United Virginia Chiropractic Association

Chiropractic Tenets

A Statement of Professional Identity in Virginia

The Virginia Society of Chiropractic (VSC) and The Virginia Chiropractic Association (VCA) each work for the protection and advancement of the profession that binds us and makes us a community. Recent accomplishments signal a new day for chiropractic care in our state with the likelihood of expansive accomplishments to shape our future.

The prior interaction between the VSC and the VCA has been instructive and now leads us to the conclusion that unity of purpose is too important to wait for unity of opinion on all issues.

The VCA’s and VSC’s collaboration found minimal variances between the two organizations with none insurmountable. In the final analysis, all chiropractors are dedicated to (1) bringing clinical skills to bear in the alleviation of human suffering and encouraging a lifetime of wellness to our patients and community, (2) preserving the essence of chiropractic care as a distinct and unique healing art, philosophy, and science and, (3) protecting the practice of chiropractic so that it remains available to the patients we serve.

The combined work group (VCA/VSC) turned to literary and other sources including “The Foundational Tenets of Chiropractic”, which were developed by The Georgia Chiropractic Council, The Georgia Chiropractic Association, Life University and the Georgia Board of Chiropractic Examiners, in order to find statements descriptive of chiropractic, chiropractic philosophy and chiropractic practice. The following tenets were considered and approved as essential to rank and file members of both associations as well as the academic community. While there are likely points that some doctors from either association may challenge, both associations’ representatives agree that the majority of both memberships would embrace these tenets as descriptive of chiropractic practice today.

The Foundational Tenets of Chiropractic

We embrace the concept that chiropractic philosophy, chiropractic science, chiropractic art, chiropractic technique, chiropractic diagnosis, chiropractic treatment and spinal subluxation complex denote areas of ongoing research, continuing intra- and inter-professional dialogue and growing understanding.
we embrace the philosophy that life is intelligent. The human body possesses the inherent potential to maintain itself in a natural state of homeostasis through its innate, inborn intelligence.
We embrace the philosophy that life is intelligent. The human body possesses the inherent potential to maintain itself in a natural state of homeostasis through its innate, inborn intelligence.
We maintain that the science of chiropractic emphasizes the relationship between structure, primarily of the spinal column, and the nervous system, and how that relationship affects function and health. Implicit within this statement are the significance of the nervous system to health and the effect of the spinal subluxation complex upon the whole body.
We hold that all chiropractors should recognize the value of all phases of patient care, including condition-based care, as well as care to support and promote optimum health and wellness. Individual chiropractors may choose to focus on one phase of patient care, one segment of the patient population or one area of chiropractic expertise. They may also choose to become a certified specialist in one particular facet of chiropractic. Such specialization should require advanced, post-graduate education.

Past UVCA Award Winners

Chiropractor of the Year

2022 – Dr. Vincent Joseph
2021 – Dr. Chris Perron
2018 – Dr. Michelle Rose
2017 – Dr. Ray Tuck, Jr.
2016 – Dr. Joe Foley
2015 – Dr. Tom Wetzen
2014 – Dr. Will Sonak
2013 – Dr. bible Misra
2012 – Dr. David Dolberg
2011 – Dr. Chris Bruno
2010 – Dr. Jay Greenstein

Lifetime Achievement Award

2015 – Dr. Bill Thesier
2012 – Dr. George McClelland

Amended and Restated By Law Of The Virginia Chiropractic Association, Inc.

Initial Draft: 4/4/92

First Amendment (Restatement): 10/1/04 Last Amendment: 5-14-22

ARTICLE I – Name. The Corporation shall be known as the Virginia Chiropractic Association, Inc. (VCA).

ARTICLE II – Objective. The purpose of VCA is (i) to serve as the advocate organization for the chiropractic profession in Virginia, (ii) to protect the philosophy, science and art of chiropractic and the professional education and welfare of its members, (iii) to establish, promote and maintain desirable relationships within the chiropractic profession and with other professions, organizations, government agencies and groups, as directed by its membership, (iv) to promote the chiropractic profession, its programs and its practices to the public, and (v) in compliance with the Internal Revenue Code and regulations and revenue rulings promulgated under it, to engage in public advocacy to obtain and maintain freedom of choice in health care methods for Virginia’s citizens.

ARTICLE III – Membership.

Application. Application for membership shall be made on application forms provided by the VCA. This application may be requested from, and filed with the administrative office of the VCA for consideration by the Membership Committee.

Classification. The classifications of VCA membership are (i) active, (ii) retired, (iii) honorary and (iv) limited. Active, retired and honorary (except honorary limited) members may vote at any general membership meeting, hold office, or serve on committees. Completed applications for active, retired and honorary membership must be received by the VCA at least 30 (thirty) days prior to any membership meeting at which the applicant desires to vote.

An active member is a member licensed and actively practicing chiropractic in

Virginia.

A retired member is a member who is licensed to practice chiropractic in Virginia but who is retired from active practice.

Except as described below, an honorary member is a member who is licensed to practice chiropractic in Virginia and who has been designated as an honorary member by more than a two-thirds vote of the VCA membership present and voting at any general membership meeting. Honorary membership generally is awarded for outstanding and distinguished service to the chiropractic profession.

Temporary honorary membership shall be granted to the VCA President during his/her term of office as President and, in the discretion of the Board of Directors, to the chiropractor(s) serving on the Virginia Board of Medicine during his/her appointment(s).

A limited member is a member who is (i) a licensed chiropractor not actively practicing chiropractic in Virginia (out-of-state limited member), (ii) an unlicensed student enrolled in an accredited college studying chiropractic (student limited member), (iii) an honorary member who is not licensed to practice chiropractic in Virginia (honorary limited member), and (iv) a non-chiropractor who desires to support the chiropractic profession (allied limited member).

Districts. Each of the five districts shall be divided into sub districts as outlined in Appendix A..

