To update everyone on the status of the two largest issues facing our community (at the moment):
Dry Needling
Our lobbyist, Steve Morrill, is still very much working on this issue, and assures us that wheels are in motion. While we would ALL very much like this to be a done issue, it simply is not. Please be aware, your professional associations have formed an alliance on this topic with the Illinois State Medical Society, the Illinois Osteopathic Medical Society, and the Illinois Chiropractic Society. There has never before been a coalition such as this, and our profession has never before been in such an alliance or on the map so definitively. The resistance to change on this issue is not only affecting us, but also the other major stake-holders in the state. You should also be aware, that not only is the Acupuncture community not satisfied or being heard on this issue; the entire MD, DO, and DC community is on board and equally dissatisfied. Remember as well, Morrill and Associates got us our practice act, got rid of physician referral, and has protected our profession against many onslaughts. While it is hard to wait for satisfaction, there is by no means a “dropped ball” on this, and your attentive patience is the best option. It is highly likely that in the near future you will be asked to act VERY QUICKLY on this issue, meaning writing letters, contacting your legislators, and making your voice heard. If and when this moment comes, the responsibility for the success of this effort will rely on you. Please be ready.
LMT’s and Acupuncture
Regarding the offering of acupuncture classes to massage therapists: This is being acted on. This class is nowhere near as significant nor as complex as the issue with the physical therapists. We have been in close touch with the Licensed Massage Community. They have been very professional and delightful to work with, and do not support this class. They are not interested in practicing acupuncture, and they recognize how flagrantly illegal this move is. Please do not equate the issue with the PT’s and this other class. They are not in the same league.
Support Michigan
You may have heard that recently the Michigan legislature has begun to question the need for regulation of Acupuncture, and has made a proposal to deregulate it entirely! Shocking as this is, it underscores the reality of how vulnerable our profession can be. It is only the presence of your professional associations that protects us from similar threat in Illinois. Unfortunately, there is not a great deal we can do for our neighbors, but we can continue to protect our own license in Illinois. If you are hearing that your association is not here for you, you are being misinformed. It is the only protection you have, and your membership is critical to its continued presence. Thank you for your past support and thank you for your continued support. If we become aware of ways we can help our neighbors, we will let you know. Keep an eye out as well for word from the AAAOM. They are working on this issue with the Michigan association.
