What must a chiropractor disclose to a patient prior to treatment?

A chiropractor is required to disclose the risks involved and the nature of the treatment prior to providing any care. This is essential for obtaining informed consent from the patient, which is a fundamental principle in healthcare practices. Informed consent ensures that patients are fully aware of what to expect regarding their treatment, including potential benefits and risks associated with the procedure. This process empowers patients to make knowledgeable decisions about their healthcare and fosters open communication between the chiropractor and the patient.

Addressing the other options provides context on why they do not fulfill the necessary requirements for disclosure. Merely stating the cost of treatment lacks crucial information that a patient needs to understand the intervention they are receiving. While understanding fees is important for financial planning, it does not encompass the essential health-related information.

Disclosing family history of illnesses would not be a standard requirement for all treatments, as it could vary greatly among patients and would not typically be necessary for informed consent regarding a specific chiropractic intervention. The focus should primarily be on the treatment method, its nature, and associated risks.