Chapter 4734 | Chiropractors

Section 4734.01 | Practice of chiropractic defined.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

As used in this chapter, the "practice of chiropractic" means utilization of the relationship between the musculo-skeletal structures of the body, the spinal column, and the nervous system in the restoration and maintenance of health, in connection with which patient care is conducted with due regard for first aid, hygienic, nutritional, and rehabilitative procedures and the specific vertebral adjustment and manipulation of the articulations and adjacent tissues of the body.

Section 4734.02 | Organization of state chiropractic board.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

The chiropractic examining board is hereby renamed the state chiropractic board. Any reference in the Revised Code to the chiropractic examining board means the state chiropractic board.

The board shall assume and exercise all of the duties conferred on it by this chapter concerning the practice of chiropractic, chiropractors, and the regulation thereof.

Members of the board shall be appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate. The board shall be composed of four chiropractors and a fifth member representing the public. The public member shall not be connected in any manner, other than as a chiropractic patient, with any chiropractor or chiropractic practice or any entity that routinely engages in business with members of the chiropractic profession. Each professional member, at the time of appointment, shall be engaged in full-time practice in this state and shall have been licensed by the board for at least five years.

Terms of office shall be for four years, with each term ending on the same day of the same month as did the term it succeeds. Each member shall hold office from the date of appointment until the end of the term for which appointed. No individual shall serve for more than two full terms. Vacancies shall be filled in the manner provided for original appointments. Any member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which the member's predecessor was appointed shall hold office for the remainder of that term. A member shall continue in office subsequent to the expiration date of the member's term until the member's successor takes office or until a period of sixty days has elapsed, whichever occurs first.

Section 4734.03 | Compensation and expenses of members.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

Each member of the state chiropractic board shall be paid at the appropriate rate for those days on which the member's services or duties are required. Each member of the board shall be paid at the rate established pursuant to division (J) of section 124.15 of the Revised Code and shall not receive step advancements. In addition, each board member shall receive the member's necessary expenses.

Section 4734.04 | Meetings - records.

• Effective: November 22, 2020
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 151 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) The state chiropractic board shall hold meetings at the times and places that a majority of the board directs. A special meeting shall be held at the call of the board's president or at the request of two or more board members, in which case the meeting shall be called by the board's executive director.

A majority of the board constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business. Except when action is taken on behalf of the board by the board's president under division (A) of section 4734.05 of the Revised Code, the board may not take any action without the concurrence of three members. The board shall make rules as necessary to govern its internal management.

(B) The board shall keep a record of its meetings and other official actions, including a register of all applicants for licensure to practice chiropractic. The register shall show whether an applicant for licensure was rejected or was granted a license. The board's records and register shall be prima-facie evidence of all matters recorded in them. The board shall adopt a common seal, which may be used to authenticate its official documents.

Section 4734.05 | Officers of board.

• Effective: November 22, 2020
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 151 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) The state chiropractic board shall organize by electing from its members a president. The president shall hold office for two years and until the president's successor is elected and takes office. Elections for board president shall be held at the first meeting of the board held in each odd-numbered year.

The president, subject to the board's approval, may designate another member of the board to serve as vice-president to fulfill the president's duties in the event that the president is absent or incapacitated. The vice-president may perform any action that the president is authorized to perform.

The president may make decisions on behalf of the board as follows:

(1) A decision regarding board activities may be made by the president if the president considers the decision to be minor and determines that making the decision will facilitate the responsiveness and effectiveness of the board;

(2) A decision involving a situation that requires immediate board attention may be made by the president if the circumstances surrounding the situation make holding a board meeting impractical. At the earliest time possible, the president shall report the decision to the members of the board and the board shall meet to ratify or nullify the decision.

(B) The board shall appoint an executive director who shall serve as the board's secretary and shall perform all other duties prescribed by the board or this chapter. While serving as executive director, the individual appointed shall reside in this state and may not serve as a member of the board.

The executive director shall be in the unclassified service of this state. The board shall fix the executive director's compensation and reimburse the executive director for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of official duties. Prior to entering into the official duties of office, the executive director shall take and subscribe an oath of office and shall give to the treasurer of state a bond in the penal sum of fifty thousand dollars with sufficient sureties to be approved by the governor for the faithful discharge of the duties.

The executive director is the board's appointing authority, as defined in section 124.01 of the Revised Code. With the board's approval, the executive director may appoint any employees necessary to carry out the board's functions, including investigative personnel and other employees to perform professional, clerical, and special work, and may establish standards for the conduct of and the authority to be granted to the board's employees.

Section 4734.06 | Committees, groups.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

The state chiropractic board may appoint committees or other groups to assist it in fulfilling its duties. A committee or group may consist of board members, other individuals with appropriate backgrounds, or both board members and other individuals with appropriate backgrounds. Any committee or group appointed shall act under the direction of the board and shall perform its functions within the limits established by the board. Members of a committee or group may be reimbursed by the board for any expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.

Section 4734.07 | Immunity.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

In the absence of fraud or bad faith, the state chiropractic board, a current or former board member, an agent of the board, a representative of the board, or an employee of the board shall not be held liable in damages to any person as the result of any act, omission, proceeding, conduct, or decision related to official duties undertaken or performed pursuant to this chapter. If any of those persons asks to be defended by the state against any claim or action arising out of any act, omission, proceeding, conduct, or decision related to the person's official duties, and the request is made in writing at a reasonable time before trial and the person requesting defense cooperates in good faith in the defense of the claim or action, the state shall provide and pay for the person's defense and shall pay any resulting judgment, compromise, or settlement. At no time shall the state pay any part of a claim or judgment that is for punitive or exemplary damages.

Section 4734.08 | Membership in federation of chiropractic licensing boards.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

The state chiropractic board shall become a member of the federation of chiropractic licensing boards. The board may participate in any of the federation's activities, including reporting board actions taken toward an applicant or license holder to any data bank established by the federation.

Section 4734.09 | Contracts.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

The board may enter into contracts with any person or government entity to carry out the intent of this chapter and the rules adopted under it, any other applicable state statutes or rules, and any applicable federal statutes or regulations.

Section 4734.10 | Administrative rules.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

In addition to rules that are required by this chapter to be adopted, the state chiropractic board may adopt any other rules necessary to govern the practice of chiropractic and acupuncture under this chapter and to administer and enforce this chapter. The rules shall be adopted in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.14 | Prohibited acts.

• Effective: March 22, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 541 - 132nd General Assembly

(A)(1) Except as provided in division (B) of this section, no person shall engage in the practice of chiropractic without a current, valid license issued by the state chiropractic board under this chapter.

(2) Except as provided in division (C) of this section, no person shall advertise or claim to be a chiropractor, doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractic physician, or use the initials "D.C." in connection with the person's name, unless the person holds a current, valid license from the board.

(3) Subject to section 4734.17 of the Revised Code, no person shall open or conduct an office or other place for the practice of chiropractic without a license from the board.

(4) Subject to section 4734.17 of the Revised Code, no person shall conduct an office in the name of some person who has a license to practice chiropractic.

(5) No person shall practice chiropractic in violation of the person's license revocation, forfeiture, or suspension or in violation of any restriction, limitation, or condition placed on the person's license.

(6) No person shall employ fraud or deception in applying for or securing a license to practice chiropractic or in renewing a license to practice chiropractic.

(7) No person shall make, issue, or publish, or cause to be made, issued, or published, for the purpose of sale, barter, or gift, a license, certificate, diploma, degree, or other writing or document falsely representing the holder or receiver thereof to be licensed under this chapter or to be a graduate of a chiropractic school, college, or other educational institution of chiropractic, or sell or dispose of, or offer to sell or dispose of such license, certificate, diploma, degree, or other writing or document containing such false representation or use the person's name, or permit it to be used, as a subscriber to such false and fictitious license, certificate, diploma, degree, or other writing or document or engage in the practice of chiropractic under and by virtue of such fraudulent license, certificate, diploma, degree, or other writing or document.

(B)(1) Division (A)(1) of this section does not apply to a person who holds a current, unrestricted license to practice chiropractic in another state when the person, pursuant to a written agreement with an athletic team located in the state in which the person holds the license, provides chiropractic services to any of the following while the team is traveling to or from or participating in a sporting event in this state:

(a) A member of the athletic team;

(b) A member of the athletic team's coaching, communications, equipment, or sports medicine staff;

(c) A member of a band or cheerleading squad accompanying the athletic team;

(d) The athletic team's mascot.

In providing chiropractic services pursuant to division (B)(1) of this section, the person shall not provide chiropractic services at a health care facility.

(2) Division (A)(1) of this section does not apply to a person who meets both of the following conditions:

(a) The person holds a current, unrestricted license to practice chiropractic in another state.

(b) The person is practicing as a volunteer without remuneration during a charitable event that lasts not more than seven days.

When a person meets the conditions of division (B)(2) of this section, the person shall be deemed to hold, for the course of the charitable event, a license to practice chiropractic from the state chiropractic board and shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter authorizing the board to take disciplinary action against a license holder. Not less than seven calendar days before the first day of the charitable event, the person or the event's organizer shall notify the board of the person's intent to practice chiropractic at the event. During the course of the charitable event, the person's scope of practice is limited to the procedures that a chiropractor licensed under this chapter is authorized to perform unless the person's scope of practice in the other state is more restrictive than in this state. If the latter is the case, the person's scope of practice is limited to the procedures that a chiropractor in the other state may perform.

(C) A person who has retired from the practice of chiropractic in good standing and does not maintain a current, valid license from the board may continue to claim to be a chiropractor, doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractic physician, or use the initials "D.C." in connection with the person's name, if the person does not engage in the practice of chiropractic or otherwise violate this chapter or the rules adopted under it.

A person whose license has been classified as inactive pursuant to section 4734.26 of the Revised Code may continue to claim to be a chiropractor, doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractic physician, or use the initials "D.C." in connection with the person's name, if the person does not engage in the practice of chiropractic or otherwise violate this chapter or the rules adopted under it.

