Spinal Chat with The PCA

Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association
  • 5.0 (2)
  • NON-PROFIT

The Spinal Chat – A Service of the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association Welcome to The Spinal Chat, the official podcast of the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association (PCA), your front-row seat to everything shaping Pennsylvania’s $800 million chiropractic industry. Each episode brings you insights from industry luminaries, conversations with PCA’s Strategic Business Partners, and practical guidance to help chiropractors strengthen their practice, elevate patient care, and thrive in today’s evolving healthcare landscape. From study breakdowns and legislative updates to member spotlights and stories that celebrate the power of chiropractic, The Spinal Chat is your trusted source for connection, knowledge, and advocacy in the Commonwealth and beyond. Tune in, stay informed, and be part of the movement advancing chiropractic in Pennsylvania. Contact the PCA Email: pca@pennchiro.org PCA: https://pennchiro.org/

  1. Transforming Chiropractic Care with Chiro Health USA: An Interview with Heather Simmons-Ellis

    2D AGO

    Transforming Chiropractic Care with Chiro Health USA: An Interview with Heather Simmons-Ellis

    Transforming Chiropractic Care with Chiro Health USA: An Interview with Heather Join Mike Barb, Executive Director of PCA, as he interviews Heather from Chiro Health USA. Discover how CHUSA (Chiro Health USA) has been a critical partner for chiropractic practices, offering a legal structure to manage fees and improve revenue. Learn about the $49 annual membership that removes financial barriers for uninsured and high-deductible patients, leading to higher patient retention and compliance. Heather also shares insights on how CHUSA supports new chiropractors, simplifies administrative burdens, and ensures legal protection for practices. Explore real success stories and the innovative resources CHUSA offers to make chiropractic care affordable and accessible. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:49 What is Chiro Health USA? 01:15 Benefits of Chiro Health USA for Practices 02:28 Addressing Financial Barriers for Patients 05:21 Compliance and Legal Safeguards 06:49 Impact on Family and Long-term Care 10:06 Administrative Ease and Team Benefits 15:47 Support for New Chiropractors 21:33 Future Innovations and Integrations 23:48 Conclusion and Contact Information Heather Simmons-Ellis:heather@chirohealthusa.com Chiro Health USA Website: https://www.chirohealthusa.com/providers/ PCA Website: https://pennchiro.org/ PCA Email: pca@pennchiro.org

    29 min
  2. Exploring Impact Health Sharing: A Game-Changer for Chiropractic Practices

    FEB 19

    Exploring Impact Health Sharing: A Game-Changer for Chiropractic Practices

    Exploring Impact Health Sharing: A Game-Changer for Chiropractic Practices In this episode of the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association podcast, Executive Director Mike Barba hosts Richard and Trey from Impact Health Sharing. This strategic business partnership has been assisting PCA members in transitioning from traditional insurance models to more cost-effective healthcare sharing systems. The discussion covers the benefits of Impact Health Sharing for chiropractic care, including faster payment processing, increased patient access, and reduced administrative burdens. They dive into how chiropractors can become preferred providers, leveraging Impact Health to improve practice sustainability and patient satisfaction. Highlights include easy enrollment, premium savings, and new benefits, including teletherapy. Richard and Trey emphasize the nonprofit nature of Impact Health Sharing and its commitment to keeping costs low while promoting wellness. Listeners are encouraged to learn more about becoming a preferred provider to take advantage of these opportunities. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:52 Meet Richard and Trey from Impact Health Sharing 01:55 Impact Health Sharing: Benefits and Opportunities 04:18 How to Become a Preferred Provider 09:11 Real-Life Success Stories 11:31 Educational Resources and Support 17:53 New Features and Future Plans 19:29 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks To learn more about Impact Health Sharing: https://www1.impacthealthsharing.com/?referral_id=02251386. Your Exclusive Referral Code: 02251386 Use this code for PCA member exclusive benefits and pricing. Impact Health representatives: Richard Voelker: rkvoelker@gmail.com Trey Voelker: rtreyvoelker@gmail.com PCA: https://pennchiro.org/ Email the PCA: pca@pennchiro.org

    22 min
  3. PCA Deep Dive: Medicare Stuck in 1972; The Case for Chiropractic Modernization

