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MCA Welcomes New Leadership Dr. Naas & Dr. Kollar C hiropractic A ssociation M innesota MCA Journal May/June 2012

MCA on Law ..... 21-22 No Need to Dread Federal Workers’ Comp ... the MCA general membership for your ongoing support in the MCA

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Page 1: MCA on Law ..... 21-22 No Need to Dread Federal Workers’ Comp ... the MCA general membership for your ongoing support in the MCA

MCA Welcomes New Leadership

Dr. Naas & Dr. Kollar

Chiropractic AssociationMinnesota MCA

Journal

Ma

y/

Jun

e 2

01

2

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1 MCA Journal May/June 20121

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HOT TOPICS

• 2012 Chiropractic

Celebration Recap

• Member Involvement/

Member Services

NEXT JOURNAL

• New Leadership 2012-2013

• Member Involvement

MCA Journal May/June 2012 2

Table of Contents

A Message from the President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3A Message from the Executive Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4MCA Past President’s List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6 Public Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Members on the Move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Save the Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Get Lucky 7K Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9MCA Committee Involvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10CA Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122012 Legislative Session Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Chiropractic Celebration Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15-16May Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17June Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Checklist Your Practice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Wulff on Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21-22No Need to Dread Federal Workers’ Comp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Are Your Revenues Tied to Emotions? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Associate Business Members Listing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Advertising Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

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.

Copyright 2012 Minnesota Chiropractic Association. All rights reserved.

Minnesota Chiropractic AssociationBoard of directors

2011-2012

President Dr. Jennifer L. NaasFirst Vice-President Dr. Christian J. KollarSecond Vice-President Dr. Scott MooringTreasurer Dr. Lisa Hellerud Secretary & Parliamentarian Dr. Richard C. Hueffmeier Immediate Past-President Dr. Christopher D. Jo Northeast District Director Dr. Gerald P. PrileyNorthwest District Director Dr. Vincent W. Pankonin

Central District Vice President Dr. Barbara DolezalMetro East District Director Dr. John J. HynanMetro East District Director Dr. Kathy CaseyMetro West District Director Dr. Carrie GetzmierMetro West District Director Dr. Doug BromanSoutheast District Director Dr. Andrew T. KleinSouthwest 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.

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3 MCA Journal May/June 2012

a messageDr. Jennifer Naas

From the President

State of the Association

As our fiscal year ends, I would like to thank those doctors who have volunteered their time and

resources to move the profession forward. I would also like to thank the MCA staff and lobbyists for all their hard work. Last, but certainly not least, I want to thank the MCA general membership for your ongoing support in the MCA. Everything we do begins and ends with you. It’s important for us to remember that without dedicated members, the MCA simply would not exist. We have had some successes, some frustrations, and some challenges that have evolved into opportunities. While many might consider our slow progress on our scope modernization a setback, I believe it presents an opportunity. The opportunity before us lies in developing mechanisms so everyone’s concerns can be heard; the profession and the patients we serve are protected, and we are able to deliver one, strong, unified voice at the capitol. I credit our lead lobbyist Kevin Goodno, and the MCA leadership for working hard to develop relationships with the many interested stakeholders so the process can continue to move forward. We have worked closely with the Insurance Federation of Minnesota, lawmakers, and other chiropractic organizations in the state in a collaborative effort to craft legislation that will protect consumers’ rights under No Fault Auto. We have seen many new leaders emerging and beginning to take a role in participating in Day at the Capital and organizing their districts for greater involvement. Looking Ahead As we look ahead, even with our best efforts, economic challenges facing our profession and association continue to grow, and we anticipate that the next legislative session will bring strong opposition to our position on key issues. We might argue as to what is the most significant

challenge facing chiropractors in Minnesota today, but top on the list would certainly be declining re-imbursements, closed networks, high student loan debt, limited utilization by the public, and threats of post-payment audits by Medicare and other insurers. No wonder a recent Chiropoll in Dynamic Chiropractic revealed that 53% of chiropractors polled said if they went back in time, they would choose a career other than chiropractic. Many of our colleagues are struggling to keep their practices running and provide for their families. When the bill collectors are knocking at your door, belonging to your state or national association looks like a luxury that you cannot afford. As a result, the MCA has seen membership challenges, and is operating on a much smaller budget now, than several years ago. If we don’t find a way to address the real issues facing today’s chiropractor, chiropractic and the MCA will become irrelevant. Next month, the MCA leadership will conduct a strategy session and these very issues will be addressed. We will need to make some difficult decisions about which issues to tackle with our limited resources. We have been working this past year to develop strategic alliances with other chiropractic organizations and groups in the state to work together to resolve these issues, and we are dedicated to continuing to grow these relationships for the benefit of chiropractic. What Can You Do? We have a unique opportunity this election cycle to establish relationships with our state legislators. With redistricting, all seats in the MN House and Senate will be up for election in 2012. Over 30 State Senators and State Representatives have announced they are not running and a few more will be announcing their retirements at the close of the session.•

For the rest of the article visit www.mnchiro.com and look

on the For Members tab.

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 4

a messageDebra Hurston

Mega Member Loto

From the Executive Director

Even if you don’t play the lottery, most people, at one time or another will fantasize of what they’d do if

they “won it big” - build a new house, take that dream vacation, quit your job (not me of course), or whatever would be your grandest dream. This got me thinking of what the MCA would do it we “won it big.” I frequently have doctors ask me “why doesn’t the MCA do _____________ (you fill in the blank)” and I usually respond with “that’s a great idea.” In a perfect world, the MCA would be in a position to move every great idea forward that comes across my desk. However, in reality we unfortunately are not able to pursue nearly as many great ideas as we would like because we just do not have the resources – financial or volunteer manpower. Let’s imagine what the MCA could look like if we hit the Mega Member Lotto…. 1. With 100 new members, the MCA could hire a full time staff lobbyist and an assistant for me (just thinking out loud) 2. With 200 new members, the MCA could add to the above, a full time public relations person. 3. With 300 doctors attending the MCA convention each year, we could deliver more nationally known speakers. 4. With 1,000 new members (the NEW MEMBER JACKPOT), the MCA could do any of the following: • Cut everyone’s dues in half and still have more resources than we do now • Purchase a building so your association always has a home

