March/April 2012
MCA
Minnesota
Chiropractic Association
Journal Chiropractic Celebration April 27-29, 2012 Prepare, Participate, & Thrive
in the
Wave of Change
Convention Speakers & Topics • Bill Esteb: Motivation and Practice Management • Dr. Lindsey Berkson: All phases of women’s health • Anna Allen: Professional boundaries
• Dr. Ty Talcott: HIPPA compliance • Dr. Kevin Hearon: Upper and Lower Extremities • Dr. Tim Mick: X-Ray • Dr. Michael Pierce: Neurology
Annual Member Meeting Friday, April 27th, 2012 from 12:00pm-1:00pm During MCA Convention
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MCA Journal March/April 2012
Table of Contents HOT TOPICS • Day at the Capitol Recap • 2012 Chiropractic Celebration
NEXT JOURNAL • 2012 Chiropractic Celebration Recap • Member Involvement/ Member Services • Women’s Health & Pregnancy
MCA Journal Published six times a year, the MCA Journal is the official publication of the Minnesota Chiropractic Association. Articles focus exclusively on the Chiropractic profession in Minnesota. Questions or comments should be directed to
[email protected]. Articles MCA Journal regularly publishes a variety of by-lined columns authored by individuals whom we consider to be knowledgeable in their respective fields and who have a valuable message to share with Minnesota Chiropractic community. Opinions in these columns, however, are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Board of Directors, members, or staff of the Minnesota Chiropractic Association.
A Message from the President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 A Message from the Executive Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Public Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Members on the Move. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Save the Date. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 CA Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Thank You FairShare & MCPAC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Legislative Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Day at the Capitol Recap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Thank You Key Doctors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 MCA Annual Celebration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17-18 12 Things Chiropractors Will Have to Change in 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Gaining Providership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Wulff on Law.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21-22 New Rules & Regulations for Chiropractors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Rewarding and Recognizing Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Associate Business Members Listing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Advertising Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Minnesota Chiropractic Association Board of Directors 2012-2013 President Dr. Jennifer L. Naas First Vice-President Dr. Christian J. Kollar Second Vice-President Dr. Scott Mooring Treasurer Dr. Lisa Hellerud Secretary & Parliamentarian Dr. Richard C. Hueffmeier Immediate Past-President Dr. Christopher D. Jo Northeast District Director Dr. Gerald P. Priley Northwest District Director Dr. Vincent W. Pankonin
Central District Vice President Dr. Barbara Dolezal Metro East District Director Dr. John J. Hynan Metro East District Director Dr. Kathy Casey Metro West District Director Dr. Carrie Getzmier Metro West District Director Dr. Doug Broman Southeast District Director Dr. Andrew T. Klein Southwest District Director Dr. Monica Schugel
Executive Director Debra Hurston Mission Statement The Mission of the Minnesota Chiropractic Association is to support and unify the Art, Philosophy, and Science of the Chiropractic profession.
Copyright 2012 Minnesota Chiropractic Association. All rights reserved.
MCA Journal March/April 2012
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aFrom message the President Dr. Jennifer Naas
Where Does Your Passion Lie?
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the legislature. They donate money to FairShare/ y last column regarding the state of chiropractic in War Chest and MCPAC, attend legislative committee Minnesota generated the most comments I have meetings, host fundraisers and participate in received from any article. It was exciting to hear from Chiropractic Day at the Capitol. Still others feel so many of you, because so few doctors take the time to that we need to improve the quality of chiropractic communicate with the MCA leadership. practice in Minnesota. They serve on the Professional The question I have is, where do we go from Education Committee, and work to bring important here? It seems that we can all identify the problems; information to our doctors to help them be better however we can’t seem to agree on the solution. Many practitioners. doctors expressed frustration that the MCA isn’t Where does your doing anything about their passion lie? If every particular issue. I hate to “Where does your passion lie? If every doctor in doctor in Minnesota belabor the point, but we contributed a little bit are limited by our financial Minnesota contributed a little bit of time of time or money in resources and the time and or money in their particular area of passion, their particular area energy of our volunteers. we could win this fight. Sadly, too many sit on of passion, we could So many doctors tell me win this fight. Sadly, they will join the MCA if the side-lines, waiting for something to happen too many sit on the we do this, that, and the before they step in. “ side-lines, waiting for other thing. My point something to happen is...don’t wait, become before they step in. I involved and help us work myself have been guilty of this. Ten years ago, I was towards a solution. not a member of the MCA. I would complain that the Personally, I would like to see 100% utilization MCA wasn’t doing anything to help my practice. Then of chiropractic by the public. Okay, I realize that is I realized that if I wanted things to be change, I needed probably impossible, but if 20% of the population to get involved. There are so few doctors taking an understood the benefits of regular chiropractic care active role that it is actually easier than you might think for correcting subluxations and maintaining a healthy to be heard, and to move you vision forward. spine and nervous system, we wouldn’t be facing the I know many of you think we are headed in problems we face today. Therefore, my volunteer the completely wrong direction. I encourage and efforts have been aimed in that direction. When I first respectfully challenge you to join the MCA and help joined the Board of Directors, I worked to re-activate navigate our path. Become active in your district, serve the defunct Communications Committee. I recruited on committees, and even consider participating at the the first committee chair, and several members. I board level, so that your voice is heard. served on this committee until I started my term as I look forward to seeing all of you April 27-29, for president of the MCA, and continue to provide input. our annual Chiropractic Celebration at the Minneapolis This is where my passion lies. Marriott Southwest.• Others think we need to be more visible with
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MCA Journal March/April 2012
a message From the Executive Director Debra Hurston
Preparing for Change
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he challenges of change are always hard. It is important that we begin to unpack those challenges that confront this nation and realize that we each have a role that requires us to change and become more responsible for shaping our own future. ~Hillary Rodham Clinton
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here are numerous changes taking place locally as well as in the national health care arena. From the intricacies of healthcare reform to selecting and implementing electronic medical records, the MCA Professional Education Committee has selected speakers for the Annual Chiropractic Celebration designed specifically to help you prepare, participate and thrive in this constant environment of change. Nationally respected professional boundaries expert, Anna Allen opens the program Friday morning making sure you are covered with the latest information on professional boundaries. Dr. Lindsey Berkson will discuss all phases of women’s health ranging from pre to postmenopausal concerns in addition to lupus, libido endometriosis and much more. Long time chiropractic patient and nationally respected motivational speaker, Bill Esteb will bring positive energy and practice management insight as the annual celebration “keynote” speaker on Friday evening. Bill will challenge you to change your thinking about what motivates and inspires patients to embrace chiropractic care. You will not want to miss this. We are also very pleased to have Kevin Hearon, DC., C.C.S.P., C.C.E.P joining us this year. Dr. Hearon is an internationally acclaimed expert on the subject of extremity adjusting who dedicated his life and career to fixing the underlying neuromechanical dysfunction of patients through numerous protocols, adjustments, nutrition and therapies. Explore why he believes his approach to chiropractic and extremity adjusting is the most unique in the world. A leading provider of chiropractic neurology and functional medicine, Dr. Mike Pierce with the Carrick Institute will provide you with information on functional neurology as well as tools that you can immediately apply. Dr. Pierce is a Fellow of the American College of