(D) In any proceeding for a violation of this section brought against a person who is not licensed under this chapter but is a graduate of a chiropractic college approved under section 4734.21 of the Revised Code, it shall be an affirmative defense that the person is permitted to use the term "doctor" or the initials "D.C." in connection with the person's name, but only to the extent that the person does not indicate or act in a manner implying that the person is licensed under this chapter or otherwise violate this chapter or the rules adopted under it.

(E) A document that is signed by the president or executive director of the board and that has affixed the official seal of the board to the effect that it appears from the records of the board that a license to practice chiropractic in this state has not been issued to a particular person, or that a license, if issued, has been revoked or suspended, shall be received as prima-facie evidence of the record of the board in any court or before any officer of the state.

Section 4734.141 | Certificate required to practice acupuncture.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

Except for individuals described in section 4762.02 of the Revised Code, no person who holds a license to practice chiropractic issued by the state chiropractic board shall engage in the practice of acupuncture unless the person holds a valid certificate to practice acupuncture issued by the board under section 4734.283 of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.142 | Prohibited acts by acupuncture licensee.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

No person who holds a certificate to practice acupuncture issued by the state chiropractic board under section 4734.283 of the Revised Code shall do any of the following:

(A) Perform an acupuncture service that is beyond the scope of the person's education, training, and experience;

(B) Advertise or otherwise represent to the public that the person is engaged in the practice of oriental medicine;

(C) Permit an employee or assistant, other than an individual described in section 4762.02 of the Revised Code, to do either of the following:

(1) Insert, stimulate, or remove acupuncture needles;

(2) Apply moxibustion.

Section 4734.15 | Scope of practice of chiropractic - permissible titles.

• Effective: November 22, 2020
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 151 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) The license provided for in this chapter shall entitle the holder thereof to practice chiropractic in this state. All of the following apply to the practice of chiropractic in this state:

(1) A chiropractor is authorized to examine, diagnose, and assume responsibility for the care of patients, any or all of which is included in the practice of chiropractic.

(2)(a) Subject to division (A)(2)(b) of this section, a chiropractor may administer, sell, distribute, recommend, or provide advice regarding any of the following to restore or maintain the health of the chiropractor's patients: vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, antioxidants, enzymes, glandular extracts, botanical substances, herbal therapies, homeopathic remedies, drugs that are available without a prescription, or durable and nondurable medical goods and devices other than home medical equipment, as defined in section 4752.01 of the Revised Code.

(b) A chiropractor may engage in the activities described in division (A)(2)(a) of this section only if the product is prepackaged for use by consumers and labeled in accordance with state and federal law.

(c) A chiropractor shall not delegate any of the activities described in division (A)(2)(a) of this section to an individual who is not licensed or otherwise specifically authorized by the Revised Code to engage in the activity.

(d) The authority of a chiropractor to engage in the activities described in division (A)(2)(a) of this section does not affect the authority of any other health care professional, including a dietitian licensed under Chapter 4759. of the Revised Code, to engage in any of the same activities.

(3) The practice of chiropractic does not permit a chiropractor to do any of the following:

(a) Treat infectious, contagious, or venereal disease;

(b) Perform surgery;

(c) Prescribe drugs, as defined in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code;

(d) Administer any drug not described in division (A)(2)(a) of this section, including a dangerous drug, as defined in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code.

(4) Except as provided in division (B) of this section, the practice of chiropractic does not permit a chiropractor to perform acupuncture.

(5) A chiropractor may use roentgen rays only for diagnostic purposes.

(6) The practice of chiropractic does not include the performance of abortions.

(B) A chiropractor who holds a valid certificate to practice acupuncture issued under section 4734.283 of the Revised Code is authorized to perform acupuncture.

(C) A chiropractor who is an animal chiropractic practitioner, as defined in section 4734.151 of the Revised Code, may practice animal chiropractic in accordance with that section.

(D) An individual holding a valid, current license to practice chiropractic is entitled to use the title "doctor," "doctor of chiropractic," "chiropractic physician," or "chiropractor" and is a "physician" for the purposes of Chapter 4123. of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.151 | Animal chiropractic.

• Effective: November 22, 2020
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 151 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) As used in this section:

(1) "Animal" means any living animal other than a human being.

(2) "Animal chiropractic" means the evaluation and treatment of an animal's vertebral or extremity joint dysfunction through spinal, joint, or musculo-skeletal manipulative therapy or soft tissue therapy.

Animal chiropractic does not include administering, selling, distributing, recommending, or providing advice regarding any of the following to restore or maintain the health of an animal: vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, antioxidants, enzymes, glandular extracts, botanical substances, herbal therapies, homeopathic remedies, drugs that are available without a prescription, or durable and nondurable medical goods and devices.

(3) "Animal chiropractic practitioner" means a chiropractor licensed under this chapter who holds a current, valid certification from any of the following:

(a) The American veterinary chiropractic association, unless otherwise specified in rule;

(b) The international veterinary chiropractic association, unless otherwise specified in rule;

(c) The college of animal chiropractors, unless otherwise specified in rule;

(d) Any other credentialing organization that the state chiropractic board specifies in rules adopted under this section.

(4) "Licensed veterinarian" means an individual licensed by the state veterinary medical licensing board to practice veterinary medicine.

(B) Except as provided in division (C)(2) of this section, no chiropractor who is not an animal chiropractic practitioner shall do either of the following:

(1) Practice animal chiropractic;

(2) Represent that the person is, or hold the person's self out to the public as, an animal chiropractic practitioner.

(C)(1) All of the following apply regarding a chiropractor who is an animal chiropractic practitioner:

(a) The chiropractor shall register with the state chiropractic board in a manner specified by the board;

(b) The chiropractor may provide animal chiropractic only to types of animals on which the chiropractor has received training;

(c) The chiropractor may provide animal chiropractic without supervision by a licensed veterinarian;

(d) The chiropractor shall require completion of an application for care form in accordance with division (D) of this section;

(e) The chiropractor shall maintain for at least three years a medical record, including the application for care form, for each animal evaluated or treated and on request shall provide the medical record to the animal's veterinarian in a timely fashion.

(2) A chiropractor who is not an animal chiropractic practitioner may practice animal chiropractic only in accordance with division (F) of section 4741.19 of the Revised Code.

(D) Prior to providing animal chiropractic in accordance with this section, an animal chiropractic practitioner shall require the animal's owner, owner's agent, or another person responsible for the animal to complete and sign an application for care form that contains at least the following:

(1) A statement that the chiropractor is not a licensed veterinarian and cannot maintain primary responsibility for the animal's care;

(2) A statement that animal chiropractic is not intended to replace traditional veterinary care and is considered an alternative therapy to be used concurrently and in conjunction with traditional veterinary care by a licensed veterinarian;

(3) A question as to whether the animal has been seen by a licensed veterinarian within the past twelve months;

(4) A question as to whether a licensed veterinarian has provided a diagnosis of the medical condition of the animal for which animal chiropractic is sought, and if so, a request to specify the diagnosis;

(5) A statement authorizing the chiropractor to provide animal chiropractic to the animal.

(E) The board shall maintain and make available to the public a list of animal chiropractic practitioners who are registered with the board pursuant to this section.

(F) This section does not restrict a licensed veterinarian from engaging in the practice of veterinary medicine, as defined in Chapter 4741. of the Revised Code, or prevent any other individual from lawfully acting in a manner authorized under that chapter.

An animal's veterinarian is not liable for any actions or omissions of an animal chiropractic practitioner who provides animal chiropractic in accordance with this section.

(G)(1) In accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, the board may adopt any rules it considers necessary to implement this section. The following rules, if adopted, shall be adopted in consultation with the state veterinary medical licensing board in accordance with division (G)(2) of this section:

(a) Any rule regarding standards of medicine or care for an animal;

(b) Any rule to remove or specify additional credentialing organizations for purposes of division (A)(3)(d) of this section.

(2)(a) Prior to filing a rule identified in division (G)(1)(a) or (b) of this section with the joint committee on agency rule review, the board shall in a timely fashion provide the full text of the proposed rule, amendment, or rule to be rescinded to the state veterinary medical licensing board. The state veterinary medical licensing board shall informally vote on the proposed rule, amendment, or rule to be rescinded at its next regularly scheduled meeting. Regardless of whether the vote is affirmative or not, the state chiropractic board may proceed in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.16 | Establishing code of ethics.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

The state chiropractic board may establish a code of ethics that applies to chiropractors and their practice of chiropractic and acupuncture under this chapter. The board may establish the code of ethics by creating its own code of ethics or by adopting a code of ethics created by a state or federal organization that represents the interests of chiropractors. If a code of ethics is established, the board shall maintain current copies of the code of ethics for distribution on request.

Section 4734.161 | Enabling person to retain handicapped parking privileges.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

No chiropractor shall do either of the following:

(A) Furnish a person with a prescription in order to enable the person to be issued a standard removable windshield placard, temporary removable windshield placard, permanent removable windshield placard, or license plates under section 4503.44 of the Revised Code, knowing that the person does not meet any of the criteria contained in division (A)(1) of that section;

(B) Furnish a person with a prescription described in division (A) of this section and knowingly misstate on the prescription the length of time the chiropractor expects the person to have the disability that limits or impairs the person's ability to walk in order to enable the person to retain a placard issued under section 4503.44 of the Revised Code for a period of time longer than that which would be estimated by a similar practitioner under the same or similar circumstances.

Last updated October 3, 2023 at 12:40 PM

Section 4734.17 | Offering services through authorized business entity.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

(A) An individual whom the state chiropractic board licenses to engage in the practice of chiropractic or certifies to practice acupuncture may render the professional services of a chiropractor or chiropractor certified to practice acupuncture within this state through a corporation formed under division (B) of section 1701.03 of the Revised Code, a limited liability company formed under former Chapter 1705. of the Revised Code as that chapter existed prior to February 11, 2022, or Chapter 1706. of the Revised Code, a partnership, or a professional association formed under Chapter 1785. of the Revised Code. This division does not preclude a chiropractor from rendering professional services as a chiropractor or chiropractor certified to practice acupuncture through another form of business entity, including, but not limited to, a nonprofit corporation or foundation, or in another manner that is authorized by or in accordance with this chapter, another chapter of the Revised Code, or rules of the state chiropractic board adopted pursuant to this chapter.

