Chiropractor Allan Gotlib CM Honored with Members of the Order of Canada Appointment

by: DrTirpak posted: July 02, 2012

Thornhill Ontario Chiropractor Allan Gotlib DC was made a member of the O.C. for his contributions to advancing research in the chiropractic profession and its interprofessional integration.

(For the American Audience) The Order of Canada is a Canadian national order, admission into which is the second highest honor for merit. Bestowed every year of July 1^st, Canada Day, to recognizes the achievement of outstanding merit or distinguished service by Canadians who made a major difference to Canada through lifelong contributions in every field of endeavor, as well as the efforts made by non-Canadians who have made the world better by their actions.

In an interview about receiving the honor Dr. Gotlib stated “Don’t let someone tell you it can’t be done. Dream to succeed — then work hard!”

Dr. Gotlib graduated from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) in 1976,  then practiced in Toronto until 1997. His many distinguished job titles have included: professor at CMCC for 25 years, editor-in-chief of the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association (JCCA), Director of research with the Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA),  and President of the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO).

He was instrumental in many multidisciplinary projects and partnerships with federal Canadian agencies and universities across Canada in order to build millions of dollars for research opportunities and credibility for Chiropractic. Allan Gotlib, DC was pivotal in establishing the Chiropractic Research Chairs at the University of Calgary, University of Toronto, and the University of Alberta. He also aided in the  partnership with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to establish Chiropractors with fellowship, doctoral, New Investigator awards. 

Dr. Gotlib has over 15 peer-reviewed published papers to his credit. He was the first Chiropractic member of the Canadian Pediatric Society.  He is past chair of the Chiropractic Research Journal Editors Council (CRJEC), an international consortium that sets standards for scholarly publications.  In addition, he is a member of the World Association of Medical Editors (WAME), and the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA). Currently he is Director of Research and Editor of the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association at can be reached at agotlib@chiropracticcanada.ca.

Virginia Board of Medicine Elects First Chiropractor as President

by: DrTirpak posted: June 28, 2012

Dr. Valerie Lowe Hoffman of Danville Virginia was the first Chiropractor elected to the office of president of the Virginia Board of Medicine in Richmond on July 21st 2012. The Board is comprised of 17 members and Dr. Hoffman is the only Chiropractor. She has served on the board since 2005 when she was appointed by then Governor Mark Warner. Her other positions on the board have included secretary, treasurer and vice-president.

Dr. Valerie Hoffman a graduate of Life University practices in Danville VA, is a Fellow of both the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners and Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards, also she is an associate member the Federation of State Medical Boards. Dr. Hoffman is also a former member of the test writing committee and examiner for National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.

Chiropractic Co-Pay Equality Starts July 1 in Iowa

by: DrTirpak posted: June 28, 2012

In Iowa starting July 1st Chiropractic Patient Co-Pay goes into law (HR 2465). Iowa Governor Terry Branstad signed the law May 25, 2012. It does not allow insurance companies to charge a higher co-pay or co-insurance for a visit to the chiropractor compared to that or a primary care physician.

According to the Iowa Chiropractic Society: The Co-Pay Law will not apply to patients enrolled in self-funded employer plans. A self-funded health insurance plan is subject to and under the jurisdiction of federal ERISA Guidelines, not State. The Iowa Department of Insurance estimates that only 30% of insured in Iowa are subject to State Guidelines. The remaining 70% of the insured are subject to ERISA.

 Iowa Chiropractic Society Chiropractic Continuing Education Seminars on CE Cruncher

Visit CE Cruncher at the Logan College Alumni Association Homecoming and Midwest Conference

by: DrTirpak posted: June 22, 2012

CE Cruncher is excited to announce their participation at the Logan College Alumni Association Homecoming and Midwest Conference June 21-24 2012. This marks the launch of our newest campaign, ‘Lost in the Jungle of Continuing Education’.

CECruncher.com can be found at booth 47 in Mabee Hall North. Stop by and take your picture in the ‘Jungle’ and use the opportunity to boost your social media exposure. Owner Dr. Amy Tirpak, Jenn Dettmann (Director of Advertising), along with Essie Singer (Provider Assistance) will be on hand to answer any questions and help show Chiropractors how not to get lost in the jungle of chiropractic continuing education.

