Richard Francis, MD, MBA, FRCS Ed., FRCS Ed. (Tr & Orth)

Richard Francis, MD, MBA, FRCS Ed., FRCS Ed. (Tr & Orth)
Spine Associates 9301 Southwest Freeway Suite 600 Houston, TX 77074
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Consumer Feedback

(10 Reviews)
Service
4 star average for Service
Environment
4.5 star average for Environment
Expertise
4.5 star average for Expertise
Staff
2 star average for Staff
Recommended
3 star average for Recommended
Value
4 star average for Value
Overall, I am very pleased with my experience at Spine Associates. The day I found out I needed surgery, I was very upset and the Spine Associates staff was extremely caring and supportive. I had spinal fusion eight years ago for my scoliosis by another surgeon, but the unfused portion progressed. Dr. Francis extended my fusion to my lumbar spine to stop any further scoliosis progression. On the day I received my MRI and CT scan results, I had a long wait before I was able to see the doctor (this was the only time I had a really long wait). I also had not had surgery yet and I was not in pain. I had 2 pages of typed questions to ask Dr. Francis about my upcoming surgery. When it was my turn to see him, he went over my results and took as much time as I needed to answer all of my questions. I felt much more at ease about my surgery after all of my questions had been answered. On the day of surgery, I got to speak with him before I went back and he checked on me in the hospital on a Sunday afternoon, before I was discharged. The hospital staff had great things to say about Dr. Francis and the results they've seen in his patients. After my post-op appointment, the nurse called to check on me to see how I was doing. I am now 3 weeks post-op and doing great! I am very thankful that Dr. Francis takes the time to see patients in Beaumont so that I don't have to drive to Houston for every appointment. I read a lot about the robotic spine surgery and the new technology is nothing short of impressive. I even watched YouTube videos that describe the advantages of this new technology. My only complaint is that I was unaware that my insurance did not cover the hospitals with the robotic arm until I asked about it after my pre-op visit (just a minor communication issue). The whole time I was preparing for surgery, I mistakenly assumed that I would be getting the robotic technology. After my pre-op appointment, I began wondering why I hadn't gotten the scans required to program me into the robotic system. I called to ask about this and it was explained that the hospital my insurance covered did not have the robotic technology at that site. I was upset at first, but it didn't affect my decision to have the surgery. With or without the robotic assistance, I feel that Dr. Francis really is a leader in the field of spine surgery and I am very pleased with my results.
by Trisha Barnes xxx.xxx.120.44
January 05, 2016
Dr Francis is one of the most dedicated doctors to restoring your quality of life that you will ever find. I cannot put into words the lengths he will go to make sure that all aspects of your well being is of the highest quality. It is so easy to put your problem into his amazing care. The staff members that I dealt with Jody his personal assistant and Ametria sergical scheduling personnel made things easy. I would like to also mention Dr Sterling... He makes sure all aspects of your safety in physically facing surgery is covered. With Dr Francis you could not find better care for all aspects needed for restoring your spine to the best possible condition. I feel God sent me to the best!
by Debby Travis xxx.xxx.16.243
November 13, 2015
After being a police officer for 3 years, I started having back problems. I would work through the pain until one day I couldn’t move at all. After multiple referrals to Dr. Francis and his recommendation on surgery, I decided that spine surgery was the best option. I am now able to walk again without pain. I was really impressed on how quickly they got my surgery scheduled and performed. I would highly recommend him and I actually already have. Everyone is always friendly and considerate of my time.
by F.R. xxx.xxx.217.178
October 29, 2015
After meeting with Dr. Francis for the first time, my husband and I had no doubt that we had found the right spine surgeon. He truly cares for his patients and has their best interest in mind at all times. He is the best and my husband and I highly recommend him.
by Suzanne Campling xxx.xxx.47.215
June 24, 2015
To start with, I was very pleased that Dr. Francis took my appointment the next day after contacting his office. He evaluated my lower spine and agreed that he could do the necessary procedure on Friday. As much pain that I had been in for two weeks prior, I was ready to do it. Dr. Francis and his staff and office personnel were very professional and an enjoyment to be around. They made me feel very comfortable. We live in Victoria, TX and I would recommend to anyone that it is worth the long drive for Dr. Francis's services.
by S.K. xxx.xxx.102.198
May 20, 2015
Outstanding Surgeon and Staff – I suffered with back pain that literally was "killing me" with every step I took. I was confident that Dr. Francis and his staff could make things better for me. I decided to do the surgery and my husband and I both believe that this was the best decision I've ever made. Dr. Francis and his staff attended to my every need with compassion and skill. The surgery was a success. Now, I can walk again, live my life and continue doing the things that I have not been able to do in a long time. Thank you Dr. Francis. Words fall short of my thanks.
by klambertyl xxx.xxx.48.130
May 14, 2015
The wait times are extremely long. Today I was there for five hours before I saw Dr. Francis. This is typical according to the other patients in the waiting room. He is an excellent surgeon, but does not spend time with his patients. He did not explain any alternatives to the surgery or the risks. When I tried to get my questions answered after I had a chance to research the procedure, the nurse told me I was having a simple procedure and that Dr. Francis never had any problems. Well, I am left with residual pain and numbness which was not present before the surgery and Dr. Francis said he does not know when it will resolve. I was told to take medicine and come back in 6 months. Unfortunately his staff called in two wrong medicines (those that were prescribed two months ago after my surgery), not the one new medicine he prescribed today. I will call on Monday and try to get the proper medicine called in to my pharmacy.
by PhD who does not like to wait more than one hour xxx.xxx.159.30
May 11, 2014
Were you able to relax during your appointment?
Yes
Was there annoying music playing while you waited or during your visit?
No, there was no annoying music
Does this provider treat their staff well?
Kind of, but not very well
Does this provider have a good professional reputation within your community?
Definitely! Everyone knows they are the best around!
Did they follow up with you after your appointment?
No. I still haven't talked to them.
by Anonymous xxx.xxx.43.153
September 05, 2013
They always make sure to return my phone call as soon as possible. They've never left me waiting. They keep the restrooms well-stocked here, and not just with the basics. There is mouthwash, lotion and other amenities. You can tell they want their clients to be as comfortable as possible. They had a huge selection of magazines in the waiting room. I was able to find some of my favorites and they kept me entertained while I was waiting for my appointment. I love that they are always more than happy to answer my questions, and actually welcome questions. I've felt awkward at some other places I've visited when I've tried to ask a lot of questions, but not here.
by NCarmichael
October 31, 2011
Were you able to relax during your appointment?
Yes, I was completely at ease
Did this provider have an entertaining selection of waiting room magazines?
Yes
Were you able to get answers to simple questions from this provider without scheduling an appointment?
Not really. I had to schedule an appointment for most of my questions.
by Anonymous
June 24, 2011
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