In recognition of National Public Health Week 2009, Western States Chiropractic College hosted some events organized by the Oregon Public Health Association Chiropractic Section. The WSCC Business Club co-sponsored the events.
On Wednesday, April 8, there was a panel discussion titled “What is Public Health and How Can It Help My Practice?” Mitch Haas, DC, dean of research at Western States, started the discussion with an overview and history of chiropractic’s involvement in APHA. Sean Herrin, DC, assistant professor at Western States and chair of the Chiropractic Section of the Oregon Public Health Association, moderated the discussion as well as participated in it by giving examples of the types of health promotion and wellness services that can be incorporated into a chiropractor’s business. David Corll, DC, Western States graduate and the chair of the Peer Review Committee for the Oregon Board of Chiropractic Examiners, gave students some insight about how to bill for health promotion services. Dr. Corll has a private practice in Wilsonville, Ore. Students had many questions, especially about the billing aspect, and invited Dr. Corll to come back for follow-up discussions through the Business Club.
On Thursday, April 9, Ann Goldeen, DC, a Western States graduate who has a private practice in Astoria, Ore., spoke about her very popular and successful weight loss program that she provides for her patients and other members of her community. She demonstrated to the students exactly what worked and what didn’t in terms of providing weight loss counseling to her patients over the past 25 years. The students got some insight into how her 12-week, small group program was initiated and how it has flourished and garnered interest over the years. Students also got some tips on where to find good information about obesity and the health issues that are associated with it.
On Friday, April 10, a group activity “Walk for the Health of It” wrapped up the week’s events with a 30-minute brisk walk around the neighborhood surrounding Western States Chiropractic College.
For more information, contact Alisa Fairweather at (503) 251-5786 or afairweather@wschiro.edu.