Beyond chiropractic continuing education the weekend includes campus tours, a golf tournament and a live performance by American Idol finalist Nikko Smith, as well as plenty of chiropractic suppliers and educators from Logan College of Chiropractic University Programs.

Logan Alumni Association under the direction of Dr. Kimberly Hartmann supports Logan College of Chiropractic by providing continuing education, referral of student prospects, financial support, scholarships, student research and clinic awards, and communication and service to alumni and students. Membership dues, homecoming fees, and donations provide the association with income to support all activities and programs.

Highmark Will Require Prior Authorization for Chiropractic

by: DrTirpak posted: June 21, 2012

Health insurer Highmark Inc. will require prior authorization for chiropractor services starting September 1^st in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Pre-authorization will be required only after the eighth visit for a particular types of services in a calendar year. The policy applies to all Highmark members insured through employer-based group, as well as individual members and Medicare Advantage members.

Chiropractors know from other insurers that this is just an arbitrary cutoff, created to limit costs and create more hoops for DC’s to jump through to get reimbursed. The real losers are patients that pay for health insurance only to have their coverage limited, not based on their needs but insurance companies’ cost cutting measures.

The company set the new threshold for therapy and chiropractic visits at eight because Highmark's data show that "nearly two-thirds of members have their needs met and resolved within eight visits," according to a June 19th press release from the company.

They also claimed “data for some practices during the past two years shows chiropractic care is the second highest paid service for members, second only to cardiac care. The company spent about $200 million in 2010 on chiropractic, occupational therapy and physical therapy payment -- $100 million for chiropractic-related services, and almost $100 million more in occupational and physical therapy reimbursement. “

The outgoing president of the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association, John Carrin DC stated."They're going to be eliminating care for patients who may need it, [based] on computer algorithms,"

Highmark Inc., based in Pittsburgh, is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans. Highmark serves 4.9 million members in Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Ban on Allergy Treatments by Chiropractors Bill Dropped in California

by: DrTirpak posted: June 21, 2012

California Sen. Bob Huff,  a Republican serving Diamond Bar, dropped legislation that would ban chiropractors from using lasers to treat allergies. Senate Bill 352 was introduced two months ago as a reaction to one of his staffers taking her child to a chiropractor for allergies. It had passed the state Senate and was pending in the state Assembly.

"It sounds a lot like 21st century snake oil," said Senator Bob Huff

On May 14 in response the California Board of Chiropractic Examiners passed regulations limiting the use of lasers by Chiropractors to only FDA approved or cleared uses. The regulation also limits the use to a Chiropractor’s scope of practice and includes, but is not limited to, laser ablation or surgical procedures, and laser treatment of allergies. The board stated the rules will be effective as of July 14.

The California Board of Chiropractic Examiners has never received consumer complaints about use of laser therapies for allergies. They stated that the regulation is part of an ongoing effort to bring regulations up to speed with new technologies.

Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida Offers New Dual Degree Partnership

by: DrTirpak posted: June 18, 2012

Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida in Port Orange Florida has signed a dual-degree program agreement with the Methodist affiliated Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach Florida.

The 3+1 program was designed by Palmer College of Chiropractic to help students attain their degrees and foster cooperation between undergraduate institutions. The agreement was signed last week by Bethune-Cookman Interim President Edison Jackson and Palmer College Florida campus President Peter Martin DC.

The program will begin the first semester of 2012-2013. It will offer a bachelor degree in science with a biology or chemistry emphasis from Bethune-Cookman University and a doctor of chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida to qualified students.

The 3+1 program allows students to start with three years of education at Bethune-Cookman University, then transfer to the Doctor of Chiropractic program at Palmer Chiropractic College Florida. During their first year of study the students will also receive credit for completion of their fourth year at Bethune-Cookman by transferring their Palmer D.C. credits back in order to complete their undergraduate degree.

"The signing of this articulation agreement with the outstanding Palmer College of Chiropractic is a wonderful opportunity for Bethune-Cookman University," Interim President Edison Jackson stated. "Not only is this the beginning of a valuable community partnership, but this agreement serves as a terrific enhancement to the growing academic programs we are able to offer our students."

