Board Complaints vs. Malpractice Claims: Know the Difference—Protect Your Practice
Whether you’re a seasoned chiropractor or just starting your career, understanding the key differences between board complaints and malpractice claims is critical for your professional safety and peace of mind.
Board Complaints
Filed with your state’s chiropractic board, these focus on professional conduct—things like ethical violations, unprofessional interactions, billing issues, or privacy breaches. They can lead to license suspension, fines, or mandatory training. While they don’t usually involve financial compensation to patients, the consequences can still be career-altering.
Malpractice Claims
These are civil lawsuits where a patient claims injury due to negligence—like a missed diagnosis or improper adjustment. They can result in substantial financial damages, legal fees, and long-term reputational harm. And yes, they can trigger additional board scrutiny.