Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida

Academics

Course Description

All courses within the curriculum must be completed at Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida unless the student has been granted “advanced standing credit” for courses completed elsewhere.

Quarter 1

The first quarter courses provide an integrated study of the systems of the human body and the process of homeostasis from scientific, philosophical and clinical perspectives. A special emphasis is placed on the study of the spine including anatomy, embryology, histology, neurology, biomechanics and biochemistry, as well as developing skills in the chiropractic analysis of the spine for subluxation and understanding the Palmer Package of chiropractic care. Clinical correlations addressing spinal health, development and common conditions inclusive of the subluxation will be incorporated and integrated throughout the four tracks.

STRUCTURE: SPINE—STRU 51110
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: STRU 61210
Co-requisite with: STRU 53130
A systems prospective of human gross anatomy is presented, with a comprehensive anatomical study of spinal structures including embryology, histology, myology, syndesmology and osteology. Basic normal radiographic anatomy of the spine will be presented with an integration of clinical correlation to normal health and development of the spine through various stages of life.

FUNCTION: SPINE—FNCT 51110
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: FNCT 61210
Co-requisite with: FNCT 53130
A systems prospective of human physiology with consideration of biochemistry of cell elements, cell inflammation and repair will be presented. Clinical applications to patient assessment will focus on the assessment of vital signs. The major emphasis will be a comprehensive study of spinal function progressing from the pediatric spine through the adult spine to the aging spine, including spinal biomechanics and the effects of the subluxation and chiropractic adjustments on spinal function. Physical examination skills, including orthopedic and neurological evaluation of the lumbar spine region, will be studied.

CARE FOR THE HUMAN: PROTOCOL BASICS—CARE 51110
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: CARE 61210
Co-requisite with: CARE 53130
An introduction to Palmer Package of patient care, including basic psychomotor skills for adjusting, with an emphasis on development of full spine static and motion palpation skills. An introduction to history taking and chiropractic analysis of the vertebral subluxation complex, including skin temperature analysis, and identification of radiographic landmarks of the spine will be presented. Basic concepts of the various chiropractic techniques include within the Palmer Package will be introduced.

FOUNDATIONS FOR PRACTICE: INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY AND PRACTICE—FOUN 51110
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: FOUN 61210
Co-requisite with: FOUN 53130
An introductory study of the philosophy and principles of chiropractic, including the constructs of subluxation, will be the foundation for the student of the philosophy and principles of chiropractic. Additionally, critical thinking, clinical reasoning and decision-making skills will be developed through the study of information retrieval strategies.

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Quarter 2

The second-quarter courses provide an integrated study of the nervous system and endocrine system from a scientific and clinical perspective. A special emphasis is placed on the study of the spinal cord including neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, embryology, histology, biochemistry and pathology as well as developing skills in the chiropractic analysis of the spine for subluxation and basic adjusting skills using the Palmer Package of chiropractic care. Clinical correlations addressing spinal health, development and common conditions inclusive of the subluxation will be incorporated and integrated throughout the four tracks. Physical examination skill development focuses on Orthopedic and Neurological assessment of the cervical and thoracic spine regions.

STRUCTURE: SPINE NEUROLOGY—STRU 52120
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: STRU 62220
Co-requisite with: STRU 61210
A study of the structure of the peripheral and autonomic nervous systems including embryology, histology and anatomy of the somatosensory and somatomotor pathways in the spinal cord and of the cervical region will be undertaken. A study of developmental and abnormal/pathologic nervous system anatomy and histology are also considered. Special imaging studies such as MRI and CT used to evaluate the nervous system will be introduced. Clinical correlations to cervical and thoracic spine health, development and common conditions through various stages of life will be included.

FUNCTION: SPINE NEUROLOGY—FNCT 52120
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: FNCT 62220
Co-requisite with: FNCT 61210
A study of physiology and pathology related to the nervous system focusing on the spinal cord and peripheral nervous system, the integumentary system and muscle physiology, biochemistry and pathophysiology; normal and abnormal biomechanics including models of subluxation will be introduced. Physical examination skills including orthopedic and neurological evaluation of the patient focusing on the cervical and thoracic spine will be studied. Development and aging of the neuromusculoskeletal system will be explored. Emergency procedures, accidental injury and injury prevention will be integrated.

