Chiropractors

Employment for doctors of chiropractic is expected to increase by 9 percent from 2022 through 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Public interest in alternative and complementary (alternative medicine that is used in conjunction with traditional medicine) health care is growing. Many health-conscious individuals are attracted to chiropractic because it is drugless and surgery-free. Because of their holistic, personal approach to health care, chiropractors are increasingly seen as primary physicians, especially in rural areas. The average life span is increasing, and so are the numbers of older people in this country. The elderly frequently have more structural and mechanical difficulties with their bodies, and the growth of this segment of the population will increase the demand for doctors of chiropractic.

It's important to remember that demand for chiropractic treatments is linked to the ability of patients to pay, either directly or through health insurance. A patient is more likely to request chiropractic treatments if they are covered by insurance. If recent federal health insurance reforms are reversed, fewer people will receive reimbursement for chiropractic treatments, which may reduce job opportunities for chiropractors.

New chiropractors may find increasing competition in geographic areas where other practitioners are already located. Because of the high cost of equipment such as X-ray and other diagnostic tools, group practices with other chiropractors or related health care professionals are likely to provide more opportunity for employment or for purchasing a share of a practice.