The landscape is changing rapidly as more women enter the field, although the chiropractic profession has traditionally been dominated by men. This shift helps bring new, unique perspectives and transformative approaches to chiropractic.
In fact, women DCs are making significant contributions, breaking down some of the old barriers and in many ways, reshaping the profession. I know this firsthand because I am a woman in chiropractic.
Women are not only increasing in numbers as doctors in the profession, they are also assuming other management and leadership positions. They are becoming heads of associations, directors of educational programs and owners of private practices. These positions allow them to influence the direction of the profession, advocate for more inclusive practices and become mentors to the next generation of female DCs. Non-DC women are also playing a more integral role as clinic owners, practice partners and in support industries to the profession, such as technology, compliance, practice management and lifestyle and nutrition.
Gaining recognition and respect within the broader medical community
While these advances have opened doors for women DCs, gender bias and stereotyping are still prevalent. Situations may arise with patients and peers either doubting their capabilities or not showing proper respect for their doctor authority solely based on gender.
To combat some of these issues, many women in chiropractic have formed support networks and advocacy groups. These organizations provide a platform for sharing experiences, offering advice and fostering professional growth. They also work toward greater recognition and respect within the broader medical community.
Women’s changing roles
According to Marisa Mateja, COO of Kats Chiropractic Business Consultants, “Women have long served the profession in administrative and support roles. However, today we are active in other important areas, such as executives with practice coaching, experts in compliance training, leading state and national associations and top positions in chiropractic education. I’ve been in the profession for more than 20 years and have seen huge growth in women becoming a bigger force in vendor positions, such as software and therapeutics, as well as other products and services marketed to chiropractic clinics.”
Today, we are seeing more women serving in leadership roles throughout the profession. Whether it be in research, education, state and national associations or other arenas, women are helping define the profession’s future.
According to Michele Maiers, DC, American Chiropractic Association past president, “The importance of more women and other marginalized populations in leadership positions goes beyond the principles of equality. Research has shown that having women in top leadership positions creates more dynamic, responsive organizations with better financial outcomes. As a profession, everyone bears responsibility to be purposeful advocates for women who step into leadership roles and adaptive to the unique ways women may innovate both the workplace and the field of chiropractic.”
I have found female DCs often bring a different perspective to their practices and the profession as a whole. Our naturally empathetic approach often creates stronger patient relationships in a patient-centered environment.
The future for women in chiropractic looks bright
The future for women in chiropractic looks promising. Educational institutions are seeing more female students enrolling in chiropractic programs, inspired by the pioneers who have carved a path before them. This new generation is poised to continue breaking barriers and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in chiropractic care.
As the profession continues to evolve, the impact of women will undoubtedly grow, leading to a more diverse, inclusive and effective practice of chiropractic. The journey is not just about individual success but about creating a more equitable and balanced healthcare environment for all.
The rise of women in the chiropractic field is a testament to the evolving nature of healthcare professions, reflecting broader societal shifts toward gender equality. The unique contributions of female DCs are not only enhancing the profession but also ensuring it remains relevant and responsive to the needs of all patients. As these dedicated professionals continue to break barriers, their legacy will inspire countless others to follow in their footsteps, further enriching the world of healthcare with diversity and innovation.
Female college enrollment is on the rise
Today’s chiropractic college enrollment reflects the growing trend of females in the profession.
Melissa Denton, Director of Admissions at Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC), noted, “In the past 15 years, we’ve seen steady growth in female enrollment and we expect that to continue to climb. We are also seeing a growing number of females in college clinic leadership. CUKC is proud to have two women heading up that role.” I’m certain other colleges are following suit.
According to admissions statistics from CUKC, in 2009 female enrollment was about 36%. As of the fall of 2023, that same number jumped to 51%. That’s a nearly 42% increase in just a few short years.
Denton added, “Females bring different perspectives to the healthcare arena. As such, these factors are helping change policy and improve inclusive work cultures and environments. Female practitioners bring different communication styles to patients, which can increase patient satisfaction rates. I love that I work in an environment where there are more females in leadership roles to mentor the new generation of DCs. The diversity we are experiencing is helping foster a more diverse culture of accepting those that want to improve the lives of others regardless of gender.”
Final thoughts
It’s amazing to witness the growth of women in chiropractic. It’s truly a testament to how great our profession is, and how much stronger it is becoming because of the diversity we are gaining.
Chiropractic has a long history of overcoming barriers and rising above them. The women in chiropractic are continuing that legacy by climbing the ladders of success in the chiropractic profession. Bravo to my fellow women in chiropractic.
KELLY FREDRICKS, DC, is the owner of a private chiropractic practice as well as a coach for Kats Chiropractic Business Consultants LLC. She can be reached through Kats Consultants at 407-308-5590 or katsconsultants.com. Michael Perusich, DC, CEO of Kats Consultants, provided editorial input for this article.