CARE FOR THE HUMAN: CHIROPRACTIC
PROCEDURES AND PROTOCOL FOR THE
CERVICO-THORACIC SPINE—CARE 52120
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: CARE 62220
Co-requisite with: CARE 61210
A study of intermediate history-taking skills and chiropractic analysis related to the cervicothoracic spine. Chiropractic analysis of cervical and thoracic spine subluxations and psychomotor skill development including basic adjusting skills of the cervical and thoracic spine using Palmer Package chiropractic adjusting techniques will be accomplished. Radiographic signs and mensuration associated with the cervical and thoracic spine will be included.

FOUNDATIONS FOR PRACTICE: PROFESSIONAL DIALOGUES—FOUN 52120
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: FOUN 62220
Co-requisite with: FOUN 61210
A study of the philosophy as it relates to the
chiropractic profession. Developing skills and knowledge in critical thinking and clinical reasoning using information literacy skills will be included. Concepts and significance of patient education will be introduced using the Palmer patient education materials. Clinical correlation to cervical and thoracic spine health, development and common conditions will be incorporated.
 

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Quarter 3

The third quarter courses provide an integrated study of the central nervous system and endocrine system from a scientific and clinical perspective. A special emphasis is placed on the study of the head and neck region including anatomy, embryology, histology, neurology, pathology and biochemistry, as well as developing skills in the chiropractic analysis of the upper cervical spine for subluxation and basic adjusting skills using the Palmer Package of chiropractic care. Physical examination skill development focuses on the comprehensive neurological examination.

STRUCTURE: HEAD NEUROLOGY — STRU 53130
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: STRU 63230
Co-requisite with: STRU 62220
A study of the structure of the nervous and endo-crine systems focusing on the head and neck re-gion, including embryology, histology and anatomy of the higher central nervous system structures and pathways for the special senses. A study of developmental and abnormal/pathologic nervous system anatomy and histology are also considered. Basic normal radiographic anatomy of skull and upper cervical spine will be introduced. Clini-cal correlations to health, development and common conditions related to the upper cervical spine through various stages of life will be included.

FUNCTION: HEAD NEUROLOGY — FNCT 53130
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: FNCT 63230
Co-requisite with: FNCT 62220
A study of normal, developmental and abnormal central nervous system and immune system physiology and biochemistry. Head and neck physiology including aspects of aging and pathophysiology will be explored. Normal and abnormal biomechanics of the temporal mandibular joint and skull are identified. Physical examination skill development will be inclusive of the comprehensive neurological evaluation. Emergency procedures and protocol related to open and closed head trauma will be included. Development and aging of the central nervous system and endocrine system will be studied. Clinical correlations to the health, development and common conditions affecting the head and neck region will be a focus of study.

CARE FOR THE HUMAN: CHIROPRACTIC PROCEDURES AND PROTOCOL FOR THE UPPER CERVICAL SPINE — CARE 53130
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: CARE 62220
Chiropractic analysis of upper cervical spine subluxation, soft tissue structure palpation and psychomotor skill development including intermediate Palmer Package adjusting skills for the upper cervical spine will be accomplished. Palmer Upper Cervical Specific technique will be studied. Radiographic signs and mensuration associated with the Palmer Upper Cervical Specific technique will be introduced. Students will demonstrate basic competency in adjustive procedures for the Upper Cervical Spine. Experiential learning opportunities will include direct observation of patient care in the Palmer Florida Clinic System.

FOUNDATIONS: EFFECTIVE PATIENT EDUCATION IN THE CHIROPRACTIC PRACTICE — FOUN 53130
Prerequisites: None
Prerequisite for: FOUN 63230
Co-requisite with: FOUN 62220
A study of the effective delivery of public presentation will be incorporated into the study of patient education and chiropractic philosophy. Skills in public presentations educating an audience, as well as one-on-one communication through an effective report of findings, communicating the benefits of chiropractic care and the philosophy of chiropractic health care will be developed. The application of Palmer patient education materials within the chiropractic clinical setting will be emphasized. Experiential learning opportunities exploring chiropractic philosophy and patient education will be incorporated through participation in the Palmer Florida Clinic System.

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Quarter 4

The fourth-quarter courses provide an integrated study of the abdomen from a scientific and clinical perspective. A special emphasis is placed on the study of the abdominal and pelvic viscera including anatomy, embryology, histology, neurology, biomechanics, pathology, microbiology and biochemistry. Physical examination skill development focuses on examination of the abdominal viscera. Additionally, students will be developing skills in the chiropractic analysis of the lumbar spine and pelvis for subluxation and basic adjusting skills using the Palmer Package for chiropractic care. Clinical correlations addressing spinal health, development and common conditions inclusive of the subluxation, incorporating an understanding of public health and evidence-based practice will be a focus of study. Patient scenarios and direct observation of chiropractic care will be incorporated and integrated throughout the four tracks.

