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The following is issued on behalf of the Chiropractors Council:

Chiropractors are persons trained and qualified in the practice of chiropractic including the practice of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of functional disorders of the human body through manipulation of the joints, particularly of the vertebral column and peripheral joints, including the pelvis. The statutory basis for registration of chiropractors in Hong Kong is the Chiropractors Registration Ordinance, Chapter 428 of Laws of Hong Kong and the Chiropractors (Registration and Disciplinary Procedure) Rules.

The Chiropractors Council of Hong Kong has commenced the registration exercise for chiropractors since 1 September 2001. The purpose of registration is to protect the health of the public as only qualified persons are allowed to practise the profession of chiropractic. As at early December 2002, there are 62 chiropractors registered by the Chiropractors Council.

The enforcement of the Chiropractors Registration Ordinance in relation to the prohibition of the practice of chiropractic by persons not registered with the Council or not having a valid practising certificate issued by the Council will come into effect on 13 February 2003. By then, it is an offence if a person not being a registered chiropractor or not possessing a valid practising certificate practises chiropractic in Hong Kong. People who practises or who is going to practise the profession of chiropractic in Hong Kong are advised to apply to the Council for registration as early as possible. With the registration system in place, the public should always consult registered chiropractors when in need of chiropractic service. A register of chiropractors kept by the Chiropractors Council will be available for inspection free of charge. Complaints on the professional conduct of any registered chiropractor can be directed to the Chiropractors Council.

Application forms for registration as chiropractors are available in person, or by written request, from the Central Registration Office, 17/F Wu Chung Hose, 213 Queen's Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong. Enquiries can be made to the secretariat of the Chiropractors Council on 2527 8363 or 2527 8360.

End/Friday, December 6, 2002

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