Functional Neurology, and assistant professor of clinical neurology for the Carrick Institute for Graduate Studies where he teaches molecular and clinical neurochemistry. If you have not been able to sit in on one of our monthly HIPAA Compliance webinars with Dr. Ty Talcott, here’s a great opportunity to sit front and center while getting the latest information and tools to help you not only protect your practice, but your patients as well. You may also want to make sure that the CA takes advantage of the wealth information on coding and documentation that Kathy Mills Chang will deliver on Friday. Sign up early for this because space is limited. The speaker lineup simply would not be complete without our local favorites like Dr. Mary Beth Minser speaking on pediatrics, Dr. Carrie Getzmier addressing professional boundaries, Dr. Tim Mick with x-rays and Dr. Deb Genrick with acupuncture. Each year doctors comment that while they certainly enjoy the great variety of speakers, vendor information and food….the thing that brings them back time and time again is the opportunity to connect, reflect and rejuvenate. While we are offering three simultaneous tracks providing you with a total of twenty four (24) continuing education credits, the MCA Annual Chiropractic Celebration also offers the absolute best time to energize and share with colleagues from all around the state. Lastly, but certainly not least, as we prepare to move forward, I hope you will join us in recognizing and celebrating the professions’ leaders who have held the torch and led the path of change by serving as president of the MCA. During the annual president’s dinner, please join us as we give a special tribute to ALL past MCA presidents. Help us say “Thank You” to those who have given so much to Minnesota’s chiropractic profession. •
MCA Journal March/April 2012
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Public Education
Chiropractic Care Advances Performance at Elite-Level Sporting Games
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ARMICHAEL, Calif. – Feb. 8, 2012 – As Terry Schroeder, DC, two-time Olympic silver medalist and head coach of the men’s U.S. Olympic water polo team -- gold medal winners at the 2011 Pan American Games – prepares his team for the 2012 Summer Games, the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress points to the role of chiropractic care in promoting increased endurance, reduced risk of injury and enhanced performance. Dr. Timothy Ray, chair of the International Federation of Sports Chiropractic (FICS) Games Commission, explains that chiropractic care provides a valuable conservative, non-drug approach that meets Olympic participation requirements and keeps athletes competing at their peak skill level. “Chiropractic is an essential healthcare element of optimal athletic performance, enhancing every aspect of sports performance, from training and recovery to prevention,” says Dr. Schroeder. “We have witnessed increased utilization of chiropractic care at the Olympic Games, and anticipate that a heightened level of athleticism will result.” For the first time in its history, the recent Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico included an international sports chiropractic delegation as a part of its core medical services available within its Village Polyclinic. Drs. Ray and Angela Salcedo, president of the International Sports Chiropractic Association (ISCA), co-chaired the attending chiropractic team which was comprised of 46 chiropractors. When reviewing the progress made by the FICS
over the years Dr. Ray shares, “True advancement is not simply measured by increased chiropractic presence. But when athletes realize the benefits of care and share their improvements with a trainer/coach, we can validate the value. Furthermore, when medical staff members learn how to interface with DCs, and discover that the collaboration eases their job and adds value for the athletes, we can further document the importance of chiropractic.” Dr. Ray adds that the FICS is pleased that sports chiropractic is now recognized and growing globally, noting, “Each year, more health facilities affiliated with both Olympic and major qualifying games are beginning to integrate chiropractic care. The Winter Olympics in Vancouver represented the first Olympic Games to include chiropractic within its Olympic Village Polyclinic, which was made possible through efforts of the Royal College of Chiropractic Sports Sciences (Canada).” Dr. Salcedo echoes this enthusiasm, adding, “Every day we are taking another step in the right direction, and we are looking forward to a continuous incline in chiropractic presence at future Olympic Games.”• About Foundation for Chiropractic Progress A not-for-profit organization, the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress aims to inform and educate the general public about the many benefits associated with chiropractic care. To learn more about the Foundation, please visit us on the web at www.f4cp.com or call 866-901-F4CP (3427).
Winter Safety Tasks Include Spinal Checkups
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loomington, MN - During the winter season there are a number of basic rituals or tasks we often do, including: rotating and balancing the tires, changing the antifreeze and replacing the batteries in our smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. However, the most important task we should focus on is not just maintaining, but improving our health and the health of our family. The Minnesota Chiropractic Association (MCA) encourages the public to consider utilizing a spinal and nervous system check-up as part of their health regime. The chiropractic approach focuses on the health and integrity of your nervous system. Chiropractors are uniquely trained in identifying and correcting spinal subluxations and dysfunction, which can be the root of ‘dis-ease’ and long-term health problems. Regular chiropractic adjustments can help return the body to its natural state of health and wellness.
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MCA Journal March/April 2012
Typical observations that chiropractors see in their patients include: · Improved recovery time from injuries · Improved immune system function – decreased colds/flus · Improved athletic performance · Improved overall wellbeing, including increased energy and vitality To locate a chiropractor near you, contact the MCA at 1-800-864-3769 or click on “Find A Doctor” on the MCA website (www.mnchiro.com).• About Minnesota Chiropractic Association Created in 1927, the Minnesota Chiropractic Association is the only professional organization in Minnesota that solely represents the chiropractic professional on a multi-level and integrated service basis.
(763) 746-8686 Toll Free 1 (866) 966-3445 Email:
[email protected]
Milt Edgren, President CLU, ChFC, MSFS
Our team of experts are proud to service chiropractors throughout the state of Minnesota.
Woodhill Financial, Inc. is pleased to be your endorsed MCA agency We offer key products and services designed specifically for the chiropractic community.
Amy Edgren, CLU Kelly Chillstrom, CIC Blake Cadwallader, LUTCF
Does your insurance coverage need an adjustment? Contact one of our experts for a free review of your:
• Health Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Long Term Care Insurance
• Retirement Planning Needs
MCA Journal March/April 2012
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Member Services
Members on the Move Welcome New Member Doctors Dr. James T. Barr Dr. Kerri Butteris Dr. Tanya Christensen Dr. Christopher Dockter Dr. Jason Eggers Dr. Barb Gettel Dr. Don Jewell
Off-Site Office Solutions Therapy Equipment Sales and Services
MCA
member benefits The MCA government relations team is committed to the long-term economic success of Minnesota chiropractors and the health and well being of the communities they serve. As a respected presence in the political affairs arena, the MCA lobby team works diligently to be proactive on behalf of Minnesota chiropractors. The MCA government relations team works to develop relationships that help improve legislation and regulations that impact the chiropractic profession. On a daily basis lobbyist stay on top of the actions of elected officials and advocate with a keen eye for public policy which improves the economic outlook for chiropractors in Minnesota.
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2012 Chiropractic Celebration
Dr. Sharon Levin Dr. Robert Lundgren Dr. Jacob Roether Dr. Lief Schley Dr. Jay Wilson Dr. Kristi Zimmerman
Welcome New Associate Business Members Creative Comfort, Inc. Hockert Sales Mutual of Omaha
S av e the D a t e !
