FAQ
In addition to elite training and technical skills, Dr. Lai brings a rare personal touch to his practice. He listens to and partners with his patients, carefully investigating root causes of pain to develop individualized treatment plans that promote optimal healing and forward progress -- regardless of medical convention or insurance recommendations. Dr. Lai’s adaptability to new treatments and modes of care compliment his deep and caring commitment to empower the people in his community to live the lives they aspire to.
What can I expect at my first visit?
The doctor will evaluate your pain condition by taking a detailed history and reviewing any information sent from your previous doctors.
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The doctor will ask you about your experience with the pain, your medical history, and anything else you may know about its cause.
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Finally, your physician will perform a physical exam to further evaluate your condition.
A customized treatment plan will then be detailed for you.
Is telemedicine an option for my visits?
Yes, telemedicine is available.
If you want to have a few questions answered by the doctor prior to an in-person visit, you can book a 15-minute question and answer session: Book Now and select "*New Patient Q&A Televisit."
If I already have a treatment plan that works for me, can I just keep the same treatment plan?
The doctor at Specialty Pain Care will evaluate your condition, including any previous treatment plans, and make a customized treatment plan for you.
Who will I see at my visit?
At Specialty Pain Care, you will always see a doctor with a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree.
Is parking available?
There is metered street parking available on Olympic Boulevard, Colby Avenue, and Butler Avenue.
The building also has an underground parking lot for a fee. We do not validate parking. The entrance to the underground parking lot is on Colby Avenue.
What should I do prior to my first visit at Specialty Pain Care?
a. Send your identification and insurance card (both front and back) to info@specialtypaincare.com. If your insurance requires a referral, make sure that you send it to us before the date of your visit. Some insurances will not let you see the doctor if we don't have a referral. Our office can facilitate this if you need help.
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b. Complete the new patient questionnaire on the Patient Portal: Click on “View your health record” and choose the “Using Mobile Phone” option. This will allow you to create an account. A code will be sent to your mobile phone. Once you are logged in, click on the button in the left column titled "Questionnaires." In the "Medical History" section, fill out the questionnaire named "New Patient Questionnaire." Under the "Surgical and Allergies" section, fill out all the information listed.
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c. If you do NOT own a computer, you may complete the forms once you arrive at the office. If you will be registering in the office, plan to arrive 45-60 minutes prior to your appointment time.
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d. Fill out any forms from your referring doctor so that your medical information can be forwarded to Specialty Pain Care. If you had any prior imaging studies, please have the imaging center forward the results to us.
We are currently in-network with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Cigna, Health Net, Medicare, MultiPlan and UnitedHealthcare. We are constantly trying to meet the needs of our patients and are working to become in-network with other insurance plans.
If your insurance is not listed, you can still see the doctor and may even be able to use your out-of-network benefits. We will get your insurance information and let you know what your costs will be.