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Patient Education & Resources

Medication Refill Policy

At Pacific Pain & Regenerative Medicine, your safety is our priority. To ensure proper management of prescription medications, please note the following guidelines:

  • Refills are processed during scheduled office visits only (in-person or approved telemedicine).
  • Medications are provided in 30-day supplies and refilled on a monthly basis.
  • No early refills are provided for any reason
  • We do not provide after-hours or over the weekend.
  • All prescriptions are sent electronically to your pharmacy.
  • Pharmacy stock shortages are not the responsibility of the clinic.

Opioid Medication Agreement

Pacific Pain & Regenerative Medicine

Purpose of This Agreement

At Pacific Pain & Regenerative Medicine, our goal is to provide safe, effective, and responsible pain management. Opioid medications can be helpful for certain patients, but they also carry significant risks—such as dependence, overdose, impaired functioning, and dangerous interactions with other substances.

Because of these risks, and in accordance with state and federal laws, we use this Opioid Medication Agreement to:

  • Prevent misunderstandings about the safe use of opioid medications
  • Ensure compliance with legal requirements for controlled substances
  • Promote safety, accountability, and transparency between the patient and provider
  • Support best practices for chronic pain management

This agreement protects both you and your healthcare team by clearly outlining expectations, responsibilities, and safety protocols while you are receiving controlled pain medications.

Opioid Medication Contract Terms

  1. I understand that if I violate this agreement, my doctor may stop prescribing opioid or other controlled pain medications.
  2. If my doctor stops prescribing my medications, they may taper them over several days as needed to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Referral to a drug-dependence program may also be recommended.
  3. I will not use any illegal controlled substances, including but not limited to methamphetamine, cocaine, or heroin.
  4. Pharmacy stock issues are not my doctor’s responsibility. The office will not call multiple pharmacies or send prescriptions to multiple locations due to stock shortages.
  5. My provider does not prescribe opioids together with benzodiazepines (Valium, Ativan, Xanax, Klonopin). The FDA warns that combining these medications or other CNS depressants—including alcohol—can cause extreme sedation, slowed breathing, coma, or death.
  6. I understand that I may receive a prescription for Naloxone (an opioid overdose reversal medication) by mail order if authorized by my insurance.
  7. I will not share, sell, or trade my medication with anyone. I may be subject to pill counts at any time.
  8. I will not attempt to obtain opioid pain medications, controlled stimulants, or anti-anxiety medications from any other provider without informing my doctor.
  9. I will safeguard my medication from loss or theft. Lost or stolen medication will not be replaced.
  10. I understand that refills for pain medications are available only during scheduled office visits and regular business hours. No refills will be provided evenings, weekends, or holidays.
  11. My doctor is not required to fill medications early for vacations or absences. If I need an early fill, I must provide documentation in advance at my office visit for review.
  12. I authorize my provider and my pharmacy to cooperate with any law enforcement agency investigating possible misuse or diversion of controlled medications. I authorize the release of this agreement to my pharmacy and waive any related confidentiality rights.

Opioid Medication Contract Terms

  1. I agree to submit to urine drug screening, oral swabs, or other testing if requested to verify compliance with my treatment plan.
  2. I agree to take my medication only at the prescribed dose and frequency. Taking more than prescribed may cause withdrawal when medication runs out early, and may lead to discontinuation of treatment.
  3. I understand that opioid medications may cause drowsiness or impairment.
    • I will never drive if I feel impaired.
    • Driving under the influence of pain medication may be illegal, even if prescribed.
    • Combining opioids with sedatives, alcohol, or other substances can significantly increase impairment and risk.
  4. I understand that opioid pain medications carry a risk of addiction.
  5. I will take my medication exactly as prescribed. I will not break, crush, or alter my medication unless directed by my doctor.
  6. I understand that overdose can cause difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, or death.
  7. I understand the goals of prescription pain medication use:
    • Improve functioning
    • Decrease pain
    • Avoid serious side effects

    If these goals are not met, my doctor may taper or discontinue opioid medications.

  8. If I become pregnant or plan to become pregnant, I will notify my doctor immediately.
  9. I understand that this office does not provide paper triplicate prescriptions. All prescriptions are sent electronically to an enabled pharmacy by the end of the business day.
  10. In the event of medication changes, I agree to return unused medication to the office for proper disposal.
  11. I will maintain respectful and professional communication with all staff. I will not engage in yelling, aggressive language, profanity, excessive calling, or other inappropriate behavior.
  12. I acknowledge that these guidelines have been fully explained to me. I agree to follow them completely. Failure to comply may result in discontinuation of opioid prescribing or termination of the doctor-patient relationship. A copy of this agreement will be provided to me upon request.
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DME Care Instructions

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) may be prescribed by your provider to support recovery, provide stabilization, or reduce pain following your procedure or injury. Proper use and care of your equipment are essential to ensure safety, comfort, and optimal results.

Common Equipment Provided

FDepending on your condition, your provider may prescribe one or more of the following:

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Lumbar Brace

Supports and stabilizes the lower back to limit motion and reduce strain.

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TENS Unit (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)

Provides mild electrical impulses to help reduce pain and muscle tension.

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Cervical Collar

Supports the neck and limits movement to allow proper healing.

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Hinged or Unhinged Knee Brace

Provides support and stability to the knee joint after injury or procedure.

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Unloading Knee Brace

Offloads pressure from the affected side of the knee to decrease pain and improve mobility.

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Compression Sleeve

Reduces swelling, supports circulation, and aids in comfort during recovery.

Use and Care Instructions

  • Use your equipment exactly as instructed by your provider. Improper or prolonged use may interfere with healing.
  • Check straps, hinges, and fasteners regularly to ensure they are clean and secure.
  • Clean fabric or plastic components with mild soap and warm water as needed, and allow them to air dry completely before reusing.
  • Do not use harsh cleaning agents, bleach, or heat sources (such as hair dryers) to clean or dry your equipment.
  • Wear your brace or support only for the duration and frequency directed by your provider. Overuse can lead to muscle stiffness or weakness.

Activity and Safety

  • Follow all activity or weight-bearing restrictions as outlined by your physician.
  • When using knee braces or assistive supports, ensure stability on all surfaces to avoid slips or falls.
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery if your brace limits your movement, visibility, or ability to control a vehicle safely.

Skin Care and Comfort

  • Check the skin under braces or sleeves daily for signs of irritation, redness, or pressure sores.
  • Always wear a thin, moisture-wicking layer (such as a cotton shirt or brace liner) beneath braces to protect your skin.
  • If you experience pain, numbness, swelling, or skin irritation, remove the device and contact our office for guidance before continuing use.
  • Avoid applying lotions, oils, or powders under braces unless approved by your provider.

TENS Unit Use

  • Use electrodes only on clean, dry skin as directed by your provider.
  • Do not use the TENS unit near water or while bathing.
  • Turn the unit off before adjusting electrode placement.
  • If you experience increased pain, irritation, or electrical discomfort, discontinue use and contact our office.
Follow-Up and Maintenance
  • Bring your equipment to all follow-up visits so your provider can assess fit, function, and your progress.
  • If adjustments, repairs, or replacements are needed, our office can assist with the appropriate modifications or vendor coordination.
If you have any questions regarding your equipment, how to use it properly, or experience any discomfort while wearing or operating it, please contact our office for assistance. Our team is here to ensure your DME is used safely and effectively as part of your recovery plan.