The KMC University Podcast

Is your patient's shoulder pain actually coming from the shoulder, or could the cervical spine be the source?

In this KMC University HelpDesk episode, Dr. Richard Mason shares practical clinical clues that can help chiropractors differentiate cervical-origin symptoms from primary shoulder conditions.

Dr. Mason discusses Spurling's test, cervical distraction, Bakody's sign, painful arc, functional shoulder complaints, and even the sometimes-confusing presentation of pain around the shoulder blade.

The important takeaway: don't rely on the location of the pain, or one orthopedic test, to make the decision. Look at the complete pattern of findings.

Watch now for quick clinical tips you can incorporate into your examination process.

⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

How far behind are you on your chiropractic documentation?

If unfinished notes are piling up and your billing team is waiting for completed records, it may be time to rethink your documentation workflow.

In this KMC University HelpDesk episode, we discuss why timely, or contemporaneous, documentation matters, what to consider when signing and amending records, and practical ways busy chiropractors can stay current.

You'll also learn how scribes, AI-assisted documentation, dictation, and smarter EHR workflows can reduce the burden, plus why over-documenting may actually be part of the problem.

Finally, we discuss an important consideration when selecting office/outpatient E/M codes based on time and why chiropractors should understand both time and medical decision making.

Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

Are the X-rays you're taking medically necessary, and does your documentation prove it?

In this KMC University HelpDesk episode, Dr. Erin Stubblefield discusses why routine imaging protocols can create reimbursement and compliance concerns when there isn't an individualized clinical reason for taking the films.

Learn how findings from the patient's history and physical examination should drive imaging decisions, why your documentation needs to clearly explain the clinical rationale, and why the radiology interpretation is an important part of the record.

Dr. Erin also explains something many practices overlook: documenting when X-rays are not indicated can help demonstrate your clinical reasoning if the patient's condition changes and imaging becomes necessary later.

Before you take the X-ray, make sure your chart answers one important question: Why does this patient need it?

Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

Does your EHR make every patient visit look exactly the same?

That convenience could be creating a documentation problem.

In this KMC University HelpDesk episode, Dr. Erin Stubblefield explains the important differences between documenting the beginning of a new episode of care and documenting a routine chiropractic office visit.

You'll learn why "initial" doesn't necessarily mean a brand-new patient, what information should be captured when evaluating a new episode of care, how routine SOAP notes differ, and why relying too heavily on copy-and-paste EHR templates can leave important gaps in the clinical story.

Strong documentation isn't about making every note longer. It's about making sure every chart clearly supports the care provided.

Want to strengthen your documentation? Explore the KMC University Library or schedule a FREE Discovery Assessment to identify opportunities to improve your practice's documentation and compliance systems.

Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

How can you recognize a lumbar disc herniation before ordering an MRI?

In this KMC University HelpDesk episode, Dr. Richard Mason reviews the clinical history, orthopedic examination findings, neurological assessment, and red flag symptoms that help chiropractors develop an accurate working diagnosis of lumbar disc herniation.

Learn how to distinguish disc herniations from disc bulges and muscular strains, understand the difference between radicular pain and lumbar radiculopathy, and identify situations that require immediate imaging before treatment begins.

Whether you're a new chiropractor or an experienced clinician, these practical diagnostic pearls can help improve patient assessment and clinical decision-making.

Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

Can chiropractors bill insurance for treating family members?

In this KMC University HelpDesk episode, we answer one of the most frequently asked compliance questions in chiropractic practices. Learn what Medicare says about treating spouses and other family members, why professional courtesy policies matter, and how improper billing can lead to audits, recoupments, and network participation issues.

We'll also discuss how to develop a clear Professional Courtesy Policy, avoid common billing mistakes, and know when to seek guidance before submitting claims.

If you want to protect your practice from unnecessary compliance risks, this episode is essential viewing.

Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!⁠

What does it really mean to build a cash-based chiropractic practice? Contrary to popular belief, it doesn't mean giving up insurance. It means creating a practice that isn't dependent on insurance reimbursement to thrive.

In this episode of the KMC University Interview Series, host Kathy Weidner sits down with Holly Jensen, Chief Operations Officer at Cash Practice Systems, for an insightful conversation about the systems, strategies, and mindset that help chiropractors build ethical, compliant, and financially sustainable practices.

Together, they explore common misconceptions about cash-based practices, why compliance should be the foundation of every financial system, and how effective patient communication can improve both retention and clinical outcomes.

You'll also hear practical advice on:

• What a cash-based chiropractic practice really is
• Why separating clinical and financial report of findings matters
• How compliant payment plans and automated billing create a better patient experience
• The importance of team training and consistent communication
• Why patient retention is one of the most effective ways to improve practice profitability
• How KMC University and Cash Practice Systems work together to help chiropractors reduce risk while growing their practices ethically

Whether you're considering transitioning to a cash-based model or simply want to strengthen the financial systems in your current practice, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can begin applying immediately.

Is your Electronic Health Record (EHR) helping your practice, or quietly costing you time and money?

In this KMC University HelpDesk episode, Dr. Erin Stubblefield explains how inefficient documentation systems create hidden financial leaks inside chiropractic practices. Learn why repetitive charting, incomplete intake forms, and poorly optimized workflows reduce productivity, increase compliance risk, and steal valuable clinical time.

Discover practical ways to improve your documentation process through automation, EHR macros, digital intake systems, and better office workflows, allowing you to spend less time behind a computer and more time caring for patients.

If administrative overload is slowing your practice down, this episode is for you.

Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

At the end of a busy day, it's tempting to leave balancing for tomorrow, but that small decision can create costly financial problems.

In this KMC University HelpDesk episode, Rebecca explains why end-of-day balancing is one of the most important daily habits for every chiropractic practice. Learn how just five to ten minutes each day can help prevent missing payments, inaccurate deposits, billing errors, and financial leaks that impact your bottom line.

You'll also discover the key steps every office should complete before closing, plus practical tips for building consistent financial systems that support long-term success.

If you're looking to improve your office procedures and protect your practice's financial health, this episode is a must.

⁠⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

Are your patients fully committed to the care you recommend, or are they leaving with unanswered questions?

In this KMC HelpDesk episode, Kathy Weidner (KMC) explains why the chiropractic Report of Findings remains one of the most valuable patient education tools in your practice. Learn how a thoughtful ROF helps improve treatment acceptance, strengthens patient understanding, increases case completion, and creates better clinical outcomes.

Kathy also discusses the importance of the Financial Report of Findings (FROF), patient recommitment after re-evaluations, and resources available through KMC University, Bill Esteb, and Cash Practice® to help improve your process.

Whether you're starting from scratch or refining your existing approach, this episode offers practical ideas that can help your patients receive the full benefit of chiropractic care.

⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!⁠

Cranial techniques are becoming more common in chiropractic practice, but are you billing them correctly?

In this HelpDesk episode, Dr. Erin Stubblefield discusses why routinely billing cranial work as CPT 98943 can create compliance risks. Learn why reviewing each payer's medical review policy is essential and discover when an unlisted code or a cash-pay model may be the better option.

Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

Getting paid today does not guarantee you'll keep the money tomorrow.

In this HelpDesk episode, Dr. Erin Stubblefield explains why documentation audits are one of the most important tools for protecting your practice's revenue. Learn how self-audits, external reviews, and stronger medical necessity documentation can help you avoid denials, recoupments, and costly compliance issues before an auditor ever reviews your records.

⁠⁠⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

Headaches are one of the most common conditions seen in chiropractic practice, but not all headaches are created equal.

In this HelpDesk episode, Dr. Richard Mason explains how to properly diagnose and document tension headaches, migraines, cluster headaches, and cervicogenic headaches. You'll also learn the key objective findings that support each diagnosis and discover important red flags that may require immediate referral.

