How times change: Evaluation of the need to revise chiropractic education standards in the United Kingdom.

Introduction & Aim: Health regulators in the UK fulfil their statutory duty to maintain high standards of
education and training of health professionals by setting standards for education. Ensuring standards are
contemporary and fit for purpose is fundamental to this function. This research aimed to evaluate whether the
Education Standards of the General Chiropractic Council (2017) (ES) remained fit for purpose in 2021, or
whether revisions were needed to meet current and future competency requirements for chiropractic
graduates.
Methods: An exploratory, qualitative methodology was followed. The ES were comparatively mapped to
relevant standards, authoritative practice and quality assurance frameworks from other healthcare and higher
education regulators, professional and chartered bodies. Areas of difference from other standards and
frameworks were identified and substantive differences described.
Results: 21 global and national frameworks and standards were mapped. Healthcare disciplines included
physiotherapy, medicine and osteopathy. Subjects included musculoskeletal capabilities, rehabilitation, person-
centred approaches, dementia training, research competencies and education.
20 substantive areas not captured in the ES, or requiring strengthening, were identified. These included:
person-centred approaches, safety and quality, rehabilitation, prevention and health promotion,
psychologically informed approaches, interprofessional practice, collaborative care, integration of evidence
into practice, digital readiness and reflective practice. Substantive areas linked to programme delivery included:
protecting the interests of patients in an education setting, integrating clinical and educational governance,
clinical experience and interdisciplinary learning.
Conclusion: Although broadly fit for purpose, mapping indicated the ES were falling out of step with the