WCA disputes WFC's role in determining chiropractic's 'identity'

In a press release dated Sept. 26, 2003, The World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) announced that it would conduct an "International Consultation on Chiropractic Identity." The release stated that a 35‑member "Task Force" will "consider past surveys and research relevant to identity" before meeting in California in Feb. 2004. At that time, the WFC says, the panel will "approve surveys and other steps to be used in the consultation."

According to Dr. Peter Dixon, president of the European Chiropractors' Union, the consultation is "about 'who we are' not 'what we do.' This is not about scope of practice, whether we correct subluxations or treat conditions, whether chiropractors should provide certain specific services. It is about reaching agreement on a trademark identity for chiropractic in the eyes of the public and health care system."

Some critics, however, say "who we are" cannot be divorced from "what we do."

"The chiropractic identity is completely meshed with the chiropractic purpose and its role in the health and wellness arena," stated Terry A. Rondberg, D.C., president of the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA). "It is impossible to establish an identity for chiropractic without addressing its purpose."

The WCA Board of Directors also had more general objections to the WFC's plan. Although invited to have a representative on the Task Force, the WCA declined. In response to the WFC's invitation, which included a request for a $5,000 donation to fund the effort, the WCA sent the letter reprinted here.

"We felt it was important for the entire profession to understand why we were refusing to take part in this exercise," Dr. Rondberg explained. "We are very much in favor of working with other organizations in the U.S. and around the world, but our history with the WFC makes it impossible for us to agree to participate in any endeavor with them, and from providing any funds to finance their activities."