Can't We All Just Get Along?
Dear Editor:
I am writing in reference to Dr. James Edwards' recent article warning that chiropractors may soon be immunizing / vaccinating. [See "Immunizations by Colorado DCs: Really?" in the Aug. 15, 2014 issue.]
The last time I checked, we live in America. As Americans, we are entitled to freedom of religion and freedom of speech, as well as other rights and freedoms. Naturally, Dr. Edwards is entitled to his right to speak his mind and opinion as to his perception of the rightful scope of practice for DCs. However, so am I – with an opposing point of view to his.
Dr. Edwards' warning against DCs administering vaccinations is ridiculous and potentially dangerous, in my opinion. As I say this, please note that I will probably never administer vaccinations, for several reasons:
- #1: I live in California, which is run by a very narrow-minded board; many "reasonable procedures" will never (in my lifetime) be allowed in our scope of practice.
- #2: I personally am not a great fan of mandatory vaccination.
That said, if another DC's values allow them to support vaccination ... good for them! You may not be aware of it, but California recently passed legislation specifically excluding DCs from signing waivers for patients who wish to not receive vaccination. If we were allowed to perform the procedure, we could also sign the waiver.
If my fellow DC friend across the street provides vaccination or some other procedure, I would do all that I could to send those who want or need that procedure to them, rather than a physician. I support their freedom of thought – just as much as the straight chiropractors' right to "adjust only"!
A very few chiropractors are willing to politically sabotage the entire profession for their own narrow point of view. I ask: why? In the words of the late Rodney King, "Can't we all just get along?"
I think we will perish for lack of great vision and open-minded leadership. We need a wide scope of practice.
Dr. Edwards is a self-professed leader and spokesperson for the profession, so, I'd like to use the words of Adam Savage of the TV show "Mythbusters" in saying, "I reject your reality and substitute my own!"
Michael Lynn, DC
Exeter, Calif.
Editor's note: A letter to the editor in our Sept. 15, 2014 issue clarifies the Colorado situation as an attempt not to gain vaccination rights, but to gain the right to sign exemption waivers for patients wishing not to immunize their children.
