The provincial government has expanded diagnostic privileges for chiropractors as part of its ongoing commitment to improving access to diagnostic imaging and timely care for Islanders.
“Chiropractors can now order and view X-ray results as part of their care for certain patients. This means chiropractors won’t have to send patients back to their primary care provider to get an X-ray referral. It will reduce the reliance on primary care providers and emergency departments for X-ray services. More importantly, it ensures our Island health care professionals are operating at full scope of practice to enhance access to quality care services for Islanders.”
- Minister of Health and Wellness, Mark McLane.
All chiropractors in PEI now have the scope to diagnose and treat biomechanical disorders. This includes ordering things like X-rays, lab tests, and other medical tests and procedures. The positive change is the result of a collaborative initiative between the Department of Health and Wellness, Health PEI and the PEI Chiropractic Association.
"This is a meaningful step forward for chiropractic care in Prince Edward Island. Expanding diagnostic privileges allows chiropractors to treat patients more efficiently, reduce redundancy of the healthcare system, and ultimately help patients receive timely and efficient care,” said Dr. Chris McCarthy, the chair of the PEI Chiropractic Association. “We’re proud to collaborate with government and Health PEI on solutions that strengthen the healthcare system and improve outcomes for Islanders."
Chiropractors in PEI are regulated healthcare providers with training in assessment, diagnosis, and management of musculoskeletal conditions. Chiropractors must complete more than 360 contact hours of diagnostic imaging through training, and this knowledge is applied as part of their clinical internship. Canadian chiropractors are expected to follow the road map to care with every new patient. This includes completing a thorough history and examination, establishing a working diagnosis, and co-developing a plan of management.
In November 2024, physiotherapists with additional training began ordering X-rays for patients in certain situations when clinically indicated. Extending similar access to chiropractors is another step toward maximizing the skills of regulated health professionals and improving system efficiency. Expanding diagnostic roles for regulated health professionals supports faster diagnosis and treatment planning.
For a full listing of qualified chiropractors, please visit Prince Edward Island Chiropractic Association.
Media contact:
Morgan Martin
Senior Communications Officer Health and Wellness
mxmartin@gov.pe.ca