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Treating & Managing Chronic Pain

We treat the whole person, not just the pain, body part or symptom. Our program is designed to help a person with pain become part of the treatment team and take an active role in regaining control of his or her life in spite of the pain.

While medicine has made remarkable advances to eradicate some diseases, cure others, and extend life, we are still working to improve understanding of chronic pain. The good news is we have made advances in helping people to manage their pain.

Without your willingness to take an active role in the program, however, nothing that the program has to offer will be helpful since there is currently no cure. Your efforts are key to success!

Find a Pain Specialist

Introduction to the Pain Management Center

What to Expect During the Evaluation Phase

Comprehensive Evaluation

When you come to the center, you will be scheduled to undergo a comprehensive evaluation. During this evaluation, members of the multidisciplinary team will conduct a full physical and psychological assessment of your condition, including a review of your medical records and X-rays. In some cases, supplemental diagnostic tests may be necessary to further pinpoint the cause of your pain. (We will, however, avoid unnecessary duplication of tests wherever possible.) We usually ask that you bring a spouse, relative, or close friend to the evaluation.

Once the evaluation has been completed, the pain management team will hold an interdisciplinary team meeting to determine whether or not treatment here holds potential benefits for you and to develop an individualized treatment plan. Following this team meeting, your treatment plan will be presented to you at your treatment plan visit.

Individualized Treatment Plan

The treatment plan developed by the pain management team will be specially tailored to your condition and degree of pain, your needs, and your personal objectives. Your treatment plan may include a single approach or a combination of different types of therapies: medical therapies, including both medications and special procedures; psychological therapies; and rehabilitation therapies.

Insurance Information

The University of Utah Pain Management Center accepts a wide variety of insurance plans. We will make every effort to work with you and your insurance company. Please contact your insurance company directly to see if they cover our services.

Please note we are contracted only with the following Medicaid plans:

  • Healthy U Medicaid
  • Healthy Choice Medicaid
  • Molina Medicaid