The Doctor/Patient Bond

It occurred to me last week, after I posted my first blog, that I should include some form of explanation for why I decided to start blogging. The explanation is simple: Enhance the doctor/patient bond.

And, this is why:

I feel it is important to connect with my patients on more levels than just pain or biomechanical function. Chiropractic is a health care profession that exists along the entire health care spectrum, ranging from those in severe pain to those seeking prevention and optimal wellness. Many people first visit the chiropractor seeking pain relief, but some end up continuing on with regular chiropractic maintenance. Because of this, it is important to me to establish a strong bond with my patients. For some, my job is simply to help them through an isolated circumstance. For these folk, a bond between doctor and patient is often not needed. Regardless of feeling connected to the doctor, the laser therapy, massage, and/or adjustments serve their function. However, for those that have discovered the benefit of ongoing maintenance, I have the privilege of being an ongoing team member in that patient's life. For these folk, the visit to my office becomes more of a routine activity, rather than a dreaded trip to the doctor. More than just the application of services takes place during these visits. Deeper discussions regarding exercise, nutrition, psychological well being often take place. Developing a strong bond between doctor and patients helps foster these meaningful discussions. Of course, connecting with patients also allows for laughs, a relaxing atmosphere, and sometimes in-depth discussions about the evening prior's television programs, especially ABC's LOST. Watching and discussing LOST is not a pre-requisite to receiving chiropractic care, but it does make for engaging dialogue during treatment visits!

As mentioned in my first blog, I hope the Bend Blog serves to educate and add my own spin to various health topics, including chiropractic, wellness, and fitness. But, what good is my word if you, the reader or patient, know very little about my own lifestyle and habits. My advice can be inspired by research and journal articles, but my own experiences influence me greatly. So, by sharing some of my experiences and letting you into my world a bit, I hope to strengthen your trust in me and further our doctor/patient bond.

See you at your next visit.