The Beginning....

The Beginning....
When William Least Heat-Moon toured the country many years ago, his steed, if you will, was a van that he named Ghost Dancing. His journey of America was 13,000 miles. His book is Blue Highways, A Journey Into America. My steed will be a Subaru WRX (traded for an XV Crosstrek). My travels will be, what in the past were called, the blue highways of Virginia. Years ago, maps showed secondary roads in blue. Yes, the ones less traveled.

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

My Battle with the Virginia Board of Medicine.....Part Two....

Well, folks, just got in the below email from Dr, Harp, the Director of the Virginia Board of Medicine. If you're interested, read from the bottom up.

OK, folks. None of this makes sense to me. Let's see, I provide information from the websites of three chiropractors who use bogus treatments and the BOM tells me to file a complaint.

Well, disappointed again in the response from Harp, but not surprised. I'm not quitting yet. Stay tuned.
***********************************************************
Dear Mr. Callender:

Thank you for your message.

The Board of Medicine licenses applicants of its 21 professions that meet the qualifications set by the laws of the General Assembly and the regulations developed by the Board.

If an applicant meets the required standards, that individual has earned the privilege to practice his/her profession in Virginia.

The Board of Medicine disciplinary system is complaint and report driven. 

Anyone can complain about any licensee for any issue.

The Department of Health Professions Enforcement Division investigates all complaints to elucidate the facts in the case.

If there appears to be a violation of the law or regulations governing the profession, the Board has a number of options to seek an appropriate remedy with the licensee.

If you believe that a licensee may be in violation of Virginia law and regulation, you can file a complaint athttps://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Enforcement/complaints.htm

I hope this is helpful to you.
With kindest regards,

William L. Harp, MD
Executive Director
Virginia Board of Medicine



From: George Callender [mailto:george238c@juno.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, February 27, 2018 10:26 PM
To: Harp, William L. (DHP) <William.Harp@DHP.VIRGINIA.GOV>
Subject: BOM's Mission and Chiropractors

Virginia Beach
February 27, 2018

Dear Dr. Harp.

I put off writing this letter as I had an already-scheduled appointment with my GP and wanted to discuss it with her, which I did.

And, no I truly haven't looked forward to writing this letter; but, I must.

I'm stating, sir, that the BOM is not living up to its mission.

I believe that most of our citizens when we go a doctor make certain assumptions. We assume first off that since the person is licensed by the BOM that they will be competent. We also, if we think about it, will believe that they try to stay up with the latest changes in medicine and science. And, we surely assume that they will never use worthless or dangerous techniques or procedures when treating us. Lastly, we would never even consider that they'd use procedures or treatments that not only don't work but have been proven to not work.

Sadly, this is not true when being treated by chiropractors.

I will skip over discussing spinal adjustments other than to mention this wholechiropractic mess was dreamed up by a grocer with no medical training in 1895.

After my email is information copied from the websites of three chiropractors. 

For the purpose of this letter, I will ignore reflexology, Reiki, Applied Kinesiology, and the other so-called treatments chiropractors routinely advertise and use. What I want to briefly discuss are the foot baths. The chiropractors claim that putting your feet in a pan of water with an electronic gizmo will suck out through your feet all of the toxins in your body. Yes, Dr. Harp, that's what they claim.

Two comments. Anyone who would think that this would work has not even a basic understanding of science or medicine and surely shouldn't be granted a medical license. Period! And, if they have a license and believe this foot bath works, their license should be revoked, immediately.

Secondly, it's possible they know it doesn't work and it's just an outright scam.

My second email to Ms, Woods I asked a question which she ignored.

To you sir, I will ask, Would you refer your family members and friends to these chiropractors? Would you suggest they have their toxins sucked out through their feet?

If you aren't going to respond to my letter Dr, Harp, please be so kind as to let me know.

Thanking you for your time and wishing you well, I remain

Sincerely,

George Callender


***************************************************************************************
NOTE: I made some of the text larger and bold but did not add or remove words.
GC 

Virginia Beach Holistic Clinic

Please do not leave the kids at home. They need to be checked as well.Infants with any problems - please bring them in!

