tag:typepad.com,2003:weblog-1250480 2008-07-10T09:25:32-07:00 General news and information on the profession. TypePad tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-53752 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

I have spent a considerable amount of time in courtrooms lately at trials of chiropractors accused of negligence. An unusual confluence of events occurred this year whereby three trials began in various parts of the country almost simultaneously. The circumstances in these cases are all quite different and unique, but there is a common thread that links them. In all of the cases, the outcome from treatment was unexpected and unintended for both the doctor and the patient.

By Greg N. Dunn, DC I have spent a considerable amount of time in courtrooms lately at trials of chiropractors accused of negligence. An unusual confluence of events occurred this year whereby three trials began in various parts of the country almost simultaneously. The circumstances in these cases are all quite different and unique, but there is a common thread that links them. In all of the cases, the outcome from treatment was unexpected and unintended for both the doctor and the patient. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54492 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

Four chiropractic vendors - Erchonia Medical, ScripHessco, Chiro One Wellness Centers, and Tempur-Pedic International - have pledged financial support to the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (FCP), continuing the corporate support enjoyed by the FCP as it increases awareness of chiropractic and its health benefits. Leading the way in terms of monetary support is Erchonia, with a two-year commitment totaling $50,000 ($25,000 per year over the next two years). ScripHessco and Chiro One Wellness Centers each pledged $10,000 to the foundation, while Tempur-Pedic pledged $6,000.

By Editorial Staff Four chiropractic vendors - Erchonia Medical, ScripHessco, Chiro One Wellness Centers, and Tempur-Pedic International - have pledged financial support to the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (FCP), continuing the corporate support enjoyed by the FCP as it increases awareness of chiropractic and its health benefits. Leading the way in terms of monetary support is Erchonia, with a two-year commitment totaling $50,000 ($25,000 per year over the next two years). ScripHessco and Chiro One Wellness Centers each pledged $10,000 to the foundation, while Tempur-Pedic pledged $6,000. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54493 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

By all accounts, Connecticut has been at the center of the "stroke controversy" storm for the past five years. It all began in spring 2005 when a billboard warning that "Chiropractic Adjustments Can Kill or Permanently Disable You" appeared in the parking lot of an Italian restaurant in New Haven. The billboard referred passersby to the now-infamous Web site Neck911USA.com. Although unified chiropractic action led to the removal of the sign, an organization calling itself the Chiropractic Stroke Victims Awareness Group surfaced and took the anti-chiropractic campaign several steps further, not only posting a new billboard in downtown Hartford, but also placing an advertisement in the Hartford Courant calling chiropractic adjustments unsafe. The group also ran ads on public buses routed through 12 Connecticut cities - including, ironically, Bridgeport, home to the University of Bridgeport College of Chiropractic.

By Peter W. Crownfield, Executive Editor By all accounts, Connecticut has been at the center of the "stroke controversy" storm for the past five years. It all began in spring 2005 when a billboard warning that "Chiropractic Adjustments Can Kill or Permanently Disable You" appeared in the parking lot of an Italian restaurant in New Haven. The billboard referred passersby to the now-infamous Web site Neck911USA.com. Although unified chiropractic action led to the removal of the sign, an organization calling itself the Chiropractic Stroke Victims Awareness Group surfaced and took the anti-chiropractic campaign several steps further, not only posting a new billboard in downtown Hartford, but also placing an advertisement in the Hartford Courant calling chiropractic adjustments unsafe. The group also ran ads on public buses routed through 12 Connecticut cities - including, ironically, Bridgeport, home to the University of Bridgeport College of Chiropractic. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54494 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

Justice R. Paul Belzil of the Alberta Court of Queen's Bench has denied certification of a $529 million class-action suit filed in 2008 against Alberta chiropractor Dr. Gregory Stiles and the Alberta College and Association of Chiropractors (ACAC). Filed by Sandra and David Nette, the suit alleged that a 2007 adjustment by Stiles left her paralyzed. According to a Jan. 15 article in the Edmonton Sun reporting on Justice Belzil's ruling,1 the suit specifically alleged that Dr. Stiles' "prescribed upper-neck adjustments ruptured Sandra's right and left vertebral arteries, which disrupted blood flow to her brain and caused a cascade of strokes, resulting in permanent neurological damage."