MCA Journal March/April 2012
April 27-29, 2012
MCA Journal March/April 2012
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CA Corner
The Future of Health Care in the U.S. Essential Health Benefits
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he Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) instructs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop a list of Essential Health Benefits (EHB) that health insurance plans (purchased in an Exchange) will be required to cover by 2014. On December 16, 2011 HHS released their “Essential Health Benefits Bulletin” explaining their process of determining which categories of health care services to include as EHB, and asking for public comments on their proposed method. The PPACA also instructs the Secretary that the scope of essential benefits needs to be equivalent to the scope of benefits provided under a typical employer plan. Since the PPACA didn’t provide a definition of “typical” in this provision, HHS gathered benefit information from many large and small employer plans, as well as public employee benefit plans to determine the 10 categories of Essential Health Benefits. Presumably chiropractic will be part of the Rehabilitative and Habilitative Services category; however the 13 page report mentions Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy numerous times, but offers no specific reference to chiropractic. In order to accommodate each State’s coverage mandates (such as open access to chiropractic care), the Secretary is proposing to permit the States to select a single benchmark plan (which includes all 10 EHB categories) to serve as the standard for health plans offered in their state in 2014 and 2015. According to the HHS report, “The selected benchmark plan would serve as a reference plan, reflecting both the scope of services and any limits offered by a
‘typical employer’ plan in that State.” To determine a benchmark plan, the Secretary is proposing that States choose one plan (from plans currently on the market) in a similar manner – by reviewing several large and small employer plans, as well as public employee benefit plans. HHS intends to assess the benchmark process for 2016 and beyond “based on new evidence about effective interventions and changes in provider and consumer preferences while ensuring that the cost of the revised package of benefits remains within predetermined limits as the benefit standards become more specific.” The State of Minnesota formed the Essential Benefits Set Workgroup in 2009 to begin working on developing Minnesota’s essential benefits plan. The Workgroup includes representatives (appointed by Governor Dayton) from Medica, Blue Cross Blue Shield of MN, and Health Partners; a family physician; a Professor from Mayo; representatives from two medical centers; as well as others in the health care management fields.• About the Author: Cathi Hammond is the founder of Medical Business Consulting, a billing and practice management consulting company specializing in Chiropractic and physical medicine billing and collections. For more information about Medical Business Consulting, visit www.medicalbusinessconsulting.net For the rest of the article visit www.mnchiro.com and look on the For Members tab.
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MCA Journal March/April 2012
The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. © 2011 Regents of the University of Minnesota. All rights reserved.
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THANK YOU for your generous contributions! Dr. James Ahrens ◊ Dr. Daniel Anderson * Dr. Jon Anderson * Dr. Patrick Barnes * Dr. William Barrett ◊ Dr. Jeffrey Bittner * Dr. Kendall Boline-Fenstra * Dr. Faye Bollingberg * Dr. Jeffrey Bonsell * Dr. Eron Brodson * Dr. Carla Breunig * Dr. Dean Brinkman * Dr. Douglas Broman * Dr. Chadd Burckhardt * Dr. Dustin Carlson * Dr. Matt Caron ◊ Dr. Sarah Chambers * Dr. Kristi Chambers-Mettler * Dr. Susan Clarke * Dr. Wallace Cole ◊* Dr. Matthew Collins * Dr. Steven Cone * Dr. Daniel Corbett ◊ Dr. Craig Coulliard ◊ Dr. Mark Dehen ◊* Dr. Brian Devitt * Dr. Barbara Dolezal * Dr. Wayne Eck * Dr. Roger Ettel * Dr. Tammy Fimrite * Dr. Fiona Fletcher ◊* Dr. Olinda Floro * Dr. Preston Forthun ◊ Dr. Carol Franks ◊ Dr. Terry Franks * Dr. Steve Fridinger * Dr. Kari Gerald * Dr. Carrie Getzmier * Dr. Jay Greenberg ◊* Dr. Timothy Guthman * Dr. Jane Hafner ◊ Dr. Joel Harris ◊ Dr. Ted Harrison ◊* Dr. William Hejny * Dr. Lisa Hellerud *
Dr. John Hilpisch ◊ Dr. Paul Hjort ◊* Dr. Thomas Holbrook ◊ Dr. Laura Hulsebus ◊ Dr. Randal Jacklitch * Dr. Christopher Jo * Dr. Keith Johnson ◊ Dr. Michael D. Johnson * Dr. Michael Timm Johnson * Dr. Kenton Kainz ◊* Dr. Aaron Kalis ◊ Dr. Josh Kary ◊ Dr. Matthew Kirschstein * Dr. Ronald Kranz * Dr. Elizabeth Lavin * Dr. John Lawrence ◊ Dr. Dennis Lenselink ◊ Dr. William Loomis * Dr. Lowell Magelssen ◊ Dr. Brian Malzer ◊ Dr. Donald Mandel * Dr. Kelly McCoy * Dr. Greg McGillivray * Dr. Joseph McKiernan ◊ Dr. William Mettler ◊* Dr. Timothy Mick ◊* Dr. Jeffrey Mies * Dr. Angela Miller * Dr. Adam Milsop * Dr. Mary Beth Minser * Dr. Steven Moore * Dr. Scott Mooring ◊ Dr. Brad Moseng ◊* Dr. Lee Chonsher Moua * Dr. Yer Moua-Lor ◊ Dr. Scott Murray ◊ Dr. Gregory Nelson * Dr. Steven Nelson * Dr. Daniel R. Neubauer * Dr. Michael Novak * Dr. Jonathan Olson * Dr. Brian Opp * Dr. Gregory Peterson ◊* Dr. Chad Petterson ◊ Dr. Brian Plesha *
Dr. Charles Rawlings ◊ Dr. Edward Requet ◊* Dr. Darren Roemhildt * Dr. Tom Rice ◊ Dr. Robert Roloff * Dr. Susan Saetre ◊* Dr. Steven Schams * Dr. John Schneider ◊ Dr. Jeffery Schramm * Dr. Faith Schumann ◊ Dr. Shannon Score * Dr. Tim Sebenaler * Dr. Terry Setterquist ◊ Dr. Robert Sheperd ◊ Dr. Gregory Smock ◊ Dr. Judith A. St. Clair * Dr. Jonathan Steele * Dr. Scott Stinson * Dr. Loren Stockton ◊* Dr. Charles Strauman * Dr. David Stude ◊* Dr. Joseph Sweere ◊* Dr. Robert Thatcher ◊ Dr. Mary Theurer ◊ Dr. Kenneth Thiele ◊ Dr. Kelly Thompson * Dr. Paul Trainer ◊ Dr. Seth Tyberg ◊ Dr. Colleen Urbain-Hess * Dr. Rita Varner-Otness ◊* Dr. Arthur Volker * Dr. Robert Waddel * Dr. Sean Wahl * Dr. Joshua Watkins ◊* Dr. Gary Wheelock ◊* Dr. Amy Willcockson * Fair Share Contributor ◊MCPAC Contributor MCA Journal March/April 2012
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Legislative
Keeping an Eye on Health Care Reform
