“What is Dr. Hergert doing in Austin?
Some of you may not know, that I am President of the Texas Chiropractic Association (TCA). The TCA is the largest and strongest chiropractic association in the state, representing chiropractors’ rights and our patients’ rights (your rights) for over 100 years.
Why does this matter to you? Unfortunately, an anti-competitive trade group has taken legal action that puts your direct access to chiropractic care in jeopardy, by challenging the authority of a Doctor of Chiropractic to diagnose (something that DCs have been doing legally in Texas since 1949). At its core, this could interfere with your ability to choose your own doctor, and perhaps even affect your ability to use your health insurance for chiropractic care. The threat is so dangerous that this issue is making waves nationally within the chiropractic community. As a result, in the upcoming weeks (in addition to what’s going on in Austin with the legsislative session), I will be attending 2 national conferences to speak about what is going on in Texas to help raise awareness and funding.
How do we fix it?
In order to “fix” the problem, TCA has been fighting the decision in the courts for over 10 years, and working to change legislation that clarifies the authority of DCs to diagnose. Thankfully, during this legislative session (which just kicked off in January), we have an excellent opportunity to fix the law and we are going to need your help!
What’s happening right now?
The Texas Legislature is in session essentially until Memorial Day and momentum is building in favor of legislation that is positive for chiropractic patients. Thursday, February 9, 2017 was a tremendous day for Chiropractic and for patient choice. Thursday was Texas Chiropractic Day at the Capitol. Close to 600 Doctors of Chiropractic, patients, students, staff, and family members spent the day at the State Capitol educating lawmakers on the issue of patient access, chiropractic education and training, and building relationships with over 140 different offices. The event was a huge success, but we’re just getting started.
Here’s the secret…
Smart legislators listen to their constituents. It’s patients (like you) that really have make an impression when you tell legislators how important chiropractic is to you. A group of Chiropractors saying it is one thing…a group of healthcare consumers who are constituents (and vote) is a different ballgame.
What can you do?
As a patient and member of our family, stay tuned for updates and for ways that you can help make your voice heard when these key issues are before the legislature. Thank you again for choosing our office and for the trust you place in us. I assure you, I will do my BEST to ensure that your rights and access to the care you choose are protected.