In Florida Daytona State College also offers the program along with numerous other institution around the country. For more information about Palmer 3+1 partnerships.

From The Clash to Chiropractor

Terry Chimes DC

by: DrTirpak posted: June 15, 2012

Most of the world knows Terry Chimes as the drummer for the punk band The Clash.  Today Dr. Terry Chimes as a new image as a successful chiropractor and practice management consultant.

In 1976 Terry Chimes was the drummer and one of the  founding members of one of Britain’s first punk bands, The Clash. Later he played the drums with Billy Idol, Black Sabbath and many others. Honored in 2003 by being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Chiropractor  Terry Chimes second career started after he graduated from Anglo-European College of Chiropractic (AECC)  and the London School of Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine. He currently is the Senior Doctor and owner of Chimes Chiropractic with offices in South Woodford and Waltham Abbey. Dr. Chimes also owns Chiropractic Heaven a practice management and chiropractic seminar company. In July he is offering a lecture with Dr. Sigafoose in London.

.Health Might be Coming

by: DrTirpak posted: June 14, 2012

Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) just announced the latest submissions for gTLD (generic Top Level Domain). The most common gTLDs are .com, .net, .org and many others. The new gTLD application window that ran from January 12, 2012 to May 30^th, and all of the gTLDs applied for during this round announced were from their press conference in London. 1,930 top-level domain applications were applied for from .AAA (American Automobile Association) to .zippo and don’t forget .Health .

The corporation DotHealth LLC submitted the .Health application and requeset to administer the domain registry once it is approved. A press release http://www.marketwatch.com/story/dothealth-llc-applies-for-health-new-generic-top-level-domain-2012-06-12 dated June 13 stated:

".Health will improve user's ability and confidence to discover, access and utilize health-related information and resources in a trusted and secure environment," says Andy Weissberg, CEO of DotHealth. "With increased adoption of the Internet and its expanded role in strengthening healthcare systems worldwide, we believe that a broad and diverse range of registrants will value .Health as an attractive solution for promoting and delivering their products and services."

To ensure that launch and operations of the .Health registry are aligned with the needs and interests of health stakeholders, DotHealth has secured affirmations of policy support from numerous health sciences industry organizations throughout the world, including: the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, The Inter-American College of Physicians and Surgeons, The Association of Black Cardiologists, The Regulatory Harmonization Institute and The World Federation of Chiropractic, a non-governmental organization or NGO in official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO). Collectively, these organizations represent the interests of hundreds of thousands of physicians, pharmacists, nurses, complementary and alternative healthcare professionals, insurance providers, hospitals, integrated delivery systems, manufacturers and service providers spanning numerous segments of the global healthcare ecosystem.

A 60 day comment period has begun on the applications and it will take 9 to 20 months to process them. ICANN will divide and evaluate applications in batches of about 500 with the first to go live between April and June 2013.

New Chiropractic and Alternative Medicine Guidelines in Bahrain

by: DrTirpak posted: June 14, 2012

The National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) board has issued new directives to control the sale and prescription of traditional, complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM) following concern about the credibility of some businesses.

NHRA board vice-chairman Dr Kasim Aradati and NHRA chief executive officer Dr Bahaa Eldin Fateha attended the event.

Dr Fateha said a list of approved specialities of TCAM, based on World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines, had been approved for TCAM in Bahrain.

"These include 13 specialities with proven effectiveness on health and in relieving or treating diseases," Dr Fateha said.

Dr Fateha said the approved specialities included acupuncture, Ayurveda, siddha, massage therapy, chiropractic, herbal therapy, homoeopathy, naturopathy, osteopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Japanese medicine, traditional Mongolian medicine and Unani medicine.

Chiropractic Continuing Education  and Infomation in the Middle East: Eastern Mediterranean & Middle East Chiropractic Federation

New Novel by Chiropractor Howard Wasdin, SEAL Team Six Outcasts

by: DrTirpak posted: June 08, 2012

Chiropractor and Former Navy Seal Sniper Howard E. Wasdin just published his latest military novel SEAL Team Six Outcasts co-authored by Stephen Templin. Dr Wasdin  is well known for his first book, SEAL Team Six: Memoirs of an Elite Navy Seal Sniper, a The New York Times bestseller. Also co-written by Stephen Templin, it chronicles his life from a desperate abused child, thorough his years as a navy seal to retirement and his decision to become a chiropractor.