Directorship Vacancy. Should a district fail to elect its own District Director, then a Director from a neighboring sub-district will serve in that role as directed by the Board. The district who holds a vacancy in its Director position will not have a representative vote in Board decisions.
1. Assistant Directors. Each Director shall appoint a non-voting Assistant Director.

Dues. The Board of Directors shall establish annual dues for each calendar year for each membership classification. Dues for a calendar year will be invoiced to the membership no later than November 1 of the prior year or date established by the Board of Directors. Dues not received by January 1 of the year in which they are due are delinquent, and the rights and privileges of VCA membership are suspended for members whose dues payments are delinquent. Full payment of delinquent dues automatically reinstates full privileges of VCA membership from the date payment is received by the VCA. Dues may be prorated at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

Special Circumstances. Assessments may be levied against membership classifications by more than a two-thirds vote of the VCA members present and voting at any general membership meeting. On recommendation of the Treasurer, the Board of Directors may grant a request for deferral, reduction, or exemption from annual dues to any member. A second member of a married household shall be entitled to a 50% discount of active member dues.

Suspension or Termination of Membership. VCA membership confers no vested right to the member, but is a conditional privilege revocable for cause. Each member, by accepting membership in the VCA, becomes subject to these Bylaws.

VCA membership may be suspended or terminated by more than a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors following at least 30 days’ written notice to the member describing the reason(s) for suspension or termination. The notice shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by a recognized overnight carrier that can evidence delivery.

Membership shall terminate without notice if the member (i) dies or resigns his/her VCA membership or (ii) loses his/her license to practice chiropractic in Virginia for disciplinary reasons. Membership may be suspended or terminated if a member is delinquent in dues payment, violates Virginia law, or commits any act that negatively affects the reputation or objective of the VCA.

Suspension or termination of membership by the Board of Directors may be reversed by more than a two-thirds vote of the VCA members present and voting at the general membership meeting next following the Board’s action. Failure of the general membership to reverse the Board’s action precludes the terminated member from reapplying for VCA membership.

ARTICLE IV – Board of Directors; Officers.

Directors; Officers. The VCA Directors are its Immediate Past President, President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and District Directors. VCA Officers are its President, Immediate Past President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer.

Eligibility. All Officers and Directors must have active membership status prior to nomination. Candidates for President must have served on the Board of Directors at least one year.

Election. The President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer are elected by the VCA in odd numbered years at the Annual Meeting by a majority vote of the members present and voting at such meeting. The six (6) District Directors are elected from the five (5) geographical districts of the VCA, one from each district, as well as one (1) at large Director from any district. The Directors will be elected, in even numbered calendar years and at the Annual Meeting. The District Directors shall appoint a non-voting alternate to assist and represent their district at Board meetings. This appointment is subject to the district electorate by vote. A special election will be held to replace a District Director who assumes another office on the Board.

Nominations for all offices will be closed 30 days prior to the Annual Meeting. Any member who intends to run for any office must notify the VCA office prior to the close of nominations to be placed in nomination. Only under conditions of emergency, as defined by the Board of Directors (i.e. illness, no nominee for an office, withdrawal of a nominated candidate, death of a nominated candidate, etc.), may nominations be accepted from the floor at the Annual Meeting. The District Directors for each district shall be responsible for notifying the membership in their particular district that the nomination period is open. All elections for Directors must take place at the Annual Meeting. The Nominating Committee (defined below) shall accept nominations from the District Director’s District members by nomination ballots mailed or faxed to the VCA office. Mailed votes by duly qualified members for election of directors may be accepted by the Board of Directors if postmarked at least seven calendar days and received prior to the Annual Meeting and the Board of Directors is satisfied concerning the authenticity of such mailed votes. Nominees must have at least a two consecutive year active membership status, to include current and previous year prior to nomination, to be eligible for election as a Director.

Terms of Office. All Officers shall serve for a period of two (2) years, commencing immediately upon conclusion of the election at the Annual Meeting on odd-numbered years and/or until their successors are elected.

The outgoing President automatically shall assume the position of Immediate Past President, a two (2) year term as voting member of the Board of Directors.

The District Directors shall serve a term of two (2) years, commencing immediately upon conclusion of the election at the Annual Meeting on even-numbered years and/or until their successors are elected.

The President may not serve more than two (2) terms consecutively. Other Directors may not serve more than three (3) consecutive terms.

If there are no candidates for a position, the incumbent may continue to remain in that position until the next regularly scheduled elections.

Vacancies. A vacancy in the office of the President shall be filled by the Vice President, who shall serve for the remainder of the vacated term. In this event, the office of the Vice President shall be filled for the remainder of the vacating Vice President’s term by election at the next Annual Meeting. In the event of the vacancy of the presidency for a second time within a term, a special election shall be conducted. Except for the office of President, and the office of Vice President when it becomes vacant by reason of succession to the vacant office of President, all Director vacancies shall be filled by the Board of Directors for the unexpired term.

Duties. The President shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, and VCA general membership meetings. He/she shall be an ex-officio member of all committees. The President shall sign all certificates of membership and such other documents are required in the regular conduct of VCA affairs and direct the Treasurer to pay all VCA obligations and other expenses approved by the Board. The Treasurer, President, Executive Director, Bookkeeper, and others will adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures recommended by the Treasurer and approved by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors. The President shall have a discretionary fund of $1,500.00 per year that may be spent for VCA purposes without Board approval, with receipts of expenses submitted to the Treasurer. The President may call special meetings of the general membership, as needed for the conduct of VCA business. The President appoints members to standing and ad-hoc committees except the Nominating Committee, as needed, and designates each committee chair from the committee’s membership. The President formulates the general membership and Board meeting agendas. The President or his/her designee may represent the VCA at state, regional and district meetings and before other organizations. The President further performs all other duties pertaining to the office.

The Vice President shall preside at all meetings in the absence of the President and shall, in case of death, absence, resignation, refusal or inability of the President to discharge his/her duties, preside and discharge the duties of President.

