Donald M. Petersen Jr., BS, HCD(hc), FICC(h), Publisher
Sometimes it is easy to become frustrated at what hasn't happened. It is easier still to look at the bad and forget about all the good. Perhaps it is time to count our blessings.
Looking over just the first half of 1991, the chiropractic profession should be delirious with joy. But somehow, we have forgotten all the wonderful events that have occurred in just the last six months. It is time to review:
"Dear Abby" tells the world about the benefits of chiropractic care (January 18 issue).
In California, Buena Park Doctors Hospital added chiropractors to its staff (February 1 issue).
In Michigan, the Auto Club Insurance Association was found guilty of "chiropractic bashing" and discrimination (February 1 issue).
The California Chiropractic Association won over $2.2 million in a bad faith settlement against two major insurance companies (February 15 issue).
A chiropractic cost comparison was presented at the Second Annual Primary Care Research Conference held by the (AHCPR) Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (March 1 issue).
U.S. Senator Tom Daschel introduces legislation to increase reimbursement from Medicare for chiropractic services (March 15 and April 26 issues).
New Mexico's Lovelace super clinic adds chiropractic care to its member services (May 10 issue).
J. Jarrett Clinton, M.D., Director of the AHCPR gives the opening address at the International Conference on Spinal Manipulation (May 10 issue).
Arizona's two warring state associations merge (May 10 issue).
The First World Chiropractic Congress convenes with national associations from 32 countries. The World Chiropractic Scientific Symposium is acclaimed as greatest chiropractic scientific gathering ever (June 7 issue).
"Chap" Reaver's book "Mote" wins prestigious Edgar Allan Poe Award (June 7 issue).
Practice management consultants form "Society of Chiropractic Management Consultants" with a code of ethics to protect chiropractor clients (June 7 issue).
The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) and the offices of the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards (FCLB) dedicate their new $2 million international headquarters (June 21 issue).
Arlan Fuhr, D.C. presents the needs of the chiropractic profession when he addresses the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, Human Services, and Education for the second time (June 21 issue).
Northwestern College of Chiropractic celebrates its 50th Anniversary with the $2 million Center for Clinical Studies (June 21 issue).
Obviously there have been many more wonderful chiropractic events that have occurred than could possibly be listed. You can probably think of several such events on a national, state, or local level.
As you look back at the first half of 1991, perhaps you can see in your own personal realm of chiropractic, reasons for rejoicing.
The rest of 1991 promises to be even better. This is a fantastic profession with many hardworking individuals who are sacrificing in an effort to see chiropractic grow to the fulfillment of its call.
There's a story behind every one of these triumphs; a group of people who worked to make it happen. As you notice the great things that are taking place in our profession, take a little time to let those who are involved know you appreciate their efforts.
It doesn't take long to write a quick note, "Thanks, keep up the good work." But it can be the encouragement needed to strive for greater victories for the chiropractic profession.
We have much to be thankful for. Let's not forget that.
DMP, Jr., H.C.D.(hc)
