Representatives of diverse chiropractic organizations met in Orlando, Fla., during the Florida Chiropractic Association National Convention at the third Chiropractic Summit. Three such summits have taken place in the past year, each with the same overall goal: to build a coordinated front to address the significant challenges and opportunities facing the chiropractic profession.
More than 40 national and international chiropractic leaders from 32 associations, colleges, and companies, including the American Chiropractic Association, International Chiropractors Association, Association of Chiropractic Colleges, and Congress of Chiropractic State Associations participated in the summit meeting, held Aug. 21, 2008. The distinguished group met for more than 10 hours, discussing two key issues of vital importance to doctors of chiropractic and their patients: the future of the Medicare program and prospects for national health care reform. Both of these public policy issues require a well-developed, unified response from the chiropractic profession.
"This was a very positive and successful day," said Summit Chairman Dr. Lewis Bazakos, former ACA chairman of the board. "The energy in the room was outstanding. Everyone was working together and pulling together as one for the betterment of the profession."
"The challenges facing the chiropractic profession require a continuous dialogue between the parties involved in the Summit if workable solutions are to be found and implemented on a timely basis," added ICA President Dr. John Maltby. "The extensive and open nature of the Summit discussions at all levels is the most positive sign anyone could have hoped for and signals an historic potential for progress, and ICA is proud to be a part of this effort."
Washington, D.C. hosted the first Chiropractic Summit, which brought together 13 chiropractic organizations in September 2007. The second summit meeting took place at the Parker Seminar in Las Vegas in February 2008 and featured representatives of 24 chiropractic organizations. A fourth Chiropractic Summit is scheduled for January 2009 at Parker Las Vegas. For additional information, including how you can be involved, contact Dr. Bazakos at (516) 825-5400.