The Secretary shall record and preserve the minutes of all Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and general membership meetings and perform all the duties generally pertaining to such office. The Secretary may assist the President in formulating meeting agendas.

With the assistance of the Executive Director, the Treasurer shall be the custodian of VCA finances and other properties and shall disburse them on proper order of the President, as directed by the Board of Directors or the general membership. A limit of ninety days will be placed on all checks drawn from the VCA treasury. The Treasurer, President, Executive Director, Bookkeeper, and others will adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures recommended by the Treasurer and approved by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors. The Treasurer shall collect all membership dues and maintain a list of VCA members in good standing. The Treasurer is responsible for making timely records and deposits of funds collected on behalf of VCA. The Treasurer shall have a current detailed report of finances available for Board meetings and forward the records to the CPA at the end of the year for tax purposes.

The Executive Director shall be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the association. It shall be a paid position and he/she may be a VCA member. The Executive Director shall be an ex officio, non-voting member of the Board of Directors and shall report to the Board of Directors.

ARTICLE V – Meetings.

Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall conduct at least two in-person meetings annually. Board of Directors may go into executive session for a specific, stated purpose with a majority vote of the Directors. A quorum of the Board of Directors is a majority of the Directors. A meeting agenda shall be sent to Directors by mail, electronic mail, or facsimile at least seven days prior to the meeting.

General Membership Meetings. At least two general VCA membership meetings shall be conducted annually, including the Annual Meeting. The Board of Directors shall determine the date and location of general VCA membership meetings, but such meetings shall be scheduled for the spring and the Annual meeting. The Annual Meeting shall be held during the Fall Convention, as close to October 1^st as feasible. The location of the Annual Meeting shall be rotated each year to provide regional access for VCA members. Except for a special meeting, at least thirty (30) days’ notice must be given for a general membership meeting. A member may provide agenda items for general membership meetings to District Directors orally or in writing at least two weeks in advance of any general membership meeting.

Special general membership meetings may be called by the President, the Board of Directors, or by written petition of at least twenty-five (25) active VCA members. At least three weeks’ written notice shall be provided to the membership of the date, time, place and agenda of any special general membership meeting. Special general membership meetings only may be called for a specific issue that is so time sensitive that it cannot be postponed to the next regularly scheduled general membership meeting. No business shall be conducted at a special general membership meeting that is not contained in the agenda.

An active, retired or honorary (except honorary limited) member shall be entitled to one vote at all general membership meetings, except for voting to elect District Directors. Only those Members residing in a district may vote to elect a District Director from that district.

Active, retired and honorary (except honorary limited) members present at a general membership or special general membership meeting shall constitute a quorum.

At least two scheduled district meetings must be held annually. All district members shall be notified of the meeting fourteen (14) days prior to the scheduled dates.

ARTICLE VI – Standing Committees.

The VCA Standing Committees shall be the Executive Committee, the Nominating Committee, the Finance and Budget Committee and the Membership Committee. The Board of Directors may appoint such ad-hoc committees, as it deems appropriate.

Executive Committee. The Executive Committee shall consist of the Immediate Past President, President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. This committee shall be responsible for all VCA administrative duties between Board of Directors meetings. The Secretary shall distribute minutes of the Executive Committee meetings to the Board of Directors within twenty-one (21) days following each meeting.

Nominating Committee. The Nominating Committee shall consist of the entire Board of Directors except the President and those Directors standing for election. The committee will ensure

there are eligible nominees for District Directors and Officers and that all nominees are willing to serve, if elected.

Finance and Budget Committee. The Finance and Budget Committee shall consist of the President, Immediate Past President, and the Treasurer. This committee shall develop a proposed budget for the VCA at the beginning of each President’s term.

Membership Committee. The Membership Committee shall consist of at least three active members appointed by the President to serve during the President’s term of office. Acceptance by the Membership Committee of an application for membership shall be final. An application for membership that is rejected by the Membership Committee will be reviewed by the Board of Directors, which will make the final decision.

ARTICLE VII – Insurance. The VCA shall maintain general liability insurance with limits of not less than $1,000,000.00 with the VCA Board of Directors and staff listed as insureds, as well as Director’s and Officer’s liability insurance with limits of not less that $1,000,000.00. As provided in its Articles of Incorporation, the VCA shall be responsible for the cost of litigation against its officers, directors or staff in the performance of their duties. A fidelity bond shall be in force covering the Treasurer and Executive Director in the amount of at least $50,000.00.

ARTICLE VIII – Parliamentary Authority. Except as otherwise provided its Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws, all VCA meetings shall be governed by parliamentary procedures described in the most recent edition of Robert’s Rules of Order.

ARTICLE IX – Dissolution. In the event of dissolution or final liquidation of the VCA, all of its remaining assets and property shall, after paying or making provision for the payment of all of the liabilities and obligations of the VCA and for necessary expenses thereof, be distributed in accordance with the plan of dissolution that has been approved by a vote of the Board of Directors in compliance with § 501 (c) (6) of the Internal Revenue Code. In no event shall any of such assets or property be distributed to any director, officer, or any private individual.

ARTICLE X – Amendments. These Bylaws may be amended by a vote of more than two-thirds of the VCA members present and voting at a general membership meeting, after the Secretary sends written notice of the proposed amendment(s) to every VCA member at least thirty (30) days prior to the meeting. The complete text of all proposed amendments shall be submitted in writing to the VCA office at least forty (40) days before the meeting at which they are to be voted upon. The text of the Bylaws must display the date of ratification on the lower left corner of each page.

ARTICLE XI – Order of Business. The suggested format of each regular general membership meeting is as follows:

Call to Order;
Quorum check;
Approval of the agenda;
Approval of the Minutes of the previous meeting;
Special Orders;
ACA Representative report;
ICA Representative report;
VCA Attorney report;

Medical Board Representative report
Committee reports
President’s report;
Treasurer’s report;
VCA Executive Director report;
Vice President’s report;
Immediate Past President’s report;
District Representative report;
Unfinished business;
New business;
Announcements;
Adjournments.

