Recorded at FCA The National in Orlando, FL, Jon Kec sits down with Dr. Shereffa Clarke to discuss how representation helps shape patient outcomes and overall healthy equity.
Posted in Podcasts on Monday, August 24, 2026
Healthcare thrives on trust, and trust grows when patients see themselves reflected in the professionals who treat them. In chiropractic care, representation is far more than a corporate buzzword — it directly shapes patient outcomes, access to treatment, and overall health equity. On this episode of Chiropractical, host Jon Kec sat down with the distinguished Dr. Shereffa Clark at the Florida Chiropractic Association’s (FCA) The National in Orlando to explore the state of diversity in chiropractic care and what it takes to build a more inclusive future.
Representation matters in healthcare. When patients see providers who understand their experiences and backgrounds, trust grows and outcomes improve. Yet Black chiropractors make up only about 2% of the profession today.
For Dr. Shereffa Clark, changing that reality is both a professional mission and a personal calling.
A Life-Changing Discovery
As a high school student recovering from a serious car accident, Dr. Clark sought care from a chiropractor. During treatment, her provider identified warning signs of an undiagnosed brain tumor, a discovery that ultimately saved her life.
That experience revealed the life-changing impact of chiropractic care and inspired her to dedicate her career to the profession. Today, she is an award-winning clinician, educator, and advocate committed to creating more opportunities for future chiropractors.
Building a Stronger Pipeline
While Black practitioners currently represent just 2% of licensed chiropractors, progress is underway. Minority enrollment in chiropractic programs has grown to approximately 7%.
But enrollment is only the first step. Many students face financial challenges, limited access to mentorship, and a lack of representation throughout their education.
The Power of Mentorship
As a leader of the American Black Chiropractic Association (ABCA), Dr. Clark is helping close those gaps through:
- Scholarships and financial support
- Outreach to students exploring chiropractic careers
- Mentorship programs that connect new graduates with experienced practitioners
Moving the Profession Forward
Increasing diversity in chiropractic care isn't just about representation. It's about improving access, building trust, and delivering better patient care.
For more information, visit the American Black Chiropractic Association website.
If you have questions or topic ideas for us, reach out at Askncmic@ncmic.com.
This episode of Chiropractical was recorded August 13, 2026 at the NCMIC Booth at FCA The National in Orlando, Florida.
About Dr. Shereffa Clarke
Dr. Shereffa Clarke was born in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and at the age of eight, migrated with her family to South Florida. Her journey from Jamaica to becoming a respected healthcare professional, educator, speaker, and leader is a testament to her resilience, determination, and commitment to excellence.
Dr. Clarke earned her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences from the University of South Florida in 2007 and went on to earn her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange, Florida, in 2011.
With more than 15 years of experience, Dr. Clarke is a highly accomplished chiropractor, educator, public speaker, mentor, and organizational leader. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to delivering patient-centered care while empowering others through education, mentorship, and leadership.
Her expertise and dynamic approach to professional development have led her to speak for numerous organizations, including the Illinois Chiropractic Society, Michigan Association of Chiropractors, and American Chiropractic Association, among others.
Dr. Clarke's contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including Florida Chiropractic Association Emerging Leader, Broward College Professor of the Year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County 100 Outstanding Women of Broward County, and American Black Chiropractic Association Chiropractor of the Year.
Throughout her career, Dr. Clarke has served in leadership positions at both the local and national levels. She currently practices in Frisco, Texas, and serves as President of the American Black Chiropractic Association.