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On January 13, 2009, in one of the first chiropractic initiatives of the new Congressional session, Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL) has introduced legislation into the U.S. House of Representatives, HR 484, which would correct a long-overdue inequity in federal health programs by extending chiropractic health care services to U.S. military dependents and retirees through the TRICARE program.
Titled the Chiropractic Health Parity for Military Beneficiaries Act, HR 484 provides:
- Not later than August 31, 2009, the Secretary of Defense shall complete development of a plan to provide chiropractic health care services and benefits, as a permanent part of the TRICARE program, for covered beneficiaries.
- The plan shall require that a contract entered into under section 1097 of title 10, United States Code, for the delivery of health care services shall
- Include the delivery of chiropractic services;
- Require that chiropractic services may be provided only by a doctor of chiropractic; and
- Provide that a covered beneficiary may select and have direct access to a doctor of chiropractic without referral by another health practitioner.
ICA urges all doctors and patients of chiropractic in the United States to contact their Members of Congress and urge them to add their names to this important bill as co-sponsors by calling Mr. Rodger's office at 202-225-3261.
Sincerely,
James E. Musick, D.C., FICA,
International Chairman, Congressional District Directors
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