| This study examines the relationship between two professional trade associations, the Association of Chiropractic Colleges and the Council on Chiropractic Education, in light of the overwhelming membership of institutional representatives which constitute both Boards of Directors. This relationship is reviewed from the perspective of possible antitrust violations. The fundamental concern addressed in this study is the ability of institutional representatives, who represent programs accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education, to discuss potential accreditation matters in one forum, the Association of Chiropractic Colleges, and translate these discussions into academic standards to be used by the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Chiropractic Education.; In addition to the ramifications of the current relationship on the accreditation process of chiropractic education, this study also explores the potential antitrust violations of the Council on Chiropractic Education as it relates to the accreditation of post graduate and continuing education. This aspect of the study explores the possibility of tying arrangements as they relate to the product "sold" by chiropractic institutions and the monopsony within which the product is offered. The study is unique in that it views the actions of the trade associations and their institutional membership, not only from an academic, but a business point of view.; As a result of this orientation, relevant antitrust case law is cited to support the thesis of the work. The body of case law relevant to the learned professions and education, has developed over the last twenty-five to thirty years. As in commercial cases of antitrust violations, the case law relating to the learned professions and education has often been decided in contradictory terms. However, it has become apparent the courts are willing to view the learned professions and education, where appropriate, from a commercial point of view, thereby making them vulnerable to antitrust scrutiny.; On the basis of this study academic trade associations must be aware of their potential liabilities under the antitrust laws. |