  • Chiropractic care
  • Pain management
  • Spinal maintenance
  • Auto accident therapy
  • Cranial-Sacral therapy
  • Trigger point therapy
  • Massage therapy
  • Reflexology

  • Reiki
  • EMS therapy
  • Prenatal care
  • Postnatal care
  • Infant & youth care
  • Birth trauma therapy
  • photon genie
  • far-Infrared sauna
  • aqua-chi foot detox
  • acupuncture







 Dr. Christopher Bosco, Vitalizer Pro Foot Spa
It is believed that the body has the ability to heal itself if the right conditions and proper care are present. The goal of The Vitalizer Therapyâ„¢ is to support this philosophy by addressing the physical, mental and emotional state of well-being.
THE VITALIZER THERAPY IS A COMBINATION OF 3 THERAPIES IN 1.
1ST IS THE CUTTING-EDGE, UNIQUE IONIC FOOT BATH THERAPY THAT PAIRS WITH THE ADVANCED SPECTRAVISION TECHNOLOGY WHICH:
  • Aids in eliminating built-up toxins
  • Supports in Boosting the Immune System
  • Increase cellular absorption through the effects of cellular cleansing
  • Oxygenation of the cells
  • Activates the body’s elimination systems, including the lymph channels
  • Hydration of cells

OTHER ASSOCIATED BENEFITS:
  • Increased Circulation
  • Reduction in Joint Pain
  • Clearer Skin
  • Reduces Stiffness and Inflammation
  • Improved Sleep Patterns
  • Promotes Weight Loss
  • Increased Energy
  • Aids in Stress Reduction

