Press Release
Board of Chiropractic Examiners Making Major Strides in Enforcement
February 3, 2010
The Board of Chiropractic Examiners (BCE) investigators are able to focus on the most egregious complaints received, thanks to strengthened, streamlined enforcement efforts to clear minor complaints more efficiently and expeditiously. The Board’s establishment of a Field Operations Unit and a Cite and Fine Program has cut the number of pending complaints in half, and reduced the average age of pending cases from 15 to nine months.
The BCE established its Field Operations Unit in 2008, to investigate alleged law violations, conduct compliance inspections, assist with probation monitoring, and collaborate with other state and local law enforcement agencies on enforcement-related matters. The unit’s four full- time investigators are dedicated exclusively to the needs of the BCE, and receive extensive training and education in all aspects of administrative investigations, the disciplinary process, and the equipment used in a typical chiropractic office.
The BCE’s Cite and Fine Program enables the Board to issue monetary fines of up to $5,000 per violation. This new enforcement tool addresses minor and technical violations of California laws and regulations governing the practice of chiropractic. With the implementation of this program, the BCE has the option of issuing a citation with or without a fine to quickly address less serious law violations without taking formal disciplinary against the licensee. The BCE does not consider a citation with or without a fine as disciplinary action. However, the BCE posts citations on its Web site. Citations are subject to public disclosure under the California Public Records Act.
In the spring of 2009, the BCE adopted regulations authorizing the Board to issue a Letter of Admonishment (LOA) to a licensee for minor violations of California chiropractic laws and regulations. The LOA explains and addresses minor violations of the law, without adversely affecting the status of chiropractor’s license. This enforcement tool enables licensees to correct minor violations.
The Board is committed to conducting all enforcement activities in an objective, fair, and timely manner. Our Enforcement Committee will be holding a series of public meetings in 2010 to consider further enhancements to our enforcement program.
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