If you are considering a spinal cord stimulator (or intrathecal pain pump) to treat a chronic pain condition, a psychological evaluation is required by your insurance company; it is a routine component of being considered for this type of device. The evaluation consists of two parts: meeting with a psychologist (either in-person or telehealth) and completing a set of questionnaires. The psychologist will then combine the interview information and results of the testing into a report that will be sent back to your referring physician. During the evaluation, the psychologist will inquire about your medical history, including your history of chronic pain and past treatments. Questions about your social history, family history, social support and previous alcohol or substance abuse will be collected. Your mental health history, including psychiatric diagnoses and treatment, will also be included.

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There are a number of factors assessed during the evaluation that assist in determining if someone is an appropriate candidate for a spinal cord stimulator/pain pump. A person’s capacity to understand the functioning, maintenance and upkeep of the device is assessed, as is the motivation to collaborate in one’s own pain management treatment. Psychopathology and/or substance abuse issues that may inhibit or impair a person’s postimplant adjustment to the device are considered. Expectations for pain relief are also assessed. All of this information is collected to ensure that you are at an optimal place in your life to receive maximum benefit from the device. At times, mental health treatment, including psychotropic medication and/or counseling, may be recommended. These recommendations will be discussed with you and forwarded to your pain management physician.