To comply with state laws regarding controlled substance prescriptions, we require a narcotic risk evaluation prior to prescribing pain medication. Pain medication will not be prescribed during your first visit. Your provider will discuss this when developing your treatment plan with you. For every visit and every refill (including phone refills), we run a Michigan Automated Prescription Monitoring System (MAPS) report. MAPS reports are used to monitor the names of controlled substances dispensed, the date prescriptions are issued, if there are multiple opioid prescribers, or if there are inconsistencies between patients’ medical records. Our providers review these reports prior to prescribing any opioid medications.

Patients are also required to complete the “Start Talking Form”, or the informed consent form provided by the state. The purpose of this form is to educate patients about the risks associated with opioid use. You can expect to sign a new “Start Talking Form” anytime a new opioid medication is started.

Many insurance companies are putting new policies into place that limit the types and amounts of opioids that can be prescribed. Insurance also requires evidence that patients have attempted to wean from opioids and that they have tried other non-opioid methods of pain control.

SMPC is committed to decreasing patients’ reliance on opioids for pain control by utilizing a comprehensive and multi-disciplinary approach to chronic pain management. You will be asked at each visit what types of treatments you have tried or are using to manage your pain. Treatments include a home exercise program, physical therapy, chiropractic therapy, ice/heat, and over the counter or prescribed medications. A combination of all these treatments can be used to manage pain and can help decrease reliance on opioids.