chiropractors owe a duty of care to their patients; failure to meet accepted standards can result in malpractice claims.
Cases often hinge on expert testimony defining the standard of care within chiropractic practice.
Case 4: Patient Consent and Confidentiality
Legal cases emphasize the importance of informed consent before treatment.
Breaches of patient confidentiality may lead to disciplinary actions and civil liability.
Case 5: Due Process in Licensing and Discipline
Chiropractors facing license denial, suspension, or revocation are entitled to due process, including notice, a hearing, and an opportunity to appeal adverse decisions.
Courts require fair administrative procedures but give deference to regulatory boards’ decisions on professional competence.
5. Legal and Regulatory Principles
Professional Licensing: The state regulates chiropractic practice to ensure minimum competence and protect public health.
Scope of Practice: Clearly defined to protect patients from unqualified or improper treatment.
Public Protection: Licensing boards enforce ethical and practice standards.
Due Process: Licensees must be afforded procedural fairness.
Malpractice Liability: Chiropractors may be liable for negligence under civil law.
6. Summary
NAC Chapter 634 provides a comprehensive regulatory framework for chiropractors in Nevada, including:
Licensing and renewal requirements.
Defined scope of practice.
Standards for ethical and competent care.
Continuing education mandates.
Board authority to investigate and discipline.
Legal principles supporting board authority and patient protections.
This ensures chiropractic services are delivered safely, ethically, and professionally in Nevada.
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