By Sara Aguirre, Project Access West Tennessee Rural Health Manager
For several years, Rosa Barrios lived with chronic knee pain that gradually worsened over time, making daily activities increasingly difficult. Without access to specialty care, she endured the pain and limitations until she was referred to Project Access West Tennessee, where her path to healing truly began.
Rosa was enrolled in Project Access from October 2022 through April 2024, allowing her access to critical orthopedic services she otherwise would not have been able to receive. On May 26, 2022 Rosa had her first ortho appointment with Project Access volunteer physician Dr. Christopher Pokabla at OrthoSouth. During that initial visit, X-rays were taken to better understand the severity of her condition, and after reviewing them, Dr. Pokabla determined Rosa would ultimately require surgery.
While preparing for surgery, Dr. Pokabla continued to care for Rosa through regular follow-up visits focused on pain management. Throughout these visits, injections were provided to help manage her knee pain and improve her quality of life as she awaited further treatment. This consistent follow-up and compassionate care helped Rosa maintain function and hope during a challenging period.
An essential part of Rosa’s care journey was communication. Rosa received on-site interpretation services during her visits, provided by her Project Access case manager. The translator ensured she fully understood her diagnosis, treatment options, and care plan. This support allowed Rosa to feel informed, respected, and confident in the care she was receiving.
“I lived with pain for so long and thought I would just have to accept it,” said Rosa. “Project Access and Dr. Pokabla gave me hope and helped me get the care I never thought was possible. I am so grateful to everyone who helped me along the way.”
Thanks to the dedication and generosity of volunteer specialty care physicians like Dr. Pokabla and the coordinated support of Project Access, Rosa and patients like her are able to receive the specialized orthopedic care they desperately need.
Project Access West Tennessee needs volunteer physicians, especially specialists serving patients in ortho, neurology, rheumatology, urology, and general surgery. To learn more, visit the physicians’ section of the Project Access website or reach out to us at projectaccess@mdmemphis.org or 901-761-0200.
Sara Aguirre has been part of the Project Access West Tennessee team since the program began. Her extensive professional experience in medicine and media/marketing give her unique depth in a vital role, coordinating healthcare for patients in the Mid-South.