There are many success stories from people who have improved or resolved health issues after one or more foot bath series. We invite you to be a part of this growing revolution. The Vitalizer Therapy™ stimulates our body’s cells into releasing what the physical body is intended to let go of naturally but because of toxic chemical overload and elevated levels of cellular waste within our body struggles to do so on its own.
THE VITALIZER THERAPYâ„¢ ENHANCES THESE EFFECTS BY ADDING THE FOLLOWING PROPRIETARY BLENDS TO YOUR THERAPY.
2ND FLEXATONE
FLEXATONEâ„¢- The essential oils that are added to the Flexatone Mineral Matrix Solution, creates a unique blend of a multi-dimensional therapy which is added to the Ionic Foot Bath. The therapeutic approach will enhance the foot bath treatment as well as provide an emotional and energetic boost to the body. Flexatone is a unique blend of essential oils and a volcanic ash mineral matrix that enhances cellular communication.
Nature provides the rich aroma and essential oils necessary to carry high vibrations into the tissues and bloodstream. Let your Practitioner determine which of the Ten Flexatoneâ„¢ Blends is right for you!
*These blends are not recommended for use during pregnancy & nursing with the exception of the Baby on Board. Not for internal use.
STRESS LESS
Rejuvenates cell function. Regulates hormone balance. Tones body systems. Balances and uplifts mood and vitality. Gently heals delicate inner conflicts and deep emotional or stress responses.
*Bergamot *Ylang-Ylang *Clary Sage *Parana Pine *Spruce *Rose Geranium *Hyssop *Cypress *Bay Laurel
CLENZ
Alleviates the symptoms of toxicity by oxygenating the tissues. Assists in detoxifying the inner organs on a cellular level. Increases circulation to allow for proper elimination. Alleviates overall stress and nourishes the respiratory and circulatory systems.
*Orange *Cypress *Fennel *Juniper *Ginger *Rose Geranium *Clary *Sage *Parsley *Carrot Seed *Basil *Thyme
IDEAL WEIGHT
Encourages the body systems to overcome stagnation and end unwanted accumulation. Can help modify cellulite or water retention by moving the blood, cleansing the lymph, and will tone both dermal and epidermal tissues. Ideal Weight promotes the metabolic processes of the skin’s surface, to better assimilate toxins and improve overall skin structure.
*Lemon Grass *Cypress *Grapefruit *Palmarosa *Juniper *Parsley *Black Pepper *Patchouli
WELL-BEING
Mood regulating. Evoking peace of mind and spirit. Uplifts and relaxes. Improves mental clarity, fortifies, and detoxifies. Relieves tension. Relaxes and moves the blood. Very Vitalizing.
*Grapefruit *Rosemary *Rose Geranium *Lemon *Petitgrain *Black Pepper *Hyssop *Frankincense *Carrot Seed *Parsley *Cardamom *Coriander *Thyme *Sandalwood *Helichrysum
PAIN AWAY
Assists the Body’s healing systems by easing trauma and reducing pain. Relaxes the nervous system gently promoting blood flow and lymphatic drainage. Moves the “chi” gently, while allowing increased energy flow.
*Marjoram *Lavender *Rosemary *Ginger *Rose Geranium *Clementine *Frankincense *Wild Chamomile *Cypress *Nutmeg *Clove *Helichrysum *Citrus *Angelica
WHITE LIGHT
Detoxifies, purifies and enhances vitality. Nourishes the entire system, as it lets out negativity. Heals with soothing, balancing, immune-enhancing, positive forces. Works on the Body, Mind and Spirit and soul to heal spiritually, emotionally and physically.
*Lavender Barreme *Frankincense *Rose Geranium *Palo Santo *Michaelia Alba *Elemi *Myrrh *Artemesia Mugwort *Spikenard
SLEEP WELL 
A relaxing blend of oils that takes you to a peaceful, relaxed state of surrender, allowing one to drift away into tranquility. Releases the everyday stresses of life, great in a hot bath, right before bedtime!
*Mandarin *Orange *Pink Grapefruit *Lavender *Rose Geranium *Frankincense *Bulgarian Rose *Neroli Bigarde
CHAKRA CARE
An eclectic mix of essential oils that touches base with the earth, enlightens our perceptions of the physical domain and
assists in the ascension of our spiritual enlightenment. Balances and unifies the chakras.
*Lavender *Barreme *Elemi *Clary Sage *Marjoram *Grapefruit *Orange *Patchouli Light
AGELESS 
A nutritive, cellular-regenerating complex of pure essential oils to reduce wrinkling and deterioration of the effects of sunburn and/or other damage to the skin, due to environmental factors or just natural aging. Application will calm and soothe the nerves, while nourishing the skin’s structure and healing from the outside in.
*Lavender Provence *Rose Geranium *Palmarosa *Rosemary *Lemon *Frankincense *Carrot Seed *Myrrh *Juniper
BREATHEEZ
Helps alleviate the symptoms of asthma by oxygenating and soothing the entire respiratory system. Enhances Lung performance while clearing the sinuses
. Assists in detoxifying the inner organs on a cellular level. Eases the symptoms of ulcers and increases circulation.
*Rosemary *Eucalyptus *Bergamot *Juniper *Frankincense *Sage *Marjoram *Myrtle *Cedar wood *Lime *Lemon *Hyssop
3RD THE ANCIENT SEA BED MINERALS
RICH IN A CHLORIDE BALANCING MINERAL BASE
These special salts are natural crystals containing various minerals of a relaxing and healing nature. The Salts’ texture, heat conductivity and other virtues (usually along with immersion in water) improve blood circulation, exfoliate the skin of dead cells (when roughly applied with small amounts of water), and increase the skin’s metabolism. Due to these actions, the whole body feels relaxed. It has been proven that these Salts relieve aching muscles and joints caused by arthritis, rheumatism, and aids in the healing of psoriasis and eczema when combined with emotional release and stress reduction.
MINERAL RICH FOUR-CHLORIDES BASE
*Magnesium Chloride is essential for cell metabolism, relaxation and sugar metabolism. Deficiencies in Magnesium have been discovered in the skin’s layers and serum of patients with psoriasis. Magnesium is responsible for over 300 metabolic enzymatic functions and deficiency in magnesium has been linked to asthma and allergy symptoms.
*Potassium Chloride improves the oxidation and regulates the electrical process of the muscles and the nervous system. Potassium is valuable for reducing blood pressure and eliminating excess fluids from the tissues.
*Sodium Chloride creates Sodium ions. After penetrating into the skin, they bind the water and generate a feeling of suppleness, ideal for very dry skin. This blend of Sodium and Chloride is not heat treated. Traditional Sodium Chloride (Table Salt) manufacturing process creates a strong bond of the two minerals so tightly that the body cannot split them apart. As such, Table Salt is more of a toxin than providing any healing benefits.
*Chloride is necessary to maintain the correct balance of alkaline and acid in the body, together with being vital for cell metabolism. Chloride is responsible for creating the HCL of the stomach lining and eliminating acid reflux.
*Ancient Sea Bed Salts The highest mineral content salts necessary to promote the greatest balanced healing through absorption and transduction of ions. Known the world over for their therapeutic properties, Dead Sea Bath Salts have been used for centuries to provide an All Natural, Temporary Relief For: Aches & Pains * Stress* Muscle Tension * Dry, Itchy Skin
WHILE ALSO PROMOTING:
Healthy Circulation * Healthy Immune Function
Adding Flexatone to the Ionic Footbath which includes the Ancient Sea Bed Minerals offers a complete therapy!
**Utilizing the SpectraVision Technology or any other electrical balancing technology will greatly enhance the health benefits of your Foot Spa therapy. Once the energetic blocks are corrected, we must replenish ATP in the cells; we support this through our Genophasic Therapy, but there is no better support for replenishing electrons than Foot Spa therapy!
Come Try the Vitalizer Pro Foot Spa today, and Discover the Wonderful Health Benefits it has to Offer!