    FEB 17

    PCA Deep Dive: Medicare Stuck in 1972; The Case for Chiropractic Modernization

    PCA Deep Dive: Medicare Stuck in 1972; The Case for Chiropractic Modernization Episode Overview This episode examines the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act (H.R. 539 / S. 106) and the structural limitations within Medicare that restrict coverage of chiropractic services to spinal manipulation only, excluding evaluation, imaging, and related services routinely covered for other physician types. We explore the economic impact of referral loops, opioid exposure pathways, and downstream surgical costs, along with recent JAMA analysis on Medicare Advantage quality measurement and data fragmentation. 00:00 Why Federal Policy Matters: Medicare Modernization Act (H.R. 539 / S. 106) 01:31 The ‘Mechanic Can’t Pop the Hood’ Analogy (How Medicare Handcuffs Chiropractors) 03:19 2026 vs. 1972: The Time-Capsule Rules Still Running Medicare 03:59 Mission & Sources: Legislative Text, Cost Data, and the New JAMA Viewpoint 05:31 Back to 1972: What Medicare Actually Covers (One Service Only) 06:37 Portal-of-Entry Reality vs. Medicare Reimbursement (No Pay for Exams or Imaging) 09:28 What the Bill Really Does: Parity, Not ‘New Services’ 11:14 Meet Brenda: The Referral Loop, Delays, and the Opioid ‘Prescription Pathway’ Risk 15:39 The Hidden Price of Restricted Chiropractic Access (and Why Costs Explode) 16:34 Lane Assignment: How Barriers Push Patients Toward Opioids, Injections & Surgery 17:19 Static vs Dynamic Budget Modeling: The $50 Exam That Prevents $40,000 Surgery 19:01 The Opioid & Safety Data: Lower Prescriptions, Fewer Adverse Events, Fewer Falls 22:25 If It’s a Slam Dunk, Why Hasn’t Medicare Changed? Enter the Macro View 23:29 Medicare Advantage Explained: Star Ratings, Admin Metrics & the “Illusion” of Quality 26:10 The Data Swamp: Missing Encounter Data, Invisible Networks & Fragmented Governance 28:45 How HR 539 Fixes the Feedback Loop: DCs as Physicians, Closed Data Loops & Real Outcomes 31:21 Wrap-Up + Call to Action: Align Policy With Reality and Get Organized Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act H.R. 539 / S. 106 (118th Congress) Amends Section 1861(r) of the Social Security Act to recognize Doctors of Chiropractic as physicians within Medicare for covered services within their state scope of practice. Congress.gov: https://www.congress.gov Research and Economic Data Whedon JM et al. Association Between Chiropractic Use and Opioid Receipt Among Older Medicare Beneficiaries. Spine. 2020.Whedon JM et al. Association Between Chiropractic Care and Use of Prescription Opioids Among Older Adults with Spinal Pain. JAMA Network Open. 2018.Kazis LE et al. Increased Health Care Expenditures Associated with Opioid Initiation for Low Back Pain. Health Services Research.Davis MA et al. Association Between Early Physical Therapy or Chiropractic Care and Reduced Risk of Subsequent Spine Surgery. BMJ Open.Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Noninvasive Treatments for Low Back Pain: Comparative Effectiveness Review.CDC Opioid Prescribing and Risk Data https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdosePCA Contact information: PCA Website: https://pennchiro.org/ PCA Email: pca@pennchiro.org

    34 min
  4. PCA Strategic Business Partner Highlight: Foot Levelers

    FEB 12

    PCA Strategic Business Partner Highlight: Foot Levelers

    PCA Strategic Business Partner Highlight: Foot Levelers In this PCA Strategic Business Partner Highlight, we sit down with Jamie Greenawalt, President of Foot Levelers, a long-time sponsor and trusted partner of the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association. This conversation explores how continuity of care extends beyond the adjustment table and into everyday life, particularly through sleep posture and recovery. Patients may only see their chiropractor once or twice a month, but posture, gravity, and healing occur daily. Technology-backed tools that reinforce care between visits play a critical role in improving outcomes and long-term patient engagement. Jamie shares the clinical and historical foundation behind Foot Levelers’ custom pillow technology, including its biomechanical design, data-driven customization, and role as an extension of chiropractic care rather than a lifestyle accessory. The discussion highlights how aligning daytime support, through orthotics, with nighttime recovery, through sleep posture, creates a more complete approach to whole-body biomechanics. The episode also addresses how strategic business partners can help practices responsibly diversify revenue, strengthen patient interactions, and support compliance without compromising clinical integrity. Education, mentorship, and evidence-informed tools are positioned as force multipliers that enhance both patient experience and practice sustainability. This highlight underscores the value of PCA’s strategic partnerships and their role in supporting chiropractors with practical solutions, professional advocacy, and long-term practice resilience. 00:00 Introduction to PCA Strategic Business Partner Highlight 01:03 Meet Jamie Greenwalt and Foot Levelers 01:31 The Evolution of Foot Levelers' Custom Pillow 02:25 The Science Behind the Nexi Pillow 04:09 Success Stories and Patient Feedback 05:55 Integrating the Pillow into Chiropractic Care 10:20 Training and Continuing Education for Doctors 11:19 Business Benefits of Foot Levelers' Products 12:48 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Foot Levelers': https://www.footlevelers.com/ YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/eKAG5aiii7U?si=nqBlzdliLmOvYUBi PCA: https://pennchiro.org/ Email the PCA: pca@pennchiro.org

