Abstract
Background The problem behind this study was the paucity of documented research on chiropractic’s readiness for practice after completing their studies. This problem was previously identified in the results from a study done that assessed the confidence levels of postgraduate chiropractors at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in 2007. Purpose The primary aim of this research was to determine chiropractic graduate’s readiness (educational satisfaction and confidence) for practice after completing their chiropractic studies from UJ. The second aim was to compare the study’s finding with Bunge’s (2007) research that had a similar aim in order to ascertain if there where major differences between the two groups. Furthermore, it was relevant to determine which areas of the specified programme may potentially be improved in order to enhance the chiropractic graduate’s readiness to move into practice. Method Data was collected from a random sample of 44 registered chiropractors who obtained their qualifications from UJ between the years of 2007 and 2019. Data was collected in an online survey using structured questionnaires and was analysed using the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) Package. Descriptive statistical analysis and the Fisher’s exact test were used to analyse the data. Results Chiropractors trained at UJ were mostly very confident of their proficiency in core areas that included chiropractic clinical expertise, skills and knowledge expected of them. Chiropractors were not very confident regarding their knowledge in paediatrics, radiology and pharmacology as related fields but were very confident about their knowledge in anatomy and physiology. Also, they were not very confident in working with special needs patients. The study also shows that their confidence and self-perceived proficiency were on par with those of other chiropractors captured in both South African and international studies.
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)