Almost all participants in the focus group already had a negative view regarding medical treatment already received for their neck or back problem. Of interest, the participants had no idea the level of commitment required in becoming a chiropractor. No clue relating to education, or scope of practice, or requirements regarding state licensure, or that chiropractors were actually considered doctors. Although this was the case, I would avoid any approach that appears self -serving. Let your professional demeanor and approach to patient management speak for itself.
Perception is reality.
The group embraced treatment that was designed to be short -term and focused on their areas of chief complaint. Although you might be interested in offering a variety of services during initial visits, they want you to first take care of their chief complaints. After demonstrating results and gaining their confidence, the participants expressed they would then be open to other recommendations. If several small, but successful steps can be taken in accomplishing any of these goals, I know from that point forward, I will have a compliant patient who will follow my recommendations at every turn. For example, you can have a profound impact by simply teaching the acute patient proper body mechanics when getting out of bed during the morning hours, or how to stand -up from a chair with less pain.