All persons expected to present reports should be notified no less than fifteen (15) days in advance. Written reports may suffice when indicated.

UVCA Position Statement Regarding Radiology-Related Statements Included in the Choosing Wisely Campaign

December 31, 2018

The UVCA is guided by the following Mission and Vision statements.

The Unified VCA’s Mission: Helping Doctors of Chiropractic deliver exceptional care.

The Unified VCA’s Vision: Chiropractic positioned as a highly regarded health care profession that improves and advances public health and well-being.

In consideration of the above statements, the UVCA does not support the statement “Do not obtain spinal imaging for patients with acute low-back pain during the six (6) weeks after onset in the absence of red flags” that appears in the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Foundation’s Choosing Wisely® campaign. ¹

The UVCA recognizes and appreciates the ABIM’s reassurances that Choosing Wisely is intended to promote dialogue between patients and their doctors, not to establish coverage decisions or exclusions. However, the UVCA is concerned that, although it may be contrary to the ABIM’s intent, the referenced language may:

Provide an opportunity for entities such as third party payors and insurance claim reviewers to try to deny use of radiographic studies to patients or reimbursement for such studies.
Suggest a guideline to practitioners that insufficiently recognizes the importance of clinical judgment and evidence-based decision-making.

The UVCA strongly supports evidence-based science for appropriate radiologic evaluations of patients. However, the Choosing Wisely statement referenced above should not supersede clinical judgment and/or widely accepted radiological guidelines.

The UVCA urges practitioners to consider carefully costs in terms of ionizing radiation exposure, financial burden, and patient time related to diagnostic studies, including all modalities of clinical imaging. Imaging examinations should be clinically indicated and expected to provide clinically relevant information.

The UVCA recognizes radiology as a scientifically proven component of the chiropractor’s clinical practice. Diagnostic radiology is clinically useful in evaluating multiple aspects of human spinal anatomy, biomechanics, postural faults, misalignments, vertebral subluxation complex, and other pathologies. The UVCA supports Virginia Chiropractors’ use of good clinical judgment, standards of care and practice, and evidence-based decisions in these areas.

The UVCA understands that clinical practice guidelines are intended to optimize patient care, improve patient outcomes, and increase safety by using best available scientific evidence and broad consensus to develop appropriate care parameters. Clinical practice guidelines should not represent an absolute prescription of care and should accommodate critical factors such as the chiropractor’s judgment and individual patient circumstances and values.

The UVCA holds that diagnostic imaging decision making is not always black and white; that gray areas may be encountered. No guidelines can replace clinical decision making made by the chiropractor in the course of treating an individual patient.

In conclusion, the UVCA applauds the ABIM’s goal of promoting dialogue between patients and their doctors but remains concerned about the Choosing Wisely statement related to radiology. The UVCA urges all Virginia Chiropractors who utilize radiologic evaluations in their practice to familiarize themselves with practice standards, protocols and/or guidelines from well-established and recognized organizations, including those with chiropractic expertise such as Clinical Compass, the American College of Radiology’s Appropriateness Criteria, and Practicing Chiropractors’ Committee for Radiology Protocols (PCCRP).

¹ http://www.choosingwisely.org/clinician-lists/aca-spinal-imaging-for-acute-low-back-pain/

Benefits

MEMBERSHIP THAT MEANS MORE

Membership in the Unified Virginia Chiropractic Association is more than an affiliation. It is a relationship that gives you the resources and connections you need to succeed in practice, care for your patients, and make a difference in your community, your state, and your profession.

CONNECT

VCAdoctalk
Specialists and consultants
Mentor Program
“District Connections”
Searchable Find-a-Doc
Directory listing
Time for “hallway learning” at conventions

HAVE AN IMPACT

State and national strategic planning
The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress
State and national PR projects
Legislative clout
ChiroCongress
“Unification without uniformity”
Influence association priorities

GET TOOLS TO SUCCEED

“VCA Vault”
Experts on laws, regs, and scope
Insurance help
Turnkey social media
Cash practice insights
Practice marketing roadmaps
Patient education
New DC checklist
Practice exit strategies
Nuts & Bolts Lunch n Learns
Online and face-to-face CEUs and staff training
The Virginia Voice newsletter
Billing code and helpdesk
Compliance helpdesk

SAVE MONEY

Discounted or free events
Free classified listings
Flexible dues based on years in practice
Premier DC upgrade
Discounts on products and services through top affinity partners

ALREADY A MEMBER?

You get inundated with information from all sides. To make sure you’re aware of all your benefits: (1) Go to www.virginiachiropractic.org and click on the Membership tab. (2) Log in to the VCA Vault and peruse everything available to you. And ALWAYS feel free to call the UVCA office or your District Director to brainstorm your needs and how the UVCA can help.

READY TO JOIN?

Join the UVCA if you are ready to be inspired, supported by, and participate in a community that provides relevance and cutting-edge resources, regardless of your practice style, technique, or philosophy. Access a valuable network of colleagues, consultants, and leaders — including your own district director – all just an email, call, or web link away. To join now, visit www.virginiachiropractic.org or call 540-932-3100.

