Chiropractic Associateships – approach with caution!

Many chiropractic students see an associate position as a way to get out and start making some money with little risk or capital. Many think that chiropractic is like other professions where you get your degree and then go look for a job. Or, there are those who are intimidated by what they don’t know and want to learn under another doctor for a time until they are ready to get their own office.

There are several fundamental flaws to this plan.

First, if your dream is to find that high paying job right out of school and start your 9-5 with two weeks paid vacation- Keep dreaming! Very few associateships (with the exception of PI mills) offer high base salaries, the hours are typically more like 8-7, and there is little, to no vacation. Chiropractic is known for “eating its young”. Furthermore, the number of high volume philosophical chiropractic offices in this country is few; those prize associateships positions are rare and competitive.

Chiropractic students also have to be careful to protect their concepts. You can’t simply work for someone and not expect them and their habits (good or bad) to rub off on you. These habits will stay with you your entire career and can be tough to shake when you realize they aren’t working for you.

If you are going to work for another doctor, be certain the doctor is a person of quality and character. Your employer needs to have a strong philosophy for chiropractic and a positive attitude. Most of all be certain that your expectations for the relationship and theirs match up!

Tags: Practice Choices