STRUCTURE: CHEST AND ABDOMEN I—
STRU 61210
Prerequisites: All first-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: STRU 71310
Co-requisite with: STRU 63230
A study of embryology, anatomy, histology and pathology of the gastrointestinal, urinary and reproductive systems, along with the study of clinical microbiology and public health, will be accomplished. Clinical correlations to gastrointestinal and genitourinary health, development and common conditions will be a focus of study.

FUNCTION: CHEST AND ABDOMEN I—
FNCT 61210
Prerequisites: All first-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: FNCT 71310
Co-requisite with: FNCT 63230
A study of the gastrointestinal, urinary and reproductive systems physiology, microbiology, biochemistry and pathophysiology. Investigation of the body’s normal and abnormal immune response to infectious and chemical agents, development and aging of the gastrointestinal, urinary and reproductive systems is covered. Skill development in physical examination of the abdomen will be provided, including an introduction to laboratory procedures related to blood, chemistry and urinalysis. Emergency procedures and protocol related to toxic exposure and poisoning will be included. Clinical correlations to health, development and common conditions related to the gastrointestinal, urinary and reproductive systems will be a focus of study.

CARE FOR THE HUMAN: CHIROPRACTIC PROCEDURES AND PROTOCOL FOR THE LUMBAR SPINE AND PELVIS—CARE 61210
Prerequisites: All first-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CARE 62220
Chiropractic analysis of spinal and pelvic subluxation, palpation and Palmer Package adjusting skills will be accomplished with an emphasis on the lumbar spine and pelvis. Radiographic signs and mensuration associated with the
lumbar spine and pelvis will be introduced.

FOUNDATIONS FOR PRACTICE: SUBLUXATION THEORIES 1—FOUN 61210
Prerequisite: All first-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: FOUN 71310
Co-requisite with: FOUN 63230
Application of basic science principles to subluxation processes, pain syndromes, and the manifestation of autonomic/visceral symptoms will be the focus. Homeostatic mechanisms of the nervous system will be discussed in the context of subluxation, chronic pain, chronic inflammation, neurogenic inflammation, and tissue healing. Clinical treatment applications from the perspective of the Palmer Tenets will be described.

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Quarter 5

The fifth-quarter courses provide an integrated study of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems from a scientific and clinical perspective. A special emphasis is placed on the study of the chest region including anatomy, embryology, histology, pathology and biochemistry. Full-spine chiropractic analysis and adjusting skills will be reviewed and competency in adjusting in a controlled laboratory setting, under close supervision, using the Palmer Package for chiropractic care will be developed.

STRUCTURE: CHEST AND ABDOMEN II—
STRU 62220
Prerequisites: All first- and second-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: STRU 71310
A study of embryology, anatomy, histology, biochemistry and clinical pathology of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems will be undertaken. Basic normal radiographic anatomy of the chest is introduced. The study of toxicology will be accomplished. Clinical laboratory analysis and special imaging studies will be integrated. Clinical correlations to cardiovascular and respiratory health, development and common conditions as well as preventive health and wellness will be a focus of study.

FUNCTION: CHEST AND ABDOMEN II—
FNCT 62220
Prerequisites: All first- and second-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: FNCT 71310
A study of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems physiology, biochemistry and pathophysiology will be undertaken. Investigation of the body’s normal and abnormal immune response to infectious and chemical agents is covered, as is normal and abnormal biomechanics of the thoracic cage and chest. Physical examination of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, as well as exercise, Emergency procedures including First Aid will be covered. Clinical laboratory analysis including blood count and serum chemistry will be incorporated. Development and aging of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Clinical correlations to cardiovascular and respiratory health, development and common conditions will be a focus of study.

CARE FOR THE HUMAN: INTEGRATED SUBLUXATION ANALYSIS AND FULL SPINE ADJUSTING—CARE 62220
Prerequisites: All first- and second-quarter courses, CARE 53130, CARE 61210
Prerequisite for: CARE 63230
A comprehensive review of chiropractic analysis of spinal subluxation, including inspection, palpation, skin temperature analysis, leg length analysis and radiographic analysis inclusive of the full spine utilizing the Palmer Package will be provided. Intermediate full spine adjusting skills will be accomplished. Experiential learning will include the opportunity for students to adjust in a laboratory setting under close, direct supervision for the purpose of skill development. In addition, CPR and Venipuncture will be taught during this course.

