Chiropractors diagnose and treat disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system with manipulation and other techniques and provide holistic health care. Osteopathic physicians diagnose, treat and prescribe for patients' medical, surgical and obstetrical problems. Their training includes an emphasis on the use of the musculoskeletal system in restoring health. This occupational group also includes orthoptists, naturopaths, podiatrists and chiropodists. Education, Training and Experience People in this group must complete a college or university program and may require provincial licensing and membership in professional associations.
Most recent entrants have a post-graduate university degree.
Optometrists require a three year college program with mathematics and science courses and a four-year university degree in optometry, and must pass the Canadian Standard Assessment in optometry and provincial exams. Chiropractors must complete three years' university science studies, obtain a degree from an accredited chiropractic college and pass the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board and provincial exams. Orthoptists require two years' education after high school in a science specialization, two years' hospital-based training and supervised practical training. The proportion of part-time workers in these occupations has increased significantly over the last ten years. The proportion of self-employed workers in these occupations has increased significantly over the last ten years.