Carolina Interventional Pain Institute

As a healthcare professional with over 17 years of experience in clinical and behavioral health settings, I was extremely disappointed—and frankly disturbed—by the lack of professionalism displayed by the staff at Carolina Interventional Pain Institute during my mother’s recent visit. My mother had a scheduled procedure, When the front desk representative, Taylor, finally opened the door, she did so abruptly and without greeting us or acknowledging that we had been waiting. She did however greet and engage with another couple who came in after us. Instead of a basic level of courtesy expected in any healthcare setting, the interaction felt dismissive and unnecessarily rude. The tone of the visit continued in the same manner. When my sister later asked another staff member a simple and reasonable question about how long my mother’s procedure might take so she could plan accordingly, the response she received was again dismissive and rude—as if answering a patient’s family member was an inconvenience. As someone who holds a PhD and is a multi-state Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am very familiar with the standards of professionalism, patient-centered care, and ethical conduct expected in healthcare environments. I also noticed that this facility employs LPCs. As a fellow clinician, it was especially concerning to observe an environment where patients and their families are treated in such a dismissive manner. This type of atmosphere does not foster trust and certainly does not encourage individuals to seek care at this facility. Patients who seek pain management services are often already navigating significant physical discomfort, emotional stress, and vulnerability. Staff interactions should reflect compassion, professionalism, and respect. Unfortunately, that was not our experience. I was also particularly troubled by how dismissive the interactions felt overall. Many people of color already face barriers and skepticism when seeking treatment for pain, including concerns about not being taken seriously. Experiences like the one we encountered only reinforce those concerns rather than demonstrating equitable and respectful care. If my mother had not already been scheduled for the procedure, we would have seriously considered canceling the appointment based solely on how we were treated upon arrival. That should never be the impression a medical facility leaves on patients or their families. Based on this experience, I cannot recommend this facility and will not refer anyone here. Professionalism, basic courtesy, and respect for patients should be the minimum standard in healthcare—not the exception. Dr. Goodwin, LPCS, LPC, LCMHC, LMHC

Today when we arrived for my mom’s procedure the front desk representative Taylor was very rude and dismissive. We were waiting outside for fifteen minutes for someone to open the door. She did not great us as she slammed the door open. I later asked another employee about the duration of my mom’s procedure and she was very rude as if she didn’t want to be bothered. It’s very unfortunate that we received this treatment and if my mom didn’t already schedule it we would. Have canceled. I will not refer anyone to this facility.

I was referred there two months ago by my doctors at Florence Neurosurgery and Spine. Everyone that I have come in contact there are professional, courteous and caring about me personally. I am seeing Dr. Rejonis and he is fantastic. I am more than impressed with his expertise with my pain management!

Dr Riber is great and I have received great results from my pain.

clean, well staffed facility