⁠⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

What does it take to transform a chiropractic practice while staying true to your values?

In this episode of the KMC University Podcast, Kathy Weidner (KMC) sits down with Dr. Carey Girgis and Sally Girgis of Back Pain Relief Ohio to discuss nearly two decades of partnership with KMC University and the evolution of their practice.

Starting as a traditional insurance-based chiropractic office, Dr. Girgis shares how they successfully transitioned to a practice that is now just 3% insurance dependent by incorporating specialized decompression and neuropathy care, all while maintaining a strong commitment to compliance and doing things the right way.

Throughout the conversation, Carey and Sally reflect on the importance of trusted guidance, continuous education, and building systems that allow them to focus on what matters most: changing patients' lives.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How they transformed their practice from 95% insurance dependent to primarily cash-based services
• Why compliance, HIPAA, and documentation remain priorities regardless of your practice model
• How KMC University's coaching, education, and compliance resources helped provide clarity and confidence through every stage of growth

• The impact specialized decompression and neuropathy care has had on both patient outcomes and practice sustainability
• Why having trusted experts to answer your questions can make all the difference

Beyond practice management, Dr. and Mrs. Girgis also share their passion for serving others through international medical missions, community outreach, and faith-based initiatives, offering a glimpse into the heart behind their practice.

Whether you're looking to grow your practice, transition your business model, strengthen compliance, or simply hear an inspiring chiropractic success story, this conversation is filled with practical insights and encouragement.

Learn more about how KMC University helps chiropractors build compliant, confident, and successful practices at http://www.KMCUniversity.com.

Are you coding based on the service you provided, or based on what the patient's insurance covers?

In this HelpDesk episode, KMC discusses a growing compliance concern: practices selecting CPT codes based on coverage rather than the actual service performed. Learn why coding accuracy matters, how medical review policies can guide documentation and billing, and what every chiropractic office should know about services like 97140 and 97124.

⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Medicare claim denials can quickly drain cash flow from your practice, but many of the most common denials are preventable.

In this HelpDesk episode, Rebecca breaks down the top 10 Medicare Part B chiropractic claim denials, including documentation deficiencies, modifier errors, ABN mistakes, medical necessity issues, and claim submission problems. Learn what causes these denials and how to protect your revenue through stronger compliance and billing practices.

Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

What happens after a patient completes active treatment?

In this HelpDesk episode, KMC discusses how chiropractic practices can successfully transition patients into maintenance or wellness care without awkward conversations or patient confusion. Learn how better communication, financial clarity, and early education can improve patient retention and help your practice keep more cash.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

In this special KMC University Member of the Month episode, leaders from the Northeast College of Health Sciences Community Health Centers share how their partnership with KMC University has helped strengthen clinical education, compliance, documentation, coding, billing, and practice readiness.

Learn how Northeast College has integrated real-world business, compliance, and patient care training into its curriculum, helping students graduate better prepared for the realities of modern chiropractic practice. The conversation highlights the value of audits, faculty development, student training, and ongoing consultation in creating stronger outcomes for students, clinicians, and patients alike.

Whether you're a chiropractic educator, administrator, or practitioner, this episode offers valuable insight into how strategic partnerships can help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world success.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

Using vague or “unspecified” diagnosis codes can quietly drain your practice through denials, delays, and audit risk. In this HelpDesk episode, Dr. Erin Stubblefield explains why ICD-10 specificity matters and how stronger documentation leads to stronger coding. Learn how clear assessment findings help support medical necessity, improve reimbursement, and protect your bottom line.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!

Proper documentation is critical when treating whiplash and cervical injuries in chiropractic practice. In this HelpDesk episode, Dr. Richard Mason explains the key elements that should be included in your notes to support medical necessity, improve clinical clarity, and reduce audit risk. Learn common documentation mistakes that can trigger denials and how to create stronger, more defensible records.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the full video on KMCUniversity.com!