A spinal screener must be certified to conduct spinal screenings. The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) offers spinal screening certification courses and issues certificates to those who successfully complete the course. Spinal screening certificates may also be issued by an instructor who has been trained and authorized by DSHS to issue certificates. To be eligible to take a spinal screening certification course, one must be a high school graduate.

Professionals licensed under state law, including physicians, chiropractors, physical therapists, and registered nurses, who have completed a course of study in physical assessment, may conduct spinal screenings without being certified by the department.

• The following licensed health professionals may conduct spinal screening without prior certification if their course of study included physical assessment: 
  • Physicians - a medical doctor licensed to practice medicine in the United States
  • Nurse Practitioners - an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who provides direct patient care, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and managing patient health.
  • Physician Assistant - licensed clinicians who practice medicine in every specialty and setting.
  • Registered Nurse - a licensed healthcare professional who has completed a nursing program and passed the national licensing exam (NCLEX-RN). RNs work collaboratively with doctors and other healthcare providers to deliver patient care, which includes performing physical exams, administering medications, and educating patients about their health conditions.
  • Chiropractor -a licensed health care professional who diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal disorders, primarily through spinal adjustments, to improve nervous system function and overall health.
  • Physical Therapist - a person qualified to treat disease, injury, or physical conditions by methods such as massage, heat treatment, and exercise rather than by drugs or surgery.