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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a referral?
Should I drive myself to my appointment?
What forms and other information do I need to bring to my first appointment?
What happens at the first appointment?
Will I be treated on the first visit?
Can I go back to work after my visit?
What if I have additional questions?
Who do I call for a prescription refill?
Will my pain doctor act as my primary care physician?
Am I going to get a cortisone shot?
Do you offer detox?
Where can I find additional information about pain conditions and disorders?
Where can I find a pain support group?
Why do I need a referral?
A referral is required for several reasons. The most important is to provide the evaluating pain management physician with all relevant history and data so that the consultation is productive and focused on the patient and his/her pain problem.
Should I drive myself to my appointment?
Depending on your circumstances, you will be advised of the need for someone to drive you home after your first appointment. It is our policy that every patient who has an invasive procedure must have a ride home. Many procedures performed can cause associated numbness, weakness, and/or loss of position sense, which can make the ability to operate an automobile difficult.
What happens at the first appointment?
At your first visit, you meet with a pain management nurse who reviews your pain problem and medical history. A pain management physician performs a medical history, physical examination and reviews any test or X-ray results. Your doctor will develop a customized treatment plan based on your individual assessment.
Will I be treated on the first visit?
In some cases, patients are treated on the first visit. However, most patients will be scheduled for their procedure after undergoing appropriate preparation.
Can I go back to work after my visit?
If you receive an epidural injection or any other catheterization procedure, we usually recommend you take it easy and let your body be your guide. Recovery times may vary depending on your occupation. Discuss this with your physician.
What if I have additional questions?
Call 1-800-EINSTEIN to speak with one of our experienced patient associate registered nurses. In the event of an emergency, please go directly to the nearest emergency room and ask them to contact your primary care physician.
Who do I call for a prescription refill?
In general you should contact the office of the physician who prescribed the medication. Please note that opiate analgesic prescriptions are NEVER renewed over the telephone.
Will my pain doctor act as my primary care physician?
Einstein Pain Institute respects the integrity of your relationship with your physician and recognizes its value as a vital source of information and support in your treatment plan. We work with your physician, keeping them updated on your care and follow-up plans.
Am I going to get a “cortisone shot?”
Many of the injections performed in our center include the use of a steroid medication. Cortisone is no longer used for these types of injections; another steroid called depo-medrol is the most commonly used.
Do you offer detox?
No. Only qualified physicians in detoxification may perform treatment for narcotic substances.
Where can I find additional information about pain conditions and disorders?
Links to organizations that may be helpful if you are affected by pain conditions and disorders
American Pain Foundation
National Foundation for the Treatment of Pain
American Pain Society
Where can I find a pain support group?
Organizations such as National Foundation for the Treatment of Pain, American Pain Society and American Pain Foundation sponsor support groups within each network. To learn more about each organization and a support group near you, click on a link above.