Freedom Orthopedic and Rehab Brings First-Of-Its-Kind Single-Fee Treatment to Metro Atlanta

    ATLANTA, GA, April 20, 2015 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Single-payment, direct-access orthopedic and rehabilitation services are available for the first time in north Metro Atlanta at Freedom Orthopedic and Rehab, a first-of-its kind medical services facility newly opened in Atlanta.

This unique one-fee concept was developed by board-certified surgeon Dr. Thomas N. Joseph, MD, as a superior way for him to focus solely and more closely on patients seeking quality orthopedic and rehab services in Metro Atlanta.

"Over the years in my practice and treatment experience, my passion has always been in caring directly for my patients - bringing orthopedic care to people in a way that puts the spotlight completely on the doctor-patient relationship," said Joseph. "This approach is about linking what I care the very most about with a simpler, more direct process."

Eliminating the third-party payment system that can make health care visits and follow-ups cumbersome, Freedom Orthopedic and Rehab recently initiated full operations at a newly developed medical facility located on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard in north Metro Atlanta.

"This allows me to do what I prefer to do -- concentrate solely on advice and care to patients in need," Joseph said. "Given how difficult it's become for everyone to navigate insurance co-pays and deductibles plus face unclear or hidden costs, we've pioneered a straight-forward, one-and-done approach to patient payment without the complex billing and unexpected fees typically involved in the process."

A transparent, fixed-price structure was motivated by Joseph's desire to offer his decade-plus experience in orthopedic services without distraction.

"I care most about putting the emphasis completely on where it belongs - the needs of my patients," Joseph said. "Too often, what comes with giving and receiving care becomes vastly over-complicated. That's why I'm taking a different approach - one that allows me to do what I do best while easing complexity for those who receive treatment."

The facility's single-fee structure is ideal for those with high-deductible health care plans. For example, a work- or sports-related injury, or a trip-and-fall situation, lends itself perfectly to uncomplicated billing. Initial visits are $300, which includes an exam by Dr. Joseph and, depending on the specific treatment needed, x-rays and a cast, splint or injection. Subsequent visits are $80.

In addition to starting the new practice, Joseph has privileges and performs surgery at North Fulton Hospital and Perimeter Surgery Center. (If necessary, surgery can be performed there within the facility's fee structure. Dr. Joseph's fee is separate but, again, straightforward and affordable with no unexpected surprises.) In addition, Freedom Orthopedic and Rehab also offers physical therapy on a fixed-fee and fixed follow-up cost basis: $100 for the first visit and $60 for each follow-up visit. Kristen T. Joseph, a 21-year practitioner, provides physical therapy services on site at the facility.

About Freedom Orthopedic and Rehab
Freedom Orthopedic and Rehab, located at 6840 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Dunwoody, off Access Road South, requires no appointment. The facility is focused on problems that are not an immediate emergency. This includes ankle sprains, knee injuries, back pain, shoulder injuries, wrist and hand injuries, and fractures. Features of the practice include direct doctor access to one of the area's top board-certified orthopedic surgeons. Dr. Joseph is able to diagnose and treat patients immediately, usually without requiring additional referrals and consultations. If physical therapy is recommended, direct access to an experienced, licensed physical therapist is available on site. Fees for each visit are paid up-front. While Freedom Orthopedic does not accept third-party insurance, forms needed to request reimbursement from insurance providers can be provided. Phone: 404-998-0936

About Dr. Thomas N. Joseph
Dr. Thomas N. Joseph, a native of South Carolina, completed his undergraduate degree Magna Cum Laude at Georgetown University. He earned his medical degree with AOA honors from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, S.C. His internship and residency were performed at NYU/Hospital for Joint Diseases in New York City. During that time, Dr. Joseph was involved with direct patient care of victims of September 11th. After his residency, he completed a foot and ankle specialty fellowship in Baltimore, Md. He is board certified in Orthopedic Surgery and a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society, and South Carolina Orthopedic Association.

Dr. Joseph had been residing in South Carolina for the past 10 years where he had been practicing general orthopedics with a specialty interest in foot and ankle disorders. He completed his duties as President of the South Carolina Orthopedic Association 2013-2014. He currently has privileges and performs surgery at North Fulton Hospital and Perimeter Surgery Center. Dr. Joseph now lives in Atlanta with his wife Kristen T. Joseph and two sons.

# # #