SEAL Team Six Outcasts: Alex Brandenburg: SEAL Chief Petty Officer and Outcasts Team Leader. Disobeyed direct orders by refusing to let a deadly terrorist live to kill another day. Francisco “Pancho” Rodriguez and John Landry: SEAL Petty Officers First Class. Took the pursuit of justice into their own hands with explosive results. Catherine “Cat” Fares. Navy Petty Officer. Holds an unbeatable record for pissing off the top brass with her strongly stated opinions on the combat readiness of women. The team’s mission: Take out the seven terror merchants vying to take Bin Laden’s place. The team’s status: Expendable.  Amaz

Dr. Howard Wasdin is a former Navy SEAL awarded the Silver Star and a Purple Heart Recipient, he medically retired from military service in 1995. Dr. Wasdin graduated Cum Laude with a Doctorate in Chiropractic from Life University in 2009 and currently practices in Jesup Georgia at Absolute Precision Chiropractic. He is also a sought after public speaker lecturing at Texas Chiropractic College, the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress, and the National Chiropractic Legislative Conference.

Alberta Seniors will have Chiropractic Treatment Covered Again

by: DrTirpak posted: June 07, 2012

According to a press release from the Alberta Ministry of Health dated June 6^th, Chiropractic Services will be added to Alberta Seniors' health benefit coverage next month.

On July 1^st More than 450,000 Alberta seniors will be eligible for chiropractic treatment coverage. Health minister Fred Horne said the government had budgeted $7 million to give senior citizens access to chiropractic. Albertans enrolled in the  Provincial Coverage for Seniors health benefit plan will receive $25 per treatment and up to $200 per year. The benefit plan is sponsored by Alberta Health and administered by Alberta Blue Cross.

“Helping seniors to manage their health and well-being in the community is a priority for government,” said Fred Horne, Alberta Minister of Health. “Adding chiropractic coverage will give more seniors access to services that may help them stay active and enjoy a better quality of life.”

In 2009 the Provincial Government discontinue public funding for chiropractic services for the elderly. Heavily impacting the group considering may seniors have minimal if any extended health care coverage. The new funding was a result of the Government of Alberta’s proposed 2012/13 budget.

 “This is a definite win for Albertans,” said Dr. Clark Mills, president of the Alberta College and Association of Chiropractors. “Chiropractic care for seniors supports their desire to lead healthy and independent lives. On behalf of our patients, we appreciate the government’s commitment to choice for Albertans that helps them achieve a healthy lifestyle.”

Well Known Canadian Chiropractor Dr. John Pikula had his License Revoked

by: DrTirpak posted: June 04, 2012

Chiropractor John Pikula  had his license revoked Friday by the College of Chiropractors of Ontario’s disciplinary committee, Ontario’s Chiropractic Regulatory board. The Chiropractor was accused of and admitted to having sexual relations with a patient that was under his care. The patient presented to his office in May of 2004 with neck pain, and he continued to provide treatment for some time. He was concurrently having intimate relations with her.  Her identity is protected under a publication ban issued by the college’s disciplinary panel under the Ontario Regulated Health Professionals Act.

On November 14th 2011 the College presented Dr. Pikula with 15 allegations after an investigation into his conduct while he was treating the patient. Dr. Pikula told The Expositor earlier this year when the hearing date was posted on the college’s website that he’d had a relationship with the complainant and would be admitting to the first allegation. All of the other charges were dropped. He was also required to pay a fee of $12,500 to the CCO to cover a portion of the investigation, legal and hearing costs. He is also liable should his patient claim any counseling or therapy costs.

In 1991 the Registered Health Professions Act (RHPA) was amended to provide zero tolerance toward sexual relationships of any nature between health professionals and their patients.

