What to expect from a pain management doctor first visit?

Lucy explained it. I just want to add, do not ever ask for a narcotic pain med. They then think we're drug seekers and are very reluctant to prescribe anything. Keep a pain diary and keep track of the pain level in the 1-10 format, where it is, what kind it is, aching, burning etc, and what you did for it. I'm going to see a new one since I moved. I was handed a folder full of papers to fill out, by my primary, and that gives a good idea of the first visit. Your history, what makes pain better what makes it worse. I also have the narcotic contract, so you can get a chance to read it well. You will also have random urine tests, some docs do them on the first visit some don't. If you are on several medications, take the info written out, name, dose and how often you take it.

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it can vary quite a bit. the number one thing is don't expect to walk out of there with precriptions(s) in hand on your first visit. that sounds really sh***y, I know. Especially when many people have waited weeks, even months, to get a referral and appointment. This is the number one reason that I've chosen a more expensive PPO option over HMO. its very liberating to be able to go where I want, & not be at the mercy of a GP.
Pain management offices do this "getting to know you" process, its usually a pain in the arse because its designed to frustrate and drive away tbkse that really don't need the meds. They'll give you another reason for it, but its BS. I've seen a few different ones & finally found a great one who doesnt demand that I go to Tai chi, support groups, PT... but rather lets me CHOOSE what interests and works for ME. A good PMD also knows that pain mgt is achieved typically with 2-3 meds, not one.

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