Doctors of chiropractic differ in many respects from each other, but there's one thing almost all of them share: a love of learning.

Most D.C.s try to keep up-to-date on the latest information about such important topics as current research on subluxations, tips on building an ethical practice, keeping accurate records, preventing malpractice claims, generating referrals, perfecting adjusting techniques -- and many others. In short, they're always looking for ways to be better doctors.

That's one reason the inaugural series of teleclasses offered by the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA) have been so popular. Participants have come away from the experience with practical information they can use every day in their practices.

There's another reason for the series' success. The teleclasses are absolutely free to all doctors. Though offered by the WCA, the organization has welcomed both members and non-members to participate.

"This is a new concept in chiropractic," said Tony Palermo, D.C., whose first task as the new CEO of the organization was to develop ways to help all doctors become more successful. "We wanted everyone to have a chance to see how much they could learn from these classes. In the future, we may limit them to WCA members only, but for now everyone can benefit for free."

Doctors who took part in the first teleclass, held on June 3, say they benefitted tremendously from the experience. After the presentation, which focused on the "Five Key Questions You MUST Ask Every New Practice Member," Dr. Palermo asked participants what they learned during the class.

Some of the answers he received were:

*** "That I CAN make my practice a HUGE success!"

*** "To be more consistent in asking for referrals, making contact with practice members that have dropped out of care."

*** "To make my explanations simpler."

*** "That my perfect practice is mine, not some one else's idea of a perfect practice."

*** "Some easy and free methods of marketing that are not time consuming."

*** "To look to yourself as the cause of your problems. You were presenting solutions to those various quirks we possess."

Diverse teleclass topics in the spotlight during July and August read like a "how-to" manual (see schedule box).

A special teleclass on August 4 will concentrate on new research into the possible link between subluxations and infertility, including case studies of previously infertile women who were able to conceive after having spinal adjustments. The WCA is working to make this research available to the public through the mainstream press.

Dr. Madeline Behrendt, associate editor of the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, chair of the WCA Council on Women's Health, and columnist for The Chiropractic Journal, will make the teleclass presentation and explain how to use the new findings to build a healthy family practice.

WCA community teleclass prosperity schedule

Thursday, July 17, 2003 -- 2-3 p.m.

"Zero to 180 Visits in 90 Days or Less!" Within three months of opening her doors five short years ago, this D.C. grew her practice from zero to 180 visits per week. You'll be amazed to discover the secret to her rapid growth! -- Featuring Dr. Barb Sturm

Friday, July 18, 2003 -- 1-2 p.m.

"Pre-pays for Profit, Fun and Service." How to avoid third party pay hell and retention nightmares, while doing more good for more people and making more money. -- Featuring Dr. Don Harte

Monday, August 4, 2003 -- 12:15-1:15 p.m.

"New Chiropractic Research on Infertility." Six easy steps on how to use to FILL your practice with happy families. --Featuring Dr. Madeline Behrendt

Thursday, August 21, 2003 -- 2-3 pm.

"Shifting 'Ticked Off' to 'Time Off.'" Want freedom while serving others? I take nine weeks of vacation per year. Let's discuss the possibilities for YOU! -- Featuring Dr. Barb Sturm