(B) A corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or professional association described in division (A) of this section may be formed for the purpose of providing a combination of the professional services of the following individuals who are licensed, certificated, or otherwise legally authorized to practice their respective professions:

(1) Optometrists who are authorized to practice optometry, under Chapter 4725. of the Revised Code;

(2) Chiropractors who are authorized to practice chiropractic or acupuncture under this chapter;

(3) Psychologists who are authorized to practice psychology under Chapter 4732. of the Revised Code;

(4) Registered or licensed practical nurses who are authorized to practice nursing as registered nurses or as licensed practical nurses under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code;

(5) Pharmacists who are authorized to practice pharmacy under Chapter 4729. of the Revised Code;

(6) Physical therapists who are authorized to practice physical therapy under sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code;

(7) Occupational therapists who are authorized to practice occupational therapy under sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code;

(8) Mechanotherapists who are authorized to practice mechanotherapy under section 4731.151 of the Revised Code;

(9) Doctors of medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, or podiatric medicine and surgery who are authorized for their respective practices under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code;

(10) Licensed professional clinical counselors, licensed professional counselors, independent social workers, social workers, independent marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapists, art therapists, or music therapists who are authorized for their respective practices under Chapter 4757. of the Revised Code.

This division shall apply notwithstanding a provision of any code of ethics established or adopted under section 4734.16 of the Revised Code that prohibits an individual from engaging in the practice of chiropractic or acupuncture in combination with an individual who is licensed, certificated, or otherwise authorized for the practice of optometry, psychology, nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, mechanotherapy, medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, podiatric medicine and surgery, professional counseling, social work, marriage and family therapy, art therapy, or music therapy, but who is not also licensed under this chapter to engage in the practice of chiropractic.

Last updated October 3, 2023 at 1:09 PM

Section 4734.19 | Current copy of statutes and rules.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

A chiropractor shall retain at the chiropractor's primary practice location a current copy of the statutes and rules governing the practice of chiropractic and acupuncture under this chapter.

Section 4734.20 | License application.

• Effective: October 9, 2021
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 263 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) Except for persons seeking to practice chiropractic under a special limited license issued pursuant to section 4734.27 of the Revised Code, each person seeking to practice chiropractic in this state shall apply in writing to the state chiropractic board for a license to practice chiropractic. The application shall be made under oath, on a form prescribed by the board, and shall be accompanied by a fee of two hundred fifty dollars.

(B) Except as provided in sections 4734.23 and 4734.24 of the Revised Code, to receive a chiropractic license, an applicant must meet the following conditions:

(1) The applicant must be at least twenty-one years of age and possess a high school education or its equivalent.

(2) The applicant must have successfully completed, prior to matriculation at a school or college of chiropractic, at least two years of college credit in the arts and sciences at a college or university accredited by a state or regional accrediting organization recognized by the board, except that the board may adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code that require completion of additional years of college credit or receipt of a college degree in an area specified in the rules.

(3) The applicant must be a graduate of and hold the degree of doctor of chiropractic from a school or college of chiropractic approved by the board under section 4734.21 of the Revised Code.

(4) The applicant must have received one of the following from the national board of chiropractic examiners, as appropriate according to the date of the applicant's graduation from a school or college of chiropractic:

(a) If the applicant graduated on or after January 1, 1970, but before January 1, 1989, a "diplomate certificate" or "certificate of attainment" evidencing passage of parts I and II and the physiotherapy section of the national board's examinations;

(b) If the applicant graduated on or after January 1, 1989, but before January 1, 2002, a "certificate of attainment" evidencing passage of parts I, II, and III and the physiotherapy section of the national board's examinations;

(c) If the applicant graduated on or after January 1, 2002, a "certificate of attainment" evidencing passage of parts I, II, III, and IV and the physiotherapy section of the national board's examinations.

(5) The applicant must have passed the board's jurisprudence examination conducted under section 4734.22 of the Revised Code.

(C) The board shall issue a license to practice chiropractic to each applicant who files a complete application, pays all applicable fees, and meets the conditions specified in division (B) of this section. The burden of proof is on the applicant, to prove by clear and convincing evidence to the board, that the applicant meets the conditions for receipt of the license.

The board may conduct any investigation it considers appropriate to verify an applicant's credentials and fitness to receive a license. In conducting an investigation, the board may request information from the records maintained by the federal bureau of investigation, the bureau of criminal identification and investigation, and any other repositories of criminal records held in this or another state. The board may charge the applicant a fee for conducting the investigation. The amount of the fee shall not exceed the expenses the board incurs in conducting the investigation and may include any fees that must be paid to obtain information in the criminal record.

Last updated October 9, 2021 at 5:09 AM

Section 4734.201 | Physiotherapy defined.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

As used in division (B) of section 4734.20 of the Revised Code, "physiotherapy" is a reference to a particular section of the examination offered by the national board of chiropractic examiners and does not mean "physiotherapy" as that term is used in relation to the practice of physical therapy pursuant to sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.202 | License applicant to comply with RC Chapter 4776.

• Effective: October 9, 2021
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 263 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) As used in this section, "license" and "applicant for an initial license" have the same meanings as in section 4776.01 of the Revised Code, except that "license" as used in both of those terms refers to the types of authorizations otherwise issued or conferred under this chapter.

(B) In addition to any other eligibility requirement set forth in this chapter, each applicant for an initial license shall comply with sections 4776.01 to 4776.04 of the Revised Code. The state chiropractic board shall not grant a license to an applicant for an initial license unless the applicant complies with sections 4776.01 to 4776.04 of the Revised Code.

Last updated October 9, 2021 at 5:09 AM

Section 4734.21 | Evaluation and approval of schools and colleges.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

The state chiropractic board shall evaluate schools and colleges of chiropractic and approve those institutions that it determines are capable of adequately training individuals for the practice of chiropractic in this state, except that in appropriate cases, the board may accept the approval of an institution that has been made pursuant to an evaluation conducted by the council on chiropractic education or another entity acceptable to the board.

When determining if a school or college of chiropractic should receive the board's approval or continue to be approved, the board may make on-site inspections, reviews, and inquiries as it considers necessary. The board may charge a school or college of chiropractic a fee to cover the reasonable costs incurred by the board in conducting any inspection, review, or inquiry related to the approval of the school or college.

The board shall maintain a list of schools and colleges of chiropractic approved under this section. On request, the board shall provide a copy of the list to the person making the request.

Section 4734.211 | Approved courses of study in acupuncture.

• Effective: April 6, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 509 - 134th General Assembly

(A) In consultation with the state medical board, the state chiropractic board shall approve courses of study in acupuncture that prepare a chiropractor licensed under this chapter to receive a certificate to practice acupuncture issued under section 4734.283 of the Revised Code.

(B) To be approved, a course of study must require the successful completion of at least two hundred hours of instruction. Of the two hundred hours of instruction, at least one hundred hours must consist of direct clinical instruction that covers all of the following:

(1) Application of acupuncture techniques;

(2) An introduction to traditional Chinese acupuncture;

(3) Acupuncture points;

(4) Applications of acupuncture in modern western medicine;

(5) Guidelines on safety in acupuncture;

(6) Treatment techniques.

(C) In determining whether to approve a course of study, the state chiropractic board shall take into consideration the qualifications of the entity that administers the course of study. The board may approve a course of study that is administered by any of the following:

(1) A school or college of chiropractic that has been approved by a national entity acceptable to the board;

(2) An institution with an acupuncture program that is accredited by the accreditation commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine;

(3) A school or college of medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, or podiatric medicine and surgery;

(4) A hospital;

(5) An institution that holds a certificate of authorization from the board of regents;

(6) An institution that holds program authorization from the state board of career colleges and schools under section 3332.05 of the Revised Code.

Last updated March 22, 2023 at 12:36 PM

Section 4734.22 | Administering examination on jurisprudence.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

The state chiropractic board or its representative shall administer an examination on jurisprudence, as it relates to the practice of chiropractic, for individuals who apply to be licensed under this chapter. The examination shall cover the provisions of the statutes and rules governing the practice of chiropractic in this state and other legal topics considered appropriate by the board. The examination shall be offered at times and places selected by the board and shall be administered in the manner specified by the board. The board shall determine the score that constitutes evidence of passing the examination.

Section 4734.23 | Reciprocity with other states.

• Effective: December 29, 2023
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 131 - 134th General Assembly

(A) A person licensed by another country in the practice of chiropractic may apply under this section for a license to practice chiropractic in this state in lieu of applying under section 4734.20 of the Revised Code. The fee for applying under this division shall be five hundred dollars.

(B) The state chiropractic board may, for good cause, waive all or part of the educational and testing requirements specified under section 4734.20 of the Revised Code and issue a license to an applicant under division (A) of this section, if the applicant presents satisfactory proof of being licensed to practice chiropractic in another country where the requirements for receipt of the license, on the date the license was issued, are considered by the board to be substantially equivalent to those of this chapter. The applicant must meet the same age requirement that must be met under section 4734.20 of the Revised Code. If the board does not waive all of the educational and testing requirements, the board may require that the applicant complete and receive a score specified by the board on one or more tests administered by the board or by the national board of chiropractic examiners or another testing entity.

(C) The board shall issue a license to practice chiropractic in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to an applicant if either of the following applies:

(1) The applicant holds a license to practice chiropractic in another state.

(2) The applicant has satisfactory work experience, a government certification, or a private certification as described in that chapter as a chiropractor in a state that does not issue that license.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 6:16 AM

Section 4734.24 | Certificate holders on 11-3-75.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

Any person who was actively engaged in the practice of chiropractic in this state on November 3, 1975, who, on that date, held a valid, current certificate issued by the state medical board under the former provisions of Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code authorizing the person to practice chiropractic, is deemed to possess the requisite educational and professional qualifications to practice chiropractic in this state.

Section 4734.25 | License renewal.

• Effective: November 22, 2020
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 151 - 133rd General Assembly

A license to practice chiropractic from the state chiropractic board expires biennially in accordance with a schedule the board establishes in rules adopted under this section. The license may be renewed. The renewal process shall be conducted in accordance with the standard renewal procedures of Chapter 4745. of the Revised Code, except that the board's executive director shall notify each license holder of the license renewal requirements of this section not later than sixty days prior to the license's expiration date.

