A chiropractic assistant is much like a medical assistant. He or she is someone who assists a chiropractor. Some of the job duties you might encounter as a chiropractic assistant include helping to hold patients in place for difficult adjustments, performing different types of therapy on patients (ultrasound, heat, ice, electrotherapy, traction and spinal decompression), helping people who've been in accidents with their reports, and working with files. A chiropractic assistant is also likely to need to spend a lot of time on his or her feet, carrying objects, performing minor tasks, and helping patients.
Chiropractic assistants may prepare files for insurance companies and lawyers in accident settlements and as part of disability claims. They also verify health insurance benefits and help with filing claims to insurance companies. They perform medical transcriptions for the chiropractor they work with and help with X-rays when needed. They also help dispense information to patients. A chiropractic assistant might teach patients how to prevent injuries or keep them from getting worse. Simple exercises and stretching techniques are excellent for this. They may remove needles if the chiropractor they work with is also an acupuncturist. They also disinfect beds and tables, and wash and dry gowns and towels - often many times in one day.
So, what kind of training do you need to be a chiropractic assistant? That varies by state. Some don't require formal training, and some US states don't even offer it. That can make it tricky to figure out what you need. However, you can't go wrong by taking a good medical terminology course or getting familiar with the terms from a textbook. If you can find a course offered in your state for this position, get involved in it. This will help you improve your qualifications. Be sure to include every skill and experience that might be appropriate for the job in your resume and cover letter. Remember that there can be a lot of competition for this kind of job - up to fifty people might apply for one position.
Jobs can be found in a number of locations, including Craigslist online. Local newspapers and local job sites might offer some options, too. Bigger job sites and national listings are less likely to include this kind of job listing. If you find nothing there, it's time to start talking to people you know about the possibility of open positions. Get in touch with your local offices (visit in person, but don't call, since the chiropractor is often busy). Newer practices are your best bet, since these places are less likely to have an existing assistant, but will often still have plenty of work.
Think about adding First Aid and CPR qualifications to the skills and knowledge you already have, and make sure that you're willing to keep at it. It can take a little while to find a chiropractic assistant position in your area. If you give up easily, you might not be the right person for this job. However, if you're willing to stick with it, you have a good chance of enjoying a really rewarding position in the long run. A job as a chiropractic assistant is an excellent way to get involved in the medical field, and you don't need the long training or difficult hours you'd expect as a nurse or doctor. You might have to spend a lot of time explaining what you do, and you'll spend a lot of time on your feet, but chances are that you'll enjoy it. Helping people as a chiropractic assistant is a great idea.
