Congratulations are in order for Life West alumnus and adjunct faculty member Philip Dieter, DC, who recently was named Doctor of the Year by the California Chiropractic Association. Also known as Cal Chiro, the organization applauded his dedication to the group and his outstanding service to the chiropractic profession.
Philip Dieter, DC
The son of longtime Life West board chair Carl Dieter, DC, the man known affectionately to students and patients as “Dr. Phil” graduated from Life West in 2006. In addition to his duties at the school, he also helps run Almaden Chiropractic and Wellness in San Jose alongside his father.
“I was humbled by the opportunity to be given this award,” the younger Dr. Dieter said. “The recognition from my peers is something I always cherish and value.”
He added that he was touched by the initial response to the announcement, which came via Cal Chiro’s newsletter and messages on Life West’s social media platforms.
“That’s created a storm of communication from my peers and colleagues,” he said. “I’m grateful to the faculty members and the institution for helping me to develop the mindset behind what I do and the attitude that I have about chiropractic and life in general.”
Dr. Dieter teaches classes focused on front office procedures and marketing systems. He says he aspires to nurture the passion students have for chiropractic, and that those students graduate from Life West looking forward to the tasks ahead of them.
“I hope they love the work,” he said. “If you can embrace the idea that you’re always on duty and that you’re never not a doctor, you become the embodiment of what people recognize as a chiropractor. If they embrace those concepts and opportunities, it’s no longer a job. It becomes a lifestyle.”
Founded in 1928, Cal Chiro aims to promote high standards of professionalism and patient care through education, advocacy and accountability. Based in Sacramento, the association is comprised of 27 districts and three student chapters located around the Golden State, and it is governed by a board of directors elected by members.
“Dr. Dieter has worked tirelessly to help push our grassroots program further,” Cal Chiro President Andrew Williams, DC, said. “He’s just been awesome. This is a hands-on task, and the program is the best it’s been in a very long time.”
Dr. Dieter was honored as part of the Cal Chiro’s fall conference in November 2019 at the Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa Valley.
”If you can embrace the idea that you’re always on duty and that you’re never not a doctor, you become the embodiment of what people recognize as a chiropractor.
Dr. Phil DieterThemeNectar
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