Getting a Screening Test

A screening test is the best way to find out if a Medtronic pain therapy might work for you. Try a therapy temporarily to feel the results experienced by thousands of other people who had been suffering from chronic pain.

If you and your doctor have decided to move forward with a screening test, congratulations!


Arranging the screening test with your doctor

If you think a Medtronic pain therapy might help you relieve your chronic pain and get back to a fuller life, the first step is to talk to your doctor. If your doctor agrees that you should get a screening test, he or she can refer you to a pain specialist or help you schedule a test.


Preparing for the screening test

Before the screening test, it's a good idea to map your pain and keep a pain journal so that you can compare your pain before and during the test. In addition, your doctor may recommend that you stop taking oral pain medications by reducing the dosage slowly for a week or two before the test.


Obtaining insurance coverage

Medtronic Pain Therapies are covered by Medicare and most major health insurance companies. Your doctor will help you through the process of getting prior authorization so you can get a screening test and take a step toward a life with less pain.

Have questions about obtaining insurance coverage? We can help. Visit our Insurance Resource Center for details.


Finding a doctor

Deciding to get a screening test is a decision you and your doctor or medical team will make together. Find a pain specialist to start the conversation.

Last updated: 2 Jul 2009

Get Information & Support

You're not alone. 90,000 people like you are members of Tame the Pain® and get ongoing support and information from the free program.

Join Tame the Pain

Grigsby Screenshot N4

Dr. Eric Grigsby, Pain Management Specialist, California

"We want to see patients sleeping better. We want to see them using fewer medications."

Find out what other doctors say

Robin

Robin: Neurostimulation Therapy Since 1999

“Without the neurostimulation,” Robin says, “I wouldn’t have a day at the lake. I wouldn’t have Ozzie to play with. And we wouldn’t have Owen, who’s on the way.”  Her chronic pain is no longer a barrier to raising a family.

Read Personal Stories