Is a veterinarian allowed to delegate chiropractic duties to an independent contractor?

A veterinarian can delegate chiropractic duties to an independent contractor under general supervision, which means the veterinarian must maintain oversight while allowing the contractor to perform chiropractic services. This concept of general supervision allows the veterinarian to ensure that patient care standards and ethical guidelines are upheld, aligning with veterinary practice regulations.

In practice, this arrangement acknowledges that while the independent contractor has the expertise to provide chiropractic care, the veterinarian remains responsible for the overall well-being of the animal and must be available for consultation and guidance throughout the treatment process. This balance allows veterinarians to expand the range of services available to their clients while ensuring that these services are delivered safely and effectively.

The other options imply different levels of supervision or restrictions that do not align with the legal obligations veterinarians have regarding the delegation of tasks, especially concerning specialized treatments like chiropractic care.