When an application for license renewal is submitted, the applicant shall provide the information necessary to process the application and pay a renewal fee in an amount the board specifies in rules adopted under this section. The board shall deposit twenty-five dollars of each renewal fee collected into the state treasury to the credit of the chiropractic loan repayment fund created by section 3702.9810 of the Revised Code.

Before a renewal of license is issued by the board, the licensee shall furnish the board with satisfactory evidence that the licensee has completed during the current licensing period not less than the number of hours of continuing education that the board requires in rules adopted under this section. For an activity to be applied toward the continuing education requirement, the activity must meet the board's approval as a continuing education activity, as specified in rules adopted under this section. Any exception from the continuing education requirement must be approved by the board.

Failure of a licensee to comply with this section shall operate as an automatic forfeiture of the right of the licensee to practice chiropractic in this state. A forfeited license may be reinstated by the board upon payment of all fees due and a penalty fee in an amount the board specifies in rules adopted under this section for reinstatement, in addition to satisfying the board of having complied with the continuing education requirements of this section. If an individual's license has been forfeited for two or more years, the board may also require as a condition of reinstatement that the individual complete training or testing as specified by the board.

The board shall adopt any rules it considers necessary to implement this section, including standards for approval of continuing education in the practice of chiropractic. All rules adopted under this section shall be adopted in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.26 | Inactive license classification.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

(A) An individual licensed under this chapter who intends not to practice in this state for an extended period may send to the state chiropractic board written notice to that effect on or before the license renewal date. If the individual's license is in good standing and the individual is not under disciplinary review pursuant to section 4734.31 of the Revised Code, the board shall classify the license as inactive, During the period that the license is classified as inactive, the individual may not engage in the practice of chiropractic in this state or make any representation to the public indicating that the person is actively licensed under this chapter. An individual whose license is classified as inactive is not required to pay the license renewal fee for the license.

(B) The holder of an inactive license may apply to the board to have the license restored. The board shall consider the length of inactivity and, in accordance with the standards for issuance of a license established under section 4734.20 of the Revised Code, the moral character and the activities of the applicant during the inactive license period. The board may impose terms and conditions on restoration of the license by doing any of the following:

(1) Requiring the applicant to obtain training, which may include requiring the applicant to pass an examination upon completion of the training;

(2) Requiring the applicant to pass an oral or written examination, or both, to determine fitness to resume practice;

(3) Restricting or limiting the extent, scope, or type of practice of the applicant.

Section 4734.27 | Special limited license to practice chiropractic.

• Effective: December 29, 2023
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 131 - 134th General Assembly

(A) To the extent it is in the public interest, the state chiropractic board may issue, without examination, a special limited license to practice chiropractic as follows:

(1) To a person who is seeking to participate in an internship, residency, preceptorship, or clinical fellowship in this state in preparation for the practice of chiropractic;

(2) To a nonresident person who plans to provide chiropractic services in connection with a special activity, program, or event conducted in this state, if the person holds a current, valid, and unrestricted license to practice chiropractic in another state or country;

(3) To a person who previously held an unrestricted license to practice chiropractic in this state who plans to offer gratuitous chiropractic services as a voluntary public service;

(4) To any other person for any other reason specified as good cause by the board in rules adopted under this section.

(B) An applicant for a special limited license shall submit to the board a complete application on a form prescribed by the board, pay an application fee of seventy-five dollars, and furnish proof satisfactory to the board of being at least twenty-one years of age and of either holding the degree of doctor of chiropractic or being enrolled in a program leading to the degree. The institution from which the applicant received the degree or in which the applicant is enrolled must be a school or college that is approved by the board under section 4734.21 of the Revised Code.

(C) The provisions of this chapter that apply to applicants for and holders of licenses to practice chiropractic shall apply to applicants for and holders of special limited licenses to the extent the board considers appropriate, including the board's authority to conduct any investigation it considers appropriate to verify an applicant's credentials and fitness to receive a license and the board's authority to take actions under section 4734.31 of the Revised Code.

(D) The board shall adopt any rules it considers necessary to implement this section. All rules adopted under this section shall be adopted in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

(E)(1) The board shall issue a special limited license to practice chiropractic under division (A)(1) of this section in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to a person if either of the following applies:

(a) The person holds a limited license to practice chiropractic in another state.

(b) The person has satisfactory work experience, a government certification, or a private certification as described in that chapter as a chiropractor in a state that does not issue that limited license.

(2) A nonresident person who holds a special limited license to practice chiropractic under division (A)(2) of this section is not required to obtain a license under Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to practice under the special limited license.

(3) Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code does not apply to a special limited license issued under division (A)(3) or (4) of this section.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 6:15 AM

Section 4734.28 | Acupuncture and moxibustion defined.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

As used in sections 4734.28 to 4734.286 of the Revised Code:

(A) "Acupuncture" means a form of health care performed by the insertion and removal of specialized needles, with or without the application of moxibustion or electrical stimulation, to specific areas of the human body.

(B) "Moxibustion" means the use of an herbal heat source on one or more acupuncture points.

Section 4734.282 | Application for certificate to practice acupuncture.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

(A) A chiropractor licensed under this chapter seeking a certificate to practice acupuncture shall file with the state chiropractic board a written application on a form prescribed and supplied by the board. The application shall include all of the following:

(1) Evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant's license is current and valid and that the applicant is in good standing with the board;

(2) Evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has completed a course of study in acupuncture approved by the board in accordance with section 4734.211 of the Revised Code.

(3) Evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has passed the acupuncture examination administered by the national board of chiropractic examiners or a person that administers the examinations on the national board's behalf.

(B) The board shall review all applications received under this section. The board shall determine whether an applicant meets the requirements to receive a certificate to practice acupuncture not later than sixty days after receiving a complete application. The affirmative vote of not fewer than three members of the board is required to determine that an applicant meets the requirements for a certificate.

(C) At the time of making application for a certificate to practice acupuncture, the applicant shall pay the board a fee in an amount determined by the board pursuant to rules adopted under section 4734.10 of the Revised Code, no part of which shall be returned.

Section 4734.283 | Issuance of acupuncture certificate.

• Effective: December 29, 2023
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 131 - 134th General Assembly

If the state chiropractic board determines under section 4734.282 of the Revised Code that an applicant meets the requirements for a certificate to practice acupuncture, the executive director of the board shall issue to the applicant a certificate to practice acupuncture.

A certificate to practice acupuncture expires biennially in accordance with a schedule the board shall establish. The certificate may be renewed in accordance with section 4734.284 of the Revised Code.

Notwithstanding the requirements for a certificate under this chapter, the executive director shall issue a certificate to practice acupuncture in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to a chiropractor who holds a license or certificate to practice acupuncture in another state or has satisfactory work experience, a government certification, or a private certification as described in that chapter as an acupuncturist in a state that does not issue that license or certificate.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 6:15 AM

Section 4734.284 | Renewal of acupuncture certificate.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

A chiropractor seeking to renew a certificate to practice acupuncture shall follow the standard renewal procedures of Chapter 4745. of the Revised Code and do all of the following:

(A) Furnish the state chiropractic board with satisfactory evidence that the chiropractor completed, during the twenty-four months immediately preceding renewal, at least twelve hours of acupuncture continuing education provided by an entity that administers a course of study approved under section 4734.211 of the Revised Code;

(B) Certify to the board that the chiropractor remains in good standing with the board and has not engaged in any conduct for which the board may take action under division (C) of section 4734.31 of the Revised Code;

(C) Pay a renewal fee in an amount determined by the board pursuant to rules adopted under section 4734.10 of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.285 | Advertisement of certification to practice acupuncture.

• Effective: November 22, 2020
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 151 - 133rd General Assembly

A chiropractor who holds a certificate to practice acupuncture issued under this chapter may represent or advertise the chiropractor to be a "chiropractor certified by the state chiropractic board to practice acupuncture." Unless the chiropractor holds a license issued under section 4762.04 of the Revised Code, the chiropractor shall not represent or advertise the chiropractor as holding any of the titles listed in section 4762.08 of the Revised Code.

This section does not prohibit a chiropractor from using any of the titles listed in division (D) of section 4734.15 of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.286 | Cessation of acupuncture practice - inactive certificate.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

(A) A chiropractor who holds a certificate to practice acupuncture issued under this chapter who intends not to practice acupuncture in this state for an extended period of time may send to the state chiropractic board written notice to that effect on or before the certificate renewal date. If the chiropractor's certificate is in good standing and the chiropractor is not under disciplinary review pursuant to section 4734.31 of the Revised Code, the board shall classify the certificate as inactive and the chiropractor may not engage in the practice of acupuncture in this state or make any representation to the public indicating that the chiropractor is actively certified to practice acupuncture under this chapter. A chiropractor whose certificate to practice acupuncture is classified as inactive is not required to pay the certificate renewal fee for the certificate.

(B) The holder of an inactive certificate to practice acupuncture may apply to the board to have the certificate restored. The board shall consider the length of inactivity and, in accordance with the conditions for issuance of a license to practice chiropractic established under section 4734.20 of the Revised Code and the requirements for issuance of a certificate to practice acupuncture established under section 4734.282 of the Revised Code, the moral character and the activities of the applicant during the inactive period. The board may impose terms and conditions on restoration of the certificate by doing any of the following:

(1) Requiring the applicant to obtain training, which may include requiring the applicant to pass an examination on completion of the training;

(2) Requiring the applicant to pass an oral or written examination, or both, to determine fitness to resume practice;

(3) Restricting or limiting the extent, scope, or type of practice of the applicant.

Section 4734.31 | Disciplinary actions by board.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

(A) The state chiropractic board may take any of the actions specified in division (B) of this section against an individual who has applied for or holds a license to practice chiropractic in this state if any of the reasons specified in division (C) of this section for taking action against an individual are applicable. Except as provided in division (D) of this section, actions taken against an individual shall be taken in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code. The board may specify that any action it takes is a permanent action. The board's authority to take action against an individual is not removed or limited by the individual's failure to renew a license.

