Host Jon Kec welcomes two of chiropractic's most influential leaders, Dr. Kris Anderson, President of the American Chiropractic Association, and Dr. Joe Betz, President of the International Chiropractors Association, for a landmark Chiropractical episode focused on uniting the profession, advancing Medicare reform, and strengthening chiropractic's role in mainstream healthcare.
Posted in Podcasts on Wednesday, September 23, 2026
For over half a century, the story of the chiropractic profession has often been defined by distinct voices, differing philosophies, and divergent paths. But today, a historic new chapter is being written.
On this landmark episode of Chiropractical, host Jon Kec is joined by two influential figures in modern chiropractic leadership: Dr. Kris Anderson, President of the American Chiropractic Association, and Dr. Joe Betz, President of the International Chiropractors Association.
For the first time in 50 years, the profession is standing shoulder-to-shoulder behind a single, written legislative proposal. The ACA and ICA, and backed by industry leaders like NCMIC, have aligned to push for Medicare modernization through H.R. 539 and S. 106 — a giant step that promises to bring chiropractic care further into the mainstream.
The Spark Behind a Historic Alignment
Many withing the profession long considered getting the ACA and ICA to share a single platform on legislative strategy was an impossibility. Yet, after more than a year of collaboration and communication, Dr. Anderson and Dr. Betz have turned the dream into a reality.
What sparked this historic shift? It came down to vision, mutual respect, and the recognition of external health landscape pressures.
![Dr. Kris Anderson]()
“We agree on the most important thing, and it’s that more people need to see their chiropractor and more people need to see a chiropractor first. We need to do everything we can as leaders in the profession to make sure that can happen”
- Dr. Kris Anderson, ACA President
Understanding the Legislative Landscape
Medicare modernization is vital because the current system imposes artificial barriers that restrict patient access to full-scope chiropractic care. Under existing regulations, Medicare only reimburses chiropractors for spinal adjustments, excluding necessary diagnostic services like exams and X-rays—even though doctors are required to perform them to establish a care plan.
Modernizing Medicare would allow beneficiaries to receive coverage for any Medicare-covered service within a chiropractor’s state-defined scope of practice, making care far more accessible and affordable for seniors.
Power in Numbers
Moving federal legislation is a massive undertaking, but the coalition supporting this push is stronger than ever.
Through forums like the Chiropractic Summit and teaming with broader non-profit health organizations, including the establishment of the Chiropractic Hub within Make America Healthy Again, the profession has secured an unprecedented national voice. In July of 2026, a formal Memorandum of Understanding was executed between the organizations, solidifying a unified strategy.
This effort has helped garner:
- Federal Support: Statements from federal health leadership have championed parity for chiropractic care across federal programs.
- Bi-Partisan Appeal: With key congressional champions leading the charge, the bill enjoys strong, nonpartisan momentum focused on cost-effective patient care and choice.
- Industry Backing: Organizations, like NCMIC, have provided vital support and resources to help keep the momentum moving forward.
A Vision for the Future
As legislative deadlines near—including the upcoming congressional “lame duck” session and end-of-year funding dates—both Dr. Betz and Dr. Anderson remain highly optimistic. Whether the bill passes in the legislative cycle or carries in to the next, the foundation built over the last 12 months has transformed how chiropractic advocacy operates.
Dr. Joe Betz, ICA President:
![Dr. Joe Betz]()
“We’re not asking the government or anybody else to force people to go to chiropractors. We just want to break down the barriers that exist between the patient and us … If we can achieve that fairness, I think we’ll the chiropractic profession grow and flourish.”
How You Can Help
Legislative victories aren’t won in Washington alone; they are built in hometown practices across the nation. Here’s how practicing DCs, students, and industry advocates can help support the movement:
- Keep Delivering Outstanding Care: Patient satisfaction and high-level clinical evidence remain one of the strongest assets.
- Answer Calls to Action: When the ACA or ICA send out legislative alerts or notices, use your voice to contact local Congressional representatives and Senators.
- Engage as a Student: Chiropractic students represent the future of healthcare. Get involved through local campus ACA/ICA chapters, attend legislative days, or reach out to local association mentors.
Medicare modernization is far more than a legislative campaign or a billing reform; it is a fundamental stand for healthcare freedom, equity, and the dignity of millions of senior citizens. For far too long, outdated rules have built an artificial wall between patients and the care they deserve. Now, by standing together with one clear, undeniable voice, the ACA and ICA are tearing that wall down.
The momentum is real, the coalition is stronger than ever, and the finish line is in sight ... but unity at the top is only as powerful as the passion at the roots. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner, a student stepping into the clinic, or a patient who knows firsthand the life-changing power of chiropractic care, this is your moment. Reach out to your representatives, raise your voice, and help write the next historic chapter in healthcare.
Get Connected:
If you have questions or topic ideas for us, reach out at Askncmic@ncmic.com.
This episode of Chiropractical was recorded September 18, 2026.
About Dr. Kris Anderson
Dr. Kris Anderson is a practicing chiropractor in Grand Forks, ND, where he splits his time between private practice and Spectra Health, a federally qualified health center. He is a state and national professional association leader, currently serving as President of the American Chiropractic Association Board of Governors, and has represented the chiropractic profession as Advisor to the American Medical Association Relative Value Scale Update Committee Health Care Professionals Advisory Committee (AMA RUC HCPAC) since 2019. He has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications, primarily with Clinical Compass, and has participated in practice-based clinical research for more than ten years.
About Dr. Joe Betz
Dr. Joe Betz currently serves as President of the International Chiropractors Association (ICA). He is a distinguished chiropractor, educator, researcher, regulator, and leader dedicated to advancing the chiropractic profession. As an accomplished clinician/researcher, Dr. Betz has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in many top scientific journals in the fields of chiropractic, orthopedics, spine biomechanics and general medicine. He has also co-authored clinical practice guidelines and currently speaks nationally and internationally on spinal biomechanics, posture, and clinical outcomes. Through education, research, and service, Dr. Betz continues to mentor future leaders and shape the future of chiropractic worldwide.