Court of Appeal for Ontario documents show the same committee in 2009 revoked Chiropractor Dr. Vincent Leering’s , London, license on the same violation. The appeal filing stated he was in a committed relationship with the complainant and was co-habiting with her before he commenced treating her as a patient. The discipline committee of the College of Chiropractors found him guilty of the professional misconduct of sexual abuse, and imposed the mandatory revocation. The Appeals Court upheld the ruling of the College after a lower court had reversed the decision.

 Dr. John Pikula could re-apply for membership in five years’ time, subject to meeting a number of conditions that include mandatory counseling. He would also have to complete training on gender sensitivity, clinical competency and legislation and ethics. He is also barred from communicating with his former patient in any form. His disciplinary record would also be a part of any future application for membership with the college.

According to the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College Website John Pikula, BSc, DC, MSc, DACBR, FCCR(C), FCCS(C), DACBN, FCCO(C), FACO is an Associate Professor in the Division of Chiropractic Clinical Sciences at CMCC. He earned an undergraduate degree in Science at the University of Waterloo, he graduated with a Doctor of Chiropractic at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in 1978, then started a private practice. In 1983 he completed his Masters in Science at the University of Bridgeport, and his fellowships in radiology, chiropractic sciences, nutrition and chiropractic orthopedics. He has contributed several articles to the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association. Since 1999, he has been serving on the board of editors for the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association and the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. He is also a board member at the College of Chiropractic Orthopedists Canada.

Chiropractor Robert Rainey Brutally Murdered in His LA Office

by: DrTirpak posted: June 01, 2012

Los Angeles Chiropractor Robert Rainey was found brutally beaten in his office near Sony Studios Thursday morning around 8 am by a patient.

"Around 8 a.m. one of his patients showed up for their regularly scheduled appointment, walked into the office and found Dr. Rainey lying on the floor. That patient immediately dialed 911," said LAPD Officer Bruce Borihanh.

Dr. Rainey was transported to a hospital by the L.A. Fire Department where he was pronounced dead form his injuries a short time later. The police reported he had a broken jaw and his teeth had been kicked in.

"Detectives have no motive and no suspects. The investigation is ongoing, but they are treating this as a homicide," said Borihanh.

Although Rainey's death "is not believed to be gang-related," he said, "it is being investigated as a homicide."

Dr. Robert Rainey 54 practiced in Culvert City CA for 19 years. A LA native he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from Humboldt State University and a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Cleveland Chiropractic College in 1991. According to his website he was a marathon and ultra marathon runner. He was the brother of L.A. Times Media Critic James Rainey and son of character actor Ford Rainey.

A personal quote from  the Rainey Chiropractic website  "I appreciate every day I spend, helping other people feel better so they can also live rich, full, and pain free lives."

Chiropractor Joseph Wagner is Staying in Jail

by: DrTirpak posted: May 31, 2012

Dr. Joseph Wagner’s trail of bad decisions has ended.  Wednesday a federal judge denied the Dayton Beach Chiropractor’s release because of the risk that he might flee the country to the Dominican Republic.  He was arrested on May 17^th on charges stemming the raid on his clinic by the FBI in August of last year.

According to the Department of Justice Joseph Burrell Wagner is being held at the Orange County Jail and had a hearing at the Federal Court House in Orlando on charges of health care fraud and dispensing controlled substances from Wagner Chiropractic and Acupuncture Clinic in Daytona FL.

Chiropractor Joseph Wagner life’s spiral down has included, a divorce, relinquishing his medical license after the Department of Health filed an administrative complaint, and the loss of much of his assets including his office building.

His arrest in May thwarted his plan of escape to the Dominican republic. The FBI found in his luggage: a diploma from the medical school he graduated from in Dominican Republic, medical equipment, real estate documents, a recently purchased wedding ring, and documents on how to get married in that country. Dr. Wagner also had a bank account waiting for him there with over $3 million pesos, or about $80,000 US.

His is represented by defense attorney John E. Bergendahl who claimed Dr. Joseph Wagner has strong ties to the Daytona Beach area and is not a flight risk. One son is a member of the Volusia County Council and another Dr John Wagner is a local Chiropractor. After the FBI raid last August, Chiropractor John Wagner claimed that he does not speak to his father and had no idea what was happening at the Wagner clinic on Ridgewood.

