I have heard of many pain management doctors on the news lately that are or have been under investigation for  writing prescriptions for people that are addicts just for the office call. They are issuing pain medicine prescriptions to their patients without proper testing as to why they are having chronic pain. They are commonly called "Script Doctors".

How can I be sure that my pain management doctor is not one of these doctors. I have heard many rumors that his office is known for this.  I am also concerned that after the 1st visit or 2 his assistant which is a physician assistant  is the one that I see now.  If I have a problem or concern then the assistant states he will speak to the doctor.  He then comes in and either changes my medicine or explains why I am having the problem,  I cannot see how he can speak to the doctor if he is in surgery all the time. I have had 2 of the injections and I do know that he has injection procedures all day so the PA is running the office.

My pharmist just mentioned it to me last week that this doctor has been under investigation for years. I did feel comfortable with his office since he does give random blood test and will not write me a prescription for anything other than a pain issue. I have asked him to write me a refill on my hormone medicine so I could save a few dollars by making another doctors visit with my primary doctor and he refused.  Maybe it is because I am 48 years old and I am one of the few that he is treating correctly. I am not sure how I can tell.????????

Now I am questioning my doctor.!!  I did not find any bad information on the internet when I was referred to his office. I have PHN from shingles & diabetes. I have osteoporsis with small fractures in my spine.  My primary & orthopedic doctors suggested that I go to a pain management doctor since I have a chronic condition and the nerve damage is in both arms/legs/back & neck.

Also because I am going to a pain management doctor I have family members that question my decision on going to a pain management doctor. They are sure that I will be an addict now due to taking pain meds. daily.

My explanations are falling on deaf ears!!

Can you make a suggestion or give me an opinion on what you think I should do or how I should approach this situation. I just want to make sure that the doctor has my welfare 1st instead of his checkbook by giving me medicines that will make me addicted so that I continue there when I could have gotten better.

I am sure the family issue as to why I am taking pain meds. is common but I feel uncomfortable when I enter a room. I feel like I am the topic of conversation.  I have never felt high from any of the meds. & I take them a prescribed and no more.

PLEASE HELP!Jlbomer61