(B) In its imposition of sanctions against an individual, the board may do any of the following:

(1) Except as provided in division (I) of this section, refuse to issue, renew, restore, or reinstate a license to practice chiropractic or a certificate to practice acupuncture;

(2) Reprimand or censure a license holder;

(3) Place limits, restrictions, or probationary conditions on a license holder's practice;

(4) Impose a civil fine of not more than five thousand dollars according to a schedule of fines specified in rules that the board shall adopt in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

(5) Suspend a license to practice chiropractic or a certificate to practice acupuncture for a limited or indefinite period;

(6) Revoke a license to practice chiropractic or a certificate to practice acupuncture.

(C) The board may take the actions specified in division (B) of this section for any of the following reasons:

(1) A plea of guilty to, a judicial finding of guilt of, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for, a felony in any jurisdiction, in which case a certified copy of the court record shall be conclusive evidence of the conviction;

(2) Commission of an act that constitutes a felony in this state, regardless of the jurisdiction in which the act was committed;

(3) A plea of guilty to, a judicial finding of guilt of, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for, a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, as determined by the board, in which case a certified copy of the court record shall be conclusive evidence of the matter;

(4) Commission of an act involving moral turpitude that constitutes a misdemeanor in this state, regardless of the jurisdiction in which the act was committed;

(5) A plea of guilty to, a judicial finding of guilt of, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for, a misdemeanor committed in the course of practice, in which case a certified copy of the court record shall be conclusive evidence of the matter;

(6) Commission of an act in the course of practice that constitutes a misdemeanor in this state, regardless of the jurisdiction in which the act was committed;

(7) A violation or attempted violation of this chapter or the rules adopted under it governing the practice of chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture by a chiropractor licensed under this chapter;

(8) Failure to cooperate in an investigation conducted by the board, including failure to comply with a subpoena or order issued by the board or failure to answer truthfully a question presented by the board at a deposition or in written interrogatories, except that failure to cooperate with an investigation shall not constitute grounds for discipline under this section if the board or a court of competent jurisdiction has issued an order that either quashes a subpoena or permits the individual to withhold the testimony or evidence in issue;

(9) Engaging in an ongoing professional relationship with a person or entity that violates any provision of this chapter or the rules adopted under it, unless the chiropractor makes a good faith effort to have the person or entity comply with the provisions;

(10) Retaliating against a chiropractor for the chiropractor's reporting to the board or any other agency with jurisdiction any violation of the law or for cooperating with the board of another agency in the investigation of any violation of the law;

(11) Aiding, abetting, assisting, counseling, or conspiring with any person in that person's violation of any provision of this chapter or the rules adopted under it, including the practice of chiropractic without a license, the practice of animal chiropractic in violation of section 4734.151 of the Revised Code, the practice of acupuncture without a certificate, or aiding, abetting, assisting, counseling, or conspiring with any person in that person's unlicensed practice of any other health care profession that has licensing requirements;

(12) With respect to a report or record that is made, filed, or signed in connection with the practice of chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture, knowingly making or filing a report or record that is false, intentionally or negligently failing to file a report or record required by federal, state, or local law or willfully impeding or obstructing the required filing, or inducing another person to engage in any such acts;

(13) Making a false, fraudulent, or deceitful statement to the board or any agent of the board during any investigation or other official proceeding conducted by the board under this chapter or in any filing that must be submitted to the board;

(14) Attempting to secure a license to practice chiropractic, authorization to practice animal chiropractic, or a certificate to practice acupuncture, or to corrupt the outcome of an official board proceeding, through bribery or any other improper means;

(15) Willfully obstructing or hindering the board or any agent of the board in the discharge of the board's duties;

(16) Habitually using drugs or intoxicants to the extent that the person is rendered unfit for the practice of chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture;

(17) Inability to practice chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture according to acceptable and prevailing standards of care by reason of chemical dependency, mental illness, or physical illness, including conditions in which physical deterioration has adversely affected the person's cognitive, motor, or perceptive skills and conditions in which a chiropractor's continued practice may pose a danger to the chiropractor or the public;

(18) Any act constituting gross immorality relative to the person's practice of chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture, including acts involving sexual abuse, sexual misconduct, or sexual exploitation;

(19) Exploiting a patient for personal or financial gain;

(20) Failing to maintain proper, accurate, and legible records in the English language documenting each patient's care, including, as appropriate, records of the following: dates of treatment, services rendered, examinations, tests, x-ray reports, referrals, and the diagnosis or clinical impression and clinical treatment plan provided to the patient;

(21) Except as otherwise required by the board or by law, disclosing patient information gained during the chiropractor's professional relationship with a patient without obtaining the patient's authorization for the disclosure;

(22) Commission of willful or gross malpractice, or willful or gross neglect, in the practice of chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture;

(23) Failing to perform or negligently performing an act recognized by the board as a general duty or the exercise of due care in the practice of chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture, regardless of whether injury results to a patient from the failure to perform or negligent performance of the act;

(24) Engaging in any conduct or practice that impairs or may impair the ability to practice chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture safely and skillfully;

(25) Practicing, or claiming to be capable of practicing, beyond the scope of the practice of chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture as established under this chapter and the rules adopted under this chapter;

(26) Accepting and performing professional responsibilities as a chiropractor, animal chiropractic practitioner, or chiropractor with a certificate to practice acupuncture when not qualified to perform those responsibilities, if the person knew or had reason to know that the person was not qualified to perform them;

(27) Delegating any of the professional responsibilities of a chiropractor, animal chiropractic practitioner, or chiropractor with a certificate to practice acupuncture to an employee or other individual when the delegating chiropractor knows or had reason to know that the employee or other individual is not qualified by training, experience, or professional licensure to perform the responsibilities;

(28) Delegating any of the professional responsibilities of a chiropractor, animal chiropractic practitioner, or chiropractor with a certificate to practice acupuncture to an employee or other individual in a negligent manner or failing to provide proper supervision of the employee or other individual to whom the responsibilities are delegated;

(29) Failing to refer a patient to another health care practitioner for consultation or treatment when the chiropractor knows or has reason to know that the referral is in the best interest of the patient;

(30) Obtaining or attempting to obtain any fee or other advantage by fraud or misrepresentation;

(31) Making misleading, deceptive, false, or fraudulent representations in the practice of chiropractic, animal chiropractic, or acupuncture;

(32) Being guilty of false, fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading advertising or other solicitations for patients or knowingly having professional connection with any person that advertises or solicits for patients in such a manner;

(33) Violation of a provision of any code of ethics established or adopted by the board under section 4734.16 of the Revised Code;

(34) Failing to meet the examination requirements for receipt of a license specified under section 4734.20 of the Revised Code;

(35) Actions taken for any reason, other than nonpayment of fees, by the chiropractic or acupuncture licensing authority of another state or country;

(36) Failing to maintain clean and sanitary conditions at the clinic, office, or other place in which chiropractic services, animal chiropractic services, or acupuncture services are provided;

(37) Except as provided in division (G) of this section:

(a) Waiving the payment of all or any part of a deductible or copayment that a patient, pursuant to a health insurance or health care policy, contract, or plan that covers the chiropractor's services, otherwise would be required to pay if the waiver is used as an enticement to a patient or group of patients to receive health care services from that chiropractor;

(b) Advertising that the chiropractor will waive the payment of all or any part of a deductible or copayment that a patient, pursuant to a health insurance or health care policy, contract, or plan that covers the chiropractor's services, otherwise would be required to pay.

(D) The adjudication requirements of Chapter 119. of the Revised Code apply to the board when taking actions against an individual under this section, except as follows:

(1) An applicant is not entitled to an adjudication for failing to meet the conditions specified under section 4734.20 of the Revised Code for receipt of a license that involve the board's examination on jurisprudence or the examinations of the national board of chiropractic examiners.

(2) A person is not entitled to an adjudication if the person fails to make a timely request for a hearing, in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

(3) In lieu of an adjudication, the board may accept the surrender of a license to practice chiropractic or certificate to practice acupuncture from a chiropractor.

(4) In lieu of an adjudication, the board may enter into a consent agreement with an individual to resolve an allegation of a violation of this chapter or any rule adopted under it. A consent agreement, when ratified by the board, shall constitute the findings and order of the board with respect to the matter addressed in the agreement. If the board refuses to ratify a consent agreement, the admissions and findings contained in the consent agreement shall be of no force or effect.

(E)(1) This section does not require the board to hire, contract with, or retain the services of an expert witness when the board takes action against a chiropractor concerning compliance with acceptable and prevailing standards of care in the practice of chiropractic or acupuncture. As part of an action taken concerning compliance with acceptable and prevailing standards of care, the board may rely on the knowledge of its members for purposes of making a determination of compliance, notwithstanding any expert testimony presented by the chiropractor that contradicts the knowledge and opinions of the members of the board.

(2) If the board conducts a review or investigation or takes action against a chiropractor concerning an allegation of harm to an animal from the practice of animal chiropractic, the board shall retain as an expert witness a licensed veterinarian who holds a current, valid certification from a credentialing organization specified in division (A)(3) of section 4734.151 of the Revised Code.

(F) The sealing or expungement of conviction records by a court shall have no effect on a prior board order entered under this section or on the board's jurisdiction to take action under this section if, based on a plea of guilty, a judicial finding of guilt, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction, the board issued a notice of opportunity for a hearing prior to the court's order to seal or expunge the records. The board shall not be required to seal, destroy, redact, or otherwise modify its records to reflect the court's sealing or expungement of conviction records.

(G) Actions shall not be taken pursuant to division (C)(37) of this section against any chiropractor who waives deductibles and copayments as follows:

(1) In compliance with the health benefit plan that expressly allows a practice of that nature. Waiver of the deductibles or copayments shall be made only with the full knowledge and consent of the plan purchaser, payer, and third-party administrator. Documentation of the consent shall be made available to the board upon request.

(2) For professional services rendered to any other person licensed pursuant to this chapter, to the extent allowed by this chapter and the rules of the board.

(H) As used in this section, "animal chiropractic" and "animal chiropractic practitioner" have the same meanings as in section 4734.151 of the Revised Code.

