While cervical disc pathology can unquestionably produce radiculopathy, many patients presenting with arm pain, paresthesia or perceived weakness do not exhibit the clinical behavior of true nerve-root compromise. In these cases, failure to differentiate the primary pain generator may lead to unnecessary spinal injections, nerve ablation procedures or surgical consultation despite limited likelihood of benefit.
Western Forum News
Montana Legislation
- Point of Service Option
- DCs Designated to Issue Handicap Parking Permits
With the help of the Montana Chiropractic Association, two new bills have recently been passed by the Montana legislature. House Bill 26 was requested by the state's insurance commissioner and mandates that all HMOs offer a "point of service" option benefit plan to each purchaser of a health care services agreement. By including this option, employees who are part of the plan have the choice to seek out or continue seeing their own doctor, rather than one associated with an HMO.
Senate Bill 282, which was proposed by the Montana Chiropractic Association, allows chiropractors to issue handicap parking permits. An interesting note about SB 282 is that it allows only chiropractors and medical doctors to issue handicapped parking permits. Osteopaths are not included in the bill, which went unopposed in committee hearings and was approved by the entire Montana Senate.