When Opportunity Knocks… Benefits

Unified VCA membership opens the door to tools and resources for DCs and OFFICE STAFF

Email DISCUSSION GROUP, VCAdoctalk;
WEB SITE jam-packed with a wealth of members-only materials;
Listing in VCA’s FIND-A-DOC and direct referral;
HEALTH INSURANCE for your office and family.
Access to experts on COMPLIANCE, MEDICARE, CODING, DOCUMENTATION, PERSONAL INJURY and much more;
Insights into running an insurance-based or cash practice — or anything in between;
Free access to an accountant and CPA for BASIC FINANCIAL AND TAX questions;
SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT, MARKETING and PATIENT ED. tools on UVCA’s web site;
MORE PR MATERIALS via UVCA’s Group Membership in the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress;
Discounted ONLINE AND FACE-TO-FACE CEUS for you and training for your staff;
The Virginia Voice quarterly NEWSLETTER and profession updates;
ACCESS to leadership, committee and specialists to help you with everything from advertising and marketing to scope of practice and continuing education requirements;
FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING;
“DISTRICT CONNECTIONS”– Events to build comaraderie, keep up to date, network and stay inspired;
DISCOUNTS on products and services for your practice;
Right to display the Unified VCA MEMBERSHIP SEAL and/ or certificate in your office, advertising, signage, web site, etc. to show your commitment to professionalism in chiropractic;
A REAL VOICE in your association’s direction and priorities.

And that’s just scratching the surface. The Unified VCA connects you to a valuable network of colleagues, consultants, and leaders — including your own district director near you — all just an email, call, or web link away. Quarterly and monthly dues options make it even easier. To explore how the Unified VCA can help with your unique needs, contact the association office (phone 540-932-3100, email jconnolly@virginiachiropractic. org).

Working With You to Reach Virginia Chiropractors

LIKE YOU, we serve the chiropractic marketplace. LIKE YOU, we need high-impact, cost-effective strategies to increase reach, attract, and keep new clients/members. Are you taking advantage of all the ways UVCA membership can support you and your business?

Increase Awareness

Introduction in newsletter that goes to all DCs, not just members.

Free promo blurb for “Supporting Supplier News” column with your logo.

Listing and link on the association’s web site

Inclusion in online Find-a-Supplier search feature

Mailing lists of licensed DCs

Your own events listed in online supplier member calendar.

Direct referral by the association office.

Professionally produced conventions with exhibit and sponsorship opportunities to fit your budget and goals.

Display, classified, and online advertising.

Keep Up With This Unique Market

Hone your marketing message and serve your clients better through easy access to leadership, committees, executive staff, and specialists.

Keep informed through newsletters and profession alerts.

Subscribe to VCAdoctalk, the DC members’ e-mail discussion group, to monitor hot topics and convey your expertise.

Save Money & Ease Cash Flow

Enjoy discounts on advertising and exhibiting that can more than cover your dues

Free mailing lists in Excel

Free blast email to our email list.

Handle your dues quarterly; cancel or change at any time.

Strengthen the Marketplace

Educate DCs on the importance of your products and services.

Support association Initiatives to strengthen and protect Va. DCs — thereby strengthening and protecting your business investment.

Demonstrate Your Commitment, Expertise & Relevance

Submit material for priority consideration in the newsletter and/ or for the website under your byline.

Display the UVCA Supplier Member seal on your marketing and communications

Share your knowledge on the doctors’ list-serve.

Submit presentation proposals with priority consideration for seminars, conventions, webinars, or district meetings.

Sponsor lunches, dinners, or open houses with the UVCA’s marketing support.

To brainstorm how to maximize your membership investment according to YOUR SPECIFIC NEEDS, contact Julie Connolly, FICC, UVCA’s Executive Director: phone 540-932-3100, email jconnolly@ virginiachiropractic.org!

DC UPGRADE AVAILABLE

The Unified Virginia Chiropractic Association Provides You With Tools and Initiatives That Match Your Interests and Priorities, Now More Than Ever:

• The Unified VCA’s online and searchable “Find-a-Doc” listing and office referral.

• Celebrate Wellness! social media tools, editorial materials, PowerPoint presentation, AV presentations, audio clips, and step-by-step usage guidelines on an array of topics to help you educate your patients and grow your practice.

• A series of flash presentations to help you reach out to MDs and other healthcare providers and PI attorneys.

• VCAdoctalk member list-serve, enabling you to ask questions and dialogue with colleagues on just about anything.

• A truly unified state association to increase resources, expertise, strength and effectiveness on a multitude of levels.

• Commitment to serving you regardless of your personal chiropractic philosophy or practice style within scope and a Board of Directors that reflects this diversity and range of perspectives. • State-specific initiatives to ensure that Virginia chiropractors have a voice in the health care reform debate.

• Personalized assistance in obtaining health, disability, practice overhead, and other insurance. • Discounted continuing education for you and your staff throughout the state and online.

• Ability to keep informed and up to date through The Virginia Voice electronic newsletter.

• The Members-only section of the website filled with an increasing array of presentations, tools and resources.

• The Unified VCA’s convenient annual membership directory and handbook.

• Access to VCA leadership, committees and specialists on coding, Medicare, compliance, financial, public relations, marketing, other issues.

• Free classified advertising to help you sell equipment, hire a new associate, find coverage help, and more.

• Fax and e-mail alerts and Member FYIs to make sure you never miss a beat between newsletters.

• Networking opportunities throughout the state to share knowledge, insights and support.

• Discounts on a wide variety of products and services you actually use.

• A real voice in your association’s direction and priorities.

• The expertise of lobbyists and attorneys considered among the state’s very best.

But That’s Not All… Now you can upgrade to Premier DC and receive ALL the benefits stated above, PLUS:

• FREE spring and fall convention for yourself.

• FREE spring and fall convention for one of your CAs.

• ADDITIONAL discount on additional convention or other seminars for you and/or your staff — That’s above and beyond any already applicable member and early-bird discounts!

• Special membership plaque and permanent name badge to demonstrate your heightened commitment and participation to your patients and colleagues.

• Special recognition in every issue of The Virginia Voice, on the web site, and at meetings.

• Three payment options via EZ-Pay: annual, quarterly, or EVEN MONTHLY.

• Invitation to private President’s Receptions, briefings, and other fun perks.

UVCA Members & CAs of UVCA Members have access to a team of paid consultants, volunteer specialists, supporting suppliers, staff expertise & other sources of accurate info. YOU CAN DEPEND ON.

