What Does a Chiropractic Assistant Do? A Comprehensive Guide

Chiropractic medical assistants play a vital role in supporting chiropractors by performing both clinical and administrative tasks. If you're considering this career, it's important to understand the duties and responsibilities that come with the role.

In this guide, we’ll explore the daily tasks, skills, and steps to become a chiropractic medical assistant.

Table of Contents

• What is a chiropractic medical assistant?
• What are the responsibilities of a chiropractic medical assistant?
• Steps to become a chiropractic medical assistant
• What are the skills of a chiropractic medical assistant?
• Where does a chiropractic medical assistant work?
• What is the average salary of a chiropractic medical assistant
• Become a medical assistant today!

What is a chiropractic medical assistant?

A chiropractic medical assistant is a healthcare professional who supports chiropractors by performing administrative tasks and assisting with specific clinical duties as directed by the physician. They play a key role in ensuring the practice operates efficiently, working directly with patients while managing various office responsibilities.

What are the responsibilities of a chiropractic medical assistant?

Chiropractic medical assistants handle a variety of duties. Clinically, they prepare exam rooms, take preliminary vitals, and assist the chiropractor during treatments. On the administrative side, they manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle billing. 

For a more detailed look at a typical workday, explore our article on the Day in the Life of a Medical Assistant. 

Steps to become a chiropractic medical assistant

Becoming a chiropractic medical assistant requires a blend of education, hands-on experience, and skill development. Below are the key steps to guide you on this career path. 

For more detailed information, check out our guide on the Top Things to Know Before Becoming a Medical Assistant.

1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent

    The first step toward becoming a chiropractic medical assistant is earning a high school diploma or GED. This is a basic requirement for most medical assisting programs.

2. Complete a medical assisting program

   Enrolling in a medical assisting program provides the essential training needed to perform both clinical and administrative duties. These programs cover important areas like patient care, medical terminology, and administrative tasks. 

3.  Consider earning a certification

   While not always required, earning a certification like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) can boost your job prospects and demonstrate your qualifications.

4. Gain relevant experience

   Hands-on experience is vital for developing practical skills. Many chiropractic medical assistants begin by working in clinical settings or through internships to gain the necessary experience.

5. Develop essential skills

   To succeed in this role, you need strong communication, organizational skills, and knowledge of medical terminology. These skills help you effectively manage both patient care and administrative responsibilities.

6. Pursue continuing education and professional development 

   Healthcare is always evolving, so continuing education is important for staying current with industry trends and improving your skills. Consider taking courses of CEU for CNA in Florida or attending workshops to stay competitive in the field.

What are the skills of a chiropractic medical assistant?

Chiropractic medical assistants need a diverse set of skills to handle both clinical and administrative responsibilities effectively. These abilities not only help ensure smooth operations but also contribute to quality patient care. Below are the essential skills required for this role. For more insight into what medical assistants can and cannot do, visit our guide on What Medical Assistants Can and Cannot Do. 

• Strong Communication Skills
  Effective communication is key when interacting with patients, chiropractors, and other healthcare staff. Being able to explain procedures clearly and relay information between patients and the chiropractor is crucial.
• Compassion and Empathy
  Working closely with patients, often those in discomfort, requires a compassionate and empathetic approach. This helps to create a positive environment and puts patients at ease.
• Computer Proficiency
  Medical assistants frequently use computer systems to manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle billing. Proficiency in medical software and other digital tools is essential for efficiently completing administrative tasks.
• Organizational Skills
  The ability to stay organized is critical for managing multiple tasks, such as preparing exam rooms, maintaining patient files, and keeping track of appointment schedules. Strong organizational skills ensure that the chiropractic office runs smoothly.
• Knowledge of Medical Terminology
  Understanding medical terminology, especially in relation to chiropractic care, is essential for accurately documenting patient information and assisting the chiropractor during treatments. This knowledge also helps ensure clear communication with other healthcare professionals.

Where does a chiropractic medical assistant work?

Chiropractic medical assistants can work in a variety of healthcare settings, offering both clinical and administrative support. These environments allow them to use their skills in patient care, organization, and medical knowledge. For a broader look at the possibilities, explore our guide on 15 Places Where Medical Assistants Can Work.

• Rehabilitation Centers
  Chiropractic medical assistants are often employed in rehabilitation centers, where they help chiropractors provide care for patients recovering from injuries or surgeries.
• Hospitals with Chiropractic Departments
  Some hospitals have dedicated chiropractic departments, and assistants working in these settings support chiropractors by preparing patients, managing records, and performing preliminary health checks.
• Sports Medicine Clinics
  In sports medicine clinics, chiropractic medical assistants work with chiropractors to treat athletes and patients with sports-related injuries, assisting with patient care and coordinating appointments.
• Wellness Centers
  Wellness centers, which focus on holistic approaches to health, also employ chiropractic medical assistants to help provide services such as adjustments, massage therapy, and other chiropractic treatments. 

What is the average salary of a chiropractic medical assistant

The salary for a chiropractic assistant can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the specific type of facility. On average, entry-level chiropractic assistants earn around $42,284 annually. With more experience or working in specialized settings like sports medicine or rehabilitation clinics, salaries can increase to $58,500+.

Higher earnings are typically found in larger healthcare facilities or regions with a higher demand for chiropractic services. This salary range reflects both the clinical and administrative responsibilities that chiropractic assistants handle in their roles.

Become a medical assistant today!

If you're ready to begin your career as a chiropractic medical assistant, start by enrolling in a medical assistant program to gain the skills and certifications you need. Take the first step toward this rewarding career path today! Become a Medical Assistant today!