(I) The board shall not refuse to issue a license to an applicant because of a conviction, plea of guilty, judicial finding of guilt, judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction, or the commission of an act that constitutes a criminal offense, unless the refusal is in accordance with section 9.79 of the Revised Code.

Last updated October 3, 2023 at 12:41 PM

Section 4734.311 | Effect of child support default on license.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

On receipt of a notice pursuant to section 3123.43 of the Revised Code, the state chiropractic board shall comply with sections 3123.41 to 3123.50 of the Revised Code and any applicable rules adopted under section 3123.63 of the Revised Code with respect to a license to practice chiropractic or certificate to practice acupuncture issued pursuant to this chapter.

Section 4734.32 | Reports of disciplinary actions by health care facility.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

(A)(1) Except as provided in division (A)(2) of this section, if formal disciplinary action is taken against a chiropractor by any health care facility, including a clinic, hospital, or similar facility, the chief administrator or executive officer of the facility shall file a report with the state chiropractic board not later than sixty days after the disciplinary action is imposed. The report shall include the name of the individual, the action taken by the facility, and a summary of the underlying facts leading to the action taken. On request, the board shall be provided certified copies of the patient records that were the basis for the facility's action. Prior to release to the board, the summary shall be approved by the peer review committee that reviewed the case or by the governing board of the facility.

The filing of a report with the board, a decision not to file a report with the board, an investigation by the board, or any disciplinary action taken by the board, does not preclude a health care facility from taking disciplinary action against a chiropractor.

In the absence of fraud or bad faith, no individual or entity that provides patient records to the board shall be liable in damages to any person as a result of providing the records.

(2) Disciplinary action taken against a chiropractor by a chiropractic clinic need not be reported to the board in either of the following circumstances:

(a) The clinic takes the disciplinary action for reasons that do not involve clinical or patient care issues.

(b) The clinic employs fewer than five chiropractors and the disciplinary action taken does not rise above the level of a written reprimand.

(B) A chiropractor or professional association or society of chiropractors that believes a violation of any provision of this chapter or rule of the board has occurred shall report to the board the information upon which the belief is based. This division does not require any treatment provider approved by the board under section 4734.40 of the Revised Code or any employee, agent, or representative of such a provider to make reports with respect to a chiropractor participating in treatment or aftercare for substance abuse as long as the chiropractor maintains participation in accordance with the requirements of section 4734.40 of the Revised Code and the treatment provider or employee, agent, or representative of the provider has no reason to believe that the chiropractor has violated any provision of this chapter or rule adopted under it, other than being impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other substances. This division does not require reporting by any member of an impaired practitioner committee established by a health care facility or by any representative or agent of a committee or program sponsored by a professional association or society of chiropractors to provide peer assistance to chiropractors with substance abuse problems with respect to a chiropractor who has been referred for examination to a treatment program approved by the board under section 4734.40 of the Revised Code if the chiropractor cooperates with the referral for examination and with any determination that the chiropractor should enter treatment and as long as the committee member, representative, or agent has no reason to believe that the chiropractor has ceased to participate in the treatment program in accordance with section 4734.40 of the Revised Code or has violated any provision of this chapter or rule adopted under it, other than being impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other substances.

(C) Any professional association or society composed primarily of chiropractors that suspends or revokes an individual's membership for violations of professional ethics, or for reasons of professional incompetence or professional malpractice, within sixty days after a final decision, shall report to the board, on forms prescribed and provided by the board, the name of the individual, the action taken by the professional organization, and a summary of the underlying facts leading to the action taken.

The filing of a report with the board, a decision not to file a report with the board, an investigation by the board, or any disciplinary action taken by the board, shall not preclude a professional organization from taking disciplinary action against a chiropractor.

(D) Any insurer providing professional liability insurance to any person holding a valid license as a chiropractor or any other entity that seeks to indemnify the professional liability of a chiropractor shall notify the board within thirty days after the final disposition of any written claim for damages where such disposition results in a payment exceeding ten thousand dollars. The notice shall contain the following information:

(1) The name and address of the person submitting the notification;

(2) The name and address of the insured who is the subject of the claim;

(3) The name of the person filing the written claim;

(4) The date of final disposition;

(5) If applicable, the identity of the court in which the final disposition of the claim took place.

(E) The board may investigate possible violations of this chapter or the rules adopted under it that are brought to its attention as a result of the reporting requirements of this section, except that the board shall conduct an investigation if a possible violation involves repeated malpractice. As used in this division, "repeated malpractice" means three or more claims for malpractice within the previous five-year period, each resulting in a judgment or settlement in excess of ten thousand dollars in favor of the claimant, and each involving tortious conduct by the chiropractor.

(F) All summaries, reports, and records received and maintained by the board pursuant to this section shall be held in confidence and shall not be subject to discovery or introduction in evidence in any federal or state civil action involving a chiropractor or health care facility arising out of matters that are the subject of the reporting required by this section. The board may use the information obtained only as the basis for an investigation, as evidence in a disciplinary hearing against a chiropractor, or in any subsequent trial or appeal of a board action or order.

The board may disclose the summaries and reports it receives under this section only to health care facility committees within or outside this state that are involved in credentialing or recredentialing a chiropractor or reviewing the chiropractor's privilege to practice within a particular facility. The board shall indicate whether or not the information has been verified. Information transmitted by the board shall be subject to the same confidentiality provisions as when maintained by the board.

(G) Except for reports filed by an individual pursuant to division (B) of this section, the board shall send a copy of any reports or summaries it receives pursuant to this section to the chiropractor. The chiropractor shall have the right to file a statement with the board concerning the correctness or relevance of the information. The statement shall at all times accompany that part of the record in contention.

(H) An individual or entity that reports to the board or refers an impaired chiropractor to a treatment provider approved by the board under section 4734.40 of the Revised Code shall not be subject to suit for civil damages as a result of the report, referral, or provision of the information.

(I) In the absence of fraud or bad faith, a professional association or society of chiropractors that sponsors a committee or program to provide peer assistance to a chiropractor with substance abuse problems, a representative or agent of such a committee or program, and a member of the state chiropractic board shall not be held liable in damages to any person by reason of actions taken to refer a chiropractor to a treatment provider approved under section 4734.40 of the Revised Code for examination or treatment.

Section 4734.34 | Applying for restoration of license.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

An individual subject to an action taken under section 4734.31 of the Revised Code, other than permanent revocation of a license to practice chiropractic or certificate to practice acupuncture, may apply to the state chiropractic board to have the individual's license or certificate restored to good standing. The board shall consider the moral character and the activities of the applicant since the board's action was taken, in accordance with the standards for issuance of a license, as established under section 4734.20 of the Revised Code, or the standards for issuance of a certificate to practice acupuncture, as established under section 4734.282 of the Revised Code. The board may impose terms and conditions on restoration of the license or certificate by doing any of the following:

(A) Requiring the applicant to obtain training, which may include requiring the applicant to pass an examination upon completion of the training;

(B) Requiring the applicant to pass an oral or written examination, or both, to determine fitness to resume practice;

(C) Restricting or limiting the extent, scope, or type of practice of the applicant.

Section 4734.35 | Prosecutor's report of convictions.

• Effective: January 1, 2004
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 490 - 124th General Assembly

(A) As used in this section, "prosecutor" has the same meaning as in section 2935.01 of the Revised Code.

(B) The prosecutor in any case against any chiropractor holding a valid license issued under this chapter shall promptly notify the state chiropractic board of any of the following:

(1) A plea of guilty to, or a finding of guilt by a jury or court of, a felony, or a case in which the trial court issues an order of dismissal upon technical or procedural grounds of a felony charge;

(2) A plea of guilty to, or a finding of guilt by a jury or court of, a misdemeanor committed in the course of practice, or a case in which the trial court issues an order of dismissal upon technical or procedural grounds of a charge of a misdemeanor, if the alleged act was committed in the course of practice;

(3) A plea of guilty to, or a finding of guilt by a jury or court of, a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, or a case in which the trial court issues an order of dismissal upon technical or procedural grounds of a charge of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude.

(C) The report shall include the name and address of the chiropractor, the nature of the offense for which the action was taken, and the certified court documents recording the action. The board may prescribe and provide forms for prosecutors to make reports under this section. The form may be the same as the form required to be provided under section 2929.42 of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.36 | Automatic suspension upon guilty plea or conviction.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

A chiropractor who in this state pleads guilty to or is convicted of aggravated murder, murder, voluntary manslaughter, felonious assault, kidnapping, rape, sexual battery, gross sexual imposition, aggravated arson, aggravated robbery, or aggravated burglary, or who in another jurisdiction pleads guilty to or is convicted of any substantially equivalent criminal offense, is automatically suspended from practice in this state and the license issued under this chapter to practice chiropractic is automatically suspended as of the date of the guilty plea or conviction. If applicable, the chiropractor's certificate issued under this chapter to practice acupuncture is automatically suspended at the same time. Continued practice after suspension under this section shall be considered practicing chiropractic without a license and, if applicable, acupuncture without a certificate. On receiving notice or otherwise becoming aware of the conviction, the state chiropractic board shall notify the individual of the suspension under this section in accordance with sections 119.05 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. If an individual whose license and, if applicable, certificate to practice acupuncture is suspended under this section fails to make a timely request for an adjudication, the board shall enter a final order revoking the individual's license and, if applicable, certificate to practice acupuncture.

Last updated October 3, 2023 at 12:41 PM

Section 4734.37 | Summary suspension of license.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

If the state chiropractic board determines that there is clear and convincing evidence that a person who has been granted a license to practice chiropractic and, if applicable, certificate to practice acupuncture under this chapter has committed an act that subjects the person's license and, if applicable, certificate to board action under section 4734.31 of the Revised Code and that the person's continued practice presents a danger of immediate and serious harm to the public, the board may suspend the license and, if applicable, certificate without a prior hearing. A telephone conference call may be utilized for reviewing the matter and taking the vote.

The board shall serve a written order of suspension in accordance with sections 119.05 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. The order is not subject to suspension by the court during pendency of any appeal filed under section 119.12 of the Revised Code. If the person subject to the suspension requests an adjudication by the board, the date set for the adjudication shall be within twenty days, but not earlier than seven days, after the request, unless otherwise agreed to by both the board and the person subject to the suspension.