FOUNDATIONS FOR PRACTICE: SUBLUXATION THEORIES II—FOUN 62220
Prerequisites: All first- and second-quarter courses
Prerequisites for: FOUN 71310
The subluxation complex and other theoretic models of subluxation will be discussed in further detail in relation to clinical syndromes such as facet syndrome, sacroiliac syndrome, disc herniation and internal disc disruption. Pathologic changes in spinal/musculoskeletal tissues will be described along with related neurological mechanisms, such as peripheral nociceptive sensitization, central nociceptive sensitization, and neuroplasticity. Biomechanical and neurological theories of spinal adjustments will be reviewed.

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Quarter 6

The sixth-quarter courses provide an integrated study of the upper and lower extremities from a scientific and clinical perspective. A special emphasis is placed on the study of the extremities including osteology, myology, embryology, histology, peripheral neuroanatomy, biomechanics and biochemistry. Cervical spine chiropractic analysis and adjusting skills will be reviewed and basic competency in adjusting skills using the Palmer Package for chiropractic care will be developed. Extremity adjusting protocol using the Palmer Package will be included. Clinical correlations addressing spinal health, development and common conditions inclusive of the subluxation will be covered, incorporating an understanding of public health and jurisprudence. Clinical correlations to upper and lower extremity health, development and common conditions, such as repetitive stress injuries and trauma, and toxicology will be a focus of study. Patient scenarios and direct observation of chiropractic care will be incorporated and integrated throughout the four tracks.

STRUCTURE: EXTREMITIES—STRU 63230
Prerequisites: All first- through third-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: STRU 71310
A study of embryology, myology, osteology, syndesmology and peripheral neuroanatomy of the upper and lower extremities will be undertaken. The study of peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes will be accomplished. Clinical correlations to upper and lower extremity health, development and common conditions, such as repetitive stress injuries and trauma, will be a focus of study. Normal radiographic anatomy of the extremities will be included.

FUNCTION: EXTREMITIES—FNCT 63230
Prerequisites: All first- through third-quarter courses, CARE 62220
Prerequisite for: FNCT 71310
This is a capstone course intended as an intense review of the structural and functional abnormalities that result in diseases of organs and systems. Principles of general and systemic pathology will be covered, with an emphasis on neuromusculoskeletal, cardiovascular, immune-mediated and neoplastic disorders.

CARE FOR THE HUMAN: CHIROPRACTIC PROTOCOL AND PROCEDURES FOR EXTREMITIES AND INTEGRATED SUBLUXATION AND ANALYSIS REVIEW—CARE 63230
Prerequisites: All first- through third-quarter courses and CARE 62220
Prerequisite for: CARE 71310
Chiropractic analysis of upper and lower extremities and a comprehensive review of upper cervical spine adjusting skills will be accomplished. Palmer Package adjusting skills for the extremities will be included. Radiographic signs and mensuration associated with the upper and lower extremities will be introduced.

FOUNDATIONS FOR PRACTICE: TOXICOLOGY—FOUN 63230
Prerequisites: All first- through third-quarter courses
Prerequisites for: FOUN 71310
A study of the sources, mechanisms of biological effects including toxicology, chemical presentation and diagnostic indicators of major classes of pharmacotherapeutic agents will be undertaken. Selected occupational and environmental chemicals and principles of emergency management of chemical exposures will also be covered.

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Quarter 7

The seventh-quarter courses integrate and synthesize clinical sciences, critical thinking and clinical reasoning. Patient care skills will focus on the application of physical examination skills, chiropractic analysis and adjusting competencies using the Palmer Package protocol and techniques to special populations of patients. Incorporation of active care associated with rehabilitation will be studied. Experiential learning will be incorporated into the clinical experience.

STRUCTURE: INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT I &
X-RAY PHYSICS—STRU 71310
Prerequisites: All first- through sixth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CLIN 81410
Co-requisite with: STRU 73330
This course covers advanced integration and application of clinical science knowledge to patient presentations and clinical reasoning. Patient presentations including wellness, development, common and uncommon conditions. Patient assessment skills will be reviewed and integrated to include outcome assessment measures, and will be the platform for the continued development of clinical reasoning and patient management skills. Concepts of X-ray physics will be studied. Focus will be on the student’s synthesis and evaluation of cognitive information needed for critical thinking and clinical reasoning.