• Offer members free continuing education and a free convention • Hire a staff attorney • Or, we could look at moving the association toward developing “staff issue experts”. (Some larger associations have dedicated staff to address

key issues.) Why can’t this happen? Because not nearly enough doctors of chiropractic support the MCA. Even many of the doctors who are MCA members do not attend MCA fundraising events such as convention or seminars. Instead, many doctors get their C.E.s

from “free” sources such as some vendor sponsored sales pitches disguised as “educational seminars.” These seminars are “free” in the sense that you do not actually hand your money to the organizers, but you do pay for them in other ways. All money raised by the MCA directly affects what will happen to Minnesota’s chiropractic profession and your clinic. As a not-for-profit association, the MCA’s only agenda is to support and advance the chiropractic profession in Minnesota – period. We do this with legislative activities to protect the profession, provide seminars to educate doctors, and skillfully advocate when an insurance company or other entity is inappropriately imposing their will. When you attend “free” C.E. classes, how many of those sponsoring organizations would go to bat for you against insurance companies? We could do all of these things and a lot more, if we hit the Mega Member Lotto.•

“As a not-for-profit association,

the MCA’s only agenda is to support and

advance the chiropractic profession

in Minnesota – period. “

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5 MCA Journal May/June 2012

MCA Past Presidents

Dr. E.R. Two1928

Dr. A.M. Hasplin1929

Dr. W.S. Putnam1934-1936

Dr. A.L.F. Waylander1937

Dr. William Wittig1938

Dr. W.B. Whittenberg1939

Dr. Robert Ramsey1940

Dr. James P. Sorenson1941

Dr. T. Aasun1942

Dr. George Kelley1943-1946

Dr. Earl Clay1947

Dr. M.C.E. Hagen1948

Dr. Lowell Wilson1949

Dr. Warren Roepke1950

Dr. Jennings Wilson1951

Dr. B.F. Lee1952

Dr. Roy Falk1953

Dr. Rodney Lund1954

Dr. C.J. Lotzer1955

Dr. George Ramsey1956

Dr. Fred Smidell1957

Dr. W. Adair Muralt1958

Dr. Earl Seeliger1959

Dr. Herman Ahrenholtz1960

Dr. Richard Scott1961

Dr. Wallace Schoenheider1962

Dr. Edward Puckropp1963

Dr. J. Elliot Peterson1964

Dr. Richard Bol1965

Dr. Duane Wething1966

Dr. William Lenz1967

Dr. Robert Thatcher1968

Dr. George Arvidson1969

Dr.’s Donald Nelson & Mark Marty1970

Dr. John Beaty1971

Dr. Russell Stauff1972

5 MCA Journal May/June 2012

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 6

Dr. Richard Hogan1973

Dr. Dennis Arne1974

Dr. Don Jensen1975

Dr. Joe Sweere1976

Dr. Roger Larum1977

Dr. Ken Wisen1978

Dr. Ron McBride1979

Dr. Ed Sweere1980

Dr. John Murray1981

Dr. Tom Allenburg1982

Dr. Gordon Miller1983

Dr. Jeff Falk1984

Dr. Richard “R.T.” Donahue1985

Dr. Gerald Kari1986

Dr. John Knox1987

Dr. James Fleming1988

Dr. David Dehen1989

Dr. Richard Zarmbinski1990

Dr. Terese Tomanek1991

Dr. Richard C. Hueffmeier1992

Dr. Steven Fetzer1993

Dr. Richard Ottomeyer1994

Dr. Loren Stockton1995

Dr. Steven Schumacher1996

Dr. Gerald Priley1997

Dr. Mark Dehen1998

Dr. Brian Gfrerer1999

Dr. Keith Johnson2000

Dr. Mary Selly-Navarro2001

Dr. Doug Harden2002

Dr. Mary Beth Minser2003

Dr. Matt Caron2004

Dr. John Hynan2005

Dr. Mike Ameli2006

Dr. Craig Hartman2007

Dr. Christopher Jo2008-2010

6MCA Journal May/June 2012

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7 MCA Journal May/June 2012

Public Education

The Importance of Managing Stress

Dr. Fabrizio Mancini, President of Parker University, Appears with “The Doctors” to Discuss Chiropractic

BLOOMINGTON, MN - The Minnesota Chiropractic Association (MCA) is joining forces with health

care organizations around the country to increase public awareness about the harmful impact of stress during April, “Stress Awareness Month.” “While everyone handles the stress in their daily lives differently and regardless of the source of your stress, its effects on your body will become evident in your nerve system,” explains MCA president, Dr. Jennifer Naas. The effects of never-ending stress are prolonged muscle tension and contraction. Muscle tension can create pressures on the structures of your body, leading to misalignments or subluxations of your spine and the other joints of your body. These misalignments can cause nerve interference which then can cause common conditions such as; back pain, neck pain, headaches, jaw pain, and even high blood pressure. Dr. Naas adds that, “all of your body’s systems, including the circulatory, respiratory, digestive,

reproductive, hormonal, muscle and skeletal system, depend on an efficiently functioning nerve system.” Regular chiropractic adjustments correct misalignments, reduce spinal nerve irritation, improve circulation, and releases muscle tension, which then helps the body return to a balanced, relaxed state. Chiropractic care can have a positive impact on your health and can also aid in preventing a variety of health problems in the future. If you have questions about stress or other health care concerns, contact the MCA or visit our website (www.mnchiro.com ) to find a Doctor of Chiropractic near you.•

CARMICHAEL, Calif.; DALLAS, Tex. – April 18, 2012 – The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP), a not-

for-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the value of chiropractic care, is pleased to announce that one of its board members, Dr. Fabrizio Mancini, president of Dallas, Texas-based Parker University, will promote the importance of chiropractic care on “The Doctors”, April 23, 2012. The popular, syndicated daytime talk show will feature Dr. Mancini as its prominent guest during an upcoming segment focusing on pain and underlying causes. ‘The Doctors’ provide an opportunity for millions to learn about the value of chiropractic care,” says Dr. Mancini. “The unique, holistic care provided by a doctor of chiropractic can be beneficial to patients suffering from a variety of common conditions that result in pain and suffering, as well as to those striving to improve their health.” The popular broadcast, distributed by CBS Television Distribution, provides its viewers with easy-to-understand information about common issues surrounding health, medical care and drugs. It relies on the support of a panel of distinguished practitioners, including an ER physician, obstetrician/gynecologist, plastic surgeon/reconstructive surgery expert, and pediatrician. “Since the show does not have a chiropractor on staff, it is

important that the audience receives a thorough, educational segment about chiropractic care,” shares Dr. Mancini. “During this segment, a patient suffering from low back pain is provided with a chiropractic exam and proper treatment. Following is an insightful discussion about the patient’s overall treatment course and current progress.” Viewers can expect to learn about the real value of chiropractic care and its unique health benefits. In addition, Dr. Mancini specifically addresses the underlying emotional, physical and chemical stresses – that lie at the root of a number of health issues. “Chiropractic care has proven to restore the quality of life in so many patients, and it is my mission to continue sharing its benefits with as many individuals as possible,” concludes Dr. Mancini.•

