How did you learn your responsibilities as a CA? When I started my career with Ber-man Family Chiropractic, I was lucky enough to come into an office that was well established, well known and liked, and fast paced, so fast learning was a must. A seasoned CA who had been with our office for 10 years began showing me "the ropes." I started training as a treating CA, learning all the basics, procedures, therapies, philosophies, and so on. After I became familiar with these duties, I began studying for my x-ray licenses, putting to good use everything I had learned about chiropractic and the spine along the way. Shortly after that, I became a certified x-ray tech. I have now been with my office for over six years, and I am fully cross-trained to be both a treating CA and front desk CA/office manager. What are some of your responsibilities in the clinic? There are so many responsibilities that go into being a CA, some of them small, some large, but all of them very important so that the flow of your office can create a warm, caring environment that not only heals your aches and pains, but also warms the heart. Our office has a "to-do" check list that involves small tasks, such as cutting on the lights, setting the radio and volume, and preparing the doctor's office so that he is ready to go when he comes in, as well as large tasks, such as cleaning the office, scheduling and rescheduling, following up on PI cases, and billing and calling insurance companies. Because this job (and my boss) has afforded me such great opportunities, I have set a personal goal to be the best CA that I can and to be his "right arm" for anything that needs to be done. What kind of preparation did you have for your position? To be honest, when I started with Dr. Berman, I had no idea what I was getting into. I knew of chiropractic, but not the endless possibilities this profession possessed. With the exception of a few pamphlets given to me prior to my start date, I have gained all of my knowledge through experience, networking with other great chiropractic assistants (Pinnacle Management Group), and the vast knowledge of chiropractic and acupuncture that Dr. Berman has shared with me along the way. Are you registered with any governing body? I currently hold an x-ray license from the Commonwealth of Virginia Licensing Board and also a license as a certified chiropractic clinical assistant from the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Board. What do you love most about your job? Everything! As in the title of this interview, I am "the grateful chiropractic assistant." Never would I have thought I could have found a career in chiropractic, but I have. Every aspect of my job is rewarding. I bear witness to everyday miracles—not many people can say that! I have witnessed pain relief and fertility success; I've been brought to tears by the happiness of others and the joy of health that has been brought to them by the healing hands of Dr. Berman. I have had the privilege to meet so many great people, and have been deeply saddened by the death of those who are no longer with us. I am forever grateful for this opportunity! What are the things that motivate you in your life? There are so many things that motivate me and get me through this ride that we call life—my family, my friends, and my career. I am driven by love; I am inspired by results and fueled by passion. These are what I believe to be the keys to a successful life. Who would you consider influenced you the most? I couldn't just pick one person. I have been blessed with so many influential people in my life, that it wouldn't be fair to just pick one, so I will give you a few. My parents taught me that hard work pays off and to give everything I do my all. My grandparents taught me the "Golden Rule" and to treat people the way that I would want to be treated. My husband is always positive—he listens, loves, and hugs. And finally, my bosses, Dr. Berman, who is an amazing chiropractor and has given me the faith to say, "Yes, he can treat that," and his wife, who has always been there to guide me through trials at the office. Most importantly, they have believed in me, invested in me, and guided me into the "world of chiropractic." Any final thoughts? In July 2013, I was the first applicant to become a certified chiropractic clinical assistant, the first to take the test, and the first to become certified nationally and internationally as a chiropractic clinical assistant by the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Board. I was quoted to be "Pioneer for Chiropractic Assistants." In 2013, I was nominated for Chiropractic Assistant of the Year, and it is a personal goal to actually receive this high award in my near future! Thank you Lisa Maddox. If you or someone you blow would be interested in having an interview appear in an upcoming issue of The Chiropractic Assistant, please send an inquiry to ca(aamchimpractor.com.