By Editorial Staff Justice R. Paul Belzil of the Alberta Court of Queen's Bench has denied certification of a $529 million class-action suit filed in 2008 against Alberta chiropractor Dr. Gregory Stiles and the Alberta College and Association of Chiropractors (ACAC). Filed by Sandra and David Nette, the suit alleged that a 2007 adjustment by Stiles left her paralyzed. According to a Jan. 15 article in the Edmonton Sun reporting on Justice Belzil's ruling,1 the suit specifically alleged that Dr. Stiles' "prescribed upper-neck adjustments ruptured Sandra's right and left vertebral arteries, which disrupted blood flow to her brain and caused a cascade of strokes, resulting in permanent neurological damage." tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54526 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

Research Abstracts From the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. January Abstracts Volume 33, Issue 1.

Research Abstracts From the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. January Abstracts Volume 33, Issue 1. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54527 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

NYCC Faculty, Jean-Nicolas Poirier, DC, DACBR, CCPS, Named to VA Teaching Positions. Five doctors of chiropractic received the Chiropractor of the Year Award during the recent Parker Seminar in Las Vegas. Appreciating the Beauty of Chiropractic Diversity.

By Editorial Staff NYCC Faculty, Jean-Nicolas Poirier, DC, DACBR, CCPS, Named to VA Teaching Positions. Five doctors of chiropractic received the Chiropractor of the Year Award during the recent Parker Seminar in Las Vegas. Appreciating the Beauty of Chiropractic Diversity. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54528 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

Dr. Maylon Drake, former president of Los Angeles College of Chiropractic, passed away on Monday, Jan. 18, 2010, at the age of 89. Also on Jan. 18, the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners announced the October 2009 passing of Dr. Gordon Holman, the board's first executive director.

By Editorial Staff Dr. Maylon Drake, former president of Los Angeles College of Chiropractic, passed away on Monday, Jan. 18, 2010, at the age of 89. Also on Jan. 18, the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners announced the October 2009 passing of Dr. Gordon Holman, the board's first executive director. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54531 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

Chiro-Spam: Reflecting Poorly on Our Profession. Dear Editor: We are certain that everyone in the chiropractic profession is barraged by spam - useless and intrusive e-mail. Everyone with an e-mail address likely receives offers for cheap drugs, get-rich-quick schemes, sex-oriented advertisements, and other garbage. Weeding though these e-mails is a major annoyance and leaves one wondering who actually replies to them, since without responses those sending them would eventually stop.

Chiro-Spam: Reflecting Poorly on Our Profession. Dear Editor: We are certain that everyone in the chiropractic profession is barraged by spam - useless and intrusive e-mail. Everyone with an e-mail address likely receives offers for cheap drugs, get-rich-quick schemes, sex-oriented advertisements, and other garbage. Weeding though these e-mails is a major annoyance and leaves one wondering who actually replies to them, since without responses those sending them would eventually stop. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54535 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

Our understanding of the biomechanics and neurology of the subluxation continues to evolve as more research is published which helps explain the nature of this lesion. Historically, the subluxation has been at the heart of the identity and purpose of the chiropractic profession. Contemporary models provide new insights into this elusive and sometimes mysterious problem which we attempt to find by various clinical means and correct by the application of high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts. Let's review past models, but focus primarily on the latest evidence concerning the subluxation published in the recent scientific literature in order to improve our understanding, insight, and application of clinical interventions to improve patient outcomes with chiropractic care.