About Foundation for Chiropractic Progress: To learn more about “The Doctors,” or to check local listings, visit: http://www.thedoctorstv.com/main/local_listings.To learn more about becoming a chiropractor, please visit: www.yes2chiropractic.com.A not-forfor-profit organization, the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress aims to inform and educate 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).

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8MCA Journal May/June 2012

Milt Edgren, PresidentCLU, ChFC, MSFS

Our team of experts are proud to service chiropractors throughout the state of Minnesota.

Amy Edgren, CLU

Kelly Chillstrom, CIC

Blake Cadwallader, LUTCF

We offer key products and services designed specifically for the chiropractic community.

Woodhill Financial, Inc. is pleased to be your endorsed

MCA agency

(763) 746-8686Toll Free 1 (866) 966-3445

Email: [email protected]

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

Page 10: MCA on Law ..... 21-22 No Need to Dread Federal Workers’ Comp ... the MCA general membership for your ongoing support in the MCA

9 MCA Journal May/June 20129

MCA Members Volunteer at Get Lucky ½ Marathon

Keep a look out for more ways to get involved in the MCA Sports Council committee events! Upcoming events are: • Minneapolis Marathon (Team Ortho) June 3rd • Go Commando (Team Ortho) June 9th • Red Ribbon Ride July 19, 20, 21, 22 • Breast Cancer 3-Day August 24, 25, 26 • Minneapolis Duathlon (Team Ortho) August 26th • Monster Dash (Team Ortho) October 27th

Any questions or if you’d like to get invovled, please contact Dr. Scott Mooring at 651-455-5264 •

MeMbers on the Move

Member Services

Dr. Christopher Hanson

Dr. Ted Harrison

Dr. Elena Pekurovsky

Dr. Jon Theurer

Anabolic Distributors Midwest

ChiroJuice

Future Health Software

Multi-Radiance Medical

Welcome New Member Doctors

Welcome New Associate Business Members

Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013

Save the Date!Chiropractic Day at the Capitol!

*If you are interested in becoming a key doctor for your district, contact Mary Pat at

[email protected].

On Saturday, March 17th, the MCA teamed up with TeamOrtho and volunteered at the Get Lucky ½ marathon. Twenty (20) volunteers worked all morning at a water stop along the course. Encouragement, motivation and

lots of laughs kept the energy high and kept the runners moving! The MCA plans to team up with TeamOrtho more throughout the summer.

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 10

Get INVOLVED with an MCA Committee

The MCA has a variety of committees that meet on a regular basis to oversee, promote, and enhance association membership. Each committee plays an important role in the association. Below is a list of a few of the key committees and their functions. If you are interested in taking an active role in the MCA, consider getting involved in an MCA committee today. The Ethics Committee drafts and revises the Association’s Code of Ethics. It also issues advisory opinions for the guidance of the profession, and makes findings and recommendations regarding ethics complaints referred by the association, the Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners, and others.

The Legislative Committee produces the legislative agenda to be approved by the full board. The committee works to assure that all chiropractors in Minnesota can practice with as much liberty within our scope as possible.

Legislative Committee Members *Chair, Dr. Craig Couillard

The Professional Education Committee focuses on providing quality continuing education programs for our doctors. The committee provides educational programs that not only educate doctors, but also prepares them for an ever-changing health care system.

Professional Education Committee *Chair, Dr. Carrie Clark

The Membership Committee works toward expanding our member base and enhancing the value of membership in the MCA. Besides reviewing and making recommendations on products and services offered to Minnesota chiropractors, we are engaged in a major effort towards membership recruitment through education and awareness programs.

Membership Services Committee *Chair, Dr. Carrie Getzmier

The Communications Committee is responsible for publicity and development of programs to advance the image of the chiropractic profession. The committee also promotes and increases the understanding and appreciation of chiropractic. This committee also strives to improve communications within the MCA and the chiropractors of Minnesota.

Communications Committee *Chair, Dr. Kevin Wilhelmi

The Finance Committee oversees the treasury, submits a proposed annual budget for board approval at or before the first board meeting of each fiscal year, and may undertake fund raising projects. The Awards Committee provides increased opportunities for professional recognition and achievement. “The Outstanding Chiropractor of the Year” is the most prestigious award a doctor in Minnesota may achieve. Other special recognition distinctions for excellence and distinguished service in chiropractic are awarded each year at the Awards Banquet. This committee is chaired by the current Chiropractor of the Year, and the committee is made up of all past recipients of the “Chiropractor of the Year” Award.•

To find out more information on committees and ways to get

involved, log on to www.mnchiro.com.

Chiropractic Day at the Capitol!

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11 MCA Journal May/June 201211

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 1212

CA Corner

Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) are a requirement of the federal health care reform act, whereas Health Care

Homes (HCHs) are a requirement of Minnesota health care reform. These similar models of care are designed to administer and manage the health care for Medicare and MA patients. Initially, the ACOs and HCHs will be reserved for people with multiple health problems, and will branch out to include all Medicare and MA patients in 2013-2014. The intent is to make these models of care available to all health care consumers regardless of their insurance coverage. Eventually ACOs and HCHs will be the required model of care for all health care in the country. Minnesota currently has 165 certified Health Care Homes, and three of these health care systems (Allina, Fairview, and Park Nicollet) have also qualified as Medicare ACOs. ACOs and HCHs are very similar to the Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) of the 80s and 90s that failed to lower health care costs. In an HMO the Primary Care Provider (PCP) controlled all aspects of the patient’s care. Most conditions were treated by the PCP, but if care was needed from a specialist the PCP was required to obtain prior authorization from the HMO before referring the patient to a specialist within the HMO network. PCPs were paid on a capitation basis for most of their services, but if the PCP kept within pre-determined parameters of cost containment he received an annual bonus. ACOs and HCHs are essentially the same as the HMOs, except the intent is that the care will be controlled by the primary care

providers (with government oversight) instead of the insurance companies. The MN Health Department’s website states that an HCH “is not a restrictive network”, but also notes that “care may be restricted by the patient’s personal health plan.” So, ultimately, it will be the insurance companies calling the shots since they will determine the HCH’s capitation rate and bonuses. Another important difference between HMOs and HCHs is how the HCH is organized. In the HMO era, most health care providers were in individual or small group practices. When a patient needed a specialist, the PCP referred him to an individual or small group specialty practice within the HMO’s network. With the exception of Chiropractors, most of today’s health care providers are employed by the large health care systems (Allina, Fairview, Park Nicollet, etc.). These large health care systems (i.e. Health Care Homes) will now be controlling where patients are referred when specialty services are needed. •

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.

