Yes. Chiropractic is a regulated healthcare profession in the UK. Anyone practising as a chiropractor must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC). If you’re choosing a chiropractor in Exeter or elsewhere in the UK, you can check their registration yourself using the GCC’s public register.
What is the General Chiropractic Council?
The General Chiropractic Council is the independent statutory body that regulates chiropractors in the UK. Its role is to protect the public by setting standards for chiropractic education, conduct and practice.
The title “chiropractor” is protected by law. Someone cannot legally describe themselves as a chiropractor in the UK unless they are registered with the GCC.
To join and remain on the register, chiropractors must meet the GCC’s Code of Professional Practice. Registered chiropractors must also keep their knowledge and skills up to date through continuing professional development and have appropriate indemnity arrangements in place when practising.
How can I check a chiropractor’s registration?
It only takes a moment to check:
- Visit the GCC’s Find a Chiropractor register.
- Search using the chiropractor’s name or GCC registration number.
- Check that you have found the right person and that their status is “Practising.”
The register also has options to show chiropractors who are non-practising, removed or suspended. If you’re unsure which listing belongs to the person you plan to see, ask the clinic for their full registered name and GCC number.
Checking the register is a useful first step, but you can also ask about the chiropractor’s experience, how they assess your concern, and what treatment options they would recommend for you.
What is UCA membership?
The United Chiropractic Association (UCA) is a professional association that represents and supports chiropractors. It is separate from the GCC.
The distinction is straightforward: GCC registration is the legal requirement to practise as a chiropractor in the UK; UCA membership is a professional association membership. Joining the UCA does not replace GCC registration, and a chiropractor does not have to belong to the UCA to be legally registered.
The UCA provides professional support and learning opportunities for its members. At Innate Health Chiropractic, our chiropractors are GCC registered and members of the UCA.
Choosing a chiropractor in Exeter
If you’re considering chiropractic care, you should feel comfortable asking who will assess you, what the assessment involves, and whether chiropractic care is appropriate for your symptoms. A good consultation should give you the opportunity to explain your concerns and understand the recommended next steps.
At Innate Health Chiropractic in Pynes Hill, Exeter, your first visit includes a consultation and physical assessment, with recommendations tailored to your findings and goals. You can learn more about our team or book an initial consultation.
The simplest way to verify any UK chiropractor is to check their current status on the GCC register before you book.