By Malik Slosberg, DC, MS Our understanding of the biomechanics and neurology of the subluxation continues to evolve as more research is published which helps explain the nature of this lesion. Historically, the subluxation has been at the heart of the identity and purpose of the chiropractic profession. Contemporary models provide new insights into this elusive and sometimes mysterious problem which we attempt to find by various clinical means and correct by the application of high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts. Let's review past models, but focus primarily on the latest evidence concerning the subluxation published in the recent scientific literature in order to improve our understanding, insight, and application of clinical interventions to improve patient outcomes with chiropractic care. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54537 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

I ran some numbers recently to see what it would take to accumulate a million dollars. I call this the Million-Dollar Matrix. If you are age 35 and could earn 8 percent per year, you could build a fund of $1 million by age 65, if you deposited $667 per month. Thirty years to build $1 million, assuming you have put the money in a qualified retirement plan, since there are no taxes due every year on the interest earned.

By Stanley Greenfield, RHU I ran some numbers recently to see what it would take to accumulate a million dollars. I call this the Million-Dollar Matrix. If you are age 35 and could earn 8 percent per year, you could build a fund of $1 million by age 65, if you deposited $667 per month. Thirty years to build $1 million, assuming you have put the money in a qualified retirement plan, since there are no taxes due every year on the interest earned. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54540 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

I was watching one of those crazy legal shows the other night, and when the witness put their hand on the Bible and stated they were "going to tell the truth, so help me God," I had a thought. What if people really knew the truth about the potential impact spinal adjustments have on neurological function and how chiropractic care can help so many people with so many different health concerns?

By Scott Darragh, DC, MPH, MT (ASCP); guest author for Rand Baird, DC, MPH, FICA, FICC I was watching one of those crazy legal shows the other night, and when the witness put their hand on the Bible and stated they were "going to tell the truth, so help me God," I had a thought. What if people really knew the truth about the potential impact spinal adjustments have on neurological function and how chiropractic care can help so many people with so many different health concerns? tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54424 2010-02-26T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-26T12:00:07-07:00

Integrated care has been defined as: "a discrete set of techniques and organizational models designed to create connectivity, alignment and collaboration within and between the cure and care sectors. ... The focus is on patients' needs as provided by an interdisciplinary team." Meanwhile, according to Bell, "Using the term integrative medicine to refer to the merging of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) with conventional biomedicine (combination medicine) is not integrative. Integrative medicine represents a higher-order system of systems of care that emphasize wellness and healing of the entire person as primary goals."

By David J. Brunarski, DC, MSc, FCCS(C), Associate Editor Integrated care has been defined as: "a discrete set of techniques and organizational models designed to create connectivity, alignment and collaboration within and between the cure and care sectors. ... The focus is on patients' needs as provided by an interdisciplinary team." Meanwhile, according to Bell, "Using the term integrative medicine to refer to the merging of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) with conventional biomedicine (combination medicine) is not integrative. Integrative medicine represents a higher-order system of systems of care that emphasize wellness and healing of the entire person as primary goals." tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54454 2010-02-26T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-26T12:00:07-07:00

New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine signed new scope-of-practice legislation on Jan. 18, 2010 - just one day before being defeated in his quest for re-election - updating a practice statute considered antiquated and overly restrictive by the Association of New Jersey Chiropractors (ANJC) and many other DCs in the state. The signing marks the first time New Jersey's scope-of-practice regulations have been amended since 1953.

By Editorial Staff New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine signed new scope-of-practice legislation on Jan. 18, 2010 - just one day before being defeated in his quest for re-election - updating a practice statute considered antiquated and overly restrictive by the Association of New Jersey Chiropractors (ANJC) and many other DCs in the state. The signing marks the first time New Jersey's scope-of-practice regulations have been amended since 1953. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54500 2010-02-26T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-26T12:00:07-07:00

The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (FCP) has come a long way since its inception less than five years ago. The FCP has grown exponentially and continues to work toward its goal of creating more positive press about chiropractic. In fact, in 2009 alone, the foundation generated over 328 million media impressions - an impressive number in the world of media relations. However, the work isn't finished and the goals haven't been fully achieved yet. We need your help to reach more people and tell them about the many benefits of chiropractic care. Let's review some of what we achieved last year and get a glimpse of what's planned this year.

