In this sadness there is irony. As chiropractic is about to celebrate its first 100 years of existence, we can recall that its roots stemmed from the failing of medicine at that time. From this, opportunity arose. Dr. D.D. Palmer's wisdom brought forth a health care profession bent on helping people fight off disease and illness by encouraging healthy living and by taking strong interests in maintaining healthy bodies. I wonder what Dr. Palmer would say today if he were alive. I bet he'd say, "A Grand Opportunity Has Returned."
The other day I received a timely letter from Dr. Crellin in Rhode Island. Apparently, he sees the future which lies ahead of him and he is eager to grasp the opportunities it holds. How? Easy! Information. Information is power. Access to information is the key. Rapid and easy access to information is vital. In his letter he writes "I read with enthusiasm your article on CHIROLARS that appeared in "DC." However, I do not have the foggiest notion on where to start to utilize the program which accesses the chiropractic literature. My question is: Is there software one can buy? Would one access the chiropractic literature through FCER or a local university computer system? Thank you for bringing this system to your readers' attention. I have always enjoyed reading your articles and I look forward to hearing from you."
Is There Software To Buy?
Yes. There are many affordable and easy to use software programs one can buy. The simplest way to find out which one is right for you and your computer equipment is to call CHIROLARS at (817) 898-0234.
If you already have a computer and a modem, more than likely you do not need to buy any additional software. Chiropractic literature is within reach of your modem. Log onto an appropriate bulletin board service (BBS) and then "search till your little ol' heart's content."
Should One Access through FCER or a University?
Yes, sometimes. However, not all universities have access to the CHIROLARS database. I recommend contacting our chiropractic libraries. Nearly every chiropractic college has access to this computerized database.
Naturally I, along with a great number of other doctors, use LACC's library and take advantage of their ability to search CHIROLARS.
By the way, this is a good time to put a plug for our alma maters. Our chiropractic colleges need money (who doesn't). Please, protect the future of our profession -- give to our colleges -- a $20.00 donation to a college library goes a long way. Heck, in some cases one or two such donations nearly pays for a whole year's subscription to a journal. Think about it.
So, How Does this Help the Busy Chiropractor?
Our patients want answers. Insurers want answers. Friends want answers. Everyone wants answers to the changes looming in health care. What answers can chiropractic provide? What can we tell our patients, friends or third parties that will make them less nervous about the uncertainties and inevitable changes in health care?
The answers lie within our growing professional literature. In there lies "A Grand Opportunity." Seek and ye shall find.
With each article I encourage you to write the questions you may have, commentaries on patient care, or thoughts to share with your colleagues, to me at the following address:
Darryl D. Curl, DDS, DC
2330 Golden West Lane
Norco, California 91760
Please include your return, self-addressed and stamped envelope.