Legislation makes nondiscrimination language state law.
Dynamic Chiropractic Staff
Dr. Vern Saboe, lobbyist for the Oregon Chiropractic Association, reports that the Oregon state Senate has unanimously passed House Bill 2468, legislation that inserts the federal provider non-discrimination Section 2706(a) from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act ("Obamacare") into Oregon law. Dr. Saboe immediately requested a signing ceremony and Gov. Kate Brown signed the bill into law on May 27 (see photo).
"Oregon's legislation should act as a template for other states inserting the federal nondiscrimination provisions, but time grows very short," emphasized Dr. Saboe. "It is critical that states act quickly since the Republican-controlled Congress is poised to possibly repeal 'Obamacare' or portions of it, possibly eliminating the federal nondiscrimination protections.
"Of equal concern, the American Medical Association and subspecialty groups have twice introduced legislation in Congress to repeal just Section 2706(a). By inserting the federal non-discrimination language into Oregon law, even if 'Obamacare' and/or Section 2706(a) is repealed by Congress, Oregon's chiropractic physicians will be protected under state law. It is critical other states quickly follow Oregon's lead."
Some doctors thrive in a personality-based clinic and have a loyal following no matter what services or equipment they offer, but for most chiropractic offices who are trying to grow and expand, new equipment purchases help us stay relevant and continue to service our client base in the best, most up-to-date manner possible. So, regarding equipment purchasing: should you lease, get a bank loan, or pay cash?
There has long been an attempt by those who are not legitimate doctors of chiropractic to usurp the title of chiropractor from those who have earned their degree from an accredited chiropractic program. This generally happens in countries where the local doctors of chiropractic have yet to pass legislation requiring a degree from an accredited institution. The result is essentially two chiropractic professions. Nowhere is this danger more pronounced than in Japan.
Effective Sept. 1, 2024,UHC/Optum is requiring prior authorization for the following services delivered in office and outpatient hospital settings, excluding services in the home: Medicare-covered chiropractic services (when billed with the AT-modifier), as well as physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), and speech therapy (ST).
