In which situation can chiropractors ethically terminate a doctor-patient relationship?

Terminating a doctor-patient relationship is a sensitive issue that must be approached with careful consideration, guided by ethical principles and professional standards. In the context of chiropractors, the correct situation where they can ethically terminate a doctor-patient relationship occurs when the patient is non-compliant or poses a danger.

When a patient is non-compliant, it may indicate that they are unwilling or unable to follow the treatment plan developed by the chiropractor. This non-compliance could hinder the effectiveness of the care provided and potentially lead to a deterioration of the patient’s health condition, which in turn can place the chiropractor in a difficult ethical position. Additionally, if a patient poses a danger—either to themselves or to others—the chiropractor has a professional obligation to ensure that the care provided does not result in harm. This could include situations where a patient exhibits violent behavior or engages in dangerous activities that the chiropractor cannot ethically support or enable through continued care.

In both scenarios, it is vital for the chiropractor to communicate clearly with the patient about the reasons for ending the relationship and, if appropriate, to provide referrals to other healthcare professionals for continued care. This ensures that the decision fits within ethical boundaries, maintaining the welfare of the patient as a priority.

While disagreements over treatment recommendations