FUNCTION: DIAGNOSIS I HEALTHY AGING—
FNCT 71310
Prerequisites: All first- through sixth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CLIN 81410
Co-requisite with: FNCT 73330
Clinical chemistry and laboratory analysis, abnormal radiology and basic concepts of differential thinking are investigated and applied to neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Patient presentations including wellness, development and neuromusculoskeletal conditions commonly presenting in the chiropractic practice will be the platform for the continued development of clinical reasoning and patient management skills. Focus will be on the learner’s ability to develop and apply reasoning skills appropriately.

CARE FOR THE HUMAN: CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR SPECIAL POPULATIONS AND ACTIVE CARE—CARE 71310
Prerequisites: All first- through sixth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CLIN 81410
Co-requisite with: CARE 73330
Advanced full-spine and extremity adjusting skills will be accomplished focusing on adjusting special populations including pregnant patients, infants, children, aging patients and patients with mobility challenges. Advanced radiographic signs and mensuration will be accomplished. Concepts of Active Care, incorporating the use of exercise strategies and rehabilitation procedures into chiropractic practice, will be studied.

FOUNDATIONS FOR PRACTICE: HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS—FOUN 71310
Prerequisites: All first- through sixth- quarter courses
Prerequisite for: FOUN 81410
Co-requisite with: FOUN 73330
Normal and abnormal psychological factors influencing chiropractic care will be explored, with a focus on identifying factors that can interfere with patient compliance and recognition of clinical indications for referral to psychological health professionals. Psychosocial factors impacting health and wellness and concepts of stress management will be explored. The Palmer Tenets will be reviewed in discussion of the incorporation of ancillary procedures into the practice of Chiropractic.

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Quarter 8

The eighth-quarter courses integrate and synthesize clinical sciences, critical thinking and clinical reasoning. Patient care skills will focus on the application and synthesis of physical examination skills, and clinical analysis will focus on differential diagnosis of visceral conditions. Special emphasis will be placed on radiological positioning and abnormal radiographic interpretation skills. Incorporation of Passive Care will study the application of physiotherapeutic modalities into the practice of chiropractic. Students will have the ability to participate in elective technique courses through the Chiropractic Enrichment Program Courses offering advanced study of selected chiropractic techniques.

STRUCTURE: INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT II &  X-RAY POSITIONING—STRU 72320
Prerequisites: All first- through sixth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CARE 81410
Advanced integration and application of clinical sciences and clinical reasoning to the evaluation and assessment of visceral conditions likely to be found in the primary care practice of the chiropractic clinician will be the platform for the continued development of clinical reasoning and patient management skills. Procedures for proper positioning of patients for radiographic studies will be included. Focus will be upon the learner’s investigation of cognitive information needed for application to patient management.

FUNCTION: DIAGNOSIS II—FNCT 7230
Prerequisites: All first- through sixth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CLIN 81410
A capstone experience in normal and abnormal radiographic patterns will be included. This includes common and uncommon presentations of visceral conditions likely to be found in the primary care practice of the Doctor of Chiroprac-tic. Synthesis and evaluation of scientific and clinical information will be the platform for the continued development of clinical reasoning and patient management skills. Focus will be on the student’s ability to develop and apply reasoning skills appropriately.

CARE FOR THE HUMAN: ERGONOMICS AND PASSIVE CARE—CARE 72320
Prerequisites: All first- through sixth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CARE 81410
Application of patient education skills and public health knowledge to concepts of ergonomics are covered. Theory and application of passive care including physiotherapeutic modalities used to complement chiropractic care will be included. Indications and contra-indications to the use of physiotherapeutic modalities will be studied.

FOUNDATIONS FOR PRACTICE: PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES—FOUN 72320
Prerequisites: All first- through sixth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: FOUN 81410
This course is an integrated study of patient contracting, patient management guidelines, functioning in a multi-doctor and/or multidisciplinary practice. A study of the legal responsibilities, basic concepts of jurisprudence and risk management associated with chiropractic practice. Application of jurisprudence to chiropractic case management, with an emphasis on ethics in business management, is covered. The doctor-patient relationship regarding sexual harassment, prevention and boundaries is discussed. Regulatory issues for mandatory reporting responsibilities including issues including child abuse and communicable disease reporting, HIPAA, OSHA regulations and the potential impact of chiropractic on public health and HIV/AIDS are presented.

