The 2025 Commitment to Care Conference sparked something powerful - not just conversations, but momentum. This year’s event wasn’t just about staying current; it was about stepping confidently into the future of chiropractic care with fresh tools, insights, and a stronger sense of purpose.

Setting the stage on Saturday

From the moment the conference kicked off, the energy was electric. Dr. Jason Pajaczkowski provided an engaging, unexpected look at the role of skin in manual therapy, challenging us to think differently, and think deeper about how we treat soft tissue. His presentation was insightful, lighthearted, and set the tone for what was to come: a mindset shift.

One of the most heartfelt moments came as we honoured the late Dr. Greg Kawchuk, a visionary whose legacy continues to shape chiropractic research. Stories shared by friends and colleagues added warmth and humanity to a lasting professional impact. In moving tributes, the Chiropractic Association of Alberta launched the Dr. Greg Kawchuk CARL Endowment Fund, supported by an incredible $158,000; the Canadian Chiropractic Research Foundation announced the Dr. Greg Kawchuk Early Career Research Fund, seeded with $50,000; and the Canadian Chiropractic Protective Association created the CareWell fund to provide mental health support. These initiatives will ensure his impact lives on.

And the momentum didn’t stop there! The Long Service and Achievement Awards reminded us of the passion in our profession. We were incredibly honoured to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary dedication of our 55-year (Dr. Glenn Chidlow and Dr. Richard Gherke) and 60-year (Dr. DK Ladell) award recipients. Their unwavering commitment, passion, and contributions over the decades have shaped our profession in profound and lasting ways. To cap off the evening, the first-ever Chirolympics brought out competitive spirit, teamwork, and laughter. Gold medals were won, but the memories were the real prize.

 Sunday was a Game-Changer

Day two started with a monumental moment: The Hon. Adriana LaGrange, Alberta’s Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services, shared her vision for integrating chiropractic into primary care. Her message? We’re being seen, we’re being heard and our role in healthcare is growing. From there, top-tier leaders Dr. Brian Wirzba (Alberta Medical Association) and Rob Skypnek (Primary Care Alberta) outlined the key pieces chiropractors need to be aware of in preparation for integration into primary care, including the need to continuously demonstrate evidence-based care and the co-operation and alliance that is necessary in team-based settings.

The Care-First panel took the stage to talk about automobile insurance reforms. Dr. Pierre Côté outlined the methodology in developing evidence-based care pathways; Dr. Ashley Smith expanded on the translation of evidence and approved recommendations included in the pathways; Dr. Carol Cancelliere did an incredible job in profiling clinician education modules to support implementation; and Dale Mulyk outlined the features of the new Care-First system.

Putting patients at the centre of everything you do was reinforced by Dr. Kent Stuber, and Ioana Popescu applauded the CAA for its just culture position statement, while reinforcing the importance of fostering a culture of safety, innovation and continuous learning.

Using artificial intelligence (AI) can free-up 15 hours of your time every month! Heidi Health blew the crowd away with the innovative AI tools, like clinic notes, that can reduce many administrative burdens.

Our national partners shared details on their initiatives, including the protection you receive from the Canadian Chiropractic Protective Association, the work of the Canadian Chiropractic Association’s Women’s Caucus and Indigenous Caucus; and the cutting edge tools the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College has developed to prepare students as they enter their practice life.

Our leadership panel, Drs. Dale Macdonald, Natalie Carrington, Gordon McMorland and Ms. Wendy Coombs shared their professional journeys while reinforcing the importance of integrated care. Their key advice is to keep yourself educated. Starting a practice takes a lot of hustle but with focus and perseverance you can be successful.

During the breakout sessions, Alberta Netcare outlined how they support chiropractic practices and shared tips for current users and those onboarding; and WCB – Alberta outlined the benefits of operating as a WCB-authorized chiropractic provider and why return to work matters. 

Futurist Dr. Zayna Khayat left us energized and slightly rattled with her bold take on healthcare’s future and what we need to do to stay ahead. In just three years, 20 per cent of our population will be 65-years of age or older; are you prepared to meet their needs?

Every session delivered something actionable and relevant - whether it was practical tips, meaningful connections, shared laughter, or those unforgettable “aha” moments. Thank you to all our members who joined us. You made the Conference unforgettable!

This event would not have been possible without our incredible speakers, sponsors, vendors, and partners, along with our dedicated staff who poured their time, energy, and expertise into making every detail shine. The passion of our members brought this conference to life and reminded us all why we do what we do.