ALWAYS FEEL FREE to contact the UVCA office. Staff can answer your question directly or refer you to the

Be sure to identify yourself as a UVCA member.
Many consultants and specialists assist UVCA members on a part-time basis, in addition to practicing full-time or other endeavors. Please allow time for
reply best resource. In the meantime, here are some of the most frequently requested items and who can help.

Testimonials

“The Unified VCA connects you to colleagues, consultants, specialists, and leaders – all just an email, phone call, or webinar away. An online referral listing, doctors list-serve, resources-link packed website, discounted CEUs, pro-active dedicated board, accessible staff, CA training, and reliable communications help give you the practice support and information you need – especially during times of change like these. But don’t take our word for it! See what your own colleagues are saying…

“I can’t imagine why any chiropractor in Virginia would not take advantage of being a member. UVCA just helped me collect $20K that I was never going to see otherwise.” Dr. Adam Wlingler, Williamsburg, VA

“I am quite impressed with not only the quickness of your reply but how you were able to get exactly what I requested in a matter of minutes! Another example of a well-run organization!” Dr. Sharon DeGroft & Dr. Patrick Groulx, Bowie, MD

“I have attended lots of chiro get togethers, and in my experience you guys are the best.” Dr. Christine Fallwell, Virginia Beach, VA

“This forum is great and has already helped me a lot!” Dr. Aketz Aehrig, Arlington, VA

“Just when you think you know it all, you realize you know very little…Great stuff.” Dr. Phillip Connolly, Alexandria, VA

“As a new graduate, this is EXTREMELY helpful. I often times feel like one of the hardest parts is simply finding the information and VCA makes those answers a lot less scary.” Dr. Jennifer Elley, Warrenton, VA

“You have always been very responsive and helpful to my staff and me. THANK YOU!” Dr. Keefe Fugle, Richmond, VA

“I don’t know how we can ever keep up with our profession at times. The VCA helps…” Dr. Todd Fisher, Galax, VA

“I love the unified association. Thanks for joining us when we have held class reunions down the path of inclusion. I get chills and tears from other states. I am so proud of what we have done here.” Dr. Holly Moriarty, Gainesville, VA

“My recent victory with Progressive just proved to me the value of being a member of the Unified VCA!” Dr. Leslie Holcombe, Arlington, VA

“I am very grateful for this ability to openly ask questions of colleagues/experts and learn on a daily basis.” Dr. Bryan Hall, Collinsville, Virginia

“I have had nothing but outstanding service from the VCA. I will continue to be a member for as long as I practice.” Dr. Cory Malnikof, Danville, VA

“Best money I ever spent! Just wish I would not have waited for so long to join!” Dr. Jermie Miglior, Powhatan, VA

“Thank you very much for the great advice. I wanted to tell you how proud I am (again and again) to be a member.” Dr. Jeff Borenstein, Alexandria, VA

“I am so glad you provide us with such solid information… we get loads of advice, and it is hard to determine which is OK to use and which is not.” Dr. Danny Fugle, Hazel Green, AL

“Thank you for helping me grow as a provider. My patients don’t know to thank you, but I sure do.” Dr. Daniel Stine, FAMAC, Williamsburg, VA

“I’m so glad I joined. It was awesome to be able to speak to knowledgeable people in such a short amount of time.” Dr. Jereen Luo Sensenberger, Alexandria, VA

“I am proud to be a member.” Dr. Kim Chirico, Virginia Beach, VA

“I am a sucker for a well-run and well-meaning organization!” Dr. Nelson Marquina, Ph.D., Richmond, VA

“I love having a place where I can go to get answers to questions and also learn from others’ questions. This site alone is priceless!” Dr. Tony Knopp, Sterling, VA

“Wow…With the benefits of being a VCA member ever cease? Thank you!” Dr. Cynthia Honsdille, Collinsville, VA

“I can’t imagine why any chiropractor in Virginia would not take advantage of being a member. UVCA just helped me collect $20K that I was never going to see otherwise.” Dr. Adam Wilding, Williamsburg, VA

“I am quite impressed with not only the quickness of your reply but how you were able a to get exactly what I requested in a matter of minutes! Another example of a well-run organization!”
Dr. Sharon Der-Graux & Dr. Patrick Graux, Bowie, MD

“I have attended lots of chiro get togethers, and in my experience you guys are the best.”
Dr. Christine Fallwell, Virginia Beach, VA

“This forum is great and has already helped me a lot.” Dr. Aekta Erry, Arlington, VA

“Just when you think you know it all, you realize you know very little… Great stuff.” Dr. Phillip Connolly, Alexandria, VA

“As a new graduate, this is EXTREMELY helpful. I often times feel like one of the hardest parts is simply finding the information and VCA makes this process a lot less scary. Thank you for helping me. I look forward to learning more!” Dr. Jennifer Ely, Warrenton, VA

“You have always been very responsive and helpful to my staff and me. THANK YOU!” Dr. Debra Farrell, Richmond, VA

“I don’t know how we can ever keep up with our profession at times. The VCA helps.” Dr. Todd Fichtel, Galax, VA

“I love the unified association. Thanks for joining us together and leading us down the path of inclusion. When I chat with chiros from other states, I am so proud of what we have done here.” Dr. Holly Moriarty, Gainesville, VA

“Just when you think you know it all, you realize you know very little…Great stuff.” Phil Connolly, DC, Alexandria

‘Maybe we should remind everyone that “they don’t have to be alone”. I know in talking to many of my friends out of state, many of them don’t know where to go when they have a problem. Having the forum is a huge benefit besides all the other benefits of membership.’ Michael Vanella, DC, Virginia Beach

“I am very proud of where our association is going!” Scott Banks, DC, MS, Cape Charles

“My recent victory with Progressive just proved to me the value of being a member of the Unified VCA!” Leslie Holcombe, DC, Arlington

