In a time when Congress seems so deeply divided, seeing a bipartisan effort aimed at helping our military retirees, National Guard, and reserves sure is refreshing! The American Chiropractic Association recently announced that chiropractic care is included in the new TRICARE health program bills, which are now proceeding through both houses of Congress.
Chiropractic care was first offered only to active-duty military members in 2000 through a pilot program. The current bills (S.30 in the Senate and H.R. 344 in the House) would extend those same services to TRICARE recipients as well, meaning retirees and their dependents or survivors could access valued chiropractic care. These services would also now be offered to members of the National Guard and Reserve programs.
We view this as a positive step, considering musculoskeletal conditions are common amongst military members and veterans. In the wake of our ongoing opioid crisis, offering non-drug pain management treatments is a necessity. Chiropractors offer safe and gentle pain relief strategies for common ailments such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint pain (such as in the hips and knees). Many of those who seek chiropractic care are able to avoid prescription drugs for pain, along with the possible side effects of those medications.
If you would like to voice your support for these bills, please visit these two links in order to notify your representatives:
- For Senate, click here
- For House of Representatives, click here
We thank you for your support, and we’re sure our veterans do as well. For more information how chiropractic care can help you or a loved one cope with painful conditions, please give us a call to schedule a consultation.