What conditions can result in disciplinary action against a chiropractor?

Disciplinary action against a chiropractor can arise from engaging in unethical practices, which encompasses actions that compromise the integrity and safety of patient care. Questionable competence refers to a practitioner's ability to provide safe and effective treatment, and if a chiropractor is found to be practicing under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it significantly endangers patient welfare. State boards and professional regulatory bodies prioritize patient safety above all, making actions that impair judgment or the ability to perform one’s duties appropriately subjects to disciplinary measures.

In the context of the options given, actions that reflect uncontrolled substance use while practicing not only undermine the trust placed in healthcare professionals but also violate ethical and legal standards. Therefore, this answer illustrates a direct threat to public safety, warranting disciplinary action to maintain the professionalism and standards expected in chiropractic care.

In contrast, participating in professional development is encouraged and is seen as a commitment to ongoing education and improvement. Unethical advertising can lead to sanctions as well, but it's typically a broader concern tied to misinformation rather than an immediate risk to patient health, whereas questionable competence and practicing under the influence poses direct risks. Collecting unpaid bills, unless done through deceptive or harmful practices, generally does not lead to disciplinary action in the same way that the other issues