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Quarter 9

The ninth-quarter courses synthesize and apply clinical sciences with critical thinking to clinical reasoning. Physical assessment skills will focus on gender-related disorders including obstetrics and gynecology, and the proctological examination will be presented. The pediatric examination throughout various phases of childhood from the neonatal evaluation through adolescence will be included. Additionally, clinical nutrition will be explored from the perspective of preventative health and wellness. The history of the chiropractic profession will be explored. A discussion of the current political climate of the chiropractic profession will be presented with a focus on professional leadership and responsibility. An opportunity will be given to the students to further develop their understanding of the nature of pain in order that they can better communicate with other health professionals.

NORMAL AGING & WELLNESS DEVELOPMENT—STRU 73330
Prerequisites: All first- through eighth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CLIN 83430
Co-requisite with: CARE 82420
Phases of development throughout life and theories of aging will be evaluated in relationship to health care and wellness. An understanding of anatomical, physiological and psychological development will be synthesized in the evaluation and management of patients throughout various phases of life. Integrated patient assessment, including physical examination, radiological and chiropractic analysis and the application of complex critical thinking and clinical reasoning, will be applied to patient management. In addition, emergency procedures including open and closed head trauma will be covered.

HEALTH CARE AND NUTRITION—FNCT 73330
Prerequisites: All first- through eighth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CARE 83430
Co-requisite with: CLIN 82420
Concepts of biochemistry will be applied to patient nutritional care and dietary analysis. Concepts of biochemistry will be studied with a focus on nutrition. Advanced concepts of differential thinking are accomplished. Focus will be upon the student’s ability to develop and apply reasoning skills appropriately and to incorporate knowledge of nutritional factors into the health and wellness development of patient care.

GENDER-RELATED HEALTH & CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR FAMILIES—CARE 73330
Prerequisites: All first- through eighth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CARE 83430
Co-requisite with: CARE 82420
This course will be a comprehensive study of health-related issues specific to the gender-related health issues and physical assessment skills for the evaluation of children. Skills in physical examination and developmental assessment of neonates through adolescence will be provided, as well as aspects unique to patient care and chiropractic management of the pregnant patient, the role of chiropractic care in the birth process, neonatal care and pediatric care through adolescence. Physical examination and assessment skills will focus on breast,
proctological and gynecological examinations.

FOUNDATIONS FOR PRACTICE: PALMER PARADIGM—FOUN 73330
Prerequisites: All first- through eighth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: FOUN 83430
Co-requisite with: FOUN 82420
Chiropractic philosophy and principles related to the political aspects of chiropractic practice, as well as a study of the Palmer family and other significant figures and major events in chiropractic history, are explored and applied to a study of the current political climate of the chiropractic profession. A discussion of professional leadership and responsibility will be explored.

STUDENT CLINIC PRACTICE: PALMER PARADIGM—CLIN 73330
Prerequisites: All first- through eighth-quarter courses
Prerequisite for: CLIN 81410
Co-requisite with: CLIN 82420
This course focuses on the student intern providing patient care on Palmer students and student families supervised by licensed clinic faculty doctors. The emphasis will be on clinic protocols and procedures. The student intern will demonstrate level appropriate competency in history taking, physical examinations, necessary diagnosis tests, case management, case follow up and the Palmer Package.

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Quarter 10

CLINIC CARE: PATIENT MANAGEMENT I—CLIN 81410
Prerequisites: All first- through eighth-quarter courses Prerequisite for: CLIN 82420 This course focuses on the novice intern providing patient care under the guidance of licensed doctors in the clinical setting, including supervised care of patients for the full range of condition, health and development chiropractic care. Emphasis on the development of patient management skills, including specific chiropractic skills in subluxation analysis and care, case management and patient education, along with demonstration of clinical competence, is also included. Interns will participate in clinical educational development in active learning seminars with faculty clinicians focusing on addressing the needs and professional responsibilities associated with the injured patient.

FOUNDATIONS: MARKETING AND PRACTICE OPPORTUNITIES—FOUN 81410
Prerequisites: All first- through eighth-quarter courses Prerequisite for: CLIN 82420 This course is a study of the spectrum of business opportunities as they relate to the practice of chiropractic. The entrepreneurial aspects of managing a chiropractic business operation will be presented. Start-up decision-making processes regarding the selection of an appropriate legal entity and the determination of a suitable practice location will be examined. The legal difference between practicing as a chiropractic associate versus an independent contractor will be identified and evaluated. Comparative factors associated with a new practice startup compared to the purchase of an existing practice will be explored. The preparation of a detailed marketing plan and its importance for practice development will also be covered.

