Abstract 705

The American Chiropractic Association is promoting Chiropractors as the 3rd major provider to family health care. We requested catalogs from each of the now 16 Chiropractic Colleges and examined their curricula for Basic Science courses, Pediatric Education and Maternal/Obstetric emphasis. Compared to 10 years ago, there are more Schools of Chiropractic and 77 colleges and universities offering a Pre-Chiropractic program. By consensus, the minimum GPA to be admitted to Chiropractic School will be raised to 2.5. The Basic Science Depts. have expanded their faculty with PhD members from well -recognized institutions, resulting in a more vigorous curricula mimicing that of medical schools. There are core courses in Pediatrics, Obstetrics/Gynecology,Sports Medicine, and Emergency Health problems, all fully integrated into the more traditional education. Although Chiropractors remain opposed to immunizations and medications, there are courses on infectious diseases, dermatology, and resuscitation. A major emphasis is in nutrition, especially nutritional supplements (nutriceuticals, phytoceuticals) that can be dispensed over-the-counter, commonly from an office practice. Pediatricians will need to be aggressive advocates for appropriate health care for children.