What is the definition of "malpractice" in chiropractic practice?

Malpractice in chiropractic practice refers to negligence in adhering to the established standards of care that a reasonable practitioner in the field would follow. This can include failing to diagnose a condition, mismanaging a treatment plan, or not providing adequate care that results in patient harm. The concept is rooted in the idea that healthcare providers have a duty to provide care that meets professional standards, and when they fail to do so, they may be held responsible for the consequences of that failure.

The other options touch on aspects of patient care or injury but do not encapsulate the broader concept of malpractice as a failure to meet the expected professional standards. For example, merely performing surgeries incorrectly is a specific type of mistake and does not encompass all forms of negligence. Intentional harm and accidental injury, while serious, are not adequately reflective of negligence or the scope of malpractice within the chiropractic context. Therefore, recognizing negligence in patient care standards is pivotal for understanding what constitutes malpractice.