By Kent Greenawalt The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (FCP) has come a long way since its inception less than five years ago. The FCP has grown exponentially and continues to work toward its goal of creating more positive press about chiropractic. In fact, in 2009 alone, the foundation generated over 328 million media impressions - an impressive number in the world of media relations. However, the work isn't finished and the goals haven't been fully achieved yet. We need your help to reach more people and tell them about the many benefits of chiropractic care. Let's review some of what we achieved last year and get a glimpse of what's planned this year. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54506 2010-02-26T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-26T12:00:07-07:00

We have written in the past about what we call "the modern chiropractor." This concept was based on a JMPT article by Dr. David Seaman. In his article, Dr. Seaman outlined various treatment options for practicing chiropractors; the components included adjustments, stretching of shortened muscles, low-tech rehab, a soft-tissue technique for trigger points and adhesions, and anti-inflammatory nutrition. We have been teaching this model for quite sometime now and utilizing it in our own practices. It is not necessarily easy to become proficient at these various components, as each one in and of itself is an art and a science requiring time and effort for mastery, but the payoff is a focused practice that can help the most people effectively. Let's take a look at each element, all the while asking ourselves the question: What's the focus of my practice?

By Mark A. King, DC and Steve W. King, DC We have written in the past about what we call "the modern chiropractor." This concept was based on a JMPT article by Dr. David Seaman. In his article, Dr. Seaman outlined various treatment options for practicing chiropractors; the components included adjustments, stretching of shortened muscles, low-tech rehab, a soft-tissue technique for trigger points and adhesions, and anti-inflammatory nutrition. We have been teaching this model for quite sometime now and utilizing it in our own practices. It is not necessarily easy to become proficient at these various components, as each one in and of itself is an art and a science requiring time and effort for mastery, but the payoff is a focused practice that can help the most people effectively. Let's take a look at each element, all the while asking ourselves the question: What's the focus of my practice? tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54508 2010-02-26T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-26T12:00:07-07:00

Life West Faculty Member Leads Chiropractic Team to Cambodia. While the plight of Haiti has been on everyone's minds for the past few months as the earthquake-torn country and its people have fought for their very survival, it's important to remember that other countries are in dire need of our help, not just financially but in terms of chiropractic.

By Editorial Staff Life West Faculty Member Leads Chiropractic Team to Cambodia. While the plight of Haiti has been on everyone's minds for the past few months as the earthquake-torn country and its people have fought for their very survival, it's important to remember that other countries are in dire need of our help, not just financially but in terms of chiropractic. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54510 2010-02-26T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-26T12:00:07-07:00

Letters from our readers: We Offer Our Congratulations and Thanks, Praising Dr. Moe and the ProAdjuster, Curing Addiction With a Holistic Approach.

Letters from our readers: We Offer Our Congratulations and Thanks, Praising Dr. Moe and the ProAdjuster, Curing Addiction With a Holistic Approach. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54511 2010-02-26T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-26T12:00:07-07:00

The following reports are reprinted with permission from the World Federation of Chiropractic's latest Quarterly World Report (December 2009).

The following reports are reprinted with permission from the World Federation of Chiropractic's latest Quarterly World Report (December 2009). tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54512 2010-02-26T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-26T12:00:07-07:00

Most of you probably believe that if you follow the rules and run an ethical practice, you have nothing to fear from your state board. In most cases, that is true. However, if your state board has one or more rogue members who are using their powerful positions to further their own personal agendas, look out! I share the following with you in the hopes that you can make the right decisions if a licensing board action is ever filed against you or someone you know.

By James Edwards, DC Most of you probably believe that if you follow the rules and run an ethical practice, you have nothing to fear from your state board. In most cases, that is true. However, if your state board has one or more rogue members who are using their powerful positions to further their own personal agendas, look out! I share the following with you in the hopes that you can make the right decisions if a licensing board action is ever filed against you or someone you know. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54473 2010-02-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-12T12:00:07-07:00

Given a few minutes, the majority of U.S. chiropractors can probably name most, if not all of the 18 chiropractic colleges in the United States. (How many can you name without cheating and looking at the list below?) With few exceptions, most of these colleges have been graduating new doctors of chiropractic for decades, if not longer.