At Applied Health Chiropractic, Dr. Marion Constantinides, D.C., P.A.K., is known for keeping patients healthy and happy through a holistic style of health care that is based on neuroscience, physiology and intuitive practices. Dr. Constantinides is a Natural Healthcare Doctor who do not rely on medication as the first answer to a problem.­
Dr. C is a highly
intuitive specialist in Applied Kinesiology. She is an expert in various fields of health care including Sports Health, Chiropractic Care and Nutritional Counseling. Her expertise provides the most comprehensive health care possible topatients reaching globally, far beyond Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and the greater Hampton Roads area.
Dr. C has over 22 years of hospital, emergency, family and clinical health experience. With her comprehensive knowledge most patients choose Dr. Constantinides as their primary care doctor.
 "Be kind,  for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."  Plato....


---------- Forwarded Message ----------
From: "George Callender" <george238c@juno.com>
To: Jennie.Wood@DHP.VIRGINIA.GOV
Subject: RE: 
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2018 10:41:56 GMT
Dear Ms. Wood,

Thank you for your prompt response to my recent email.

Wow, that's sure a lot of red text. I'm surely not well-educated and have no legal training; that said, it seems that you folks can't be held accountable for what you say and can't be sued. 

OK.

One question, ma'am.

Do you and the BOM know that chiropractors use a form of muscle testing called Applied Kinesiology?
Thanks.

Regards,

George


"Be kind,  for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."  Plato....


---------- Original Message ----------
From: "Wood, Jennie (DHP)" <Jennie.Wood@DHP.VIRGINIA.GOV>
To: George Callender <george238c@juno.com>
Subject: RE: 
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2018 21:09:56 +0000
Dear Mr. Callender:
You are correct the Board of Medicine does not license naturopaths and so has no jurisdiction over them as they are private citizens not regulated by the Board. Naturopaths have petitioned the Virginia legislature in the past asking to be licensed by Virginia and have failed to get the legislation through.  You may wish to make you feelings known to the legislature regarding naturopaths.
The Board of Medicine does have jurisdiction over chiropractors and if you have a complaint against a specific chiropractor, you may file it at this link:


Jennie F. Wood
Case Manager, Discipline & Compliance
Virginia Board of Medicine
Perimeter Center
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300
Henrico, Virginia  23233
804-367-4571;  Fax-804-527-4429