The Future of Health Care in the U.S. – Accountable Care Organizations

For the rest of the article visit www.mnchiro.com and look

on the For Members tab.

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13 MCA Journal May/June 2012

The 2012 legislative session was short and politically charged. The legislature works in two year cycles, with

the second year typically focused on correcting budget issues from the previous session, and enacting a bonding bill. The 2012 session was no different in that regard, but had the added element of an impending election with new legislative districts. The Minnesota Chiropractic Association (MCA) was involved in budget issues, health plan transparency, health provider reimbursement issues, and other issues important to the MCA. However, the bulk of the lobbying team’s efforts were focused on two issues—the chiropractic scope of practice, and no fault automobile insurance reform. The MCA continued to move forward with its Chiropractic Scope Bill (HF1334/SF1065). This legislation would modernize, strengthen and clarify the current chiropractic scope of practice in Minnesota to better reflect current education standards and enforcement practices. The intent of the bill is not to expand the existing scope of chiropractic practice or to restrict the current practice of any other licensed health profession. Because of the short legislative session, our intent was to continue to refine the bill to address the legitimate objections of various parties and set the framework for future legislation. We continued our communications with a number of groups including the Minnesota Dietetics Association, Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Association of Minnesota, Minnesota Medical Association, Minnesota Occupational Therapy Association, American Physical Therapy Association-Minnesota Chapter, Chiropractic Board of Examiners, and professionals within the chiropractic community. We are now at a stage, to re-engage the chiropractic profession on this issue as we continue to move forward with the desired changes next year. Last year, the No Fault Automobile Insurance Reform was moving through the legislative process. As amended, this bill would have required that treatment of soft tissue injuries suffered in an motor vehicle accident follow the workers compensation treatment codes, payment schedules and treatment parameters. This would have applied only to chiropractors and those physical therapists whose services are not billed through a medical doctor or small hospital. We were able to delay that bill last year and subsequently engage in discussions with the insurance industry around common concerns with the current no fault insurance system. Because of this engagement, the previous year’s onerous provisions were not pursued this year.

Instead, a bill authored by Rep. Abeler (a chiropractor) in the House and Sen. Gazelka (an insurance agent) in the Senate was introduced. This bill, on which we worked with the insurance industry and other stakeholders, strengthens the current law prohibiting the use of runners to solicit no fault auto business for health care providers. In addition to the modifications giving “teeth” to the current anti-runners law, the legislation also addresses concerns about misleading advertising. The bill imposes new restrictions on advertising to no fault patients by requiring that solicitations or referrals for no fault treatment must:

1) Be undertaken by a health care provider 2) Prominently display the legal name of the health care provider using either the name under which they are licensed or the legal name of their business entity as registered with the Secretary of State 3) Display the license type of the health care provider 4) Not contain any false, deceptive, or misleading information or mislead about the services to be provided 5) Not include any reference to dollar amounts of potential benefits 6) Not imply endorsement by law enforcement personnel or agency

Although this legislation was a first step in addressing concerns with the current no-fault system, it also sets the foundation for continued work to address abusive practices by insurance companies including independent medical exam abusive practices, and perceived abuse by providers through over treatment and over billing.•

2012 Legislative Session Recap

Legislative

About the Author:Kevin Goodno is a shareholder and Chair of Fredrikson’s Government Relations practice. His focus is to provide a comprehensive range of services to clients, including legislative drafting and tracking, policy development, governmental lobbying at all levels, and strategy creation regarding governmental relations.

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 14

D.C.s Spend Their NCMIC Premium Dividend Checks

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©2012 NCMIC NFL 3168

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 …

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.

Call 1-800-769-2000, ext. 3120.

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

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

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15 MCA Journal May/June 2012

25 Year MembershipDr. Steven BiermaierDr. Mark DehenDr. Scott GauerDr. Dale RohlfingDr. Boyd Williams

25 Year DistinguishedServiceDr. Mark DehenDr. Randal JacklitchDr. Matthew KirschsteinDr. Jennifer NaasDr. Dale Rohlfing

50 Year DistinguishedServiceDr. Jack HoltzDr. Joe Sweere

2012 OutstandingEducator AwardMr. David Wulff, Esq.

2012 Claudius GalenAwardMs. Cathi Hammond

THANk yOU FOR CELEbRATING THE PROFESSION!

The 2012 Annual Chiropractic Celebration brought in doctors and chiropractic assistants

from all over the state to network, learn new information and participate with the A-list of speakers that was recently held at the Marriot in Minnetonka. Hundreds attended the weekend program that featured seminars on a variety of topics such as; professional boundaries, pediatrics, CPR training, women’s health, motivation and practice management, upper and lower extremity adjusting, Electronic Health Records discussion and becoming HIPAA compliant.

