What Should You Do If Your Doctor Refuses Treatment or Referral for Your Pain

When your doctor identifies the cause of your pain but is reluctant to provide treatment or a referral, it can be a distressing situation. Here, we explore several steps you can take to address this issue effectively and ensure that you receive the care you need.

Understand Your Insurance Coverage and Cost

Before you seek another opinion or start looking for alternative care, make sure to check if the doctors you plan to see accept your insurance or if you need to bring cash. Some medical practices require a formal written request from your current doctor. Understanding the financial aspect of your care is crucial to avoid unexpected costs.

Seeking a Second Opinion

If you're dissatisfied with your doctor's answer, request copies of your medical tests, imaging studies, and your medical records. Hospitals and medical centers often provide online portals where you can access your health records. If necessary, continue to the hospital for DVD copies of imaging studies, while blood, urine, and other test results are usually online.

Contact Specialized Hospitals for a Specialist Consultation

Many university hospitals have specialist outpatient clinics covering various conditions such as cancer, orthopedics, neurology, rheumatology, and pain management. Contact the closest university medical center, and ask to see a specialist related to your condition. These specialists can provide a fresh perspective and potentially different treatment options.

Explore Alternative Treatment Options

Your pain doctor might suggest meditation as a treatment, which can be effective for pain management and reduces blood pressure. Not all treatments involve medication. Your doctor may recommend non-narcotic alternatives like NSAIDs, acetaminophen, or physical therapy. These options are still considered treatment for pain, just not the way you would prefer.

Understand Your Doctor's Decision

Your doctor's reluctance to provide treatment or a referral could be due to several factors. They may view the suggested treatment as inappropriate based on your medical history, allergies, or potential drug interactions. Older patients are more susceptible to respiratory suppression, and some doctors may not prescribe opioids for anyone because of DEA regulations. Doctors can also be hesitant if they suspect you of being a "pain seeker" with an overreliance on opioids or if they believe your pain level doesn't warrant such treatment.

Know Your Rights and Options

Chronic pain often requires specialized care, which might be best managed by a pain management doctor. Be aware that doctors can only write small prescriptions for opioids for narcotics-naive patients. In some cases, if the pain source is a medically treatable condition, your doctor will address that. However, chronic pain might need a more specialized approach. If you're unsure about the reason behind your doctor's refusal, don't hesitate to ask for clarifications or inquire about your options.

Conclusion

When your primary doctor refuses to treat your pain or provide a referral, there are clear steps you can take to advocate for yourself and ensure you receive the care you need. From seeking a second opinion to exploring specialized treatments, understanding your rights, and accessing comprehensive medical resources, you can play an active role in managing your health.