This occupation generally is not affected by the ups and downs of the economy nor by seasons. Chiropractors are located all over the province, generally reflecting the distribution of the population. This is a very small occupational group, and the total number of job openings between 1998 and 2008 is estimated at 140, or an average of 14 openings per year. Industry sources suggest a more optimistic employment growth rate for chiropractors in B.C. than COPS does. Their consensus is that between 1998 and 2008 there will be approximately 180 openings available, or an average of 18 per year.
Several factors support a slightly more positive outlook than that provided by the COPS projections.
Population growth, especially among the elderly, will increase the demand for health care in general. Health problems relating to spine function and mobility tend to increase as people age. Because chiropractic treatment emphasizes the importance of healthy lifestyles and preventive care and does not prescribe drugs or perform surgery, it is becoming more appealing to the public, who are more often seeking alternative medicine. A factor underlying the COPS projection of modest employment growth is the continuing constraint on the provincial government budget. This may limit growth in funding allocated to some health care services, including chiropractic services.