ANY AND ALL STATEMENTS PROVIDED HEREIN SHALL NOT BE CONSTRUED AS AN OFFICIAL POLICY, POSITION, OPINION, OR STATEMENT OF THE VIRGINIA BOARD OF MEDICINE (VBOM). VBOM STAFF CANNOT AND DO NOT PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE. VBOM STAFF PROVIDES ASSISTANCE TO THE PUBLIC BY PROVIDING REFERENCE TO VBOM STATUTES AND REGULATIONS; HOWEVER, ANY SUCH ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY VBOM STAFF SHALL NOT BE CONSTRUED AS LEGAL ADVICE FOR ANY PARTICULAR SITUATION, NOR SHALL ANY SUCH ASSISTANCE BE CONSTRUED TO COMMUNICATE ALL APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING ANY PARTICULAR SITUATION OR OCCUPATION. PLEASE CONSULT AN ATTORNEY REGARDING ANY LEGAL QUESTIONS RELATED TO STATE AND FEDERAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS, INCLUDING THE INTERPRETATION AND APPLICATION OF THE LAWS AND REGULATIONS OF VBOM.

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL VBOM, ITS MEMBERS, OFFICERS, AGENTS, OR EMPLOYEES BE LIABLE FOR ANY ACTIONS TAKEN OR OMISSIONS MADE IN RELIANCE ON ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS EMAIL.


From: George Callender [mailto:george238c@juno.com] 
Sent: Wednesday, January 24, 2018 12:55 PM
To: Wood, Jennie (DHP) <Jennie.Wood@DHP.VIRGINIA.GOV>
Subject:

Dear Ms. Wood,

Well, at 78 I guess you could say I'm circling the drain. I've been meaning to write this letter for years, so here goes.

Why are so-called naturopaths allowed to hang up their shingles, refer to themselves as doctors, and diagnose and treat our citizens? Yes, I checked and thankfully they are not licensed (yet).   

Here are some of the things that they advertise that they use: Bach Flowers, reflexology, homeopathy, iridology. AK, and so on. Actually, they could challenge the chiropractors for who has the most proven-to-not work techniques.

Obviously, someone at the Board of Medicine knows this is going on. Why is it allowed? 


My favorite folks, chiropractors. Many chiropractors use applied kinesiology and yes, I know the BOM is aware of this. Why is this allowed? 

Anyone with an IQ above room temperature knows that AK is pseudoscientific BS. Poses two questions. Chiropractors using AK either know it doesn't work or actually think it works. In either case, their license should be revoked.


Here are some links to Virginia chiropractors who use AK and their claims about the benefits.




The average citizen in our state makes certain assumptions when they seek medical care. The main thing they assume is that if our state grants someone a medical license that they must be OK. That is, that they are using proven methods of diagnosing and treating disease. That they are knowledgeable about medicine and are not taking advantage of us by using bogus treatments. That is not the case, Ms. Wood.

I guess I could sum up my letter by asking two questions. Why is the BOM allowing so-called naturopaths to call themselves doctors and treat our citizens? My second question is this, why is the BOM allowing chiropractors to use modalities (for lack of a better word) that have been proven to not work and not provide any medical benefit?

In closing, I hope you and yours had a great Christmas and holiday season and I wish you all a best-ever new year in 2018.

If you've gotten this far, thanks for reading my letter and I look forward to your response. 

Respectfully, I remain....

Sincerely,

George 

PS. Seems these are violated.

18VAC85-20-28.  Practitioner-patient communication; termination of relationship. 

  1. Except as provided in ï¿½ 32.1-127.1:03 F of the Code of Virginia, a practitioner shall accurately inform a patient or his legally authorized representative of his medical diagnoses, prognosis and prescribed treatment or plan of care. A practitioner shall notdeliberately make a false or misleading statement regarding the practitioner’s skill or the efficacy or value of a medication, treatment, or procedure prescribed or directed by the practitioner in the treatment of any disease or condition.

18VAC85-20-30. Advertising ethics.

E. A licensee of the board shall not advertise information which is false, misleading, or deceptive. 
"Be kind,  for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."  Plato....

1 comment:

  1. HI George... sorry I'm slow in commenting on this. And sorry that you didn't receive a better response from the board. I hope by now you have had luck in finding another way to get action.

    ReplyDelete