Objective: This paper provides an update of the activities and accomplishments of the Chiropractic Health Care (CHC) section of the American Public Health Association (APHA) from the years 1983- 2025.
Methods: A historical organizational study analysis was performed on CHC archived documentary and narrative content from the years 1984 to 2025. Additionally, a convenience sample of CHC members was consulted for milestone identification.
Results: The CHC section history is chronicled across 3 time periods: the early years (1984-2005), the growth and expansion phase (2005-2015), and the most recent decade of maturation (2016-2025). The chiropractic profession was recognized as a special interest group in 1983, garnered section status in 1995, and 2025 marked the 30th anniversary of the CHC section. The formation of CHC involved overcoming barriers like anti-chiropractic policies and professional discrimination. Present day barriers include a decline in membership through the COVID-19 pandemic years, and a need for a new generation of service-minded chiropractors to engage in professional endeavors and rise to leadership positions.
Conclusion: Overcoming intense skepticism, the CHC section has a storied past full of intrigue, pragmatism, leadership opportunities, and occasional high-profile successes. As the 30-year milestone is celebrated, reflection suggests there is a need for the chiropractic profession to continue to engage and collaborate in public health to further goals of integration, education, and patient safety.
Author keywords: Chiropractic; Public Health; History, 20th Century
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