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s we work on chiropractic specific issues, we need to neutral impact on health care, the exchange in connection remember that health care reform continues to move with the essential benefit set could have a dramatic impact forward in Minnesota and nationally. The health care system on the practice of chiropractic. As designed, the essential seems to be in a constant state of reform in this country, but, benefits set would become the standard health insurance the latest efforts, spurred on by federal government, may have product in every state. Accordingly, if chiropractic the most dramatic impact on how we purchase, access, and services are excluded from the essential benefit set, provide health care in recent history. chiropractic would become an outlier benefit. Fortunately, Although federal health care reform could be redirected, the proposed rule provides a choice of plans that all delayed, and parts stopped, because of the momentum currently include chiropractic coverage, but with varying behind the systemic change that federal reform started, its limitations. impacts on the health care system Another impactful health can never be undone completely. care reform concept is the “Although the development of In Minnesota, there are development of accountable three key reform initiatives care organizations (ACO). An the exchange may have a neutral that require our attention—the ACO is a coordinated provider impact on health care, the formation of a health insurance network used to realize savings exchange in connection with the exchange; the selection of an in Medicare through better care essential benefit set; and, the coordination. As ACOs are essential benefit set could have a formation and selection of being developed for Medicare, dramatic impact on the practice accountable care organizations. they are also being developed of chiropractic...The MCA has not The health insurance exchange for commercial plans. The lost sight of the bigger picture or the will impact how health care challenge for chiropractic, plans are offered and purchased. is how chiropractors will be challenge that health care reform The exchange provides a webincluded in an ACO and how poses, as we continue to fight on the based tool that consumers can patients would access their issues that are most impactful to your use to compare and purchase services. For example, the health care coverage. It will ACO could include independent practice, both large and small.” also determine eligibility for chiropractors, but limit their applicable government subsidies number, and how a patient and handle other functions. accesses their services. Or, The exchange concept requires one plan with a standard an ACO could employ its own staff chiropractors, thus benefit set that all carriers would provide. This allows controlling access and reducing patient choice. consumers to compare the plans offered by various As we work on issues important to chiropractors carriers by price. This standard benefit set is referred to as in Minnesota, we also must pay close attention to the the essential benefits set. national and state work on health care reform as those In addition to the essential benefits set, the exchanges initiatives may far greater impacts on the ability of your can offer additional plans that would provide benefits patients to access and purchase needed chiropractic care more generous than the standard plan. The essential in the future. The MCA has not lost sight of the bigger benefit set was to be determined by federal Health & picture or the challenge that health care reform poses, as Human Services (HHS). However, in December, HHS we continue to fight on the issues that are most impactful requested comments on its idea to defer the choice to your practice, both large and small.• of an essential benefit set to the states within a set of About the Author: parameters. The request outlined a policy that would let Kevin Goodno is a shareholder and Chair of the states choose the essential benefit set from a list of Fredrikson’s Government Relations practice. His existing plans offered in the state. If the state fails to focus is to provide a comprehensive range of services choose a plan, the default would be the state’s largest small to clients, including legislative drafting and tracking, policy development, governmental lobbying at all levels, employer plan. and strategy creation regarding governmental relations. Although the development of the exchange may have a
14 MCA Journal March/April 2012
W E c a me together
I n one s tro n g uni f ie d v oi c e a t
Chiropractic Day at the Capitol!
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octors traveled from all across the state and students took time from their courses to rally together at the Capitol gallery before legislative
appointments. Chiropractic Day at the Capitol was a perfect opportunity to educate legislators and express the issues that impact the profession and its patients. The MCA would like to thank over 400 doctors and students that attended the 2012 ”Chiropractic Day at the Capitol” on Thursday, March 1st. The attendees were able to connect with lawmakers in regards to issues that impact the chiropractic profession. The following issues were addressed;
• No Fault Automobile Insurance
• Chiropractic Scope of Practice
• Transparency in Minnesota’s Medical Assistant Program Representative Dr. Jim Abeler
MCA Lobbyist, Kevin Goodno addressing the talking points. Drs. enjoying the legislative breakfast
Rally in the Great Hall
MCA Journal March/April 2012
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Thank you
Key Doctors For helping to make Chiropractic Day at the Capitol a success! Dr. Rebecca Amstutz Dr. Jonathon Arnold Dr. Liz Berg Dr. Mary Berry Dr. Brian Betts Dr. Jeff Bonsell Dr. Carla Breunig Dr. Mark Brewer Dr. Andrea Burckhard Dr. Cheri Carlson Dr. Marty Caron Dr. Matthew Caron Dr. Susan Clarke Dr. Wally Cole Dr. Jacob Conway Dr. Craig Couillard Dr. Mark Dehen Dr. Dale Dennis Dr. John Dixon Dr. Lew Erickson Dr. Lyle Erickson Dr. Tammy Fimrite
Dr. Quentin Fixen Dr. Carrie Getzmier Dr. Brian Gfrerer Dr. Angie Graper Dr. Chris Hanson Dr. Doug Harden Dr. Craig Hartman Dr. Richard Hastings Dr. Greg Hynan Dr. John Hynan Dr. Chris Jo Dr. Keith Johnson Dr. Arron Kalis Dr. Jenny Keesey Dr. Andrew Klein Dr. Christian Kollar Dr. Tom Kuzma Dr. Katy Lundell Dr. Brian Malzer Dr. Gary Miller Dr. Mary-Beth Minser Dr. Scott Mooring
Dr. Michael Novak Dr. Richard Ottomeyer Dr. Carron Perry Dr. John Petersen Dr. Mark Reeve Dr. Darren Roemhildt Dr. Dale Rohlfing Dr. Scott Salita Dr. Seth Sazama Dr. Leslie Scibora Dr. Gordon Staff Dr. Scott Stinson Dr. Judy St. Clair Dr. David Stude Dr. Jake Sundberg Dr. Brian Tasky Dr. Art Volker Dr. Robert Waddell Dr. Sean Wahl Dr. Josh Watkins Dr. Gabe Wiener Dr. Tom Wilson
We could not do it without you! If you are interested in becoming a key doctor for you district please contact Mary Pat McGlynn at
[email protected]
16 MCA Journal March/April 2012
Let Me Count the Ways … D.C.s Spend Their NCMIC Premium Dividend Checks NCMIC chiropractic malpractice policyholders will soon receive a premium dividend for the 16th year in a row.* Over the years, our D.C.s have used their dividend in innumerable ways …
“
“
I donate to chiropractic research because I think it will be vital to sustain and advance our profession.” Tracy J. Smith, D.C. | Sioux Falls, South Dakota
I like that I’m getting money back from an insurance company—I think that’s very unusual. Among other things, I have used my past dividend checks to make donations to a homeless shelter and my chiropractic university.” H.B. Mangar, D.C., F.A.C.O. | San Francisco, California
“
I stay with NCMIC because, unlike some other malpractice insurance companies, they support the chiropractic profession. My premium dividend check, in effect, lowers my premium.” Mary Rutkowki, D.C., D.A.B.C.O. | Center Valley, Pennsylvania
www.ncmic.com
Find out how you, too, can become eligible for NCMIC premium dividends along with the many other ways you can benefit from the NCMIC Malpractice Insurance Plan.