Nationally known speakers, Bill Esteb, President of PatientMedia, and Dr. Ty Talcott both drew standing room only crowds as they both delivered humorous and informative seminars on practice management and HIPAA compliance, respectively. Doctors were pleased with the presentations and what the next steps are for their practice. Here is what some had to say:

“My wife Cindy and I attended the MCA convention and I’d like to say it’s probably one of the best conventions I’ve been part of in the past 25 years. The speaker’s line-up was A-list. From the timely topics, to the speakers and the MCA staff; we thoroughly enjoyed it. The value of content and insights easily will cover our membership dues investment. In this day and age, it really is not an option to practice without the connection to our state association.” -Dr. Boyd Williams

“My hats off to the MCA staff and the convention committee members! What a great weekend of speakers, updates and entertainment! From the update on impending EHR, to women’s nutrition, to functional neurology, to scope of practice, CPR/AED certification etc, etc. I and my staff ‘refilled’ our tanks and are already seeing it spill over into our practice this morning! We can’t wait for next year!” -Dr. Keith Johnson

The celebration was equipped with support from great vendors and sponsors for the whole weekend. Vendors received quality one on one time with doctors as well as great prizes through participation of a vendor’s only trivia game. Congratulations to Mighty Oak Technology, Mutual of Omaha, and Beacon Accounts Management as winners of the vendor trivia game. The President’s Reception and Awards Banquet held on Saturday evening offered the opportunity to network with colleagues and recognize individuals who have helped move the chiropractic profession forward. Emceed by Dr. Mary Beth Minser, the highlight of the evening was recognizing the recipient of the prestigious “Chiropractor of the Year” award, Dr. Christopher Jo. This award is given for outstanding and unselfish contribution of time, effort and dedication to programs, projects and issues that have been influential in positioning the chiropractic profession within the health care arena. Congratulations Dr. Jo!

New this year, the MCA made a special tribute to recognize past presidents for the unwavering commitment they have given to the chiropractic profession. It is their hard work that has laid the

“Standing room only” at Dr. Ty Talcott’s seminar on HIPAA Compliance

Dr. Deb Genrick demonstrates acupuncture techniques.

Kyle Luebeck, Mutual of Omaha and Matt Richard,

Mighty Oak Technology

Dr. Hueffmeier and Dr. Jo, Chiropractor of the Year!

MCA Past PresidentsFrom top left to right: (Dr. Richard Hueffmeier, Dr. Jennifer Naas, Dr. Christopher Jo, Dr. Craig Hartman, Dr. John Hynan, Dr. Mike Ameli, Dr. Matt Caron, Dr. Doug

Hardin, Dr. Keith Johnson, Dr. Mary Beth Minser, Dr. Joe Sweere, Dr. Gordon Miller, Dr. R.T. Donahue, Dr. Richard Zarmbinski, Dr. Richard Ottomeyer, Dr. Mark

Dehen, Dr. Mary Selly- Navarro)

2012 Chiropractic Celebration Award

Winners

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 16

ground work for the professions’ success and stability. The MCA would like to take this time to congratulate all of the award winners that were recognized for their outstanding efforts for the chiropractic profession (please see side panels). Immediately following the Awards program, Dr. Keith Johnson did an encore presentation of “Secret Chiro Man” and this year we also enjoyed the smooth vocal talents of Dr. Zach Kimble, Dr. Matt Carron, Dr. Darren Roemhildt and others. Music, dancing, conversation and fun extended until the early morning hours. On Sunday, nearly a full room of attendees gathered for enlightening seminars on acupuncture with Dr. Deb Genrick and functional neurology presented by Dr. Michael Pierce, DC, DACNB, FACFN. Dr. Pierce was followed by a legislative update from MCA Lobbyists, Kevin Goodno, J.D. and Cort Holten, J.D. providing the latest information on anti-shadowing.

“Secret Chiro Man”By Dr. Keith Johnson

Dr. Chris Jo, Dr. Dave Patterson, Dr. Keith Johnson, Dr. Eron Bordson, & Dr. Doug Broman

Dr. Hynan and Dr. Kollar enjoying the reception.

2012 Chiropractic Celebration Award

Winners

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!

2012 John AllenburgMeritorious AwardDr. Zach Kimble

2012 President’s AwardDr. Sara CuperusDr. Barbara DolezalDr. Brian MalzerDr. Lacie MockrosLeanne Ottomeyer, RN

2012 Chiropractorof the YearDr. Christopher Jo

4ChiroCloud

Anabolic Distribution Midwest

BackChart

Beacon Accounts Management

CDI

ChiroJuice

ChiroTouch

Clinic Doctor

Creative Comfort

Consulting Radiologist, Ltd.

Dynatronics

Easy PC Solutions

Foot Levelers

Future Health Software

The Green Earth

Healthsource Chiropractic

The HELPcard

Hockert Sales

Hope Science

Infinedi, LLC

It Works! Global

JEI Medical Therapy Equipment Sales

Lake Superior X-Ray, Inc.

MAPS Medical Pain Clinics

Medical Business Consulting

Mighty Oak Technology

Multi Radiance Medical

Mutual of Omaha

NCMIC Insurance Company

Noran Neurological Clinic

Northwestern Health Sciences University

Nutrition Dynamics

Ortho Cor

Panacea Laser

Practice Opportunities, Inc.

Richard Wolf Medical Instruments

Summit Orthopedics

TDS

Tempo Communications, LLC

UAS Laboratories

Vertical Partners

Woodhill Financial, Inc.

Thank you to our participating vendors.

This would not be possible without them!

MCA Annual Chiropractic Celebration!Friday, April 19 – Sunday, April 21, 2013

*Look for the Early bird Discount! Minneapolis Airport Marriott 2020 American blvd East in bloomington, MN 55425

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17 MCA Journal May/June 2012

May 2012Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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Upcoming Seminars

MN Limited X-Ray Exam Training

MN Limited X-Ray Exam

Gluten-Free Seminar

MCA Communications

Committee Meeting

MCA Professional Education

Committee Meeting

MCA Legislative Committee

Meeting

Metro West District Meeting

MCA Membership Committee Meeting

Metro East/Metro West District Meeting

MCA Board Meeting

Mother’s Day

Memorial Day

Friday, Aug. 24 - Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012

Save the Date!Susan G. KomenTwin Cities 3-Day

*Stay tuned for more information!

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 18

June 2012Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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Team Ortho – Minneapolis MarathonDate: Sunday, June 3, 2012Time: 6:00am - 1:00pmPlace: Water Stop by the Depot in Minneapolis* The MCA needs volunteers to help at the MCA water stop

Upcoming Seminars

Team Ortho – Minneapolis

Marathon

Team Ortho – Go Commando

MCA Communications

Committee Meeting

MCA Communications

Committee Meeting

MCA Communications

Committee Meeting

MCA Board

Meeting

MCA Professional Education Committee

MeetingFirst Day of Summer

Father’s Day

Mark Your Calendar!Sunday, September 16, 2012

MCA Family Picnic at Como Zoo

*Stay tuned for more information!