Any summary suspension imposed under this section shall remain in effect, unless reversed on appeal, until a final adjudicative order issued by the board pursuant to section 4734.31 and Chapter 119. of the Revised Code becomes effective. The board shall issue its final adjudicative order within sixty days after completion of its adjudication. A failure to issue the order within sixty days shall result in dissolution of the summary suspension order but shall not invalidate any subsequent, final adjudicative order.

Last updated October 3, 2023 at 12:42 PM

Section 4734.38 | Suspension for mental illness or incompetency.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

If any person who has been granted a license to practice chiropractic and, if applicable, certificate to practice acupuncture under this chapter is adjudged by a probate court to be mentally ill or mentally incompetent, the person's license and, if applicable, certificate shall be automatically suspended until the person has filed with the state chiropractic board a certified copy of an adjudication by a probate court of being restored to competency or has submitted to the board proof, satisfactory to the board, of having been discharged as being restored to competency in the manner and form provided in section 5122.38 of the Revised Code. The judge of the court shall forthwith notify the board of an adjudication of mental illness or mental incompetence.

Section 4734.39 | Ability to practice impaired.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

(A) For purposes of the state chiropractic board's enforcement of division (C)(16) or (17) of section 4734.31 of the Revised Code, an individual who applies for or receives a license to practice chiropractic or certificate to practice acupuncture under this chapter accepts the privilege of practicing chiropractic and, if applicable, acupuncture in this state and, by so doing, shall be deemed to have given consent to submit to a mental or physical examination when directed to do so in writing by the board in its enforcement of those divisions, and to have waived all objections to the admissibility of testimony or examination reports that constitute a privileged communication.

(B) If the board has reason to believe that a chiropractor or applicant suffers an impairment described in division (C)(16) or (17) of section 4734.31 of the Revised Code, the board may compel the individual to submit to a mental or physical examination, or both. The expense of the examination is the responsibility of the individual compelled to be examined. Any mental or physical examination required under this section shall be undertaken by a provider who is qualified to conduct the examination and who is chosen by the board.

Failure to submit to a mental or physical examination ordered by the board constitutes an admission of the allegations against the individual unless the failure is due to circumstances beyond the individual's control. A default and final order may be entered without the taking of testimony or presentation of evidence.

If the board determines that an individual's ability to practice is impaired, the board shall suspend the individual's license to practice chiropractic and, if applicable, certificate to practice acupuncture or deny the individual's application and shall require the individual, as a condition for initial, continued, reinstated, restored, or renewed certification to practice, to submit to care, counseling, or treatment.

(C) Before being eligible to apply for reinstatement of a license or certificate suspended under division (C)(16) of section 4734.31 of the Revised Code or the chemical dependency provisions of division (C)(17) of section 4731.34 of the Revised Code, the impaired individual shall demonstrate to the board the ability to resume practice in compliance with acceptable and prevailing standards of care in the practice of chiropractic and, if applicable, acupuncture under this chapter. If rules have been adopted under section 4734.40 of the Revised Code, the demonstration shall include, but shall not be limited to, the following:

(1) Certification from a treatment provider approved under section 4734.40 of the Revised Code that the individual has successfully completed any required inpatient treatment;

(2) Evidence of continuing full compliance with an aftercare contract or consent agreement;

(3) Two written reports indicating that the individual's ability to practice has been assessed and that the individual has been found capable of practicing according to acceptable and prevailing standards of care. The reports shall be made by individuals or providers approved by the board for making the assessments and shall describe the basis for their determination.

The board may reinstate a license and, if applicable, certificate suspended under this division after that demonstration and after the individual has entered into a written consent agreement.

When the impaired individual resumes practice, the board shall require continued monitoring of the individual. The monitoring shall include, but not be limited to, compliance with the written consent agreement entered into before reinstatement or with conditions imposed by board order after a hearing, and, upon termination of the consent agreement, submission to the board for at least two years of annual written progress reports made under penalty of perjury stating whether the individual has maintained sobriety.

Section 4734.40 | Establishing standards for approving treatment providers for impaired chiropractors.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

(A) The state chiropractic board may adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code establishing standards for approving treatment providers for impaired chiropractors. If rules are adopted, the rules shall include standards for both inpatient and outpatient treatment. The rules shall provide that to be approved, a treatment provider must be capable of making an initial examination to determine the type of treatment an impaired chiropractor requires and must be capable of adhering to guidelines the board considers appropriate for assessment and referral of impaired chiropractors. The board shall review treatment providers on a regular basis and designate those providers that meet the standards for approval. The board may deny or withdraw its approval if it finds that the treatment provider being reviewed does not meet or no longer meets the standards for approval.

(B) A chiropractor who enters into treatment by an approved treatment provider shall be deemed to have waived any confidentiality requirements that would otherwise prevent the treatment provider from making reports required under this section.

Section 4734.41 | Establishing chemical dependency and mental illness monitoring program.

• Effective: July 10, 2014
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 232 - 130th General Assembly

(A) As used in this section:

(1) "Chemical dependency" means either of the following:

(a) The chronic and habitual use of alcoholic beverages to the extent that the user no longer can control the use of alcohol or endangers the user's health, safety, or welfare or that of others;

(b) The use of a controlled substance as defined in section 3719.01 of the Revised Code, a harmful intoxicant as defined in section 2925.01 of the Revised Code, or a dangerous drug as defined in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code, to the extent that the user becomes physically or psychologically dependent on the substance, intoxicant, or drug or endangers the user's health, safety, or welfare or that of others.

(2) "Mental illness" means a recognized psychiatric or psychological condition, disorder, or syndrome that has been diagnosed by a psychiatrist, psychologist, licensed professional clinical counselor, or independent social worker as a condition, disorder, or syndrome that may pose a danger to the person diagnosed or others or may prevent the person from practicing the person's profession according to acceptable and prevailing standards of care.

(B) The state chiropractic board shall establish a chemical dependency and mental illness monitoring program. The program shall be made available to any individual under the board's jurisdiction who has a chemical dependency or mental illness and meets the board's eligibility requirements for admission to and continued participation in the program. The board shall develop the program and may designate a coordinator to administer it or enter into a contract for the program to be administered by another entity through a coordinator. The board shall adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code that establish standards and procedure for operating the program.

(C) Except as provided in division (D) of this section, all records of an individual's participation in the monitoring program, including medical records, chemical dependency records, and mental health records, shall be confidential, are not public records for the purposes of section 149.43 of the Revised Code, and are not subject to discovery by subpoena or admissible as evidence in any judicial proceeding. The program coordinator shall maintain all records as directed by the board.

(D) The monitoring program's coordinator may disclose records or information regarding an individual's progress and status of participation in the program to the disciplinary section of the board and to any person or government entity that the program participant authorizes in writing to be given the records or information.

In disclosing records or information under this division, the coordinator shall not include any record or information that is protected under section 5119.27 of the Revised Code or any federal statute or regulation that provides for the confidentiality of mental health or substance abuse records.

(E) In the absence of fraud or bad faith, the monitoring program's coordinator, the board and the board's employees and representatives are not liable for damages in any civil action as a result of disclosing records or information in accordance with division (D) of this section. In the absence of fraud or bad faith, any person reporting to the program an individual's chemical dependency or mental illness, or the progress or lack of progress of that individual with regard to treatment, is not liable for damages in any civil action as a result of the report.

(F) The board may abstain from taking formal disciplinary action under section 4734.31 of the Revised Code against an individual because of the individual's chemical dependency or mental illness, if the individual meets the eligibility requirements for admission into the monitoring program and all of the following occur:

(1) The individual enters into a monitoring agreement with the coordinator of the program;

(2) The individual complies with the terms and conditions for continued participation in the program, as specified in the monitoring agreement;

(3) The individual successfully completes the terms and conditions of the monitoring agreement, including the condition that the individual attain the ability to practice in accordance with acceptable and prevailing standards of care applicable to the practice of chiropractic.

Section 4734.42 | Development and implementation of quality intervention program.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

Pursuant to the state chiropractic board's investigative authority established under this chapter, the board shall develop and implement a quality intervention program designed to improve the practice and communication skills of individuals authorized to practice chiropractic under this chapter. In developing and implementing the quality intervention program, the board shall do all of the following:

(A) Offer in appropriate cases as determined by the board an educational and assessment program pursuant to an investigation the board conducts under this section;

(B) Select providers of educational and assessment services, including a quality intervention program panel of case reviewers;

(C) Make referrals to educational and assessment service providers and approve individual educational programs recommended by those providers. The board shall monitor the progress of each individual undertaking a recommended individual education program;

(D) Determine what constitutes successful completion of an individual education program and require further monitoring of the individual who completed the program or other action the board determines to be appropriate;

(E) Adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code establishing standards and procedures for implementing the quality intervention program.

Section 4734.45 | Investigations - confidential information.

• Effective: April 9, 2003
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 179 - 124th General Assembly

(A) The state chiropractic board shall investigate evidence that appears to show that a person has violated any provision of this chapter or the rules adopted under it. Any person may report to the board in writing or by other means any information the person has that appears to show a violation of any provision of this chapter or the rules adopted under it. In the absence of bad faith, a person who reports to the board, cooperates in an investigation, or testifies before the board in an adjudication shall not be liable for civil damages as a result of reporting, cooperating, or providing testimony.

(B) Information received by the board pursuant to an investigation is confidential and not subject to discovery in any civil action, except that for good cause, the board or its executive director may disclose or authorize disclosure of information gathered pursuant to an investigation.

The board and its employees may share appropriate information in the board's possession with any federal, state, or local law enforcement, prosecutorial, or regulatory agency or its officers or agents engaging in an investigation. The board and its employees may cooperate in any other manner with the agency or its officers or agents engaging in an investigation.