By Donald M. Petersen Jr., BS, HCD(hc), FICC(h), Publisher Given a few minutes, the majority of U.S. chiropractors can probably name most, if not all of the 18 chiropractic colleges in the United States. (How many can you name without cheating and looking at the list below?) With few exceptions, most of these colleges have been graduating new doctors of chiropractic for decades, if not longer. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54474 2010-02-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-12T12:00:07-07:00

Question: I am concerned about billing for modalities, as they seem more likely to be denied than paid. What can I do to get paid, and is there something else I should be doing to help the process?

By Samuel A. Collins Question: I am concerned about billing for modalities, as they seem more likely to be denied than paid. What can I do to get paid, and is there something else I should be doing to help the process? tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54484 2010-02-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-12T12:00:07-07:00

We Are Primary Care Doctors Dear Editor: They say to write what you know. I know this: This isn't working. There was a time when chiropractors could expect to make a decent living treating their patients. We do, after all, get people better. But over the past decade, at least, we make less money each year. I obviously didn't get into this for the money. But it would be nice to be able to pay for my children to attend college.

We Are Primary Care Doctors Dear Editor: They say to write what you know. I know this: This isn't working. There was a time when chiropractors could expect to make a decent living treating their patients. We do, after all, get people better. But over the past decade, at least, we make less money each year. I obviously didn't get into this for the money. But it would be nice to be able to pay for my children to attend college. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54487 2010-02-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-12T12:00:07-07:00

There is general agreement throughout chiropractic that we are a drugless profession. The Association of Chiropractic Colleges Paradigm, adopted by most major chiropractic organizations including the ACA, ICA, WCA, and WFC, states emphatically: "Chiropractic is a health care discipline which emphasizes the inherent recuperative power of the body to heal itself without the use of drugs or surgery." Yet there is an insidious movement within our profession to incorporate the use of prescription drugs, including injectables, in patient care.

By Christopher Kent, DC, Esq. There is general agreement throughout chiropractic that we are a drugless profession. The Association of Chiropractic Colleges Paradigm, adopted by most major chiropractic organizations including the ACA, ICA, WCA, and WFC, states emphatically: "Chiropractic is a health care discipline which emphasizes the inherent recuperative power of the body to heal itself without the use of drugs or surgery." Yet there is an insidious movement within our profession to incorporate the use of prescription drugs, including injectables, in patient care. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54488 2010-02-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-02-12T12:00:07-07:00

Dr. W. Karl Parker passed away on Christmas night at the age of 68 following an 18-month battle with cancer. He died peacefully, surrounded by family.

By Editorial Staff Dr. W. Karl Parker passed away on Christmas night at the age of 68 following an 18-month battle with cancer. He died peacefully, surrounded by family. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-53888 2010-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

It has become increasingly apparent that the value and efficacy of health care professionals will continue to be measured by the degree to which they adhere to evidence-based practices. Government, third-party payers, stakeholders and patients expect treatment or interventions to be based on evidence that supports effectiveness in achieving desired outcomes with minimal negative consequences.

By David J. Brunarski, DC, MSc, FCCS(C), Associate Editor It has become increasingly apparent that the value and efficacy of health care professionals will continue to be measured by the degree to which they adhere to evidence-based practices. Government, third-party payers, stakeholders and patients expect treatment or interventions to be based on evidence that supports effectiveness in achieving desired outcomes with minimal negative consequences. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54439 2010-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

Open this or any other chiropractic publication and you will see ads for different companies and organizations guaranteeing to boost your referrals, patient count and patient volume. Arguably, getting new patients is a good thing - but what do you do to meet the needs of that patient once they walk through your door? All too often, patients complain that their doctor is "just too busy" or "just doesn't listen." It doesn't matter how many new people come through your door - if you don't take the time to listen to a patient, understand their complaints and concerns, and hear what they are actually saying, you won't succeed in practice.

