Students who are interested in becoming chiropractic assistants can complete specialized associate degree programs in this field at community colleges, technical/trade schools or vocational schools, according to DegreeDirectory.org. Many of these programs also include a community outpatient internship experience. Certificate programs of a year or less are also available in this field. Some programs also are available online, such as the 40-hour DCOnline chiropractic assistant training course. In addition, these programs prepare students to seek licensing or certification in the few states that require it, such as Florida or Oregon.
To get into a chiropractic assistant training program, a student typically needs a high school diploma or GED and be 18 years old. Some schools require applicants to submit their past transcripts or even a couple of recommendation letters, according to National University of Health Sciences, which offers a one-year certification program.
Business-related classes in a chiropractic assistant program might cover medical and legal issues, finance and accounting, insurance and billing practices, scheduling appointments, medical coding and healthcare law/ethics. Students also might learn how to order equipment and perform other computerized office procedures, according to DiplomaGuide.com. Training might specifically teach assistants how to handle worker's compensation and motor vehicle collision cases.
Medical courses in a chiropractic assistant program might cover radiology technologies, lab procedures, medical terminology and health and disease. Students also might study chiropractic history and theory as well as chiropractic procedures. Students at Harcum College also take classes on topics such as Pilates, general biology, general chemistry, psychology, nutrition and yoga. Other courses might include anatomy and physiology, clinical massage, interpersonal communication and even taking and recording vital signs. Students especially focus on spinal anatomy and also learn about bloodborne pathogens. In addition, students might learn about various forms of physiotherapy such as electrotherapy and cryotherapy and how to apply them.
The salary for a chiropractic assistant in 2010 in major cities ranged from $35,000 to $42,000, according to SalaryExpert.com. Employment of medical assistants such as chiropractic assistants is projected to increase 34 percent from 2008 to 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics.