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.
All the Chiropractors Tried the Best First?
It is important to conduct the kind of practice that is identified with the degree which we hold. After travelling throughout the world, I am convinced that any kind of osseous manipulation/adjustment based on the subluxation complex and given discretion, whether it is the flying seven or hit 'em high, hit 'em low approach, is better than no manipulation at all. Of course, it would be ideal if chiropractors could motion palpate for fixation in all ranges of motion and to include the natural (innate) coupled motions of the spine in their adjustive procedures. The natural (innate) coupled motion palpatory procedures will be introduced to the profession early in 1994 -- watch for it.
A complete understanding of the current state of the art motion palpation will be a prerequisite for this new and exciting concept. It is highly probable that a significant percentage of chiropractic patients have tried other types of doctors. This makes it more important than ever that we utilize our unique approach (osseous spinal adjustments), because patients can get the other kind of treatment anywhere. All of us with a DC degree must "try the best first," that is, chiropractic hands-on adjusting preceded by a motion palpation examination to locate the cause, wherever it may be. In doing so we will adhere to the natural concept of removing obstructions and allowing nature to do the rest. Forget the gadgetry, do the best first.
Keith Innes, DC
Scarborough, Ontario
Canada
Editor's Note:
Dr. Innes will be conducting his next Spine 2 seminar in St. Louis, Missouri May 15-16, and a Spine 1 seminar in Seattle, Washington May 22-23. You may register by dialing 1-800-359-2289.