By Douglas R. Briggs, DC, Dipl. Ac. (IAMA), DAAPM Open this or any other chiropractic publication and you will see ads for different companies and organizations guaranteeing to boost your referrals, patient count and patient volume. Arguably, getting new patients is a good thing - but what do you do to meet the needs of that patient once they walk through your door? All too often, patients complain that their doctor is "just too busy" or "just doesn't listen." It doesn't matter how many new people come through your door - if you don't take the time to listen to a patient, understand their complaints and concerns, and hear what they are actually saying, you won't succeed in practice. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54440 2010-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

Research Abstracts From the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Nov/Dec 2009 Abstracts Volume 32, Issue 9.

Research Abstracts From the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Nov/Dec 2009 Abstracts Volume 32, Issue 9. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54444 2010-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

In his expansive creativity, the jazz legend Duke Ellington often crossed traditional boundaries in his music, composing many pieces for big-band outfits that had strong classical overtones and as such, transcended the usual formats associated with just jazz. Indeed, it can be argued that Ellington may have given birth to the "third stream" compositions left to us by John Wilson and others. Ellington himself liked to refer to his music as "beyond category."

By Anthony Rosner, PhD In his expansive creativity, the jazz legend Duke Ellington often crossed traditional boundaries in his music, composing many pieces for big-band outfits that had strong classical overtones and as such, transcended the usual formats associated with just jazz. Indeed, it can be argued that Ellington may have given birth to the "third stream" compositions left to us by John Wilson and others. Ellington himself liked to refer to his music as "beyond category." tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54448 2010-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

When I was in college in the '60s, I bought a Super 8 mm camera. I was 19 years old. Being 19 with a movie camera was, of course, a dangerous combination. I took films of parties, some of which showed guys displaying their derrieres, and coeds (that means "college girls" in today's vernacular) getting sick after too many rum and cokes. On occasion, I dreamed up a funny scenario and directed my mostly inebriated and willing peers in a lampoon of some TV game show or deodorant commercial.

By John Hanks, DC When I was in college in the '60s, I bought a Super 8 mm camera. I was 19 years old. Being 19 with a movie camera was, of course, a dangerous combination. I took films of parties, some of which showed guys displaying their derrieres, and coeds (that means "college girls" in today's vernacular) getting sick after too many rum and cokes. On occasion, I dreamed up a funny scenario and directed my mostly inebriated and willing peers in a lampoon of some TV game show or deodorant commercial. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54452 2010-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

It is easy to sail a straight course when heading downwind with a steady breeze; doing so hardly tests one's seamanship. The same can be said to be true for life and particularly for the purpose of this discussion, our profession of chiropractic. When everything is going our way, it is easy to follow a moral course of action. When your moral compass is pointing in the same direction as the easy, direct course to your goal, your moral fiber isn't tested at all. Posing hypothetical moral dilemmas to someone who is on a straight and easy course will usually result in answers that appear to show good moral development and strong moral fiber.

By Stephen M. Perle, DC, MS It is easy to sail a straight course when heading downwind with a steady breeze; doing so hardly tests one's seamanship. The same can be said to be true for life and particularly for the purpose of this discussion, our profession of chiropractic. When everything is going our way, it is easy to follow a moral course of action. When your moral compass is pointing in the same direction as the easy, direct course to your goal, your moral fiber isn't tested at all. Posing hypothetical moral dilemmas to someone who is on a straight and easy course will usually result in answers that appear to show good moral development and strong moral fiber. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54423 2010-01-15T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-15T12:00:07-07:00

In "Pro-Solutions Sued for Breach of Contract" [Nov. 18 DC] Dr. Maurice Pisciottano states that "patient education by Visual Odyssey and Bruce Goldsmith and by Dr. Pisciottano" is one of the key components involved in "most all of the packages we have offered our customers:." As the president of Visual Odyssey since 1976 (when I began making the Neuropatholator electronic wall chart and the company was called Space Odyssey, Ltd.), I would like to correct and clarify Dr. Pisciottano's statement so it is a more accurate reflection of [his] actual contribution to the Visual Odyssey software ROF package. The software that has been available as part of the ProAdjuster equipment package is 100% the creation of Visual Odyssey.

