The Manitoba government has reversed its earlier decision not to provide coverage for chiropractic for patients under the age of 19 years. The action had prompted a widespread grassroots protest from D.C.s and patients.

Chiropractors had rallied in opposition to the Manitoba government's announcement in April that it was cutting chiropractic coverage for adults by 30% and eliminating it entirely for children. Manitoba Health reduced the allowance of $11.56 per visit for a maximum of 12 visits a year to $8.00 per visit.

The decision had a significant impact on Manitoba chiropractors.

A 1999 survey published in the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, found that about 92% of Canadian chiropractors provided care for patients under 18.

The original decision was said to be a cost-cutting measure, but most observers believed it was actually a result of pressure by anti-chiropractic forces in Canada.

One of the most vocal opponents was Dr. Murray Katz, a staff member at the Montreal Children's Hospital, who has often stated that subluxations don't exist.

"This is all a sham," he said during one lecture. "There are no bones out of place. Readjustment is a treatment in search of a disease."

Other adversaries have been equally antagonistic toward chiropractic.

Earlier this year, the Canadian Paediatric Society issued a position paper on the issue of chiropractic for children. "There is no scientific evidence to support the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic in treating nonmusculoskeletal conditions in children," stated Dr. Linda Spigelblatt, principal author of the paper.

However, chiropractors also have numerous supporters in the province. Shortly after the government announced its cuts, Health Critic Myrna Driedger, a member of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, called on Health Minister Dave Chomiak to reverse the decision.

"By refusing to provide any coverage for chiropractic care for any Manitoban under the age of 19, the (Premier Gary) Doer government is essentially cutting back on the important health care services our children deserve access to. I fear this hasty decision is putting short-term savings ahead of long-term prevention," said Driedger. "Chiropractic care is a helpful alternative to prescription drugs to deal with the management of back pain that has provided positive results for Manitobans of all ages. In addition, as a preventative measure, it helps to take a load off of our already over-burdened health care system."

She spoke out against the cuts for adults as well.

"The Doer government is just making it more and more difficult for all Manitobans, including our seniors who are on a fixed budget, to access needed health care services," Driedger argued. "At a time when the province should be increasing health care options, it is out of step to implement measures that will negatively affect the degree of choice afforded to Manitobans."

On July 12, 2002, the government announced that, retroactive to July 1, 2002, Manitoba Health will specifically provide coverage for Manitobans under 19 years of age. Although they will still allow a maximum of just 12 visits, effective April 1, 2003, the rate will increase to $9 per chiropractic visit.

"We respect the role chiropractic care plays in the health care system," said Health Minister Chomiak. "Our goal is to achieve a balance between providing coverage that offers Manitobans affordable and effective health choices and living within our fiscal boundaries."

A three-person commission will be selected to review the cost-effectiveness, accessibility and integration of chiropractic services. The commission will include one representative each of the Manitoba Chiropractors Association and Manitoba Health, as well as a chairperson selected jointly. This commission will report in 2004.

Chomiak said he is pleased the four-year agreement provides long-term stability for the Manitoba government, chiropractors and their patients.

Manitoba remains one of five provinces that provide chiropractic coverage.