Susan G. KomenTwin Cities 3-Day

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19 MCA Journal May/June 201219

Page 21: MCA on Law ..... 21-22 No Need to Dread Federal Workers’ Comp ... the MCA general membership for your ongoing support in the MCA

MCA Journal May/June 2012 20

Practice Management

The changes in the chiropractic industry regarding documentation can be overwhelming. You can attend

seminars, purchase software, speak to billing companies, purchase books etc. and at the end of the day still be overwhelmed. It doesn’t matter if you are a Cash practice, In-Network provider or Out of Network provider as all practices will need to comply. In an effort to put this all into perspective the following are tips to help not only the Doctor but also the staff move forward in a positive direction. One of the most important things to remember as you are getting your documentation strategies in line is to not lose sight of the rest of the procedures in the clinic. In the book, The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande, the author states the importance of using checklists to avoid major disruption of any procedure. This may sound very elementary to some of you or very “basic”. I speak with clinics everyday that both the staff and doctor have been around for years and I also speak with doctors who are new to the profession. It’s important from both perspectives to not take for granted that procedures are in place. When this is done and you only concentrate on one thing (documentation), the following result is usually a breakdown in another part of your practice leading to larger frustrations. Well developed checklists for both doctor and staff will help alleviate this frustration allowing for a smooth transition into the new documentation criteria. Many of you have been given the tools to create checklists through seminars that you have attended. This is a reminder to use them. It’s

not meant to infer that you or your staff are not great at what you do in the clinic, actually just the opposite. Each member of your staff as well as yourself should be able to write the checklist for their area of responsibility. Areas for checklists should include front desk, billing, marketing, and any additional key areas. Where this can’t be accomplished then work together, create the checklist and alleviate frustration. Looking at the Meaningful Use criteria and documentation standards is in fact a new checklist to be put in-place. I don’t need to list the criteria in this article as it is already available in each of the certified software programs available as well as through the CMS Meaningful Use website. However checklist the daily note requirements, requirements for new patients and followup reporting. These checklists along with the reporting tools in your software will ensure you are meeting all criteria on an ongoing basis. This criteria is a mandated change to the “basics” of how you as a chiropractor have complied with documentation. Consider it a checklist in your practice, assign responsibilities for adherence to both your staff and yourself where appropriate and embrace the change allowing you to continue to move your practice forward in all areas instead of being stuck without a checklist.

About the Author: Ms Meyer is the owner of Meyer Business Consulting Inc., representing

Eclipse Software, Document Plus Technologies, and e-Notify electronic appointment and recall notification. She has offered consulting services for new and established clinics for over twelve years. Contact info: [email protected]. 612 210-6630.

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21 MCA Journal May/June 2012

WULFF on lawPrIOr NOTIFICATION reQUIreMeNTs IN

WOrKers’ COMPeNsATION CAses

Knowing when and how to provide prior notification under the treatment parameters is critical. Failure to comply

with the prior notification requirements can result in the denial of your treatment even if your treatment is reasonable and necessary.Prior Approval of Treatment is Never Required. A common misconception is that prior approval of treatment is required. It is not. In fact, it is never required. Your treatment will never be denied by a judge solely because the insurer did not approve your treatment before it was rendered. This is true even in managed care situations.

However, understand that providing treatment in the absence of prior approval puts you at risk of not being paid. At the very least, payment of your treatment will be delayed until your patient pursues her workers’ compensation claim; and, if the judge finds your treatment was excessive, you will be required to write off your charges. But, if the judge finds your treatment was reasonably required to cure or relieve the effects of your patient’s work-related injury, the insurer will be ordered to pay even if they told you your treatment was denied.

Prior Notification of Treatment Beyond the Treatment Parameters is Required. You are required to provide the insurer with notification of your intent to provide any treatment not presumed to be reasonable under the parameters. Your treatment can be denied solely for failure to provide prior notice.

The treatment parameters are based upon a presumption that most, if not all, patients will follow a predictable course of treatment. This conceptual framework of how treatment normally progresses presents several natural points where communication with the insurer should be made.

Complete Recovery Prior to 12 Weeks. Some patients will completely recover from their injuries prior to the end of the 12-week period. In those cases, a letter should be sent to the insurer confirming the patient has completely recovered from his/her work-related injury with no permanent residuals. This will provide both the insurer and your patient with definite closure concerning the work-related

injury, and will benefit your patient if they ever suffer a new work-related injury or car accident in the future. However, this statement should not be made unless you are absolutely certain your patient has completely recovered from their injury.

Release to PRN at or Prior to 12 Weeks. Some patients will improve to the point where they can be released from regularly scheduled treatment at or prior to the end of the 12-week period, but have not completely recovered from their injury. In these cases, you should send a letter to the insurer notifying them your patient is being released from regularly scheduled treatment, but additional PRN treatment may be necessary.

Specifically, the letter should state your patient is released to work, specifying any work limitations; indicate that ongoing treatment will be on an as-needed basis; document that you have encouraged your patient to perform self-treatment modalities you have taught them, including exercises, in order to decrease their reliance on formal in-clinic care; confirm that surgical evaluation and chronic pain evaluation are not required; confirm that your patient is not suffering from chronic pain syndrome; and indicate that the additional visits are necessary to maintain the functional status achieved during the initial period of regularly scheduled care.

After a patient has been released to PRN care, no further notification to the insurer is required (other than the normal submission of daily notes and bills for payment), so long as the treatment is within the 12 additional visits over the next 12 calendar months presumed to be reasonable under the treatment parameters.

Regularly Scheduled Care to Continue Beyond 12 Weeks. Some patients will require regularly scheduled care for more than 12 weeks. In this situation, you should notify the insurer of your intent to provide treatment beyond 12 weeks at least seven working days before the end of the 12-week period.

The notification should be in writing and should provide the insurer with your patient’s diagnosis; the reason why you believe your patient requires regularly scheduled care for longer than 12 weeks; your treatment plan including the modalities

Wulff on Law

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 22

you intend to use, the frequency you intend to treat, and how long you anticipate providing additional treatment; and the anticipated effect your treatment will have on your patient’s condition.

