I received approximately six treatments from Marie. At my initial visit, I was brought into a room to review my health history in detail, including questions about incidents from early childhood. X-rays were taken by Margie.
After the X-rays were reviewed, Danielle continued the discussion, taking notes and asking additional questions. I found it unusual that I was not speaking directly with the doctor for this portion of the consultation, particularly as I was informed that Danielle primarily handled financial matters.
I initially chose to proceed based on strong recommendations for Margie. Following the initial adjustments, I was presented with a treatment plan that had been prepared by Danielle, not the doctor. The plan was quoted at over $7,000 for an 18 (plus plus) month contract. I was also informed--immediately--that a 45% discount would be applied because Margie strongly believed in her program. After insurance, the cost was still a little less than $4,000. This raised concerns for me regarding pricing transparency, as it was unclear how the original "list price" was determined or why such a significant discount was presented upfront.
It is important to note that I was not in pain at the time; my goal was simply to ensure proper alignment as I approach turning 40. However, I was told that multiple areas--my neck, back, hips, and more--required extensive work.
During subsequent visits, I was not asked about specific concerns or symptoms. Instead, treatment appeared to be based solely on the initial X-rays. Additionally, the treatment area lacked privacy, as two tables were located close to the waiting area, making it possible to hear other patients' information, and X-rays were visible within line of sight.
Margie also informed me that Danielle would be conducting follow-up appointments to check my back. This raised additional concerns, as it was unclear whether Danielle holds the appropriate clinical qualifications or licensure to provide this type of care. I was not comfortable committing to an extensive 18+ month treatment plan under these circumstances.
After deciding to decline the contract, which felt like a pre-structured sales presentation with minimal personalization, I was escorted to the front. During this time, Danielle informed Margie of my decision in my presence. This interaction felt uncomfortable and degrading, as I felt implicitly pressured to justify my decision, despite not owing an explanation.
I referenced my wife and daughter during this conversation, at which point there was an attempt to involve them as potential patients as well. Both individuals stated that, in order to properly care for one's children, it is sometimes necessary to prioritize oneself. I respectfully disagreed with this perspective, and my response was met with immediate pushback. During a follow-up phone call, it was suggested that if financial concerns were a factor, I could continue scheduling appointments only until my insurance coverage was exhausted. This was further followed by a recommendation that, should my financial situation improve, such as through a pay increase, I reconsider moving forward with the full contract. I found these remarks to be inappropriate and not aligned with a professional, patient-centered approach.
The following morning, I called to cancel all remaining appointments. I then received an unpleasant phone call from Margie, during which she emphasized the recommendations I had received and stated that my condition would worsen over time if I did not proceed. She also reiterated her expertise and indicated that, after completing the lengthy treatment plan, ongoing "maintenance" care would be required. I disclosed that I had sustained a traumatic liver injury resulting from a knee strike during a martial arts fight. While this information was used to support the assertion that I require her care, I was thoroughly evaluated and medically cleared by qualified professionals.
Despite this, Margie continued to insist that I required ongoing adjustments due to the prior trauma. While I understand that the nervous system is interconnected throughout the body, this recommendation felt excessive and not aligned with the level of care I was seeking.
Additionally, I was shown stretches by Danielle during one of my visits. I was not informed of her qualifications to provide this guidance, raising further concern as to why these instructions were not being provided directly by the doctor.
Margie frequently used the phrase, 'we can get you all fixed up,' when discussing treatment. In my view, this phrasing contributed to the overall experience feeling more aligned with a sales approach rather than a patient-centered clinical discussion
Overall, I found the experience to be heavily sales-driven and lacking in patient-focused care. I did not appreciate the tone of the financial discussion or the follow-up call, both of which I experienced as pressuring and inappropriate. read more