14001 University Avenue • Clive • Iowa 50325 * Premium dividends are not guaranteed. We Take Care of Our Own is a registered service mark of NCMIC Group, Inc. ©2012 NCMIC NFL 3168
Call 1-800-769-2000, ext. 3120. MCA Journal March/April 2012
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Feature Article
2012 MCA Annual Chiropractic Celebration The Wave of Change April 27-29
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he 2012 MCA Annual Chiropractic Celebration offers you over 20 CEU’s and great opportunities to network with other chiropractic professionals. This event is hosted once again at the Minneapolis Marriott Southwest in Minnetonka, MN. Our Chiropractic Assistant Program will run concurrently with the DC programs on Friday, April 27, 2012 and Saturday, April 28, 2012. Don’t miss Kathy Mills Chang discussing compliance and documentation along with Bruce Zelka on modalities. In addition to the CE’s, DCs will find useful chiropractic equipment, nutritional supplements, and many other chiropractic services from the profession’s top suppliers during our tradeshow. This tradeshow will allow you as doctors to interact with our vendors to help you and your practice. Doctors can choose from a wide variety of seminars, from the many great speakers some of which are listed below. • Anna Allen – Professional Boundaries • Dr. Michael Pierce, DC, DACNB, FACFN – Functional Neurology • Dr. Deb Genrick – Acupuncture • Kathy Mills Chang - Accurate & Appropriate Documentation for Chiropractic Coding • Bill Esteb – Chiropractic Motivation
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Thank You Speaker Sponsors!
Meet the Speakers that Will Help You Be the Wave of Change
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njoy a workable explanation of functional neurology for the field doctor. While the discipline is vast and rapidly changing, the fundamentals do not change. Join nationally known, Dr. Michael Pierce, DC, DACNB, FACFN for some simple neurological tests you can apply immediately, and pick up clinical pearls that warn you when to refer out. Discuss real cases and their actual treatment plans. Dr. Pierce is an assistant professor for the Carrick Institute and has been a lecturer for Apex Energetics. Trust us; it will be worth the wait for Sunday.
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earn diagnostic tricks and short protocols, lots of them, from an old pro; to treat the most problematic issues with women in their 3 major phases - pre—peri—postmenopausal years. From lupus to libido issues, from endometriosis linked to IBD, from how to decrease renal decline effectively and fast, to learning the ins and outs of progesterone resistance—how to diagnose and treat it and why you need to know about this in women (as well as men). All this plus humor, too! Dr. Lindsey Berkson, DC, MA, CNS, ABCN is a nutritional research scientist, besides being a DC, with a master’s degree in nutrition, she has worked at a hormonal think tank at Tulane University, and has done cutting-edge kidney research.
Sponsored by:
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ave you considered what makes chiropractic care attractive to today’s germ-fearing, symptomtreating, insurance-dependent, drug-taking patients? It’s not your technique, personality, procedures or tableside manners! Join the president of PatientMedia & our keynote speaker Bill Esteb on Friday afternoon to discover untapped opportunities to inspire patients to make healthier choices and more deeply embrace this revolutionary thing called chiropractic.
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here is another master control system that most doctors know little about that is mechanical and starts at the ground and moves up the leg into the knee, hips and low back. It is time we found out what we are pretending to know and what we should know about gait and its effects on the stability of the spine. Join internationally acclaimed expert on extremity adjusting, gait and foot othotics, Dr. Kevin Hearon, DC for more information on lower and upper extremities. The Lower Extremity class will give new insight into how these joints determine your results. The lower extremity is used by default while the Upper Extremity is used by selection. Find out what joints in the Upper Extremity are crucial for cervical stability. Learn the key joints that create shoulder girdle instability and how to correct them. What are the causes of cervico-brachial syndromes and rib problems? Come get these questions answered as much more. Don’t forget you can get your professional boundaries, x-ray and acupuncture credits throughout the weekend. Visit www.mnchiro.com for the full list of speakers. MCA Journal March/April 2012
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Practice Management
12 Things Chiropractors Will Have to Change in 2012
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his year, there will be some major changes that will definitely need to be tracked along with some trends you definitely want to pay attention to. Here they are… 1) Medicare deductible. We’ll start with an easy one — the new Medicare Part B deductible will be $140.00, starting January 1, 2012. Yes, if you are paying attention, that is LESS than last year’s deductible! 2) Convert to 5010 Format. For all offices filing payments electronically, you will have to convert to the new 5010 format by Jan 1, 2012. Hopefully, you heard my endless warnings about converting to 5010 and have prepared your practice well in advance of the 2012 deadline. If not, get moving! 2012 is here and you do what to be paid, don’t you?! 3) New Medicare ABN Form Required. Yes, it functions exactly like the old ABN and looks nearly identical too. But that doesn’t change the fact that the folks at Medicare require a new ABN form and give you yet another reason to put them high on your list of irritants. 4) Take a Serious Look at Your EMR Company. Results are in and the “dream” of stimulus money has actually come true. The first few government checks arrived in the hands of – believe it or not – chiropractors! Yes, there are fully certified EMR programs that chiropractors can use. I don’t want to turn the whole EMR picture to focus on stimulus dollars. But…a few points need to be seriously considered in 2012. (a) If you don’t have EMR, now is a good time to shop. However, don’t even bother shopping for one that is not certified. If they couldn’t be bothered to get certification, what else are they leaving out of the equation? (b) The next question becomes – if you don’t like your EMR, now may be a good time to switch – and again, move towards one that is certified. At least you have a chance to get your $$ back that you spent on your former rotten apple with the possibility of stimulus dollars. 5) Be on the A/R Alert. As predicted, the latest statistical surveys on the economics of medicine (including chiropractic) have indicated that small physician and hospital Accounts Receivable are growing and “aging” across the board. Translation: it’s taking longer to get your money and you have more money hanging out there in the void. According to most reports, the obvious cause is the economy; people have less disposable cash and unfortunately, we as health care providers are low on the totem pole of priorities for bills to be paid. The also obvious consequences that no one likes to mention are (a) impending cash flow crunches and/or (b) the potential inability to collect what’s due. Either
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result is bad. The lesson? Watch that A/R! It’s fairly easy for a practice with a decent volume to get in a zone only to suddenly look up and notice that their A/R has formed a small mountain whilst their nose was busily pushing the grindstone. What’s reasonable for A/R? It’s tough to give a rule of thumb that would apply to everyone, but the most basic benchmark would be that “healthy” A/R represents approximately 1.5x gross monthly collections and “unhealthy A/R” begins when you go over 2x gross collections. But these formulas can vary widely depending on your practice and payer type. Suffice it to say, no matter how the numbers balance out, most folks have a good inkling that their A/R has changed for the worse and/or when their A/R has become dangerous to the cash flow. 6) Take Tighter Reigns on Deadbeats. A natural consequence of focusing on the A/R as described above is the fact that you will begin to notice flakes, not of the dandruff variety, but financial flakes. You know the type: they hobble in but dart out the front door before you can collect their co-pay. They remember the fact that you were 2 minutes late for their appointment 6 years ago, but always seem to forget their wallet. They setup payment arrangements but never manage to inform their bank or checkbook of the same. When times are flush, sloppy offices tend to not notice these folks falling through the cracks until revenue is less vigorous than anticipated or until they get frustrated with the fact that they are essentially working for free. Either way, the solutions are the same: tighten up your financial policies, begin to outsource the deadbeats to collections “alternatives” (I generally don’t recommend traditional collections agencies) and/or quit being such a softie and giving away your hard-earned work. See my Chiropractic Collections and Financing Secrets program for more detailed strategies in this regard. 7) Beware the Rise of the Non-Insured, Insured. It does not matter where you practice or who your major insurance payers are – I consistently hear reports that $5000 and $10,000 deductibles are becoming more commonplace. For many DC’s this means that this patient, who believes they have insurance coverage, will essentially be considered a “cash” patient or someone without coverage.• About the Author: Tom Necela, DC, CPC, CPMA, CCP-P For the rest of the article visit www.mnchiro.com and look on the For Members tab.
