Chiropractic .. State of the Profession

From Dr. Joel Margolies, DC

View online

From: Dr. Margolies.. 2-6-26
joel3639@aol.com

State of the Profession

The other day, I heard through the grapevine that one of our colleges laid off over 20 employees. Since these e-mails reach over 30 countries and are read by students and professors at many chiropractic schools, yours may have been affected.

Today more than ever, the need for alternative healthcare, besides the usual and customary, is crucial and it would be a shame that chiropractic is not represented at the numbers direly needed. If you think about it, a wise and industrious doctor would take advantage of this time of healthcare and thrive but, alas, many don't. Your community is reaching out for natural wellness as well as the government creating dialogue concerning alternative healthcare and lifestyle with Make America Healthy Again. Read this article how chiropractic became the backbone of MAHA

I've been in this game for over 47 years and have weathered the storms of medical disrespect, community ambivalence as well as insurance paying a pittance of what we deserve and professionals looking elsewhere when our skills would be the answer. Fortunately, the trend has reluctantly changed towards increased respect and awareness. So, what gives? YOU TELL ME

Below is a quote from a Google search on the state of chiropractic in 2026 as well as a number of links, articles and videos concerning a positive trend. Friends, regardless of how your alumni school is fairing, you are in control of your domain. You own your community and you manage your staff and patients. Need help to go to the next level, ask a colleague or reply back to me for my humble advice: joel3639@aol.com

"In 2026, the chiropractic profession is experiencing a significant shift toward integrative, evidence-based care, driven by potential Medicare expansion under the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act. The profession is focusing on preventive health, utilizing AI-driven technology, and integrating functional medicine, while facing increased regulatory scrutiny over billing transparency. In 2026, the profession is solidifying its place in mainstream healthcare by focusing on non-drug, conservative care that addresses both musculoskeletal and overall, proactive health."

Key trends and developments in 2026 include:

Legislative & Regulatory Changes: The potential expansion of Medicare to cover services beyond spinal manipulation (e.g., imaging, evaluation/management) is a major focus. There is also a strong push to modernize state practice acts, expanding the scope of practice for chiropractors.
Growing Integration & Recognition: Chiropractic care is increasingly recognized in the military and VA systems. The profession is moving away from purely reactive, pain-based care to a proactive, "prevention-over-reaction" model.
Technological Advancement: The use of AI-powered diagnostics and virtual reality (VR) in treatment is becoming more common.
Business & Compliance: Practices face increased pressure for financial transparency (Good Faith Estimates) and compliance with evolving state and federal regulations.
Market Growth: The global chiropractic market is growing, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.65% from 2024 to 2034.
Professional Alignment: The "Chiropractic Future" initiative continues to align the profession, focusing on research, collaboration, and a unified vision.