Patient Centered Care: Putting the Patient First

Balanced • February 9, 2017

In our Charlottesville practice, we take a patient-first approach. Lots of medical practices and hospitals promote a patient-centered approach. It’s a hot buzzword in healthcare right now. But, what does that really mean? The IOM (Institute of Medicine) defines patient-centered care as: “Providing care that is respectful of, and responsive to, individual patient preferences, needs and values, and ensuring that patient values guide all clinical decisions.”

Patient-centered care is a custom-tailored approach. It takes the individual patient into account when making care recommendations. While the practice of medicine uses a great deal of science, not all approaches will work well for every patient. That’s where this approach comes into play.  It’s more than just following intuition and the available science. It takes unique patient preferences into account – from individual challenges to lifestyle factors. As care providers, we need to listen to our patients and prescribe programs that adapt to their needs and align with what is realistic for them.   A doctor driven approach is different- the doctor is the authority and dictates the nature of care and can leave the patient feeling unheard and uncared for.

So, how do you know if your healthcare provider is truly taking a patient-centered approach? Check these three cues:
  1. Are they asking questions and engaging in a discussion around your holistic health situation?
  2. Does the program prescribed fit with your lifestyle, and feel realistic and attainable for you?
  3. Have they listened to you? Do you feel heard?

Your health and well-being require action on both your part and that of your healthcare provider. You and your doctor should achieve a therapeutic alliance- to be working together toward the same goal. It should feel like your doctor is treating you and not your illness/injury/body part. You will achieve better results when you follow the requirements within a customized recovery and wellness plan. So, look for a partner when seeking medical assistance – and,  remember, when choosing a healthcare provider or a hospital, look for a patient-first approach.

By Allison Hawthorne September 18, 2025
When you're in pain — whether from a nagging injury, post-surgical recovery, or chronic discomfort — finding the right care can feel like a maze. At Balanced Chiropractic & Physical Therapy, many patients walk in skeptical but leave with something they hadn’t experienced in other clinics: real relief and a clear plan forward. What sets this clinic apart? It's not just the treatment. It’s the total experience — one where skilled practitioners combine chiropractic care, physical therapy, and patient education to help individuals regain mobility, confidence, and quality of life. A Different Kind of Care Experience  From the moment individuals arrive, they notice a different tone. The team at Balanced doesn’t just treat the symptoms — they take time to understand the full picture. Many patients describe the approach as comprehensive, personal, and results-focused . Whether recovering from orthopedic surgery or managing long-standing joint pain, patients often comment on how the care they received here was more effective than what they experienced elsewhere. The key difference? Integration. At Balanced, chiropractic and physical therapy are used in combination — not in silos. This means spinal adjustments might be paired with strengthening exercises, or dry needling might be used to reduce tension while also building joint stability. It’s a multi-modal approach designed to accelerate healing while helping prevent future injury. Common Conditions Addressed Patients come in with a wide range of challenges: Shoulder pain and limited mobility Back and neck discomfort, including sciatica Hip pain and post-surgical recovery Sports-related injuries Plantar fasciitis and foot issues Nerve-related symptoms, including numbness or tingling Knee pain and age-related joint stiffness Repetitive strain injuries from work or athletics Postpartum musculoskeletal challenges In each case, treatment plans are tailored — not only to the condition but to each patient’s lifestyle, goals, and progress. What Patients Consistently Say Here are some recurring themes reported by patients in public reviews: “I finally found relief after years of trying other providers.” “The care team really listens and adjusts based on how I feel week to week.” “The home exercise programs helped me stay consistent and feel in control of my progress.” “They went above and beyond — even following up after care to check on how I was doing.” “I was able to return to normal activities that I hadn’t done in years.” It’s not just about symptom relief. It’s about restoring function and confidence — whether that means returning to work, walking without pain, playing sports again, or simply sitting comfortably during long drives. Results That Speak for Themselves Across the board, patients report: Reduction in pain (often from high pain levels to minimal or none) Improved mobility and flexibility Faster recovery timelines post-surgery Better outcomes compared to previous care elsewhere Knowledge to self-manage and prevent recurrence One of the most notable differences? Patients feel like they are part of the process , not just receiving care but actively participating in their own recovery with a supportive team behind them. A Team That Prioritizes People, Not Just Protocols Balanced Chiropractic & Physical Therapy isn't just known for clinical skill — the people are a major part of the equation. Chiropractors, physical therapists, massage therapists, and administrative staff are frequently described as: Attentive Encouraging Thorough Responsive Easy to communicate with This atmosphere of support and collaboration often leads to stronger patient engagement and better long-term results. Why It Matters Musculoskeletal pain doesn’t just affect the body — it affects work, sleep, relationships, and mental focus . The goal at Balanced isn’t just pain reduction; it’s full-body function and restored confidence in movement. Whether you’re facing a complex injury or a nagging issue you’ve ignored for too long, Balanced Chiropractic & Physical Therapy offers something that’s hard to find in today’s healthcare landscape: individualized, integrated care that actually works. If you're exploring options for recovery, rehabilitation, or chronic pain management, Balanced may be worth your time — and could be the turning point your body’s been waiting for. Contact us today
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Choose trusted chiropractic care in Charlottesville with Blue Cross Blue Shield. Our chiropractors are dedicated to your well-being and accept Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance.
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