I write in response to your inquiry regarding chiropractors licensed in New York State providing nutritional service and products.

Chiropractic and nutrition/dietetics are two distinct and separate professions whose licensure is authorized in Title VIII of the New York State Education Law. Section 6551(3) of Article 132 of Education Law states that chiropractors may provide nutritional services and products as part of the practice of chiropractic. Therefore, a chiropractor may make determinations as to the necessity of nutritional services and products for a patient.

Moreover, since chiropractors are so authorized, they may employ certified nutritionists or certified dieticians to provide such services within the scope of their license. In the relationship between provider and patient, the chiropractor must remain as the provider and the certified nutritionist or certified dietician must be an employee, not an independent contractor, providing services to the patient.

Norman G. Cohen
Executive Secretary