This past September marked the formation of the American Academy of Chiropractic Physicians (AACP), a new organization designed to encourage the philosophy of chiropractic primary care practice not just within the chiropractic profession, but with state and national legislatures, the general public, and other appropriate audiences.
"Doctors of chiropractic, and those closely associated with this science, realize there are at least two major philosophies of chiropractic: straight chiropractic, and health care that incorporates a broader view of what chiropractic physicians can and should provide their patients," said Dr. Reed Phillips, president of Los Angeles College of Chiropractic and a spokesperson for the newly-formed group. "The Academy's purpose is to unite those who embrace the latter philosophy and support their interests, concerns and needs across the country."
A board of trustees has already been appointed by the Academy, which will govern the organization and help finalize its formation. Dr. Reiner Kremer of Franktown, CO, has been named the board's chair and heads up a three-person executive committee that includes Dr. James Winterstein (president of the National College of Chiropractic) and Dr. Jim Lehman of Albuquerque, NM. Other board members include Dr. Phillips and two public members Lyndean Lenhoff Brick,JD and Jim Zeckman,MA.
AACP Board of Trustees
Reiner Kremer,DC, Chair *
James Winterstein,DC, Secretary *
Jim Lehman,DC *
Reed Phillips,DC
Lyndean Lenhoff Brick,JD
Jim Zeckman,MA
* member of the executive committee
The Academy has also drafted a series of bylaws and articles which help detail the organization's direction. Articles have already been approved for:
1. Developing guidelines for education and assessment;
2. Providing education and independent review of training and experience for credentialing and certification; and
3. Granting "fellow" status for those who meet Academy guidelines and "honorary fellow" status for special recognition.
"The public, government officials and health care organizations have been confused for too long about the different chiropractic philosophies that exist in today's health care culture," Dr. Phillips continued. "With the development of the Academy, we are confident that all who seek chiropractic care, especially for their primary health care needs, will now have the knowledge to make decisions in their best interests. This is a group that will be bonded in a universal belief that our doctors of chiropractic provide care using a wide variety of treatment measures which are clinically indicated, and who reject the concept of a single cause or cure for ailments."
There are some in the chiropractic profession who may perceive the formation of the Academy as part of a movement for all doctors of chiropractic to secure the right to prescribe drugs. According to Dr. Phillips, that perception is simply not true.
"While we support those doctors of chiropractic who can prescribe drugs under the laws of their respective states, this is not, and will not, be an issue with the Academy. Our main focus is to promote primary care by the chiropractic community. Today's chiropractic physician has the training and experience to provide primary care and needs to be recognized for his or her capabilities in this area."
Membership in the AACP is open to all doctors and students of chiropractic, as well as osteopaths and medical doctors. Chiropractic colleges, corporations and non-physicians are also eligible to join the Academy. For additional information, please contact:
American Academy of Chiropractic Physicians
ATTN: Tracy McHugh
200 East Roosevelt Street
Lombard, IL 60148
Tel: (630) 629-2000