In explaining why your patient requires ongoing treatment, you should identify one or more of the departure sections set forth at Minn. Rule 5221.6050, subp. 8. These include: a medical complication is prolonging your patient’s recovery; previous treatment by a different provider was substandard and has prolonged your patient’s recovery; ongoing treatment is necessary to assist your patient in her attempts to return to work; your patient is continuing to improve subjectively, objectively and in functional status; or your patient has suffered an incapacitating exacerbation that has set them back in their recovery. If none of the departure provisions apply, you should explain why ongoing treatment is reasonable and necessary under the unique circumstances of your patient’s condition.

When your patient reaches the point where they can be released from regularly scheduled care to an as-needed basis, send to the insurer the same letter used when patients are released from regularly scheduled care at or prior to the end of the 12-week period. Your patient will then be entitled to the additional 12 PRN visits over the next 12 calendar months.

Reinitiation of Scheduled Care After a Release to PRN. In some cases, patients will require more than 12 PRN treatments in 12 calendar months, or may require the reinitiation of regularly scheduled care. This will most commonly occur when a patient experiences a significant exacerbation of their condition after being released to a PRN basis.

In these cases, a letter should be sent to the insurer no later than two business days after the reinitiation of care. The letter should advise the insurer that treatment is being reinitiated; explain why the treatment is required (describing how the exacerbation occurred in some detail, and again referring to one or more of the departure sections); and confirm your treatment plan including the modalities, frequency and anticipated length of the treatment you intend to provide, together with the anticipated effect the treatment will have on your patient’s condition.

When your patient reaches a point where regularly scheduled care can once again be terminated, send a letter to the insurer saying your patient has stabilized from their exacerbation and has again been released to a PRN treatment status.

The Insurer Must Respond. The treatment parameters require the insurer to respond to any prior notification letter orally or in writing within seven working days of receipt of the notification. If you do not receive a response from the insurer within the seven working

days, authorization for the proposed treatment is “deemed to have been given” and the insurer is supposed to pay for it. However, in my experience, compensation judges are reluctant to enforce this provision.

Documentation of Communications with Insurer can be Critical. Because your charges can be denied based solely upon your failure to provide prior notification of your intent to treat beyond the parameters, being able to prove that you provided such notification is frequently important. Make sure you keep all letters, faxes, emails or other written communications you send to or receive from the insurer. Document all phone calls in your notes, or better still, with a follow-up letter confirming your understanding of what was discussed. Make sure you provide copies of this correspondence to your patient’s attorney so she has evidence proving that you complied with the notification requirements.

Create Form Letters. I would encourage you to prepare form letters for use in each of the situations discussed above. You should then fill in the details necessary to properly describe your patient’s unique circumstances. Anyone who does not want to create their own form letters is welcome to send me an email and I will email you the form letters I have created.•

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.

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23 MCA Journal May/June 2012

No Need to Dread Federal Workers’ Comp

No need to fear those Federal Workers’ Compensation cases anymore. We’ve all heard the stories and many of you have

dealt with these in the past. After months of jumping through hoops, following guidelines you think you should be following (no one tells you differently), you still go away without being paid for the service you provide. There is, as well, some general confusion regarding Federal Workers’ Compensation injuries and reimbursement for chiropractic care. Most believe that a chiropractor can only be paid for chiropractic manipulative treatment for a subluxation diagnosis as demonstrated by an X-Ray. You can actually get paid for all your service provided to a Federal employee.However, the only sure way to be paid in full, for all your treatment, including modalities, is to become a provider for the US Department of Labor and Industry. Following are steps to be taken to do this. You may way to become a provider prior to that Federal employee walking through your door. The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) has contracted with Affiliated Computer Services (ACS) to provide medical bill processing service for participating providers. To process your bills, you MUST be enrolled with ACS. To register, go to http://owcp.dol.acs-inc.com/portal to complete the provider enrollment form. This may be downloaded or completed online. You as well will need to complete a W9 form and fax, al.ong with a copy of your license, to Provider Enrollment at 850-201-1718. The process is supposed to take about 5 days, but you can check on the progress of your enrollment on the site or call the Provider Enrollment Helpline at 850-558-1818. Once you have received your ACS provider number, you may submit your claims for payment to US Department of Labor.

Listed below is contact information you may wish to keep close at hand. Provider Enrollment Helpline 850-558-1818 Provider Enrollment Fax 850-201-1718

US Department of Labor OWCP/FECA P.O. Box 8300 London, KY 401742-8300 202-693-0040(You may want to contact them to verify your patient’s claim number and date of injury)

Workers’ Compensation Program Division of Federal Employees 312-596-7157 (Contact for follow up on your claims) Please not that continued participation as a medical provider under the DOL program is contingent on your maintaining good standing as a medical provider under other federal health benefit programs such as Medicare – exclusion as a medical provider in those circumstances operates as an automatic exclusion under the program administrated by OWCP. (See e.g. 20 C.F.F.§§ 10.815,30.715 and 702.431) I hope that you and your staff find this information helpful, and that if you do have that Federal employee walk into your clinic, now instead of cringing, you will welcome them as a patient.•

About the Author:Elise L’Allier, Billing Agent, E & S Billing Services

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 24

Are your Chiropractic Revenues Tied to Emotions or Logic?

When faced with decisions on major life purchases – house, car, building purchase, even expensive

remodels or repairs – most of us responsible adult chiropractors tend to do some comparison shopping. We may go out and get three or four quotes, make a list of the pros and cons and then pick the best choice, right? Wrong. While most consumers think they are making buying decisions based on logic, marketing research shows that we actually buy based on emotion. While this is bad news on the spending front, it can be even worse news when the same is applied to our earning power. Unfortunately, the vast majority of chiropractors I observe at work in their clinic are doing just that with their exam billing and coding. In other words, they do not make their coding choices, which directly affects their billable services, based on logic, coding rules or any sort of methodical guidelines. In fact, most of the time, chiropractors choose their codes based on emotion. In other words, some chiropractors “feel” that the depth of their probing, the length of their history and the thorough nature of their examination warrants a higher level code. Others let the emotions of fear overcome them and they feel that they want to stay “under the radar” so they choose a low level code for their services. Still others shoot straight down the middle, feeling safe and a little bit savvy that they are not part of either extreme.Where’s the Logic in Emotions? So, regardless of their reasons, why are doctors coding level 2s exams instead of more level 3s? Part of the problem is not knowing what the difference is in terms of reimbursements. They don’t pay attention to their billing or their coding or their accounts receivable and so they don’t realize the impact of their random and emotional coding. Schools train chiropractors to perform examinations for clinical or med-legal purposes but they do not intertwine this with the applications to billing or coding. Lately, I have been speaking to more chiropractors who are down coding out of audit fear. With the threat of a Medicare and other third party post-payment audits looming, coding in the middle or at the bottom doesn’t raise any flags, right? Perhaps but perhaps you are just robbing yourself of income you deserved. What’s more is that your coding patterns (for exams and procedures alike) never really escape scrutiny or “the radar.” Case in point, I was contacted recently by a DC who received an audit notice from Medicare stating that he was the #2 provider in his state for billing code 98940. Now, some might say that this guy under-bills his services because he may be performing more 98941 adjustments than he’s letting on.