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Quarter 11

CLINIC CARE: PATIENT MANAGEMENT II—CLIN 82420
Prerequisites: All first- through eighth-quarter courses, CLIN 81410 Prerequisite for: CLIN 83430 This course focuses on the intermediate intern providing care under the guidance of licensed doctors in the clinical setting, including supervised clinical management of patients for the full range of condition, health and development chiropractic care. Emphasis on the development of professional skills, specific chiropractic skills in subluxation analysis and care and patient education, along with demonstration of clinical competence, is also included. Interns will participate in clinical educational development in active learning seminars focusing on addressing the needs and professional responsibilities associated with patients presenting with a complexity of conditions.

FOUNDATIONS: ENTREPRENEURIAL ASPECTS OF CHIROPRACTIC PRACTICE—FOUN 82420
Prerequisites: All first- through eighth-quarter courses Prerequisite for: FOUN 91510, FOUN 83430 The class is a study of the entrepreneurial concepts and procedures relating to the practice of chiropractic and practice ownership. Factors in determining a site and designing a facility plan will be examined. Personal financial status evaluations and commercial funding sources will be explored. The process of creating and implementing a comprehensive reimbursement policy and procedure plan will be demonstrated. The importance of a well-designed business plan will be studied, and the process of development of a business plan will be performed.

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Quarter 12

CARING: PATIENT MANAGEMENT III—CLIN 83430
Prerequisites: All first- through ninth-quarter courses, CLIN 82420 Prerequisite for: CLIN 91510 This course focuses on the advanced intern providing care under the guidance of licensed doctors in the clinical setting, including supervised case management of patients for the full range of condition, health and development chiropractic care. Emphasis on the development of professional skills, specific chiropractic skills in subluxation analysis and care and patient education, along with demonstration of clinical competence, is also included. Interns will participate in sharing of clinical cases with lower quarter students in a ³grand rounds' setting.

FOUNDATIONS: PRACTICE MANAGEMENT—FOUN 83430
Prerequisites: All first- through ninth-quarter courses Prerequisite for: FOUN 91510 Business concepts of practice management related to practice start-up plans, operations, employment and narrative reporting will be the focus of study. Management of office procedures and regulatory laws will be explored in the context of practice management. A start-up timetable outlining the elements of getting a practice opened will be demonstrated. Human resource issues will be explored relating to hiring, training, benefits, discipline policies and termination. Management of office procedures using metrics and benchmarks for assessment and improvement will be presented. Concepts behind effective narrative reporting and quality disability evaluations will be explored.

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Quarter 13

CLINIC: PRACTICE DEVELOPMENT QUARTER—CLIN 91510
Prerequisites: All first- through twelfth-quarter courses
Provides the opportunity for learners to custom- tailor their learning experiences to prepare and excite them for the various professional opportunities available within the chiropractic profession. Interns will be mentored and supported in mastery of specified learning objectives while encouraged to select from a prescribed range of options that meet their personal objectives to prepare for practice or advanced professional training residencies. A significant part of this transition phase involves clinical experiences. Students will be able to select from a variety of clinical settings, as well as work with mentors regarded as specialists in caring for specific sub-populations or following established care protocols.

Interns who have completed all quantitative clinical requirements for graduation may elect to participate in an off-site educational experience. Where legally permitted by law, students may complete their PDQ in an approved field practice located in areas where they wish to establish practice. The PDQ field training experience often leads to immediate postgraduate employment or associateship, thus facilitating easier practice start-up.

FOUNDATIONS: PLANNING FOR PRACTICE SUCCESS—FOUN 91510
Prerequisites: All first- through twelfth-quarter courses
The learner's evaluation and synthesis of knowledge and understanding of patient and practice management will be applied to producing a capstone project. The final assignment will demonstrate the student's acumen in financial and operational chiropractic practice issues. The student will accept and produce one of two projects. One option is the process of preparing, finalizing and presenting a mission statement, marketing and business plan for a start-up chiropractic practice. The second option will be to identify an area of chiropractic economics or practice benchmarking and metrics. The identified subject area will be explored with research and analytical processes. The completed project will be an in-depth narrative report that includes extensive financial data, a report of findings and objective conclusions.

