How long will my first appointment take?
The time spent in our office depends on the type of appointment you have scheduled with us. If you are coming in for a Consultation only, this will take approximately one hour. A consultation with an injection on the same day, may take up to up to one
and a half hours. Subsequent injection appointments will be quicker, approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on the type of procedure that is done.
What type of paperwork do I need for my first appointment?
For your Consultation appointment we will need a referral /prescription to visit with us from your primary physician. This may be from your Family physician or another specialist, just as a Spine surgeon. We also will need you to complete our initial
paper work, which we will mail to you once you have scheduled your appointment or you can print from our website. In order to have a procedure done, we may ask you to bring a copy of you MRI.
Will I need a driver?
Possibly. Depending on the type of procedure you are having. We will inform you of this prior to your visit.
What medications are injected during a procedure?
Our primary type of medication includes steroids and local anesthetics.
How do I know if the medication you are using is safe?
Beaumont only uses medications that are FDA approved. Our office and the entire pharmacy department at Beaumont receive continued updates from the FDA on recalled medications.
Can steroids be harmful to me?
All medications have the potential of being harmful. We carefully monitor the amount of steroids you receive over a period of time so not to exceed the amount that may put you at risk.
Do you give medication to relax someone prior to the procedure?
Yes, if necessary.
Should I stop taking my pain medications prior to my procedure?
No. There are some medications we require you to stop, but we will give you specific instructions should you be on those types of medications.
Will I need more than one visit?
Perhaps. Typically we have patients do a series of 3 injections, spaced out 2-4weeks apart. However, depending on your unique case, you may not need as many or may need other types of procedures. We will assess that as we care for you.
Will I be receiving all my pain medication from you?
Not necessarily. If you have an established relationship with a physician that is prescribing your pain medication, we recommend you continue. If you and/or your primary physician feel we can assist, we will discuss this with you during
your appointment. In order for us to assume this responsibility for you, we would need you to review/sign an Opioid Agreement and participate in random Urine Drug screening.
How often will I need to come to your office if I am getting my pain medication from you?
Pain medication refills can be requested via phone on a monthly basis, however, we will need you to be evaluated every 3 months if you are on a stable regime. More frequently if we are still working with adjusting your medications.
When should I contact you should I need a refill?
At least 3 business days prior to you needing a refill. This will assure you receive your medication prior to you running out.
Can I receive early refills?
No. We recommend that if you are requiring an early refill, you make an appointment for us to evaluate the reasons this is needed. Perhaps we will need to adjust your prescription.
Do you mail prescriptions?
No. Some prescriptions will go directly to the pharmacy of your choice. Opioid prescriptions will need to be picked up in our office. Pick up time is M-F from 7:30am - 330pm.
Do you prescribe medication (opioids) to patients that have a Marijuana Drug card?
No. We do not prescribe opioids to anyone that is taking any type of illicit drugs.
Pain Psychology Questions
Why do I need to see a pain psychologist as part of my initial evaluation at the pain clinic?
Pain psychologists participate in the initial evaluation because they help your pain medicine physicians and physician assistants to better under the personal and emotional impact that living with chronic pain has on each patient. Psychologists will talk
with each patient about their mood, sleep, ability to enjoy activities, family and social relationships, and ways of coping with pain.
What types of services to the pain psychologists provide?
Pain psychologists provide individual, family and group counseling to help patients cope with depression, anxiety, communication and relationship problems, fear of engaging in activities and stress management. Psychologists also help patients learn different
relaxation and coping strategies that empower patients to experience more control over their pain and suffering.
Will my insurance cover the services with a pain psychologists?
Most insurance plans have coverage for psychology services. Based on your plan you may have to pay for a deductible and/or co-pay as part of your insurance coverage. It is recommended that each patient become familiar with the benefits and coverage under
their insurance plan.