Integration of chiropractic in the armed forces health care system

Congress has approved the commissioning of chiropractors in the various medical branches of the armed services. Currently, the Department of Defense is conducting a 3-year demonstration program at 10 military sites in which chiropractors are hired on a contractual basis to treat military personnel. This paper presents a brief history of chiropractic and a discussion of a major court case involving the AMA and other professional medical associations. A survey of legal, professional, and organizational issues that must be resolved prior to, or in conjunction with, the full integration of chiropractic in the armed services health care delivery system (if directed by Congress) is included. Prompted by the identified issues, recommended policies and actions are offered to ensure that this alternative health care service is effectively utilized by patient beneficiaries.