| 1960
— One of the 1960’s most vital political
issues is the problem of providing adequate health
care for those who need it the most and can afford
it the least: 15 million U.S. citizens 65 and over,
says Time magazine.
A
variety of bills calling for federal subsidies to
the aged is before both the U.S. Senate and House.
One that would have the government pay medical care,
plus hospitalization and nursing home care for those
eligible for social security and survivor checks,
was killed in committee.
Covering
15 million (prospective patients) it was to protect
retired people from private and hospital practices,
when most health insurance leaves off.
It
is reported to be a good bet now that Congress will
pass a bill, before adjournment, that probably will
provide hospital and nursing home care — but
not doctors’ bills. If President Eisenhower
vetoes it, both parties’ presidential aspirants
are expected to favor getting another such measure
signed into law next year.
Here
is a challenge to alert chiropractors. We are not
to be ignored, insured and legislated into oblivion.
We must see that our patients are included in this
program, if doctor bills in nursing homes are to be
covered.
What
can the chiropractors back home do about this issue
in an election year? You can talk to your candidates
for Congress. Let them know that chiropractic is one
of the major health professions. In states where the
Basic Science laws operate, chiropractors pass the
same examinations as medics and osteopaths. Remind
them that public opinion surveys show that a majority
of people rely on chiropractic, in its specialized
field; and that over 500 insurance companies recognize
doctors of chiropractic. Ask him to see that all health
professions are accorded full recognition.
Ask
your politically active and prominent patients to
use their influence in this direction, too. Americans
are health-conscious the medical monopoly is held
in disrepute. Articles on medical ethics and economics
are unflattering to the Meds.
Chiropractors
can meet this challenge!
—
By Dr. Hoyt Thomas
Chairman, Legislative committee
Iowa Chiropractors Association
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