From student to doctor: An analysis of chiropractic oaths as an allegory of the transition from academic integrity to ethical professionalism

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective This article examined current chiropractic oaths, particularly topics related to aspects of integrity, ethics, and professional behavior. The oaths were then compared for their individual inclusion and emphasis of these components. Methods Data were obtained from 1988 and 2019 papers describing components of the oaths used at each existing chiropractic college as well as those used in the past by colleges that are no longer operational. Additionally, colleges founded after 2019 were contacted to obtain their oaths. Nine oath components related to ethics and professional conduct were selected from 26 topics originally studied. Each oath was evaluated for the presence of and specific wording used to describe those components. The oaths were compared for their inclusion and emphasis of these components. Results Some topics, such as “keeping a patient's confidence” and “refrain from wrongdoing,” demonstrated a high rate of occurrence. Others, including “serving humanity” and “respecting teachers,” were less frequent. The oath of 1 program contained 8 of the topics, 4 program's oaths used 7 topics, 11 schools had 6 topics in their oath, and the oaths of 5 schools included 2 topics. Conclusion There is wide variation in the occurrence and emphasis of themes relating to ethics, integrity, and professionalism in the different chiropractic oaths. This study provides information for institutions to consider with regard to the content of the oath they administer. It is hoped that this article may encourage the creation of a universally accepted chiropractic oath that will help each graduate commit to a fulsome, all-encompassing pledge to become an ethical professional who optimally represents chiropractic.