PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL -- A local neurosurgeon uses his brain to help people with back and neck pain. But it's his heart that is launching a new endeavor. Dr. Charles Theofilos is helping people survive the squeeze by offering a free clinic to the uninsured.
Dr. Theofilos has a state of the art Spine Center in Palm Beach Gardens. With 20 years in practice, he has a wealth of experience. Experience that will now ease the pain of patients without health insurance at a free clinic.
"So, what we want to do is at least give these people hope that they can at least be evaluated," Dr. Theofilos said. "We have partnered with Gardens Hospital, so if someone doesn't have insurance, and they need surgical intervention, we're going to work it out so we can get something done for them."
Patients will need to make an appointment and give their medical history. What they'll get is a free exam and evaluation. In some cases an X-ray or MRI may be necessary. That too, will be free. No pain medication will be dispensed, but a treatment plan, like physical therapy will be established. Again, free of charge.
"We know patients respond to conservative therapies but they need to be organized. They need to be told what to do. And if told what to do, hopefuly they'll get better over time," the doctor said.
Dr. Theofilos says his clinic won't solve the healthcare crisis in our country, but he knows this small step on his part will help some patients by easing their pain and their financial worries.
"The reason why I'm doing this is because this community has been great to my family and myself for the past 17 years."
The free clinic is Friday, August 28th from 9 to noon. Depending on demand it could be offered regularly. Click here for the Center's web address, email them at NewPatient@TheSpineCenter.com or call (561) 630-3870.