The investigations started from a complaint to the Florida Department of Insurance Regulation after a personal injury patient stated she was instructed to fill out blank insurance forms. Several Insurance companies also filed complaints with the state that prompted an undercover investigation.

The undercover officer from the Personal Injury Protection Fraud Squad of the Florida Department of Financial Services visited Dr. Joseph Wagner’s Clinic, was treated and supplied with a prescription from medical doctor John P. Christensen. The officer never saw the MD. State Documents claim Dr. Christensen has been prescribing medications from multiple offices, located in several counties in Florida on the same days. His medical license was also suspended by an emergency order from the Department of Health.

The FBI took on the investigation in 2009, finding Dr. Joseph Wagner had  distributed thousands of prescription pills after five minute office visits and an adjustment. It was claimed that he had pre-signed  prescription pads from Dr. Christensen. Federal investigators stated Joseph Wagner DC charged patients without insurance $100 a month to prescribe drugs including hydrocodone and Xanax, he didn’t charge for the adjustment. Medicare and Insurance patients recieved the same treatment and their provders were billed for exams by a medical doctor.

If convicted, Dr. Joseph Wagner faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison for each charge.

Damage from Severe Weather Closed NYCC Today

by: DrTirpak posted: May 30, 2012

Seneca County officials declared a state of emergency at 2:30 pm yesterday because of downed trees and power lines in Seneca Falls, Fayette and Waterloo counties. The National Weather service has a team on the ground trying to determine if the damage was the result of gusty winds or a tornado. Over 4,000 people were without power this morning mostly in Seneca Fall, Fayette and Varick.

The storm took the roof off a building at the New York Chiropractic College. According to ABC WHAM Channel 13 NYCC canceled classes for Wednesday May 30^th.

Australian Chiropractor Alex Goodhart Just Wanted a Sign

by: DrTirpak posted: May 30, 2012

Chiropractor Dr. Alex Goodhart just wanted a sign to promote his office Beachside Chiropractic in Hervey Bay QLD Australia. When he purchased the property for his office, a former display home, he was reassured that he could keep the existing signage that was on the home.

Dr. Goodhart stated, "I asked to retain the signage and the town planner said they had no objection."

Unfortunately after he moved in and applied for a business liscense, the town council explained the billboard had to come down before he would receive approval. A sign of 1 meter squared is all that would be allowed.

So the Chiropractor got creative, he purchased a double-decker bus to use as a mobile clinic and covered the side with a colorful ad wrap for his business.

Prior to this he contacted the Fraser Coast Regional Council and asked if there was any problem parking a bus with advertising in front of his business. The council claimed that they did not have jurisdiction over graphics on cars, that belongs to the Department of Transport and Main Roads. Dr Goodhart was to told by DTMR that as long as the graphics were acceptable under Australian advertising standards it would not be a  problem.

"Council believes that in this case the bus is being used as a sign rather than a vehicle because it is set up in such a way with landscaping that it cannot be easily driven to and from the site, and only the side of the bus facing Boat Harbour Dr has been signwritten," the council's executive manager regulatory services Andy Gaze.

Celebrity at the Chiropractor - May 29th

by: DrTirpak posted: May 30, 2012

Leonardo DiCaprio, star of the soon to be released The Great Gatsby, was spotted leaving a chiropractor’s office in New Orleans Louisiana yesterday.

Illinois Chiropractors cut out of Medicaid

by: DrTirpak posted: May 25, 2012

The Illinois Legislature cut $1.6 billion in Medicaid yesterday. Hundreds of Thousands of poor Illinoisans could loose coverage under this plan due to the drop in income eligibility. After a 94-22 vote in the House it went to the Senate where it was approved on a 44-13 vote. The signature of the Governor Pat Quinn is the last step, which seems inevitable considering his support of the bill.

The state-run system has eliminated Chiropractic along with Podiatry. Prescriptions, dental care and eyeglasses coverage has also been drastically reduced, cutting over a billion dollars in services. Even the fee schedule for hospitals and nursing homes has been cut back, trimming $240 million from the Medicaid programs deficit. All of the changes are slated to be implemented in 2013.

