Bloom Magazine sat down with Dr. Richard C. Sims to learn more about his workers' compensation philosophy and his commitment to patient care.
Dr. Sims, take us back to when you first began practicing medicine. What was it like for you?
Medicine has evolved in various ways since I completed my training, but my passion for patient care and improving quality of life remains just as strong as when I first started. but my passion for patient care and improving quality of life remains just as strong as when I first started. Every day presents new challenges, but also new opportunities to help my patients.
What do you find most rewarding about practicing medicine?I truly enjoy meeting people from all walks of life and offering them a path to relief. Pain management is a unique field in that it directly impacts a patient’s ability to work, engage with their family, and maintain their independence. Helping someone regain their function and return to work is extremely rewarding.
What is your philosophy when treating injured workers?I always begin by taking an injured worker at their word. Until I am given a reason to believe otherwise, I accept their condition as the truth and focus on finding the best treatment options to help them return to their pre-injury state as quickly and efficiently as possible. My goal is to provide evidence-based care while ensuring each patient receives the attention and support they need to heal.
What makes your practice unique?I have the opportunity to work hand in hand with some of the best orthopedic surgeons in the community. Three of these surgeons specialize in treating the spine. I communicate with them daily and coordinate care regarding mutual patients. We review images together on patients concerning pathology and determine the most effective and safest treatment option for them without any delay in care.
What changes or improvements do you feel you can bring to the workers' compensation industry?
Pain management is often referred to as a 'black hole' in workers’ compensation because some cases become stagnant without a clear path forward. My goal is to change that perception by focusing on objective diagnoses, structured treatment plans, and clear communication with adjusters, case managers, and employers. By emphasizing early intervention and conservative treatments, I aim to help injured workers recover more efficiently while reducing unnecessary procedures or prolonged disability.
What is your process for evaluating and treating patients?
Every patient receives a thorough history and comprehensive physical examination, combined with objective imaging to establish an accurate diagnosis. Once I have a clear understanding of the injury, I outline a treatment plan that prioritizes conservative care first—such as physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications—before considering interventional procedures. My goal is to ensure that treatment is both effective and appropriate for each individual patient.
What strategies do you use to make sure you clearly communicate your message to everyone involved?
At TOC, we have dedicated Workers' Compensation Coordinators that are personally available to facilitate clear, timely, and ongoing communication with the injured worker, the employer, and other parties that may be involved throughout the workers' compensation claim. They are committed to doing whatever they can to assist you and the injured worker to get the injured worker back to work as quickly as possible.
How do you balance your work life and home life?
One of the advantages of interventional pain management is having a Monday-to-Friday schedule without weekend or on-call duties. This allows me to dedicate quality time to my family, recharge, and return to work each week with renewed focus. I believe that maintaining a strong work-life balance makes me a better physician for my patients.
Tell us a bit about yourself! What should our readers know about you?
I’m a family man first—I have three young boys who keep me busy and constantly on my toes. Outside of medicine, I have a passion for music and am a self-taught pianist and organist. Music has always been a way for me to relax and reset.
What is your 'why?' What inspires you every day to do more and be better?
I find fulfillment in my work when my patients become more functional, improve their quality of life, and avoid unnecessary surgeries. Being able to witness those transformations and knowing I played a role in helping them get back to work and daily life is what drives me every day.
What final thoughts would you share with those in workers' compensation?
Workers' compensation is a process that can be difficult to navigate. Treatment at The Orthopedic Clinic often allows the patient to seek interventional pain management and/or surgical care under the same roof. This provides continuity of care and quick transition between providers if necessary.
If you were to describe yourself in three words, what would they be and why?Trustworthy, Dependable, Caring. Those are the qualities I would want in my own physician, and I believe my patients deserve the same. Trust is critical in pain management, and I strive to ensure my patients feel supported every step of the way.
What is the best way to reach you and your staff?
The best way to reach our dedicated Workers' Compensation Coordinators is by calling them at 386-944-1068 or emailing at workcomp@orthotoc.com. You can also visit our website at www.orthotoc.com for additional information about our practice or physicians.
To read more about the impact TOC is having in the workers' compensation industry, visit our website at www.orthotoc.com.
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