    17 min
  5. January President’s Address Dr Andrew Heck: Momentum and Advocacy in PA Chiropractic

    FEB 9

    January President’s Address Dr Andrew Heck: Momentum and Advocacy in PA Chiropractic

    January President’s Address Dr Andrew Heck: Momentum and Advocacy in PA Chiropractic January President’s Address: Momentum and Advocacy in PA Chiropractic In this episode of Spinal Chat by the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association (PCA), the January President’s Address is delivered by PCA President Dr. Andrew Heck. The address, initially shared in the PCA newsletter, provides an overview of the significant progress in the chiropractic profession within Pennsylvania. Key topics include legislative advancements (such as House Bill 1106), ongoing advocacy efforts, insurance reform, and the conceptual introduction of 'chiropractic physicians' to better reflect their roles within the broader healthcare system. The address emphasizes the importance of chiropractor engagement, public education, and policy support to integrate chiropractic care into mainstream healthcare further. 00:00 Introduction to Spinal Chat 00:53 President's Address: Momentum in Chiropractic 01:35 The Role and Value of Chiropractic 03:40 Legislative Progress and Advocacy 04:33 Insurance Issues and Solutions 05:05 Exciting Developments and Conclusion 05:53 Call to Action: Get Involved PCA Advocacy Team: Jessica Treichler Email: jessica.pennchiro@gmail.com Tim Faircloth Email: timpennchiro@gmail.com PCA Contact information: PCA Website: https://pennchiro.org/ PCA Email: pca@pennchiro.org

    7 min
  6. PCA Deep Dive: Opioid Addiction Doesn’t Start With a Pill, It Starts With Pain

    FEB 9

    PCA Deep Dive: Opioid Addiction Doesn’t Start With a Pill, It Starts With Pain

    PCA Deep Dive: Opioid Addiction Doesn’t Start With a Pill, It Starts With Pain In this episode of PCA Spinal Chat Deep Dive, the focus is on re-examining the opioid crisis from an upstream perspective. While most discussions center on the aftermath of addiction, this episode explores what happens before addiction begins, emphasizing the role of pain management in prevention. By comparing the latest guidelines on opioid use disorder with research advocating for conservative-first approaches like chiropractic care and physical therapy, the discussion highlights the importance of early pain management. Effective pain management can significantly reduce the need for surgeries and opioid prescriptions, potentially preventing addiction from ever starting. The conversation also delves into systemic issues, such as how authorization friction in healthcare policies often directs patients toward pharmacological solutions, rather than conservative care. This episode makes a compelling case for integrating upstream accountability with downstream compassion, stressing that regulating pathways to care is as crucial as regulating medications themselves. 00:00 Introduction to the Opioid Crisis 00:24 Understanding the Upstream Approach 01:09 Care Sequencing Explained 04:03 Current State of Opioid Use Disorder Treatment 06:50 The Role of Conservative Care 12:22 Barriers to Conservative Care 14:45 Conclusion and Call to Action References Messmer, J. M., et al. Management of Opioid Use Disorder: Clinical Guidelines Synopsis. JAMA, 2026. Available at: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/250008 PCA Website: https://pennchiro.org/ PCA Email: pca@pennchiro.org Disclosure The Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association did not generate this data. PCA Deep Dive reviews and discusses independent, peer-reviewed research to translate long-term outcomes and clinical implications for patients, clinicians, policymakers, and healthcare decision-makers.

    19 min
  7. From Fringe to First-Line: 50 Years of Evidence Now Defining Spinal Manipulation as Standard Care

    FEB 2

    From Fringe to First-Line: 50 Years of Evidence Now Defining Spinal Manipulation as Standard Care