Regardless of whether he is under-billing, over-billing or billing accurately, the facts are that someone has to be at the top of the bell curve and someone has to be at the bottom. Rather than try to constantly base your decisions on hitting the “sweet spot” of the curve and landing square in the middle, perhaps it’s time to actually learn about what you are doing. After all, there is really no safety in any position on the curve if it does not represent your services accurately and if you have not justified your procedures through proper documentation. So while you may think that coding the lowest level exam or adjustment provides a measure of safe harbor, if your documentation stinks, even the lowest reimbursements may be considered overpayments!Logical, Compliant Coding Criteria So before you place yourself on autopilot and check off another 99202 or 99203 or 99204, consider what that really means. To properly document for new patient encounters, you must meet a set and determined level for three criteria: • History. • Exam. • Medical decision making. Many chiropractors fly through exam decisions and recommendations so quickly after years of practice they scarcely notice they’ve done the work, let alone document it. They reason that auto accidents or work injuries need a bit more documentation, so they code higher. Cash patients may take less time and effort, so they code lower level exams.While this reasoning has nothing to do with the three criteria mentioned above, it can also vary widely with reality. When I go into practices, I often see documentation that supports a higher level, but they under coded because they didn’t realize was what was needed for the higher code. Some offices are the opposite and are exposing themselves to audit risk by coding higher than they should. Also, while playing it safe by staying in the middle seems like the easy road, consider this: You are very likely leaving income — your income — on the table and auditors can still come in and look for errors on individual claims. The best bet is to do it right and back it up with proper documentation. Otherwise you might end up paying a high price for inadequate payment and your roof could seriously fall in.•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.

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MCA Journal January/February 2011

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Practice For Sale: in desirable city northeast of Stillwater. Doctor retiring after 38 yrs same excellent location. Activator/Nutrition, therapies. Experienced C.A. will stay on with practice. Asking only $57,000 including practice, equipment, and accounts receivable. Financing available. Contact Loren Martin, Practice Op Inc. 952.953.9444. Email: [email protected].

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.

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25 MCA Journal May/June 2012

THE ENERGY BOOSTER SMOOTHIE Potassium-rich bananas deliver energizing carbs, while protein powder and peanut

butter give you energy to get through the three o’clock slump. Pantothenic acid, a B vitamin in yogurt and honey, helps convert

food into fuel. Iron-rich wheat germ and cinnamon up blood oxygen levels so you won’t

get winded during your midday workout.

What You’ll Need2 frozen bananas, peeled and chopped

2 scoops chocolate protein powder 2 Tbsp peanut butter

2 Tbsp wheat germ1 tsp cinnamon

1 Tbsp honey3/4 c low-fat Greek yogurt

4 Tbsp skim milk powder 2 c iceBlend

Makes 3 servings. Per serving: 294 cal,7 g fat(2 g sat), 38 g carbs, 102 mgsodium,

4 g fiber, 25 g protein

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MCA Journal May/June 2012 26

MCA Associate business Member DirectoryCOMPANY CONTACT PHONE

Acurad Technical Services, L.L.C. Steve Danielson [1] 612-781-2218

Advanced Filing Concepts Bob Scharber [1] 651-481-8827

Anabolic Distributors Midwest Charles Crandall [1] 952-474-0257

Beacon Accounts Management Ms. Nancy Boehmer [1] 952-233-2011

Billing Buddies Bonnie Flom [1] 763-546-2455

Center for Diagnostic Imaging Jarred Onarheim [1] 952-543-6507

ChiroJuice.com Dr. Matt Caron [1] 763-746-4087

ChiroTouch Erin Aguilera [1] 619-488-9798

Consulting Radiologists Ltd. Tim Kratzke [1] 952-285-3720

Core Products International, Inc. Doug Mattison [1] 715-294-2050

Creative Comfort, Inc. Judy McDonald [1] 651-200-3051

DMG Financial Group James Magnuson [1] 952-446-3326

Future Health Software Steven Kraus [1] 712-792-3344

Healthsource Chiropractic Michael Dixon [1] 612-306-6955

Healthy Alternatives, Inc Arlene Bushard [1] 320-834-2188

HighPoint Environmental Tim Guimond [1] 763-757-4920

Hockert Sales Chris Hockert [1] 763-434-2350

IC System Terri Lewis [1] 651-481-6553

Infinedi, LLC Dawn Martinez [1] 800-688-8087

Lake Superior X-Ray, Inc. Terry Hart [1] 218-525-3393

Law Office of David Wulff David Wulff [1] 651-636-1900

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

Multi Radiance Medical Rachel Salomon [1] 440-542-0761

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

Nutrition Dynamics Greg Peterson [1] 763-479-3444

Nutri-West JJ Munro [1] 715-381-9990

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 Services Jon and Char Esch [1] 800-311-1834

Woodhill Financial Milt Edgren [1] 763-746-8686

Advertising IndexCDI . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover

Woodhill Financial . . . . . . . . . . Page 8

Nutri-West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 11

Mighty Oak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12

NCMIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14

Noran Neurological Clinic . . . Page 17

Cancer Treatment Centers

of America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19

Healthy Indoor Air . . . . . . . . Page 20

Loren Martin - Practice Opportunities . . . . . . . Page 23

Acurad Technical Services . . . Page 25

AdvertisementsThe contents of advertisements that appear in the MCA Journal are solely the responsibility of the advertisers. Appearance of an advertisement in the MCA Journal does not constitute and endorsement by the association or the MCA Journal of the goods or services offered. Publication of any advertisement may be subject to review by the MCA Journal Communications Committee.

For more information on advertising in the MCA Journal, call 952-882-9411.

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