Referral Policy

The Centre for Pain Management at Groote Schuur Hospital only accepts patients on referral from a licensed health care provider.
Should you wish to be evaluated, you will need to get a letter of referral from your caregiver, who does not need to be a medical doctor.

The staff at the Centre will review your care giver's letter, and if it is felt that you will benefit from our treatment, we will give you an appointment time and date.
We ask that you bring all X-rays and the results of all blood tests related to your pain complaint.
We also request that you appear on time and give yourself time to relax prior to your evaluation.
We encourage the attendance of any and all significant others.

Your initial evaluation will take approximately one hour.
We will not provide any therapy on your first visit, but will explore the range of options open to you as far as your particular pain is concerned.
Our nurse co-ordinator, one or more medical pain specialists and a social worker will see you.
You will be given further appointments depending on the type of therapy that is suitable in your situation.

Your primary health care provider will be informed as to all our findings and therapeutic options.

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