Dr. Jenna Macfarlane
Dr. Jenna Macfarlane

Biographical Profile

Why did you become a chiropractor?

I became a chiropractor out of a desire to help people regain confidence and function in their bodies. From an early age, I was drawn to the science of movement and the art of listening, and chiropractic offered a path that combined both. Over time, that foundation evolved into a passion for patient-centered, evidence-informed care that supports people through every stage of life. My motivation remains rooted in service and in the belief that movement is integral to wellness.

Where do you practise?

I practice in Vineland, Ontario, where I focus on spine and Musculoskeletal health with an integrative, collaborative approach. My practice includes private patient care. I also serve as an Advanced Practice Provider in the Ministry of Health’s Low Back Program, where I help triage and manage complex spinal cases in partnership with surgical and rehabilitation teams. I have also recently assisted in anesthesia, interventional radiology, and physiatry for interventional spine procedures, which has expanded my understanding of procedural care and interdisciplinary collaboration. This combination of experiences has strengthened my commitment to integration, safety, and communication across care models.

What is your motto or mantra?

My personal and professional mantra is Terra dum prosim — “May I be consumed in service.” It reflects my belief that leadership is an act of stewardship, that purpose is sustained through service, and that we elevate the profession by elevating others.

Credentials and Designations

I hold a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from CMCC and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (Honours) from Western University. I completed the Medical Acupuncture Program at McMaster University and have undertaken numerous advanced clinical and professional certification courses to broaden my skills and stay current with evolving best practices. My professional experience includes working at Toronto Western Hospital within the Function and Pain Program and serving as a WSIB Clinical Expert for eight years.
For the past nine years, I have served as a Peer and Practice Assessor for the College of Chiropractors of Ontario, evaluating compliance and quality assurance across clinical settings. I have also served as an Advanced Practice Provider through the Ministry of Health’s MSK RAC Low Back Program, I have volunteered and examined candidates for the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board, and recently assisted in anesthesia, interventional radiology, and physiatry for interventional spine procedures — all of which have deepened my appreciation for interdisciplinary collaboration and patient-centered outcomes. 

Leadership Engagement

What skills will you bring to the Board?

I bring to the Board, experience in governance, quality assurance, and professional regulation, alongside the communication skills required to build consensus and unity across diverse practice models. My roles have trained me to interpret policy, evaluate risk, and ensure alignment between evidence-informed care and public protection. I’m also passionate about mentoring colleagues, promoting interprofessional collaboration, and helping the OCA continue to evolve as a transparent, trusted voice for chiropractors in Ontario.
While I am not currently involved in formal academic research, I actively participate in evidence-informed clinical initiatives and interdisciplinary learning. I regularly attend neurosurgical and spine surgical rounds at Hamilton General Hospital to support collaboration between chiropractors and surgeons. These discussions enhance my understanding of complex spinal conditions and contribute to improved continuity of care for patients within the broader MSK system.

Community Programs and Initiatives

I have served the chiropractic profession as an Ontario Chiropractic Association Ambassador, mentor, and Awards Committee volunteer, as well as a Canadian Chiropractic Association working group participant. I am in my ninth year as a Peer and Practice Assessor with the CCO and an examiner with the CCEB. Beyond professional service, I have provided care through Quest Community Health Centre, and have volunteered with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, contributing to community wellness and public health initiatives throughout my career.

Dr. Jenna Macfarlane Answers Four OCA Townhall Questions

1. What do you think is currently the most important opportunity (or highest priority) for the chiropractic profession in Ontario and why?

I think one of the most important opportunities right now is greater integration within Ontario’s healthcare system, especially in spine and MSK triage, chronic pain, and preventative care. With fewer family physicians and an aging population, chiropractors are well-positioned to help fill those access gaps and keep people moving.
Through my work with the MOHLTC MSK program, private practice, and interventional spine settings, I’ve seen firsthand how collaboration improves outcomes and reduces system strain. One area that deserves particular focus is falls prevention in the elderly. Falls are one of the largest cost drivers in healthcare, leading to fractures, hospitalizations, and long-term care admissions. Chiropractors play a key role in improving balance, proprioception, mobility, and confidence in older adults. With the right funding and partnerships, this could be an enormous area of savings for the government—and improved quality of life for patients.
We also need a public-awareness shift—a message that you see a chiropractor for your spine just like you see a dentist for your teeth. That level of understanding and normalization would transform engagement with preventative spinal and mobility care across all age groups.

2. What do you think is the most important role OCA Board can play during the next three years?

The OCA Board’s most important role is to strategically position the profession for sustainability, relevance, and inclusion within Ontario’s healthcare system. That means advocating for publicly funded care pathways, demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of chiropractic care through data, and helping members prepare for integration within team-based settings.
The Board also plays a key role in bridging communication between members, policymakers, and patients. By amplifying the collective voice of chiropractors, we can ensure our profession is recognized as a trusted partner in improving access, outcomes, and cost-efficiency within the healthcare system.

3. What key difference do you want the Board to make during your tenure on the OCA Board of Directors (for 2026-2029)?

I’d like to see the OCA make measurable progress toward formal integration of chiropractic services in publicly funded and community-based models, whether that’s through MSK triage programs, chronic pain networks, or falls prevention initiatives. I would also like to see progress with increased scope of practice for diagnostics.
Another priority for me is building mentorship and leadership within the profession. Many early- and mid-career chiropractors are looking for direction and ways to grow. The OCA can play a powerful role in creating that sense of connection, transparency, and shared purpose—helping chiropractors see a clear path for both personal and professional fulfillment.
Ultimately, I want to help leave the profession more unified, visible, and confident in its role across the continuum of care.

4. In what way can data, such as Aspire data, and the incorporation of tools like Artificial Intelligence be used to advance the profession, support research and enhance advocacy?

Data is how we move from belief to evidence. Using Aspire and AI, we can clearly demonstrate the value of chiropractic care in improving outcomes, reducing pain and disability, and even preventing costly events like falls and surgeries.
From my experience with ISAEC/MSK data collection, I’ve seen how outcome tracking changes the conversation—it gives us credibility with policymakers and medical partners. AI can help analyze those trends more efficiently, highlight best practices, and even personalize care recommendations.
When used responsibly, these tools strengthen advocacy and research by showing the measurable impact of what chiropractors do every day—helping Ontarians stay active, independent, and engaged in their communities.