In "Pro-Solutions Sued for Breach of Contract" [Nov. 18 DC] Dr. Maurice Pisciottano states that "patient education by Visual Odyssey and Bruce Goldsmith and by Dr. Pisciottano" is one of the key components involved in "most all of the packages we have offered our customers:." As the president of Visual Odyssey since 1976 (when I began making the Neuropatholator electronic wall chart and the company was called Space Odyssey, Ltd.), I would like to correct and clarify Dr. Pisciottano's statement so it is a more accurate reflection of [his] actual contribution to the Visual Odyssey software ROF package. The software that has been available as part of the ProAdjuster equipment package is 100% the creation of Visual Odyssey. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54427 2010-01-15T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-15T12:00:07-07:00

"There are people who need health care, and the question is what should health care look like to best serve our populations and so that our members [patients] enjoy what the World Health Organization describes as 'physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease.' There are many determinants of health, so we must look beyond the sole practitioner and the professions and investigate these complex models."

By Editorial Staff "There are people who need health care, and the question is what should health care look like to best serve our populations and so that our members [patients] enjoy what the World Health Organization describes as 'physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease.' There are many determinants of health, so we must look beyond the sole practitioner and the professions and investigate these complex models." tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54327 2010-01-01T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-01T12:00:07-07:00

In the age of evidence-informed patient choice, the patient has access to research-based information about the effectiveness of health care options and is encouraged to use this information in treatment decisions. However, a majority of patients do not trust new research evidence due to a lack of familiarity with the researchers, the media's presentation of controversy in research and a lack of trust of the health care establishment in general.

By David J. Brunarski, DC, MSc, FCCS(C), Associate Editor In the age of evidence-informed patient choice, the patient has access to research-based information about the effectiveness of health care options and is encouraged to use this information in treatment decisions. However, a majority of patients do not trust new research evidence due to a lack of familiarity with the researchers, the media's presentation of controversy in research and a lack of trust of the health care establishment in general. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54369 2010-01-01T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-01T12:00:07-07:00

Almost 30 chiropractors practicing in some six different countries gathered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on the last weekend in November for the inaugural Chiropractic Workshop presented by the International Medical University (IMU). The head of the new chiropractic program at IMU, Professor Michael Haneline, hosted the two-day meeting, which presented 12 hours of cutting-edge continuing professional development for practitioners in the region. Delegates attended from Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Australia and other countries.

Almost 30 chiropractors practicing in some six different countries gathered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on the last weekend in November for the inaugural Chiropractic Workshop presented by the International Medical University (IMU). The head of the new chiropractic program at IMU, Professor Michael Haneline, hosted the two-day meeting, which presented 12 hours of cutting-edge continuing professional development for practitioners in the region. Delegates attended from Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Australia and other countries. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54388 2010-01-01T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-01T12:00:07-07:00

The laser was theorized by Einstein in 1917 and invented by Maiman in 1960. Its unique property of light waves being coherent in space and in time led many to theorize that it could be a damaging form of electromagnetic radiation. Dr. Endre Mester conducted experiments on mice afflicted with skin cancer in 1967 and found that shaved areas grew hair more rapidly when exposed to low levels of laser light.

By Phil Harrington, DC The laser was theorized by Einstein in 1917 and invented by Maiman in 1960. Its unique property of light waves being coherent in space and in time led many to theorize that it could be a damaging form of electromagnetic radiation. Dr. Endre Mester conducted experiments on mice afflicted with skin cancer in 1967 and found that shaved areas grew hair more rapidly when exposed to low levels of laser light. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54390 2010-01-01T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-01T12:00:07-07:00

Every new year brings about updates and changes to the current coding structures for both diagnosis (ICD-9) and procedure (CPT) codes, and this year does have some changes. However, they are very minor with respect to the common codes and services used by chiropractic providers.

