An Ocala Business Journal Interview with Dr. Riadh Fakhoury
Fakhoury Medical & Chiropractic Of Ocala Says It Uses Several Disciplines To Treat Pain Injury.
Q: Tell us about your business.
A: The Fakhoury Medical and Chiropractic Center is a facility housing a unique model of multidisciplinary practices under one roof. We deal with and expertly treat pain of the back, neck, joints and headaches utilizing a team approach of medical and natural health care. Our facility is a one-of-a-kind business within this area, that allows a team approach of chiropractic, medical, nurse practitioner, acupuncture, massage, and rehab professionals to best select the treatment or combined treatments to help people in the process of recovering from their pain. Our specialty is in the treatment of traumatic injuries, such as accidents, where we have a board-certified chiropractic orthopedist and a board certified physiatrist (medical doctor who specializes in physical medicine and rehab) with years of training in the most effective treatment of these traumatic accident type injuries.
Q: How long have you been working in Marion County and how did you get your start?
A: I have 25 years of service in Marion County and was introduced to this beautiful county by my parents, who moved prior and encouraged me to relocate to a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family.
Q: How is the market for chiropractic care now, compared to when you first started in the profession?
A: The market has changed vastly. Now we see many people very open to experiencing chiropractic care, as opposed to 25 years ago. People are now more naturally orientated and more involved in their care; they want to be a part of the process, rather than let others just direct them. There is also a greater mutual respect between chiropractic and the medical community. This mutual respect is helpful in getting the patient to the most appropriate health care provider faster, allows for a quicker response to the care rendered, and also keeps the patient cost to a minimum.
Q: What do you think is the most common misconception about chiropractic?
A: That it hurts. Properly applied, the manipulation or mobilization should be very comfortable and simple. The individual receiving treatment quite often will notice relief or improvement after the first visit.
Q: Almost three years ago, you opened the first solar-powered commercial building in Marion County. How has that move worked out for the clinic and your patients?
A: My father encouraged the installation of the solar-powered panels on top of our roof to allow for electrical production and hot water. His vision was spectacular as we have been able to save dramatic amounts on our energy bill. Our building has generated much interest within the community with our solar powered system. Other energy-saving devices have been installed in the building with the joint efforts of our builders, David and Sandy from CSI, to help improve the efficiency of the structure.
Q: What opportunities do you see in Marion County’s business community?
A: Marion County has an excellent business community where there is a great support system to help business and business owners succeed. Our chamber of commerce is rated one of the very top in the nation, we have a very involved EDC and have many effective leaders within our community that put great effort in making this community a great location for current and future businesses.
Q: What is the biggest challenge in doing business here?
A: Nothing. There is great opportunity and a great community to sustain healthy businesses offering the best service possible.
Q: Do you think our economy’s in a recovery yet?
A: Recovery is near if not already here. Recovery comes from the confidence of the consumer and I feel that people have great confidence in our community, country and government. Down cycles are only for a limited time and this too shall pass.
Q: How is your line of work changing and how do you keep up with industry trends?
A: As mentioned before, we as a team of doctors, nurse and staff, have invested great effort in making our center a state of the art, unique, multidisciplinary facility to care for the individual who is in pain and needs relief. Our team of proficient and highly trained professionals is geared towards the ultimate in care and service for the patient. Coming to our center is like going to five different facilities for your care, but under one roof. Working as a team with full communication between all specialties of care and treatment to assist the patient who has pain, or is injured in an accident.
Q: What is a good source for new ideas?
A: Listening to others.
Q: Who is your mentor?
A: My father has taught me vision and my mother has taught me caring, patience and persistence. They both have encouraged my brothers and me to strive for the best with strong and determined effort.
Q: What is your favorite business book?
A: My favorite book is people. I like to read from individuals that I come in contact with and learn from them. Everyone you meet adds a special part to your life.
Q: What do like to do away from work?
A: Not work. I like to get away completely and spend 100 percent of my time with my family, anywhere.
Q: You and your family are known as avid travelers. Which of the places you’ve visited is your favorite?
A: My most favorite places in the world to travel are third world countries, where amenities are limited. It is a learning experience to see how so many people in this world can enjoy so much from life with so little at their disposal. It is truly a blessing to relearn how happiness comes from simplicity and from within; renewing my spirit in relearning how others can be an example of the true joy of family and friends.
