Noted British statesman and philosopher Edmund Burke once stated “Those who don’t know history are doomed to repeat it.” History is filled with accounts of those who have fought for their freedom and Chiropractic isn’t any different.
Between the 1920’s and 1970’s Chiropractic for an independent Chiropractic license that separated the practice of Chiropractic from the practice of Medicine. This was relatively easy considering the philosophies and practices are different. Medicine seeks to treat and relieve symptoms through the administration of drugs and surgery. Chiropractic seeks to adjust subluxations and allow the nerve system and body to function optimally. In 1976, Louisiana was the final state to grant and independent license to Chiropractors. Ultimately Chiropractic patients and their voices and votes swayed the legislature and all have benefited since.
In the 1980’s the Wilk vs. AMA case brought the anti-Chiropractic campaign by the AMA to the Supreme Court. This landmark case determined that the AMA conspired against the Chiropractic profession in an effort to eliminate it. Much evidence was gathered from professionals and patients alike that proved Medical Doctors were instructed to and engaged in deliberate defamation of Chiropractic and Chiropractors. Again, patients played a key role by by voicing their experiences and sharing their stories.
In the 1990’s Chiropractic fought for patient rights against insurance agencies, for coverage in Medicare and Veterans affairs programs. Dr Sid Williams brought this fight to Capitol Hill again armed with petitions, testimonials and votes and ultimately defeated undue practices by insurers.
Now in 2009 a group is again out to defame and conspire against Chiropractic. The current hot topic of stroke is fanned not by science, but by emotion, visual aid and a group of proclaimed skeptics from Yale University. They have engaged in a high stakes game of deceptive advertising that is being investigated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Although seemingly informative, their demands continue to change and they use known subliminal tactics to incite fear.
But they do not know their history. It is well known that Chiropractic patients are passionate and prepared to act. Around the state and country, patients inundate billboard companies with complaints. The Yellow Pages recently stopped printing the 2009 edition to remove a deceptive advertisement because Chiropractic professional organizations, the Attorney General and patients all objected. Now the fight has become both a legal and political one and patients are urged to contact the Connecticut Attorney General’s office and voice their concern regarding the Anti-Chiropractic/ stroke campaign. You are also asked to join the website: www.adjustthevote.com to contact state and national legislatures. We will discuss more when you ask.
This is an opportunity for your voice to be heard regarding how you are allowed to participate in your own healthcare, will you help?
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