What may happen if a chiropractor practices under the influence of drugs or alcohol?

Practicing under the influence of drugs or alcohol significantly endangers the safety and well-being of patients, as it impairs judgment and reduces the ability to engage effectively in patient care. In Massachusetts, as in many states, the regulations governing chiropractic practice take these issues very seriously to ensure patient safety.

If a chiropractor is found to be practicing while impaired, serious repercussions can occur, including license suspension or revocation. Regulatory bodies are mandated to maintain a high standard of care and professionalism in the healthcare field, and violations such as substance abuse can lead to immediate disciplinary measures to protect the public. The focus is on safeguarding patient health, and the gravity of practicing under such conditions often leads to the most severe penalties, reflecting the professional standards expected in chiropractic care.

The other options do not align with the severity of this issue. Probation and additional training might be considered for lesser infractions, but substance abuse is treated with utmost seriousness. Similarly, recognition for confronting addiction may be seen in the context of rehabilitation efforts after a disciplinary process, but it is not an outcome of practicing while impaired. The lack of disciplinary action does not reflect the professional and ethical obligations of chiropractors to their patients and the community.