Practice Management
Gaining Providership
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s many who have entered our profession in the recent past know, getting in-network status with health insurance companies can post quite the hurdle. After working the past few years as an associate, it was time to start my own clinic. That goal was accomplished in September 2011. Shortly after that I received the dreaded denial letter regarding my application for providership. The basis I was given was that the insurance company found it already had a sufficient amount of providers to meet its members’ needs in our area. The next few months introduced to me to many people offering advice and support in our appeal process. Bonnie Meyer, with Meyer Consulting, gave my appeal direction and insight. She suggested that we do our own assessment of our area. First a search was done to find the number of innetwork providers the insurance company listed on their website. We found on the list provided that two providers were no longer working in the region and two were listed twice. The most notable observation was that while there were providers in our area, there was only one female provider and the next closest was 30 miles away. Next, I was to do a population assessment of the area as our town is one where many people from surrounding smaller communities commute for work, commercial business, and healthcare needs. Bonnie also advised me to ask patients and colleagues for letters of support. The letter could include points such as what made our clinic and treatment styles different from
what they may have experienced in the past. Did I do a different technique? Why did they choose to stay a patient even though it meant more out of pocket expense for them? While it was initially hard for me to ask for help, I found that the patients and other providers were more than willing to write letters for me. The last item Bonnie had me do was to write my professional biography, showing what my work and personal background brought to the table that was unique. The “outside the box” letter of support came from a sales representative who sold the specific insurance. He wrote a brief paragraph stating that, as a representative in our area, he saw that one more provider would allow them to offer their members one more choice in their healthcare needs. During this process, I also called the MCA and Debra Hurston gave me the advice to be detailed in the techniques and treatment I provide, explaining what each is specifically. For me this included my use of diversified adjustments and, separately, the activator protocol technique. She also directed me to Dr. Christopher Jo who acts as our liaison, helping us all gain fair rights with the specific company I was dealing with.• About the Author: Jill (Field) Iverson, D.C.
For the rest of the article visit www.mnchiro.com and look on the For Members tab.
MCA Journal March/April 2012
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Wulff on Law
WULFF on law CAN CHIROPRACTORS IGNORE MEDICARE AND MEDICAID?
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ome chiropractors assert they do not “accept” Medicare or Medicaid coverage and charge their patients rates higher than allowed under Medicare or Medicaid rules without submitting their bills to Medicare or Medicaid for payment. Those chiropractors may be in violation of federal and state law. Given the increased efforts on the part of CMS to crack down on providers who violate Medicare or Medicaid laws, and the significant penalties that can be imposed, all chiropractors need to understand what they can and cannot do with regard to patients eligible for Medicare or Medicaid coverage. The laws governing Medicare are different from those governing Medicaid. MEDICARE. Chiropractors can choose not to treat anyone eligible for Medicare coverage. This does not mean rendering treatment and asking the patient to pay. It means turning them away as a patient. There does not appear to be an “anti-cherry picking” statute at the federal level that imposes adverse consequences on providers who choose not to accept Medicare-eligible patients. However, especially with the “graying” of the babyboomers, choosing not to treat anyone eligible for Medicare may eliminate an unacceptably large portion of your potential patient population. Chiropractors who treat patients eligible for Medicare are required to comply with Medicare rules and regulations. This is true whether or not they enroll with Medicare. You cannot simply choose not to enroll or unilaterally declare that you do not “accept” Medicare. Neither you nor your patients can “waive” the provisions of the Medicare laws. You cannot ignore Medicare requirements even if your patient agrees to pay cash and agrees that you do not have to submit your bills to Medicare. The Medicare statutes allow some types of providers to “opt out” of Medicare. Providers who opt out of Medicare are then free to enter into private contracts with their patients for
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payment of services at any rate agreed to by the patient, and are not required to submit their bills to Medicare. Chiropractors are explicitly not allowed to opt out of Medicare. That means chiropractors cannot enter into private contracts with their patients for payment of services covered by Medicare. The only option available to chiropractors is deciding whether to be a participating provider or a non-participating provider with regard to Medicare. Participating providers must bill Medicare and wait for Medicare to issue payment of covered services, except to the extent the patient is obligated to pay any deductible or copayment. Participating providers must accept the Medicare fee schedule amount for covered services as payment in full. Choosing to be a non-participating provider does not mean you are not obligated to comply with Medicare rules and regulations; does not mean that you never have to submit your bills to Medicare for review and payment; and does not mean you can charge any amount you wish for your services or enter into private contracts with your patients for payment of your services. Non-participating providers still must bill Medicare for covered services (acute CMT), or face penalties, pursuant to the “mandatory claim submission rule.” Non-participating providers are paid five percent less than participating providers for covered services. An exception to the requirement that non-participating providers must bill Medicare is when a patient signs an Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN), and selects Option 2. However, ABNs can only be used when the provider reasonably expects that a service will not be paid by Medicare. Therefore, ABNs can only be used when CMT is provided as part of a maintenance plan of care. Moreover, Minn. Stat. § 62J.25(d) provides: “Effective January 1, 1996, a health care provider shall not charge to or collect from a Medicare beneficiary who is a Minnesota resident any amount in excess of the Medicare-approved
amount for any Medicare-covered service provided.” Both acute CMT and maintenance CMT are “covered” services under Medicare even though maintenance CMT is not paid. Therefore, you cannot charge your Medicare-eligible patients more than what Medicare pays for CMT even when you are providing maintenance CMT. MEDICAID. Chiropractors can also choose not to treat anyone eligible for Medicaid coverage. Again, this does not mean rendering treatment and asking the patient to pay. It means turning them away as a patient. There is an adverse consequence to refusing to treat Medicaideligible patients under Minnesota law intended to discourage providers from refusing to treat Medicaid-eligible patients. Minn. Stat. § 256B.0644 (known as the “anti-cherry picking law”), provides that if providers do not “participate” in the medical assistance program (MA), general assistance medical care program (GAMC), and the MinnesotaCare program, then they may not participate under the Workers’ Compensation Act; health insurance plans for state employees under section 43A.18; public employee insurance programs under 43A.316; health insurance plans offered to city, county and school district employees; and insurance plans provided through the Minnesota Comprehensive Health Association under sections 62E.01 to 62E.19. “Participation” in MA, GAMC and MinnesotaCare means either that a provider accepts new MA, GAMC and MinnesotaCare patients, or that at least 20% of the provider’s patients are covered by MA, GAMC or MinnesotaCare as their primary source of coverage. In deciding whether to refuse to treat Medicaid-eligible patients, you must consider whether you can afford to lose the right to treat workers’ compensation patients, state employees, public employees, city employees, county employees, school district employees, and persons covered by the Minnesota Comprehensive Health Association insurance plans.
