In a landmark development, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) has reached a $2.8 billion settlement to resolve antitrust claims brought by health care providers, including chiropractors. The lawsuit accused BCBS of dividing the nation into exclusive regions and limiting competition, which resulted in lower reimbursements for providers. Although BCBS denies any wrongdoing, the company agreed to the settlement to avoid lengthy litigation – and you can get a piece of the pie.
Palmer Seeks DCs to Participate in Study of Nonmusculoskeletal Complaints
Cheryl Hawk, DC, PhD, the director of Palmer's practice-based research program, is seeking DCs from around the country to participate in a new study designed to investigate nonmusculoskeletal complaints in chiropractic practices.
The practice-based research (PBR) program at the Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research is seeking chiropractors to participate in a new study beginning this November. The study will investigate the prevalence of nonmusculoskeletal complaints in different types of chiropractic practice and identify factors that may contribute to patients seeking chiropractic care for nonmusculoskeletal complaints.
"Recent studies show that the prevalence of nonmusculoskeletal complaints in the average chiropractic practice is low," stated Cheryl Hawk, DC, PhD, director Palmer's PBR program. "For this study we are actively recruiting chiropractic practices that may see higher proportions of such patients."
The study will collect data on all patients who seek care in each participating office during a one week period. It is Dr. Hawk's hope that chiropractors from all 50 states and in different types of chiropractic practices will be able to participate in the study.
Practicing chiropractors interested and willing to follow the program's protocols should contact Karen Boulanger, PBR's program coordinator at (800) 682-1625.