Executive Director’s Report

John Jannese
The September 2003 issue of COCA News marks the first anniversary of my appointment as Executive Director of the College. I thought it might be of interest to COCA members and supporters to read about some of the colleges’ achievements and professional issues that were dealt with during the course of the year.

When reviewing these activities, it is important to keep in mind that COCA is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to meeting your professional needs. Monies from subscriptions, seminar fees, endorsement and marketing activities are all returned to you - via low membership fees.

Continuing Professional Development & Educational Seminar Series

• COCA conducts 18 seminars, conferences or workshops during 2002/03
• Updated Informed Consent Form
• Soon to be released Risk Management Program II (2003)
• COCA develops an exciting contemporary educational seminar series for 2004

New Membership Services

• HICAPS, Health Industry claims and payment service
• AMP Banking Home Loan package
• Hertz #1 Club Car rental program
• QBE Professional Indemnity Insurance
• Income Protection, Life Insurance and Trauma Insurance packages
• The BackLetter publication is offered to COCA members and supporters
• RACGP’s library service renegotiated for COCA members

COCA membership, marketing and infrastructure

• COCA membership exceeds 1,200
• COCA reduces 2003/04 student membership fees to $22 (inc.gst)
• COCA moves to dedicated offices in Croydon, Victoria
• COCA endorses a new range of adjustable beds, pillows and ergonomic chairs

COCA comments upon professional issues

COCA is a College first and foremost. Nevertheless, the College is often asked for its opinion or input pertaining to professional issues that impact upon the practice of Chiropractic and Osteopathy.

During the year:

• COCA made submissions to the NSW Department of Quality & Clinical Policy Branch, the National Health Privacy Working Party, the National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC), the Queensland Health Department and the Queensland Minister for Health
• COCA responded to calls for comment on publications from numerous state registration boards
• COCA represented Chiropractors and Osteopaths at professional issues forums
• COCA continues to have regular and on-going discussions with state Chiropractor and Osteopath registration boards, as well as federal and state government bureaucracies, whilst maintaining links with other professional associations.

In the coming year, members may be assured that the College will not waiver from its core business by continuing to provide you with the most exciting relevant vocational and education services in Australasia – at an affordable price!