“Thanks for doing such a great job, day-in day-out!” John Lofgren, DC, Richmond

“I have had nothing but outstanding service from the VCA. I will continue to be a member for as long as I practice.” Cory McKinley, DC, Danville

“We’re so grateful to have such a well put together organization in our state… We’ve used VCA’s seminars, the information in the publications we get, and networked with other members for valuable information.” David Donofrio, DC, Richmond

“Thank you for a wonderful convention. I really got a lot out of it, in all respects: educationally, politically, practice building, and socially.” S. Vella, DC, Virginia Beach

“Best $ I ever spent! Just wish I would not have waited for so long to join!!“ Jamie Higley, DC, Powhatan

“Thank you very much for the great advice. I wanted to tell you how proud I am (again and again) to be a member.” Jeff Borenstein, DC, Alexandria

“As someone that works with state associations and other organizations all over the country, I can tell you that… I get slower responses from groups that have 20 employees!” Susan McClelland, Christiansburg

“Thank you for helping me grow as a provider. My patients don’t know to thank you; but I sure do.” Daniel Shaye, DC, FIAMA, Williamsburg

“I’m so glad I joined. It was awesome to be able to speak to knowledgeable people in such a short amount of time.” Jean Luc Sansfaute, DC, Alexandria

“Thank you! I am proud to be a member.” Kim Charney, DC, Virginia Beach

“I don’t know how we can ever keep up with our profession at times. The VCA certainly helps.” Todd Fichtel, DC, Galax

“I am so glad you provide us with such solid information… we get loads of advice, and it is hard to determine which is OK to use and which is not. I cannot imagine why everyone is not a member!” Danny Floyd, DC, Spout Spring

“I am a sucker for a well-run and well-meaning organization!” Nelson Marquina, PhD, DC, Richmond

“Anyone who has not attended a VCA function lately, for any reason, needs to do so and once again connect with our state association.” Elliot Eisenberg, DC, Richmond

“Thanks. You are doing a great job.” Lawrence Griffith, DC, Glen Allen

“You are always accessible and answer any questions our office has.” Charlene Truhlik, DC, Marion

“I saw the post about other association offices with 20 staffers not being nearly as responsive or effective. I second
that!” Bryan Miller, Lutherville, MD

“Thanks for your impeccable work!” Catherine Sears, DC, Portsmouth

“You have always been very responsive and helpful to my staff and me. THANK YOU!!!” Debra Farrell, DC, Richmond

“I have tremendous access to questions/concerns.” Melanie Six, DC, Alexandria

“I have only heard good things about all that you do.” Stewart Rawnsley, DC, Narrows

“I have always been impressed with how efficiently you run things.” Michael Amato, DC, Staunton

“Wow….Will the benefits of being a VCA member ever cease? Thank you!!! Cynthia Handly, DC, Collinsville

“I have learned so much from joining the Unified VCA!!” Tejal Patal, DC, Ashburn

Member Affinity Programs

UVCA Affinity Programs for Members

What is an Affinity Program?

Affinity programs provide members with cost savings and/or product/service enhancements, increasing membership value. These programs often also include a contribution to the association, helping to reduce its dependency on dues income. The UVCA does not consider affinity program proposals until it has first-hand experience with the organizations and solid feedback from the profession.

You can benefit from the companies below

The Chiropractic Medical Insurance Program offers medical insurance exclusively for DC members of participating state chiropractic associations like the Unified Virginia Chiropractic Association, their employees, and families. For general information about the program, visit: Group Health Insurance Plan – Unified Virginia Chiropractic Association | UVCA (growthzonesites.com). For a personalized, no-obligation quote, email agent Mark Ritchie at mark.ritchieohio@gmail.com or give him a call or text using 833-424-4764.

ChiroUp is an evidence-based, online subscription service that provides chiropractic offices with multiple resources. These include, but are not limited to, best practice protocols, patient education videos, outcome tracking, business management tools, and other resources. Founded by Drs. Tim Bertelsman and Brandon Steele, Chiro-Up’s advisory board is comprised of well-respected doctors such as Drs. Tom Hyde, Stephen Perle, Scott Bautch, Jeff Tucker, and others you know and trust. Dr. Bertelsman has taught at UVCA conventions and conducted webinars for its members, always to rave reviews. UVCA members receive a free 14-day trial subscription, followed by a $50 discount for the first 6 months of paid subscription. The UVCA receives a contribution for each new subscription, which starts at $149 per month. Visit https://chiroup.com/ for further in-sights. To sign up or ask questions, contact Becki Wollenburg, phone 844-462-4476 x702; email becki@chiroup.com.

Gold Star Medical Business Services provides chiropractic office administration needs. Whether you are looking for help with billing, consulting, staff training, compliance, or all of the above, Gold Star can help. Founded by Lisa Maciejewski-West, CMC, CMCA-EM, CMOM, CMIS, CPCO, the company’s mission is “Giving Doctors the Freedom to be Doctors.” Lisa has conducted CA and DC classes at UVCA conventions and is scheduled for the association’s Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 conventions. UVCA members are invited to a free 30-minute phone consult with Lisa or one of her team specialists. Members also receive a discount on billing company, billing consulting, and staff training fees. In addition, Gold Star will help the association provide members with top notch information via webinars, teaching at conventions, writing articles and blogs, and contributing to the UVCA. Visit https://www.goldstarmedical.net/ to learn more. Questions? Call Lisa Maciejewski-West at 866-942-5655 or email info@goldstarmedical.net.