The Illinois Chiropractic Society lobbied hard on this issue, putting together two strong attempts at persuading lawmakers to include Chiropractic. They demonstrated how the inclusion of chiropractic care was the best financial solution for musculoskeletal ailments and highlighted the effectiveness of chiropractic care with the Mercer report. It came down to the lawmakers excluding most services that are not mandated by federal law.

Chiropractor L. W. Pogue’s Tattoo School Airs tonight on TLC

by: DrTirpak posted: May 24, 2012

Tonight TLC will debut their latest reality show ‘Tattoo School’. Taped at the World’s Only Tattoo School in Shreveport Louisiana, started in 1968 by Dr. Leonard William Pogue. In true reality style the show follows a group of wannabe tattoo artists through the 2-week $5600 program. Each episode will feature 3 aspiring artists and their struggles with learning the art, business and safety aspects of tattoo artistry. The ink-laden winner receives a golden tattoo gun that will last their entire career.

According to his Website Dr. L. W. Pogue is a licensed doctor of chiropractic and certified naturopathic physician. It states he received his Bachelor of Science in Clinical Nutrition from Life University. He was a Licensed Chiropractor in Michigan from 1985 to 2003 and has over 38 years of teaching experience.

CA Governor Brown announced California Board of Chiropractic Examiners Appointment

by: DrTirpak posted: May 24, 2012

CA Governor Brown announced California Board of Chiropractic Examiners Appointment

Sergio Azzolino, 42, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the California Board of Chiropractic Examiners. Azzolino has been the director at Azzolino Chiropractic Inc. since 1995 and executive director at the Brain Balance Center of San Francisco since 2011. He served as faculty at Life Chiropractic College West from 1996 to 1999. Azzolino earned a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Life Chiropractic College West. He is a diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board and holds board certification status in pain management through the American Academy of Pain Management. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Azzolino is a Democrat.

Source: Imperial Valley News 

X-ray Registration Amnesty Program in PA

by: DrTirpak posted: May 21, 2012

Is your x-ray machine registered?  No worries, if you practice in PA. Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection just announced a X-ray Registration Fee Amnesty Program.Starting June 1st through Aug 31st, for three months the x-ray amnesty program will run to help identify unregistered X-ray machines and bring operators into full compliance.

"This initiative offers a limited-time opportunity for medical providers to come into regulatory compliance without suffering a penalty,” DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. “The registration and inspection program is essential to safeguard all Pennsylvanians from unnecessary exposure to radiation while maintaining proper diagnostic quality."

Chiropractors, Podiatrists, Medical and Vetrinary facilities with radiation-emitting equipment are required to register their machines with DEP. The Bureau of Radiation Protection collects funds for equipment-registration and inspection fees which goes toward their operation costs.

The amnesty period will give unregistered facilities the opportunity to comply with current state regulations. Doctors and Clinics will still have to pay all delinquent and current fees, but they will be absolved of any potential civil penalties related to registration.

During the X-ray Registration Fee Amnesty Program the Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Radiation Protection will contact medical, dental, podiatric, veterinary and chiropractic associations to about the program and reinforce details of the agency’s regulations.

A few of Pennsylvania  X-ray Requirements:
Register with the Department within 30 days after acquisition
Designate an individual to be responsible for radiation safety on the registration form
Notify the Department in writing within 30 days of a change of address, owner, radiation safety officer or number of machines
Have a valid certificate of registration at the facility where the x-ray equipment is used
Registration must be renewed annually
Initial and Repeated Continuing Education Courses

Chiropractic Fellowship of Pennsylvania  Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association

First Chiropractor President Funny Fridays

by: DrTirpak posted: May 18, 2012

This is the start of Funny Friday on CECruncher.com, every Friday we are going to take a lighter look at the Chiropractic Profession. Kick back, have fun, and don’t forget to laugh.

To start, we offer a mock up magazine cover that is a component of the Daily Intel portion of the New Yorker. In response to the recent Newsweek’s cover of the “First Gay President” and other publications and pundits attributes as the “First Jewish, Female, Hispanic and Asian-America President”, the Daily Intel added a little humor to the discussion.

