ARTICLE
In addition to the nerve battle that is currently being considered by the Supreme Court of Texas, there is another threat to the chiropractic profession. On Sept. 4, 2019, the Texas Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (TAAOM) filed a third amended petition for declaratory relief against TBCE, contesting the right of Texas doctors of chiropractic to perform acupuncture. In its latest legal challenge, TAAOM contends that TBCE rules allowing Texas DCs to perform acupuncture are illegal and have even accused chiropractors of practicing medicine without a license. Their newest arguments include redefining an acupuncture needle as “incisive” and, in a nod to the pending nerve case, alleging that chiropractors can’t perform acupuncture because it results in “nerve stimulation” and impacts the nervous system. TAAOM has gone so far as to say chiropractors who practice acupuncture are misleading the public and are a threat to health and safety. It is worth reiterating that chiropractors have safely performed acupuncture in Texas since the 1970s, long before TAAOM existed. And there are few instances of patients who have been injured by a chiropractor performing acupuncture. So, what is TCA doing to protect your rights as a Texas DC? Last week, the TCA Board of Directors voted unanimously to participate in the lawsuit. TCA is considering all options, including acting as an intervenor in the case. Regardless, TCA has committed to stand up for the hundreds of Texas DCs who practice acupuncture. But TCA can’t do it alone. As a member-driven organization, we act when our doctors want action. To participate fully in this case, we need you to get involved. It will take considerable resources to take on this fight. Here’s what you can do to help: - If you are an acupuncture permit holder, we ask you to make a $250 donation to TCA for legal defense through our Chiropractic Development Initiative (CDI). - If you know a DC who practices acupuncture, spread the word! - Finally, even if you don’t practice acupuncture, you can still join the cause. While acupuncture is the focus of the lawsuit, the fact that nerve is in question potentially could impact all chiropractors. To contribute to CDI as part of our “Move the Needle!” campaign, you can donate online, complete and fax the CDI donation form to (512) 477-9296 or call the TCA office at (512) 477-9292. We also encourage you to become a monthly donor through our 100 X $100 CDI program. TCA will keep you updated on the progress of the acupuncture lawsuit. Look for updates in eSource and on our social media channels. We also plan to hold a TCA Live Town Hall in the coming weeks, so stay tuned! Whether you practice acupuncture or not, this is a fight we cannot afford to sit out. We appreciate your support! Sincerely, Chad Carpenter, DC TCA President