Adjusting Poverty

Dr. Kevin Hay would rather be known as a “Minister of Health.”

The chiropractor and father of six operates his practice——out of Woodstock and considers his personal ministry to be the “laying of hands” healing in the most literal sense.

Hay has started performing free chiropractic exams to those who can’t afford them on Sunday nights at his church, in Hickory Flat.

For the past few months, Hay has seen about 30 people each Sunday night when his children are doing youth activities at the church. Initially it was only the parents of Sunnyside youth, but with the advice and help from his pastor, Hay was able to extend the practice to include patients who couldn’t come to his office during the week.

His philosophy on chiropractics mirrors his theology on God.

“Coming to the chiropractor is like coming to church,” Hay said. “You want them to come because they want to go to heaven instead of being afraid of hell.”

Patients rave over Hay’s personality and efficiency. Russell Turner, 55, has been a patient for 12 years and does not have health insurance.

“He’s just real innovative, upbeat and positive,” Turner said. “He’s always up to date on all the new techniques. I’ve been to other chiropractors but I always end up coming back here.”

Another patient, Gloria Kingsberry, 66, said a friend recommended Hay to her. She describes him as a “concerned and caring” man and said her body is working more efficiently after visiting him.

Hay also drives to Cherokee Tire on Highway 140 on Friday nights to help the workers get chiropractic care since they work during the weekday hours.

However, criticism often arises against Hay because of his choice to keep a low overhead cost and minimal charges.

Aside from one part-time office worker, Hay operates his business alone to keep overhead costs low. He said as long as he makes enough money to keep his family fed and clothed, he will continue to provide additional services at reduced costs.

Hay is a “principle chiropractor,” one that focuses on aligning the body so it can heal itself rather than the medical chiropractors who focus on electrotherapy and x-rays, he said.

“In order to feel better, you have to feel better,” Hay said about his methods. He explains this as a person who touches a stovetop. If you don’t have proper alignment and your nerves aren’t working, you would leave your hand there to be burned. If you can feel the burning sensation you will move your hand.

Patients sign up for monthly packages beginning at $97 a month for unlimited visits. If that cost is too high, Hay temporarily or permanently waives all fees.

Again, Hay compares chiropractics to ministry in terms of who can come and what payment is expected. Chiropractic visits usually get bumped down the list of priorities—after clothes and trips to Disney World—when times get tough, Hay said.

“You don’t want people to stop coming to your church just because they can’t tithe anymore,” Hay said. “That’s how I feel about chiropractics.”

Still, unorthodox costs keep skeptics and critics ready to challenge Hay’s methods. To the naysayers who tell Hay of the people who will cheat him out of money, Hay shares these words: “People tell me I’m going to be taken advantage of, but I take care of God’s people and he takes care of me.