September 5, 2019 marks 30 years that I have been in practice in Corpus Christi. I have seen a number of practices come and go during this time, and I am thankful to still be here!
So many changes have occurred over the past 30 years. When I first started, there was no internet, or electronic filing of insurance claims, or HIPAA, or many other regulations we have today. The cost of keeping a practice open has gone up a lot, in part due to the increase of regulations and tons of more paperwork required. However, insurance reimbursement for services has actually gone down! I can understand why several of my colleagues have closed down their practices and sought other types of employment.
The kinds of conditions I see have changed over the years. Younger people are having degenerative conditions that we used to see primarily in older people due to eating highly processed foods that are devoid of nutrients. Technology brings us neck conditions in younger people from excessive texting and looking down at their smart phones. Muscles are weaker from more sedentary lifestyles. Many people want drugs to fix everything for them instead of taking responsibility for their health and making good choices with diet and exercise and lifestyle. (That may have not occurred in the past 30 years, but it has gotten worse.)
Overall, much has changed since I first opened the doors to my little clinic. Wonderful staff members have come and gone over the years, and I even moved to a new location! There is one thing, however, that has not changed: the fact that I love helping people! I am overjoyed to see a person regain their health, or get rid of pain that stopped them for doing the things they enjoy. I have treated many people over the years that were told they would just have to live with their pain, when they didn’t! They were able to heal with chiropractic care! This is the thing that drives me forward, causing me to seek out new ways to help people feel better and heal. I am very grateful to still be in practice, and I look forward to the future. I pray God allows me to continue in the career I love, for as long as He sees fit!
Jacquelyn Cole DC