clearly written contract containing at least the following provisions: 1) your patient understands she has the right to receive treatment from any chiropractor of her choice; 2) your patient understands that you do not participate in the MHCP program that provides her with coverage; 3) your patient understands that if she chooses to treat with a chiropractor who does accept her MHCP coverage she will only have to pay any applicable deductible or copay; 4) your patient understands that if she chooses to treat with you she will have to personally pay your charges (those charges should be detailed in the agreement for the entire anticipated period of treatment); and 5) your patient with full knowledge and of her own free will agrees to waive her rights under her MHCP coverage and agrees to pay your charges herself. CONCLUSION. With regard to Medicare-eligible patients, you can either refuse to treat them at all (if you are willing to exclude such a large percentage of your potential patient population), or you must abide by all Medicare rules as either a participating or non-participating provider. You cannot ask patients to waive their entitlement to Medicare and enter into a private contract providing that they will pay your usual and customary charges. With regard to Medicaid-eligible patients, you can either refuse to treat them at all (if you are willing to suffer the consequences of the “anti-cherry picking statute”), or you can ask them to waive their entitlement to Medicaid and have them sign a private contract setting forth the items discussed above.• Disclaimer: Please remember that this article cannot be considered legal advice. Every situation is different and must be evaluated in light of the unique factual circumstances involved. If you have any questions concerning workers’ compensation law, no-fault law, or professional boundaries, please call David C. Wulff at 651-636-1900 or 800-949-8533.
It is less clear whether chiropractors can require Medicaid-eligible patients to waive their coverage and pay for services directly at usual and customary rates. The Medicaid statutes do not discuss the concept of opting out of Medicaid like the Medicare statutes do. Presumably, since the Medicaid statutes do not expressly prohibit chiropractors from opting out and entering into private contracts with Medicaideligible patients, then this option should be available. Since the Medicaid programs, by definition, cover only persons financially unable to afford health insurance, it probably will be the rare case where a Medicaid-eligible patient can afford to pay for your services himself. However, there does not appear to be any statute that specifically prohibits this. If you do choose to enter into a private contract with a Medicaid-eligible patient, then you should have the patient sign a MCA Journal March/April 2012
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New Rules & Regulations for Chiropractors Anger 39 Healthcare Associations
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f you think the pace of all the new rules and regulations is a little too much like a runaway train, you are not alone! EHR, ICD-10, OIG Compliance, Medicare PRQI, etc, etc In fact, 39 different healthcare associations have told the Feds to just slow down and quit interfering with our businesses by giving us new hoops to jump through. Unfortunately, some of us won’t even know what hit us when these new rules go into effect. Some pack fines; others will cripple your cash flow. Still others we should delegate or dump altogether. While I don’t have the space to go over every potential rule/regulation affecting chiropractors, here’s the Executive Summary of the ones to pay the most attention to: ICD-10: Issue: ICD-10 codes must be used on all transactions (electronic or paper claim) with dates of service on and after October 1, 2013. Otherwise, your claims may be rejected, and you will need to resubmit them with the ICD-10 codes. This could result in delays and may impact your reimbursements, so it is important to start now to prepare for the changeover to ICD-10 codes. Background: ICD-10 has been in the works forever. The dates keep getting delayed mainly because most healthcare associations protest that they are not ready for the transition, which admittedly will be huge. Every diagnosis code you are currently using will be obsolete. Recommendation: 2013 is still a ways away. The info you
24 MCA Journal March/April 2012
will need to learn will not likely change, but there are more pressing issues you may want to focus your time and resources on that have sooner due dates. Put this one on the back burner for now. Medicare PQRI Issue: Bonus or incentive payments are now available for chiropractors who report certain codes and track demographic info for Medicare. Background: The Physicians Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) The 2006 Tax Relief and Health Care Act (TRHCA) (P.L. 109-432) required the establishment of a physician quality reporting system, including an incentive payment for eligible professionals who satisfactorily report data on quality measures for covered professional services furnished to Medicare beneficiaries during the second half of 2007 (the 2007 reporting period). To participate in the 2011 Physician Quality Reporting, individual eligible professionals may choose to report information on individual Physician Quality Reporting quality measures or measures groups: (1) to CMS on their Medicare Part B claims, (2) to a qualified Physician Quality Reporting registry, or (3) to CMS via a qualified electronic health record (EHR) product. • About the Author: Tom Necela, DC, CPC, CPMA, CCP-P For the rest of the article visit www.mnchiro.com and look on the For Members tab.
Rewarding and Recognizing Staff
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he largest issue for any practice that stumps growth is worker productivity. With economic volatility and healthcare reform issues currently impacting profits, productivity issues can wreak havoc already on the brink of zero margins. In addition, when worker productivity falters costs are higher. When it comes to productivity much research has been conducted that suggests that recognition for a job well done is the top motivator of employee performance. However most chiropractors don’t understand or use the potential power of recognition or reward. In fact in research conducted by our organization over 54% of chiropractic office staffs suggest that they would rather work in an environment where they would receive better recognition. It is important to understand that when it comes to recognition in the workplace there was a direct relationship between the chiropractor and office staff. The better the relationship between the practice owner and employee the higher the profitability. It is imperative to note that individuals do not leave bad practices - they leave poor chiropractic owners. It is also imperative to develop feedback loops. Morale is lifted when individuals are recognized for efforts. In addition, when recognition feedback commences employees desire to do better. There are several reasons to engage in relationship that also
leads to reward and recognition. • Productivity – when individuals are recognized for a job well done they are much more motivated and perform at higher levels. • Profitability - the cost to the practice is less when morale and productivity are high. Passionate employees conduct more work with less labor. • Patient Retention - the motivation is stronger if the form of recognition creates a story that employees can tell others. So when employees are happy with the boss they tell other potential employees – even prospective patients. • Operational Costs - operational costs are lower when employees are recognized for a job well done. Happy employees simply stay on the job longer.• About the Author: Drew Stevens Ph.D. is a world-renowned marketing mentor for chiropractors. Drew works with chiropractors and professional services firms who struggle like crazy to create customer centric relationships that create new revenue.
For the rest of the article visit www.mnchiro.com and look on the For Members tab.