Personal Injury Training Institute provides com-prehensive certified online PI training for chiropractic doctors and attorneys. The founder, Dr. Jeffrey States, has conducted convention sessions and standalone seminars for the UVCA, as well as has provided online/on-demand content for our spring 2021 convention. PITI is providing big savings on its poowerful self-paced personal injury course. It begins with fundamentals of building a PI practice from a chiropractic point of view. It includes basics about law and whiplash, as well as further details about Cervical Acceleration/Deceleration injuries and common associated conditions. Crash videos are infused in all PI ONLINE Training Modules, which are important for understanding how occupants are injured in different types of MVCs. UVCA members receive 24-hour unlimited access to the program for 6 months for $1599.00. Upon purchase, you will receive DropBox links. Searchable digital PI workbooks and forms are provided for each module. For more information, visit https://personalinjurytraininginstitute.com/. To purchase the program at the discounted rate, go https://www.bodzin.net/cashpractice/Page_Index_Blank.php?Page=Gateway&MID=Z5tkpQ&GID=12770943&FID. Questions? Contact Dr. Jeffrey States, phone 801-288-9539 x4 or email pitidr@gmail.com.

Kaizenovate developed the Kanvas App to support patients in their adherence to chiropractic and physiotherapy treatment plans. The Kanvas App is a custom-built app that delivers: • Improved care plan adherence • Convenient scheduling • Easily sells products and services • Strengthened practice brand Developed by Dr. Jay Greenstein, DC, and his team at Kaizenovate, this is the first app that is wholly practice-based and patient-specific. UVCA members receive hefty discounts on both the initial development cost ($1499 instead of $2500) and ongoing monthly fee ($199 instead of $399). The UVCA will also receive a contribution from every sale. To learn more or to order, go to https://www.kaizenovate.com/uvca/. Questions? Contact Jena Slaski, Director of Research & Innovation at jslaski@kaizenovate.com.

ChiroHealthUSA is a provider-owned network designed with doctors in mind. Their network model allows you to offer legal, network-based discounts to cash, under-insured and “out of network” patients who are members. Members covered by Medicare and federal programs are eligible for discounts on non-covered services. The network approach to discounts reduces the risks of compliance and OIG violations related to inducements, improper down-coding, dual fee schedules, and potentially inappropriate time-of-service discounts. With ChiroHealthUSA, you can choose the level of discounts. The existence of a contract allows you to set, offer, and accept these rates from our members. Their contract eliminates the “middleman,” and solves a host of legal and regulatory problems for you and your patients. ChiroHealthUSA only makes membership available to individuals, which means there is no potential for “silent PPO” activity to lower your reimbursements. Patients pay a low annual membership fee that includes them and their legal dependents. This fee is often recovered through discounts received on their first visits. There is no cost to the clinic for this program. For more information, visit www.chirohealthusa.com.

Computer Troubleshooters (CT) offers high-quality, affordable computer repair and troubleshooting services, plus a range of IT services including data backup and recovery, security services, remote support services, and managed services. 95% of their business is remote and they specialize in serving doctors like you. They understand your HIPAA IT, PCI compliance, back-up protection, and other critical practice concerns. CT offers UVCA members half-price onboarding and set up for new clients and 20% off the ongoing monthly fee. There’s no risk in giving them a try since they do not require long term contracts. To discuss your specific needs, contact Moe Talash, president: email contact@ctmedit.com, cell phone (703) 994-6335.

Infinedi electronic claims services supports health care providers with user-friendly electronic claim submission service, business analytics, claims processing tools and superior customer service support. Its position as a nationwide clearinghouse demonstrates that it has the knowledge to change with technology while still managing to provide the best customer service support. Infinedi is a pro advocate company for healthcare providers in many specialties and help with the evolution to the modern age of electronic data interchange, electronic claims processing and analytics driven utilization management. Their goal is to ensure that chiropractic practices can perform at their best and we are committed to using our expertise to help the chiropractic profession. To access a free demo webinar, click on Infinedi’s webinar training calendar at https://infinedi.webex.com. Register for any of the dates entitled, “Infinedi Website Detailed Instructions – one hour.” The register button is on the right of the title. You can also schedule a separate webinar for your entire staff. If you want to learn more about member discounts and advantages, contact Infinedi’s Customer Service support line (800-688-8087) and identify yourself as being a Unified VCA member. For the proper enrollment code to use with Infinedi for the member discount, contact the Unified VCA office at 540-932-3100.

Foot Levelers is the world’s leading provider of individually designed stabilizing custom orthotics, custom orthotic flip-flops, Shoethotics® and Sandalthotics®, as well as other therapeutic products. The company has been serving healthcare professionals and their patients for over six decades with products designed to help reduce pain in the feet, legs, hips, back and neck, so you and your patients can enjoy a fuller and happier life at work, home, or play. Foot Levelers serves Virginia Chiropractors by providing the UVCA with leading profession speakers and generous sponsorships, contributing to fundraising events, and much, much more. For more information, visit https://www.footlevelers.com/. To learn about the benefits and advantages of becoming a Foot Levelers provider, visit https://www.footlevelers.com/about/get-started or call (800)553-4860

Assistants for Chiropractic Excellence (ACE) inspires, trains, and equips your CAs to continually improve your practice. Monthly video training, ongoing coaching, forms, scripts, templates and more make it incredibly simple to master each aspect of practice for continual growth. ACE provides practical information that your team can use every day – not just fluff. Discounts are available for UVCA members. Call the founder, Kim Klapp, at 734-320-5058 or email her at kim@chiropracticassistants.com.

ChiroCode: Save 10% off the best guides and manuals for chiropractic coding, documentation, and much more. For example, the ChiroCode DeskBook is your comprehensive go-to chiropractic reimbursement manual for the support you need to get paid properly and keep it. This comprehensive resource includes chapters on Insurance Reimbursement and Claims, Medicare, Compliance, Documentation, Diagnosis Codes (ICD-10-CM), Procedure Codes (CPT®), and Supply Codes (HCPCS). For information on a wide range of proven products related to chiropractic documentation, coding, billing, reimbursement, and compliance, visit https://www.chirocode.com/chiropractic-products/. For a 10% UVCA Discount, contact the UVCA office at 540-932-3100. The UVCA receives a contribution on each sale, as well! We hope you find these programs of interest and benefit!

Membership Application Form

https://www.virginiachiropractic.org/assets/pdf/Membership+Application+2024