We Are Family

At the turn of a new year, I often reflect back on the memorable events of the past as well as look forward to new goals and visions for the future. I read cover to cover the “Best of …” lists and stories in newspapers and magazines but especially the “Top Plays” from ESPN. In shaping this article for the ICS Journal, I can tell you that the past two years have brought many significant positives to our Society: We achieved unprecedented success in the Statehouse with our legislative agenda and continue to make progress with additional legislative successes. Under the capable leadership of Executive Director Marc Abla and President Monica Schnack, we have sharpened our team of professionals working for the ICS. We are fortunate to have experienced and insightful attorney Adrienne Hersch working on our behalf as part of the team serving as general counsel and strategist. Rob French brings the pedigree and passion we have been looking for as Director of Governmental Relations. We have implemented a new website, software, and phone system all designed to better serve the membership. Our Journal is among the best chiropractic journals in the country and the regular columnists are receiving rave reviews for their work. But be assured, the ICS is not about to rest on its laurels.

Looking forward, like all other healthcare providers, we see many changes, obstacles and adversaries on the horizon. Many problems aren’t unique to us, but are personal and serious to us nonetheless. The ICS will fight hard to protect chiropractic amid these challenges. The ICS board is made up of committed volunteers who all have their own practices and experience the same frustrations as our membership. In our work to protect the chiropractic license, we find ourselves at a strategic crossroads in discussing scope of practice. The chiropractic warriors who fought long and hard to have us included in the Medical Practice Act served us well. Do we fight to protect that work and/or do we fight to advance it? Make no mistake, we are in a fight either way. You don’t have to be the President to have a leadership role in the ICS. We want your input, we want your participation, we want you involved.

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I recently had a conversation with a chiropractor determined to cancel his ICS membership over what he perceived to be a philosophical difference. Despite sound reasoning to convince him otherwise, he had his way and dropped his membership. In our conversation, I could appreciate his passion for his work, but instead of channeling his energies for the greater good, he quit. I ask you this, did he strengthen or weaken his position by quitting? I believe he weakened his position. He was invited to become involved, continue to have his opinions heard, and be a part of the solution… but he chose to take his ball and go home. He’s not alone. Are you aware that over 2/3rds of the licensed DCs in Illinois do not belong to the ICS? Is it apathy, is it being cheap, is it carelessness, is it perceived philosophical differences? I’m sure there are a number of reasons, but I also know that we can get a lot more accomplished together rather than divided. Sitting on the sidelines never wins you a victory.

I look forward to serving the ICS and the chiropractic profession over the next two years as the ICS President. I have learned a lot and have a great appreciation for all the past ICS boards and volunteer DCs who have worked tirelessly and uncompensated to advance chiropractic in Illinois. I am a busy husband, father, and doctor; but I feel strongly enough about our opportunities and challenges to get involved and work to make a positive difference. I was told by my pastor years ago that busy people get things done. I urge you to become involved in the ICS, especially if you are busy. Promote membership amongst your colleagues, respond to ICS alerts, come to Convention and donate to PAC. We have a great deal to be thankful for and to work towards, and it would be easier with your participation. The ICS is not perfect, the board is not perfect, but we are family. If you are not a member or involved, let that be your professional resolution. Like any family, dysfunctional or otherwise, we should be able to rely upon one another to look out for our common interests. With everyone’s participation, we can accomplish more and share in the success!