* Not a political discussion, just an attempt to demonstrate Chiropractic’s impact on culture. Humorous responses are welcome, but not partisan banter.

Is Your Office Violating the Americans with Disabilities Act?

by: DrTirpak posted: May 14, 2012

A press release from the department of Justice on Friday May11th announced the settlement of a claim against a chiropractic clinic that had violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by refusing to treat someone with HIV.

A patient presented to Knoxville Chiropractic Clinic North in Knoxville Tennessee for treatment following a car accident. At the initial evaluation the chiropractor recommended 24 subsequent visits to treat his injuries. The receptionist informed the patient on his third visit that the doctor would not see him because they could not treat people “like him.”  

The patient filed a complaint and the United States determined that Knoxville Chiropractic Centers had violated the ADA by having a blanket policy of refusing treatment to HIV positive patients.

The Knoxville Chiropractic Centers settlement agreement with the Department of Justice requires them to develop and implement a non-discrimination policy, train staff on the requirements of the ADA and to pay $10,000 as a civil penalty.

According to the DOJ website the ADA requires public accommodations, like doctors’ offices, medical clinics, hospitals and other health care providers, to provide individuals with disabilities, including people with HIV, equal access to goods, services, privileges, accommodations, facilities, advantages and accommodations.

Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division is quoted in the press release, ”The Civil Rights Division takes discrimination based on unfounded fears and stereotypes about HIV very seriously. It is critical that people with disabilities, including HIV, not be denied equal access to goods and services, especially to health care services. “

Discrimination whether it is based on ignorance or prejudice is against Federal Law. All Chiropractors should use universal precautions when treating every patient. HIV and AIDS education has been taught at all of the Chiropractic Colleges and Universities in the United States and Canada for over 3 decades.

Many states including Florida, Kentucky, Washington and California require at least one continuing education class on the topic. However HIV or AIDS Chiropractic Continuing Education classes are not required in Tennessee, also The Tennessee Board of Chiropractic Examiners denied the only 2 HIV/ AIDS classes submitted for Chiropractic Continuing Education approval in 2012.

Information about Americans with Disabilities Act and HIV can be found on the Department of Justice at www.ada.gov/aids.

ADA complaints may be filed by email to ada.complaint@usdoj.gov.

Information on HIV and AIDS www.aidsinfo.nih.gov

Paralyzed Former Chiropractor Claire Lomas Finishes London Marathon

by: DrTirpak posted: May 11, 2012

Claire Lomas, 32, finished the London Marathon; it only took her 16 days. She accomplished it with a pair of Robotic Legs that enabled her to walk, amazing considering she was paralyzed in a horse riding event in 2007.

Just 2 years into practice as a Chiropractor Claire Loomis was competing at Osberton Horse Trials when she collided with a tree in a freak accident. She suffered a spinal cord injury at T4, along with cervical and rib fractures, a punctured lung, and pneumonia. She also had to have a tracheotomy and was in intensive care for 10 days. Her determination to recover started quickly; she was released in the shortest amount of time for anyone with her type of injury from that hospital.

Left paralyzed, she has been determined to continue an active life.  On her blog she chronicles her recovery and new athletic challenges from skiing, horseback riding, to getting married and having a baby. Claire displays her determination despite her injuries. The site also talks about her numerous fundraising endeavors for Spinal Research. For the London Marathon she raised $130,000.

Finishing the marathon was made possible by the $70,000 ReWalk suit designed by Argo Medical Technologies. The suit consists of a rigid jointed exoskeleton with bionic lower limbs that are strapped on. She holds on to a pair of crutches with an activation button and motion sensors that detects her movement and balance. A computer activates the motors that propel robotic legs forward. Strapped to her back is a 4 pound battery that powers the device. It allows her not only to stand and walk, but also climb stairs. See it in action on BBC.

When talking about the race Claire said to the BBC "It's a moment I am going to treasure for the rest of my life." She was followed by a group of family and friends for most of the race. AT the end hundreds gathered to cheer her on. She commented, “The last half a mile or so was pretty easy to walk because I had everyone just pushing me forward.”

Want more information, Check out Get Claire Walking.