CCE Letter on behalf of ChiroSecure
January 3, 2003
Paul D. Walker, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President
The Council on Chiropractic Education
8049 N. 85th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85258-4321
Dear Dr. Walker:
As the chief operating officer of a chiropractic risk purchasing
group and insurance concern that provides malpractice coverage to
thousands of doctors of chiropractic across the United States, I
have a unique perspective on several of the proposed standards
changes recently published for comment by the Council on
Chiropractic Education (CCE). This perspective is based on a
detailed knowledge of matters of liability and professional
responsibility, plus a real-world experience with the jeopardy the
doctor of chiropractic places him or herself in when steps are taken
to exceed the established boundaries of chiropractic science and
practice.
The clear expansion of liability potential inherent in two of the
proposed changes in CCE standards is of special, indeed, urgent
concern. I refer to a desire on the part of some within the CCE to
substitute the term “primary care physician” for established
chiropractic reference terms such as doctor of chiropractic. This
step is clearly beyond what state laws and regulations authorize for
the doctor of chiropractic and carries with it significant
consequences, all dangerous and potentially economically
devastating. Likewise, the initiative to “include physiotherapy in
doctor of chiropractic degree requirements and in the clinical
competencies.” This step is certainly to be interpreted as a signal
to the underwriting industry of the need to recalculate risk/premium
equations, a step that will cost every doctor of chiropractic
additional malpractice premium expenses, regardless of how or where
they practice.
It is clear to the objective observer that these proposals represent
a political and philosophical orientation that is out of step with
the realities of chiropractic practice and inconsistent with legal
and regulatory norms. It would seen reasonable to expect an
accrediting body to tailor all demands on institutions and students
to the strict legal definitions in operation throughout the nation.
These proposals seek to drive the educational process and thus the
profession in an entirely new direction, not supported by any
discernable legal underpinning. Such steps would be a gross
disservice to the student, practitioner and educational institution,
with equal prejudice. I urge that these items be withdrawn from
consideration in recognition of the unnecessary, costly and
disruptive impact such expansive initiatives are certain to have on
the profession in active practice.
Thank you for your attention to these matters. I would certainly be
happy to provide any additional information or answer any questions
you might have on any aspect of my comments.
Sincerely yours,
Stuart E. Hoffman, DC, FICA
ChiroSecure President
SEH/jdh
1-866-80-CHIRO
1-866-802-4476 Ext. 11
www.chirosecureonline.com
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