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Clinical Enrichment Program Electives

Technique Elective Courses
The following technique electives are available to students who have completed the prerequisite courses at Palmer Florida. Students in sixth through thirteenth quarter are eligible to enroll in technique elective courses. These electives are designed to facilitate investigation of specialized techniques after the student has completed the study of the adjustive procedures included in the Palmer Package.

Students who are on academic probation or remediation are not eligible to take technique elective courses. Eligible students may enroll in no more than two electives per quarter. First priority is given to upper-quarter students, and to students who are not enrolled in any other technique elective.

Technique electives are presented in a seminar format during evening and/or weekend hours.

DIVERSIFIED TECHNIQUE
CEPE 23163
(2 hours per week)
Prerequisite: CARE 62220
Students must be in sixth quarter or higher to take this course. Diversified adjustive procedures; vector line-of-correction; prestress and adjustive thrust; sitting, prone and supine patient positions for adjustment are included; emphasis on practical work; performance of diversified adjustments relative to static and motion palpation findings.

GONSTEAD TECHNIQUE I
CEPE 23263
(2 credit hours)
Prerequisite: CARE 62220
Students must be in sixth quarter or higher to take this course. The course refines the skills learned in the core curriculum with attention to X-ray analysis and adjusting procedures of the cervical and thoracic spine.

GONSTEAD TECHNIQUE II
CEPE 23363
(2 credit hours)
Prerequisite: CARE 62220
Students must be in sixth quarter or higher to take this course. This course refines the skills learned in the core curriculum with attention to Gonstead X-ray analysis and adjusting procedures of the lumbar spine and pelvis.

THOMPSON-TERMINAL POINT TECHNIQUE
CEPE 23463
(2 credit hours)
Prerequisite: CARE 62220
Students must be in sixth quarter or higher to take this course. Analytical and adjustive methods as written and practiced by Dr. J. Clay Thompson.
Derefield and Cervical Syndrome Analytical procedures, special approaches to the adjustive correction of pelvic misalignments, spondylolisthesis, ribcage and other spinal areas terminal point table and emphasis on practical work.
The Thompson Technique is a low force, specific adjustment technique, which includes the Derefield-Thompson Leg Analysis System.

UPPER CERVICAL SPECIFIC TECHNIQUES
CEPE 31163
(2 credit hours)
Prerequisite: CARE 62220
Students must be in seventh quarter or higher to take this course. Palmer Toggle Recoil, Grostic, Blair, NUCCA and Atlas Orthogonal Upper Cervical Specific line-of-correction calculations for a side posture atlas adjustment; chiropractic neuro-orthopedic pre- and post-adjustment examination; emphasis on practical work; comparisons with other total spine methods. The specific upper cervical technique emphasis will vary by quarter.

GRASTON TECHNIQUE
CEPE 31271
(2 credit hours)
The Graston technique is an innovative, patented form of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively breakdown scar tissue and fascial restrictions. The technique utilizes specially designed stainless steel instruments to specifically detect and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation.

SACRO-OCCIPITAL TECHNIQUE-PART I
CEPE 32172
(2 credit hours)
Prerequisite: CARE 71310
Students must be in eighth quarter or higher to take this course. Patient categorization and the basic treatment regimens for the SOT categories; blocking methods and category management; analysis of physical findings as written by Dr. M.B. Dejamette; basic cranial maneuvers and emphasis on practical experience.

SACRO-OCCIPITAL TECHNIQUE-PART II
CEPE 32272
(2 credit hours)
Prerequisite: CARE 71310 and SOT-Part I
Students must be in eighth quarter or higher to take this course. This course is a continuation of SOT Part I.

ACTIVATOR METHODS I
CEPE 32372
(2 credit hours)
Prerequisite: CARE 71310
Students must be in eighth quarter or higher to take this course. Activator procedures, including mechanisms of subluxation; analysis; adjustive procedures and light force Activator adjusting instrument.


ACTIVATOR METHODS II
CEPE 33173
(2 credit hours)
Prerequisite: CARE 72320
Students must be in ninth quarter or higher to take this course. Instruction in the Track II Activator Methods ³advanced analysis² system.

LUMBAR DISTRACTION
CEPE32472
(2 credit hours)
Prerequisite: CARE 71310
Students must be in the eighth quarter or higher to take this course. This course includes the latest research in the biomechanics of the lumbar spine, the diagnostic evaluation of these dynamics and the correction methods available to address each entity.

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