I have been in practice for almost 5 years now, and I have learned a lot about the practice of Chiropractic and because of that I believe I am improving everyday. However, there are also a lot of things that have stayed the exact same from day 1. One of those things are “My Three Rules”. These rules help frame the way I practice, and I hope provide a better patient experience and outcome.
Rule 1: If you feel worse, or feel a way you don’t expect – contact me!
This is driven from the fact that healthcare isn’t perfect, we the providers don’t have all the answers, but we are trying to help. Sometimes that help, doesn’t’ go the way we expect. It is a known fact that Chiropractic care can include a few side effects, most of which are very rare and typically require previous injuries or illness to occur. But things do go wrong.
Most commonly people can have a muscular spasm or a bruise. If this happens every patient of mine is taught to call if they need help, or if there is a emergency go to the hospital. If I can help, I will book that patient for a courtesy appointment to make sure they are ok and if needed help out with whatever is going on. Most of the time a bruise or muscle spasm can be taken care of and made to feel much better, typically while concurrently helping treat the patient.
Rule 2: If you don’t get any improvement in 6 visits, I will refer out.
To be honest not everyone gets better with my techniques. Some studies suggest that we should see improvement in a certain amount of time or it may be better to try something else. I treat by that science. If I am not helping, it is time to try something else.
Now, I won’t just kick you out the door, but I can provide help finding a new provider, or provide a letter explaining what I have tried. I want that first visit with the other practitioner to be better because you already sought out help. It depends on what is going on, sometimes I recommended going to your m.d., others times the N.D. or a massage therapist. At this point, I want to provide my opinion and help you decide what works best for you.
Rule 3: Tell me any changes to your health history
Times are changing and chiropractors need some information that you may not think is relevant. It may seem embarrassing or even like it doesn’t matter for me to crack your back, but some health issues are very relevant. Things like sexually transmitted diseases, previous cuts or wounds, or even the headache you had yesterday can be a determinant if care is provided that day or what type of care is provided. It is important so that techniques or options are discussed ensuring no injury and the best outcomes for the patient. So by keeping me in the loop, I will be able to keep you safe and your health care on track!
Every new patient is told these rules in my office, and I believe it helps the patient better understand the care they are about the receive and how I make some of my decisions. Ultimately, health care is your decision and I am here to provide advice and the help that you want, but in some circumstances the right choice is moving on to a new provider, or not providing care that day, and I hope “My Three Rules” help make that easier to understand.
Dr. Michael Bokor