MCA Journal March/April 2012
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classified ads The original state-wide vacation and practice relief provider is available in Minnesota for short or long term basis and emergencies. Logan graduate, providing over 31 years of excellent, reliable and specialized services and techniques on behalf of many satisfied doctors. Insured. ChiroCare®, and HSM credentialed. Reference available. Contact Dr. Rick Hueffmeier at 651.256.2256 or toll-free 888.755.6056. Minneapolis Northwest Suburb 28 year family referral practice for sale in excellent location. Office just closed due to doctor’s health. Asking only $15,000. Terms available. Skilled C.A. to continue with the practice. Contact Loren Martin, Practice Opp, 952-953-9444. Stressed Out?: NCWW graduate retired from 16 years of full-time practice in the Twin Cities, now available for practice relief, since 2001. References. Insured. Take a break, avoid burnout. Schedule soon for best availability. Contact Dr. Dennis French at (home) 952-470-0743 or (cell) 612-817-6406. Experienced Practice Relief: NWCC graduate with 30 years private practice and relief service experience available for practice relief services in Minnesota. Credentialed with most management companies. References available. Insured. Contact Dr. John Knox at 952-451-2032. Uptown Chiropractor Office Available for Immediate Occupancy: Chiropractic office- available for lease. Approximately 950 square feet available for immediate occupancy at the corner of West Lake Street and Holmes in the heart of Uptown Minneapolis. For more information and to schedule a showing please contact Jeffrey Herman at 612-924-6486 or email him at
[email protected]. Healthcare Business Solutions – Billing Specialists: Do you have insurance or patient claims 31-180 days past due? Are you losing cash flow and profits from... insurance denials? Aging claims? Bad debt write offs? Incorrect medicare coding? That’s our speciality! Free your office staff from time-consuming clean up and recovery of aging and rejected claims. For more information call. X-Ray Cassettes For Sale: Excellent working condition, X-Ray cassettes, 3 years old, 5-8x10 = $250, 4-14x17 = $400. If interested, please call Kevin at 651-235-5752. Equipment for sale: Konica SRX-101A Processor & Film Labeler $2000; X-Rite Densi/Sensi Units $600; Robotic Leather Massage Chair $400; Stationary Adjusting/Exam Table $50. Please contact Johnson Spinal Care Associates if interested at
[email protected]. Wanted- Part-time Doctor of Chiropractic: Opp Family Chiropractic in St. Francis, MN is an extremely fast growing alternative health care facility that strives to instill the value of chiropractic care and the benefits it provides to our surrounding community. Please call 763.213.0615 for details. Associate Doctor Wanted: Busy chiropractic office in Big Lake, Becker, Monticello seeking long term associate doctor to join successful fast pace practices. Seeking highly motivated associate with high ideals that is willing to work hard to achieve clinical mastery and financial success. Salary position with bonuses, paid vacation, health insurance, and CE credits. These clinics are multi-disciplinary with D.C., P.T., and M.T. We are looking for long term commitments to hopefully turn into ownership position in future. New grads are welcome to apply. Starting salary based on experience and abilities. Email resume and 5 year goals to Docopp1@ gmail.com. Expand Your Practice with New Development: A revolutionary program called Higher Brain Living™ energizes higher brain function subsequently making life better. Hear developer Michael Cotton, DC at the Westin Galleria Edina in April (Info:
[email protected]/ Register Free: www.higherbrainliving.com/trainingMN.php) and in May (CE Seminars: http://higherbrainliving.com/pdfs/Mind-Brain%20Brochure. pdf).chiropractic care and the benefits it provides to our surrounding community. Please call 763.213.0615 for details. January/February 2012 2011 26 MCA Journal March/April
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MCA Associate Business Member Directory PHONE
Advertising Index
COMPANY
CONTACT
Acurad Technical Services, L.L.C.
Steve Danielson
[1] 612-781-2218
Woodhill Financial . . . . . . . . . Page 6
Advanced Filing Concepts
Bob Scharber
[1] 651-481-8827
Noran Neurological Clinic . . . . Page 7
Beacon Accounts Management
Ms. Nancy Boehmer [1] 952-233-2011
Nutri-West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 8
Billing Buddies
Bonnie Flom
[1] 763-546-2455
Billing Buddies . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 9
Center for Diagnostic Imaging
Jarred Onarheim
[1] 952-543-6507
University of Minnesota . . . . Page 10
ChiroTouch
Erin Aguilera
[1] 619-488-9798
Cancer Treatment Centers
Consulting Radiologists Ltd.
Tim Kratzke
[1] 952-285-3720
of America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 11
Core Products International, Inc.
Doug Mattison
[1] 715-294-2050
NCMIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16
Creative Comfort, Inc.
Judy McDonald
[1] 651-200-3051
Meyer Consulting . . . . . . . . . Page 20
Healthsource Chiropractic
Michael Dixon
[1] 612-306-6955
Mighty Oak Technology, Inc . Page 20
Healthy Alternatives, Inc
Arlene Bushard
[1] 320-834-2188
HighPoint Environmental
Tim Guimond
[1] 763-757-4920
Loren Martin Practice Opportunities . . . . . . Page 23
Hockert Sales
Chris Hockert
[1] 763-434-2350
Mighty Oak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 24
IC System
Terri Lewis
[1] 651-481-6553
Acurad Technical Services . . . Page 25
iGroup Financial
James Magnuson
[1] 952-446-3326
Healthy Indoor Air . . . . . . .
Infinedi, LLC
Dawn Martinez
[1] 800-688-8087
Lake Superior X-Ray, Inc.
Terry Hart
[1] 218-525-3393
Advertisements
Law Office of David Wulff
David Wulff
[1] 651-636-1900
LifeScan Upright MRI
Julie Kohner
[1] 651-486-7530
Medical Business Consulting, Inc.
Cathi Hammond
[1] 763-862-5855
Medvantic Solutions
Brian Lee
[1] 952-374-9817
Meyer Business Consulting/Eclipse Software Bonnie Meyer
[1] 612-210-6630
Mighty Oak Technology
Judith Barnes
[1] 952-374-5550
Minnesota Craniofacial Center Midway
Dr. Roy Hakala
[1] 651-642-1013
Mutual of Omaha
Kyle Luebeck
[1] 763-639-1324
NCMIC Group, Inc.
Mike Whitmer
[1] 515-313-4500
Noran Neurological Clinic
Kelly O’Neill
[1] 612-879-1675
Nutri-West
JJ Munro
[1] 715-381-9990
Nutrition Dynamics
Greg Peterson
[1] 763-479-3444
Off-Site Office Solutions, LLC
Kathy Altman
[1] 763-670-1224
OrthoCor Medical
Junius Ho
[1] 612-568-5846
Physicians Group, LLC, MN
Gary Kompothecras [1] 941-552-1189
Physicians Resource Network
Kord Williams
[1] 763-545-2842
Practice Brokers
Jerry Peterson
[1] 952-938-0092
Practice Opportunities Inc.
Loren Martin
[1] 952-953-9444
Score Naturals
Shannon Score
[1] 651-246-9663
Standard Process Nutrition of Minnesota Tracy Foley
[1] 651-226-5864
Superior Outsourcing Solutions, LLC
Diane DeVries
[1] 866-200-1217
Therapy Equipment Sales and Service
Jon and Char Esch [1] 507-451-4931
Woodhill Financial
Milt Edgren
[1] 763-746-8686
CDI . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover
Page 25
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Minnesota
Chiropractic Association
8120 Penn Ave. S. #270 Bloomington, MN 55431 952.882.9411 1.800.864.3769 Fax: 952.882.9397 www.mnchiro.com
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