An agency that receives confidential information shall comply with the same requirements regarding confidentiality as those with which the board must comply, notwithstanding any conflicting provision of the Revised Code or procedure of the agency that applies when the agency is dealing with other information in its possession. The information may be admitted into evidence in a criminal trial in accordance with the Rules of Evidence, or in an administrative hearing conducted by an agency, but the court or agency shall require that appropriate measures be taken to ensure that confidentiality is maintained with respect to any part of the information that contains names or other identifying information about patients, complainants, or others whose confidentiality was protected by the state chiropractic board when the information was in the board's possession. Measures to ensure confidentiality that may be taken by the court or agency include sealing its records or redacting specific information from its records.

(C) All hearings and investigations of the board shall be considered civil actions for the purposes of section 2305.252 of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.46 | Hearing and investigation procedures.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

All of the following apply to the investigations, inquiries, and hearings that the state chiropractic board is empowered to hold or undertake:

(A) An investigation, inquiry, or hearing may be held or undertaken by or before any member of the board.

(B) The board may appoint an examiner who is an attorney to conduct an investigation, inquiry, or hearing. The findings or order of the hearing examiner or a member who holds or undertakes an investigation, inquiry, or hearing shall be deemed to be the findings or order of the board when approved and confirmed by it.

(C) The board shall adopt standards of conduct for the attorneys and other persons who practice before the board at its hearings.

(D) Following an inquiry, the board may, in cases it considers appropriate, issue a "letter of admonition" or a "letter of caution." Issuance of a letter under this division is not an action taken in addition to or in lieu of taking action under section 4734.31 of the Revised Code and is not subject to an adjudication under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code. The letter shall not be used by an employer, insurer, or any other person or government entity as the basis of an adverse action against the recipient.

Section 4734.47 | Enforcement officer.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

(A) The executive director of the state chiropractic board shall function as the chief enforcement officer of the board and shall enforce the laws relating to the practice of chiropractic and acupuncture under this chapter. If the executive director has knowledge or notice of a violation of those laws, the executive director shall investigate the matter or cause the matter to be investigated. On probable cause appearing, the executive director shall prosecute the offender or cause the offender to be prosecuted. If the matter involves a violation by an individual licensed under this chapter, the executive director shall bring the matter before the board. If the matter involves a violation for which a penalty may be imposed under section 4734.99 of the Revised Code, the executive director or a person authorized by the board to represent the executive director may file a complaint with the prosecuting attorney of the proper county. Except as provided in division (B) of this section, the prosecuting attorney shall take charge of and conduct the prosecution.

(B) For purposes of enforcing this chapter, the board may petition a court of record to appoint an attorney to assist the prosecuting attorney in the prosecution of offenders or to take charge of and conduct the prosecutions as a special prosecutor. The court shall grant the petition if it is in the public interest. A special prosecutor appointed by the court shall be compensated by the board in an amount approved by the board.

If the court believes that public knowledge of the appointment of a special prosecutor could allow one or more persons to interfere with the prosecution or any investigation related to the prosecution, the court may seal all documents pertaining to the appointment. Sealed documents shall remain sealed until there is court action on the prosecution or until the court orders the documents to be opened.

Section 4734.48 | Service of process - procedure for discovery.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

(A) For purposes of enforcing this chapter, the state chiropractic board or any of its members, the board's executive director, and any person authorized by the board to serve as the executive director's representative may do any of the following:

(1) Serve and execute any process issued by any court regarding the practice of chiropractic and serve and execute any papers or process issued by the board or any officer or member of the board;

(2) Administer oaths, propound interrogatories, order the taking of depositions, compel by subpoena that witnesses appear and testify, and compel by subpoena duces tecum the production of books, accounts, papers, records, documents, or other tangible objects. If a person fails to cooperate in an interrogatory or deposition or fails to comply with a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum, the board may apply to the court of common pleas of Franklin county for an order compelling the person to cooperate in the interrogatory or deposition or to comply with the subpoena or subpoena duces tecum or, for failure to do so, be held in contempt of court. The board shall adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code establishing procedures to be followed in taking the actions authorized under division (A)(2) of this section, including procedures regarding payment for and service of subpoenas.

(3) File with a judge or clerk of a court of record, or with a magistrate, an affidavit charging a person with committing a violation of any provision of this chapter or the rules adopted under it. For purposes of this division, the person filing the affidavit is a peace officer who is authorized to file an affidavit under section 2935.09 of the Revised Code.

(B) Any process, paper, or other document served under this chapter by the board, a board member, the executive director, or an authorized representative of the executive director may be served by personal service, residence service, or certified mail. Service may be made at the intended recipient's usual place of business.

If attempts at service by personal service, residence service, or certified mail are unsuccessful, service may be made as follows:

(1) By ordinary mail. If the process, paper, or other document that is mailed is not returned by the United States postal service, service on the intended recipient is deemed to have occurred on the tenth day after the mailing.

(2) By publication of a notice in any newspaper of general circulation in the county in which the intended recipient's last known residential or business address is located.

Section 4734.49 | Injunctions.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

(A) The attorney general, the prosecuting attorney of the county in which a violation of this chapter is committed or is threatened to be committed or in which the offender resides, the state chiropractic board, or any other person having knowledge of a person committing or threatening to commit a violation of this chapter may, in accordance with the provisions of the Revised Code governing injunctions, maintain an action in the name of this state to enjoin the person from committing the violation by applying for an injunction in any court of competent jurisdiction. Upon the filing of a verified petition in court, the court shall conduct a hearing on the petition and shall give the same preference to this proceeding as is given all proceedings under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, irrespective of the position of the proceeding on the calendar of the court. If the court grants a final or permanent injunction that is a final appealable order, the court may award to the person or entity that maintained the action an amount not exceeding five thousand dollars to cover reasonable attorney's fees, investigative costs, and other costs related to the investigation or prosecution of the case. Injunction proceedings brought under this section shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of, all penalties and other remedies provided in this chapter.

(B)(1) The practice of chiropractic by any person not at that time holding a valid and current license issued under this chapter is hereby declared to be inimical to the public welfare and to constitute a public nuisance.

(2) Except for the practice of acupuncture by persons described in section 4762.02 of the Revised Code and persons who hold certificates issued under section 4762.04 of the Revised Code, the practice of acupuncture by any person not at that time holding a valid and current certificate to practice acupuncture issued under this chapter is hereby declared to be inimical to the public welfare and to constitute a public nuisance.

Section 4734.50 | Notice or warnings for minor violations.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

This chapter does not require the state chiropractic board to act on minor violations of this chapter or the rules adopted under it, if the violations are committed by individuals licensed to practice chiropractic or certified to practice acupuncture under this chapter and the board determines that the public interest is adequately served by issuing a notice or warning to the alleged offender.

Section 4734.53 | Fines.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

All fines collected for violation of section 4734.14 or 4734.161 of the Revised Code shall be distributed as follows: one half to the state chiropractic board for deposit in accordance with section 4734.54 of the Revised Code and one half to the treasury of the county or municipal corporation in which the offense was committed.

Section 4734.54 | Depositing receipts.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

All moneys received by the state chiropractic board shall be paid into the state treasury and credited to the occupational licensing and regulatory fund. Moneys credited to the fund that are the result of fines collected under section 4734.53, fines collected under section 4734.31, and amounts awarded under section 4734.49 of the Revised Code shall be used solely for purposes related to the board's enforcement of this chapter. Moneys credited to the fund that are the result of any fee charged under section 4734.21 of the Revised Code shall be used solely for purposes related to implementing that section.

Section 4734.55 | Providing information - duplicate license.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

The state chiropractic board shall provide a duplicate license to practice chiropractic or certificate to practice acupuncture to a license or certificate holder on payment of a fee of forty-five dollars.

Upon written request and the payment of a fee of ninety-five dollars, the board shall provide to any person a list of persons holding licenses to practice chiropractic or certificates to practice acupuncture, as indicated in its register maintained pursuant to section 4734.04 of the Revised Code.

Upon written request from the holder of a license or certificate issued under this chapter for the board's certification of information pertaining to the license or certificate, and the payment of a fee of twenty dollars, the board shall issue its certification of the information to the person identified by the licensee or certificate holder in the request.

Section 4734.56 | Fees in excess of statutory amounts.

• Effective: April 10, 2001
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 506 - 123rd General Assembly

The state chiropractic board, subject to the approval of the controlling board, may establish fees in excess of the amounts specified in this chapter, provided that such fees do not exceed the amounts specified by more than fifty per cent.

Section 4734.57 | Compliance with law regarding sanctions for human trafficking.

• Effective: March 22, 2013
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 247 - 129th General Assembly

The state chiropractic board shall comply with section 4776.20 of the Revised Code.

Section 4734.60 | Telehealth services.

• Effective: March 23, 2022
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 122 - 134th General Assembly

A chiropractor may provide telehealth services in accordance with section 4743.09 of the Revised Code.

Last updated January 27, 2022 at 3:29 PM

Section 4734.99 | Penalty.

• Effective: August 22, 2007
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 33 - 127th General Assembly

(A) Whoever violates section 4734.14 or 4734.141 of the Revised Code is guilty of a felony of the fifth degree on a first offense, unless the offender previously has been convicted of or has pleaded guilty to a violation of section 2911.01, 2911.02, 2911.11, 2911.12, 2911.13, 2913.02, 2913.40, 2913.47, 2913.48, 2913.51, 2921.13, 4715.09, 4723.03, 4725.02, 4725.41, 4729.27, 4729.28, 4729.36, 4729.51, 4729.61, 4730.02, 4731.41, 4731.43, 4731.46, 4731.47, 4731.60, 4732.21, 4741.18, 4741.19, 4755.48, 4757.02, 4759.02, 4761.10, or 4773.02 of the Revised Code or an offense under an existing or former law of this state, another state, or the United States that is or was substantially equivalent to a violation of any of those sections, in which case the offender is guilty of a felony of the fourth degree. For each subsequent offense, the offender is guilty of a felony of the fourth degree.

(B) Whoever violates section 4734.161 of the Revised Code is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree.

(C) Whoever violates division (A), (B), (C), or (D) of section 4734.32 of the Revised Code is guilty of a minor misdemeanor on a first offense; on each subsequent offense, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree, except that an individual guilty of a subsequent offense shall not be subject to imprisonment, but to a fine alone of up to one thousand dollars for each offense.