Best Pain Management Doctors in Abilene

Introduction to Pain Management in Abilene

Definition and scope of pain management

Pain management is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of various pain conditions.

In Abilene, Texas, patients have access to qualified specialists who can address chronic, acute, and cancer-related pain.

Treatment modalities may include medication management, interventional procedures, and physical therapy.

Importance of choosing the right pain management specialist

Selecting the appropriate pain management specialist can significantly improve a patient's quality of life.

Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs often lead to better outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.

Abilene offers a range of pain management specialists, each with unique qualifications and approaches to patient care.

Overview of Doctor Selection Process in Abilene

Factors to consider when choosing a pain management doctor

Qualifications and board certifications

• Review certifications from American Board of Anesthesiology or American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
• Consider educational background, including medical schools attended

Experience and specializations

• Look for doctors with specific expertise in pain medicine
• Consider additional specialties like Anesthesiology or Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews
• Pay attention to consistent feedback across multiple patients

Accessibility and communication

• Check for language options (e.g., English, Spanish)
• Verify contact information and ease of scheduling appointments

Resources for finding pain management specialists in Abilene

Online directories and review platforms

• Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Cross-reference information with other reputable healthcare websites

Local medical facilities

• Research hospital affiliations of pain management doctors
• Contact Abilene hospitals for referrals to pain specialists

Professional medical associations

• Consult Texas Medical Board for licensed practitioners
• Explore resources from pain management professional organizations

Top-Ranked Pain Management Doctors in Abilene

Dr. Jerry Tarver

Background and Qualifications

• Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch (1985)
• Board Certified: American Board of Anesthesiology
• Specialties: Pain Medicine, Anesthesiology

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Star Rating: 3.7 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 9
• Languages: English

Contact Information

• Phone: (254) 245-9175
• Gender: Male

Dr. Norman Dozier

Background and Qualifications

• Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch (1982)
• Board Certified: American Board of Anesthesiology
• Specialties: Pain Medicine, Anesthesiology

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Star Rating: 3.4 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 34
• Languages: English, Spanish

Contact Information

• Phone: (325) 676-7700
• Gender: Male

Dr. Paul Watts

Background and Qualifications

• Medical School: University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (2001)
• Board Certified: American Board of Family Medicine
• Specialty: Pain Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Star Rating: 3.4 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 20
• Languages: English

Contact Information

• Phone: (325) 672-4372
• Gender: Male

Dr. Roberta Kalafut

Background and Qualifications

• Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (1984)
• Residency: Johns Hopkins/Sinai Hospital (1988)
• Board Certified: American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
• Specialties: Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Pain Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Star Rating: 3.2 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 34
• Languages: English

Contact Information

• Phone: (325) 670-6400
• Gender: Female

Dr. Scott Irvine

Background and Qualifications

• Medical School: University of North Texas Health Science Center Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Additional Education: HARVARD Medical School (2005)
• Board Certified: American Board of Anesthesiology
• Specialties: Pain Medicine, Anesthesiology

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Star Rating: 3.0 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 20
• Languages: English

Contact Information

• Phone: (254) 245-9175
• Gender: Male

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Doctor

Tips for preparing for your first appointment

Questions to ask during the consultation

• Inquire about the doctor's experience with your specific condition
• Ask about their preferred treatment approaches
• Discuss potential side effects and long-term management plans

Medical history and documentation to bring

• Compile a list of current medications and allergies
• Gather previous test results and imaging studies
• Prepare a pain journal documenting frequency and intensity

Understanding pain management treatment options

Overview of common procedures and therapies

• Medication management
• Interventional procedures (e.g., nerve blocks, epidural injections)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Alternative therapies (e.g., acupuncture, mindfulness)

Importance of collaborative care approach

• Coordination with other specialists
• Integration of mental health support
• Emphasis on patient education and self-management

Patient support groups and educational resources in Abilene

Local pain management associations

• Abilene-based support groups
• Texas Pain Society resources
• Community health education programs

Online forums and communities for chronic pain patients

• Reputable pain management websites
• Social media groups focused on pain support
• Telemedicine options for remote consultations