Because they have yet to pass national legislation protecting the chiropractic profession, Japanese DCs are in a similar situation that U.S. DCs faced. We were fortunate enough to be able to pass chiropractic licensure state by state. The DCs in Japan must accomplish this nationally, which has proved to be an extremely difficult task. And in spite of their efforts, Japanese DCs are currently faced with two chiropractic professions.
Stand Up and Be Counted!
It's time for chiropractic to police itself. You've heard this phrase before, now it's time to take action. It's no secret that our profession faces discrimination, malpractice suits, insurance battles, and more. The only way to fight these problems is by banding together: strength through unity.
The government is passing new legislation that affects our profession every day. When they want the input from us, they will go to the National Chiropractic Legislative Conference, which is comprised of the unified forces of the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) and the International Chiropractors Association (ICA). Unfortunately, these national associations cannot truly speak for everyone, unless we all join them, voice our opinions, and back them financially.
Chiropractic is too small of a profession not to be unified on a national basis when addressing issues. While belonging to one's state association is important, it is only a first step. States can learn from one another's experiences. Sharing them in a national forum (like the one a national association brings) is the only way that chiropractic can progress towards a better future.
This plea is addressed to all chiropractors, especially to those who are known as leaders and authorities in our field. You who are authors, columnists, lecturers, professors, and college administrators are hereby challenged to lead by example. Your input is monumentally important for the actions and decisions that our national associations make.
Chiropractic needs to have one national voice. Join your local state association, then join the ACA or ICA and make a difference.
For more information, please contact:
American Chiropractic Association
1701 Clarendon Blvd.
Arlington, Virginia 22209
(703) 276-8800
International Chiropractors Association
1110 North Glebe Road Ste. 1000
Arlington, Virginia 22201
(703) 528-5000