    From Fringe to First-Line: 50 Years of Evidence Now Defining Spinal Manipulation as Standard Care In this episode of PCA Deep Dive, we explore a recent 2024 narrative review from the Journal of Clinical Medicine, focusing on spinal manipulation and chiropractic practice. Analyzing over 50 years of research and more than 6,000 studies, we examine the modern evidence on spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) and its role, safety, and clinical value in musculoskeletal care. We discuss the evolving academic focus from defensive research to high-quality methods, such as randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, leading to robust clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) that strongly support SMT for conditions such as low back pain (LBP), neck pain, cervicogenic headaches, and tension-type headaches. We also address historical safety concerns and the current evidence indicating a low risk of adverse events. The episode underlines SMT’s position within integrated, evidence-based conservative care and highlights ongoing research pushing its application even further into general healthcare. 00:00 Introduction to PCA Deep Dive 00:58 Unpacking the Evidence: Spinal Manipulation and Chiropractic Practice 02:34 Historical Context and Research Evolution 05:23 Clinical Practice Guidelines and Recommendations 07:45 Expanding the Scope: Beyond Spine Care 09:15 Addressing Safety Concerns and Value Proposition 13:24 Conclusion and Future Directions Primary Evidence Source Clinical Practice Guidelines for Spinal Manipulative Therapy: A Narrative Review Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2024 This comprehensive narrative review analyzes more than 50 years of chiropractic and SMT research, mapping the profession’s progression from early regulatory and safety inquiries to modern guideline-supported clinical practice. The authors reviewed: 6,286 chiropractic-related publications spanning 1972–202433 clinical practice guidelines published between 2013 -202459 distinct guideline recommendations related to spinal manipulative therapyKey findings include: Strong guideline support for SMT in low back pain and neck pain, particularly when delivered as part of multimodal, conservative careDemonstrated maturation of research quality, with a shift toward randomized controlled trials and systematic reviewsNo definitive causal link between SMT and serious vascular adverse events, with overall risk classified as rareIncreasing alignment with value-based care goals, including reduced downstream imaging, medication use, and surgeryDirect link to the study: https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13055668 PCA Website: https://pennchiro.org/ PCA Email: pca@pennchiro.org Disclosure The Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association did not generate this data. PCA Deep Dive reviews and discusses independent, peer-reviewed research to translate long-term outcomes and clinical implications for patients, clinicians, policymakers, and healthcare decision-makers.

    16 min
  8. Capitol to Clinic: How PCA Moves Bills, Builds Relationships, and Protects Access

    JAN 29

    Capitol to Clinic: How PCA Moves Bills, Builds Relationships, and Protects Access

    Capitol to Clinic: How PCA Moves Bills, Builds Relationships, and Protects Access The Power of Advocacy: Strengthening the Future of Chiropractic Care in Pennsylvania In this episode of Spinal Chat, host Mike Barb, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association (PCA), is joined by legislative liaisons Jessica Treichler and Tim Faircloth to discuss the vital advocacy efforts of the PCA. They delve into the significance of maintaining a consistent presence in the Capitol to protect and advance chiropractic care. Key initiatives being promoted include HB 1106 for scope modernization, copay reform, Conservative Care First, and sports chiropractic policies. The episode emphasizes the importance of grassroots involvement, engagement with legislators, and the power of chiropractors and their patients' voices. They also discuss the potential for collaboration between chiropractors and physical therapists and invite semi-retired or retired chiropractors to join the advocacy efforts. The conversation highlights the PCA's ongoing legislative goals and the collective effort required to secure the future of chiropractic in Pennsylvania. 00:00 Introduction to Spinal Chat Podcast 00:58 Meet the Legislative Liaison Team 02:02 Understanding Advocacy and Its Importance 02:57 Personal Stories and Experiences 04:12 The Role of Advocacy in Chiropractic 06:21 Engaging with Legislators and Community 07:32 Advocacy Day and Community Involvement 19:48 Legislative Goals and Future Plans 31:18 Call to Action and Final Thoughts 34:49 PCA's Legislative Agenda and Key Players 35:26 Meet Jessica Trier and Tim Faircloth 37:38 The Importance of Advocacy in Chiropractic 40:08 Advocacy Day and Grassroots Efforts 43:26 Engaging Legislators and Community Involvement 53:35 PCA's Legislative Goals and Scope of Practice 01:03:46 The Power of Advocacy and Community Support 01:05:05 Conclusion and Call to Action Jessica Treichler Email: jessica.pennchiro@gmail.com Tim Faircloth Email: timpennchiro@gmail.com PCA Website: https://pennchiro.org/ PCA Email: pca@pennchiro.org

    36 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The Spinal Chat – A Service of the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association Welcome to The Spinal Chat, the official podcast of the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association (PCA), your front-row seat to everything shaping Pennsylvania’s $800 million chiropractic industry. Each episode brings you insights from industry luminaries, conversations with PCA’s Strategic Business Partners, and practical guidance to help chiropractors strengthen their practice, elevate patient care, and thrive in today’s evolving healthcare landscape. From study breakdowns and legislative updates to member spotlights and stories that celebrate the power of chiropractic, The Spinal Chat is your trusted source for connection, knowledge, and advocacy in the Commonwealth and beyond. Tune in, stay informed, and be part of the movement advancing chiropractic in Pennsylvania. Contact the PCA Email: pca@pennchiro.org PCA: https://pennchiro.org/

Information

  • Creator
    Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © PCA 2025
  • Show Website
    Spinal Chat with The PCA