By Samuel A. Collins Every new year brings about updates and changes to the current coding structures for both diagnosis (ICD-9) and procedure (CPT) codes, and this year does have some changes. However, they are very minor with respect to the common codes and services used by chiropractic providers. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54391 2010-01-01T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-01T12:00:07-07:00

Something significant is happening in our country. These are historic times and the spotlight on health care is unprecedented. We should all be paying close attention because chiropractic may be poised for widespread acceptance and access. Why? Because chiropractic is an effective preventive treatment that can save millions, possibly billions, of dollars in heath care costs. What is unclear is the level to which our nation's leaders will embrace reasonable change in any "new" health care system.

By Michael Flynn, DC Something significant is happening in our country. These are historic times and the spotlight on health care is unprecedented. We should all be paying close attention because chiropractic may be poised for widespread acceptance and access. Why? Because chiropractic is an effective preventive treatment that can save millions, possibly billions, of dollars in heath care costs. What is unclear is the level to which our nation's leaders will embrace reasonable change in any "new" health care system. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54399 2010-01-01T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-01T12:00:07-07:00

Fraud? Let's Not Be So Hasty. I am starting to get annoyed by the numerous articles and letters speaking about chiropractors involved in insurance fraud. Allegations of insurance fraud are serious accusations, ones which should not be taken lightly. There are certainly more accusations of insurance fraud against chiropractors by the insurance industry. However, we must realize that insurers' definition of fraud may be a self-serving redefinition of normal chiropractic practices. Obviously, they are on the other side of the fence and want to keep (or have refunded) more of the chiropractor's money.

Fraud? Let's Not Be So Hasty. I am starting to get annoyed by the numerous articles and letters speaking about chiropractors involved in insurance fraud. Allegations of insurance fraud are serious accusations, ones which should not be taken lightly. There are certainly more accusations of insurance fraud against chiropractors by the insurance industry. However, we must realize that insurers' definition of fraud may be a self-serving redefinition of normal chiropractic practices. Obviously, they are on the other side of the fence and want to keep (or have refunded) more of the chiropractor's money. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54400 2010-01-01T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-01T12:00:07-07:00

At first blush, the word self-defense brings to mind an individual who reacts to being beset upon by another person. With just cause, the individual doing the defending can exercise reasonable and justifiable means to protect themselves and to ensure that an assault is avoided or stopped. But there is also a different kind of self-defense, the kind that doesn't involve an individual faced with an attempted or actual physical assault. I'm talking about a professional, for the purposes of this discussion a health care professional, who is faced with an allegation of misconduct or professional negligence.

By Allan Freedman, LLB At first blush, the word self-defense brings to mind an individual who reacts to being beset upon by another person. With just cause, the individual doing the defending can exercise reasonable and justifiable means to protect themselves and to ensure that an assault is avoided or stopped. But there is also a different kind of self-defense, the kind that doesn't involve an individual faced with an attempted or actual physical assault. I'm talking about a professional, for the purposes of this discussion a health care professional, who is faced with an allegation of misconduct or professional negligence. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54405 2010-01-01T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-01T12:00:07-07:00

Psychology professor Keith E. Stanovich coined the term dysrationalia to describe the inability to think and behave rationally despite adequate intelligence. In so doing, he has attempted to answer the question of why intelligent people do stupid things. Stanovich notes two causes of dysrationalia. The first is that people tend to be "cognitive misers" who, while having the ability to employ complex cognitive mechanisms, tend to take the easy way out when solving problems. This often results in solutions that are illogical and wrong. The second cause is what Stanovich calls the "mindware gap." This occurs when people lack the specific knowledge, rules and strategies needed to think rationally.

By Christopher Kent, DC, Esq. Psychology professor Keith E. Stanovich coined the term dysrationalia to describe the inability to think and behave rationally despite adequate intelligence. In so doing, he has attempted to answer the question of why intelligent people do stupid things. Stanovich notes two causes of dysrationalia. The first is that people tend to be "cognitive misers" who, while having the ability to employ complex cognitive mechanisms, tend to take the easy way out when solving problems. This often results in solutions that are illogical and wrong. The second cause is what Stanovich calls the "mindware gap." This occurs when people lack the specific knowledge, rules and strategies needed to think rationally.