We appreciate the opportunity to provide additional information related to the proposed legislation to remove the new and unnecessary state chiropractic examination for licensure.

Recently there has been some confusing information reported by the media with regard to the state chiropractic exam. We would like to clarify the facts on two key points:

1. What is the correct number of students who have passed the Wisconsin state chiropractic examination for licensure?

As noted in a March 12, 2013 CSW memo sent to your office, since January 2012 only 6 students have passed this examination. The very important, and perhaps often neglected detail, is that only 1 student has passed the exam on the first attempt. The remaining students had to take the exam on several occasions, with additional costs and time delays of up to 6 months between each attempt.

2. How much does the current Wisconsin state chiropractic exam cost recent graduates?

The total cost paid by students to take the initial state exam in 2012 and 2013 was $1585.00. (This includes the initial credentialing fee of $75.00, the jurisprudence fee of $75.00 and the practical examination fee of $1435.00.)

If the applicant fails the first exam, as all but one has done, subsequent exam costs are variable ranging from $1435.00 to lesser amounts if only one section was not passed.

Putting this into a real life example, the state exam cost Dr. M $3292.00 in exam fees and over 10 months of lost wages to finally pass 3 examinations and obtain his license. Dr. M graduated in February 2012. His first state exam cost $1585.00. Dr. M’s second attempt at the state exam 6 months later was an additional $1435.00. His third and final attempt added another $272.00 to his tab. Dr. M officially obtained his Wisconsin license on Dec 17, 2012.

Dr. M did not gain “competence” in his year off work. There was no additional protection of the public. Dr. M graduated in the top of his class and exceeded all NBCE exam requirements. He and the other students who have successfully passed all of the NBCE national examinations are considered competent to practice in every other state, except Wisconsin.

In conclusion, the health and safety of the public is a top priority of the CSW membership. The NBCE national exams have successfully served and protected the public not only in Wisconsin, but in every state, for decades without a single issue. It is our position that the new Wisconsin exam and exam process is unnecessary, flawed and does not increase patient protection. The high costs and failure rate of the exam have caused many recent graduates to flee Wisconsin. Instead, they are setting up their new businesses in the Dakotas and other surrounding states. Removing this exam will truly make Wisconsin “open for business.”

Please contact Steven Conway DC, Esq, CSW Executive Director, for any follow-up questions or requests for meetings. (727) 421 0407 cell. src@dewittross.com