Neck and Back Pain Evaluations

Medico Legal Specialists has developed a world-class pre-surgical neck and back pain assessment. This assessment is designed to identify psychological factors that could have a negative impact on the outcome of surgery such as Spinal Surgery. Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant Surgery and Bariatric Surgery.

An assessment of patients with neck pain or back pain provides valuable information when making decisions on the approval of surgery. This type of surgery is more likely to be successful when there is a low risk of psychosocial complications.

Why Refer for Pre-Surgical Neck and Back Pain Evaluation?

Success rates for spinal surgery typically range from 65% to 75%, helping to reduce pain levels and improve function. However, this may be reduced to as low as 15% to 20% in cases where there is a high risk of psychosocial complications. Surgery to implant Spinal Cord Stimulators has also been shown to have poor outcomes in cases where issues such as pre-surgical anxiety and depression were high. With mental illness rates twice as high in candidates for bariatric surgery compared to people of average weight, it is also important to carry out thorough assessments before this procedure.

Referring for pre-surgical neck and back pain assessment ensures the most accurate information about patient wellness and the potential risks of surgery. Better decisions on the approval or denial of surgery can be made with thorough assessments to determine potential outcomes.

When to Refer for Neck and Back Pain Assessment

Making a referral for a neck and back pain assessment should be done before surgery is approved or declined. Evaluation of neck and back pain should be part of determining suitability for surgery to assess both the pain levels felt and any psychological factors that may affect the success of the surgery.

What You Need to Do

Getting started with a neck and back pain assessment is simple with MLS. The first step should be to review the case to determine whether the individual meets the criteria for an evaluation of neck and back pain. Contact MLS by calling our booking department on (02) 8243 5600 or book online for an easy and convenient way to book an appointment.

Once you have made an appointment, prepare and forward a referral brief with key documents. This should include the most recent medical certificate, proposal for surgery and relevant information concerning mental health conditions or disorders.

You should then advise your claimant of the referral and wait for MLS to get in touch about the neck and back pain evaluation.

What We Do

While it's easy for you to get started, we work hard behind the scenes to ensure everything goes smoothly. We will contact your claimant for you to explain the referral and the process of the evaluation so that they understand what it is and its purpose. We obtain their consent for the assessment and arrange a time for it to be carried out. Claimants can find more information on our website to help them understand the assessment process and the steps that it involves before it takes place.

The first step is to conduct a telephone or video screening evaluation. This provides an opportunity to look for adverse situational variables that could affect the outcome of and adjustment to surgery.

Psychometric screening is completed using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory – 2 – Restructured Format. This is administered through the Q-Global secure platform to keep everything confidential. We then use Algorithmic Prediction using a scientifically validated regression model. This allows for the prediction of a likely response to surgery. It also provides suggestions on how adverse factors could be addressed to improve positive outcomes.

Finally, we deliver a scientifically validated evaluation and report. This includes the psychological environment and the risks that are posed by the requested surgery. The result is that you have clear information that will help you make a more informed decision on the approval or denial of the surgery that has been requested.

MLS provides standard independent medical examinations (IMEs) and can provide supplementary reports. Enquire about our services to learn more about how we can help and which of our services are suitable for your needs.

Make a referral to get started with our neck and back pain assessment process. Call our bookings department or book online for an easy way to plan your next steps. Make an online enquiry if you want to make an appointment, make changes to an appointment, reschedule or cancel, or get additional information such as reports or answers to your questions.

The first step is to conduct a telephone or video screening evaluation. This provides an opportunity to look for adverse situational variables that could affect the outcome of and adjustment to surgery.

Psychometric screening is completed using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory – 2 – Restructured Format. This is administered through the Q-Global secure platform to keep everything confidential. We then use Algorithmic Prediction using a scientifically validated regression model. This allows for the prediction of a likely response to surgery. It also provides suggestions on how adverse factors could be addressed to improve positive outcomes.

Finally, we deliver a scientifically validated evaluation and report. This includes the psychological environment and the risks that are posed by the requested surgery. The result is that you have clear information that will help you make a more informed decision on the approval or denial of the surgery that has been requested.

MLS provides standard independent medical examinations (IMEs) and can provide supplementary reports. Enquire about our services to learn more about how we can help and which of our services are suitable for your needs.

Make a referral to get started with our neck and back pain assessment process. Call our bookings department or book online for an easy way to plan your next steps. Make an online enquiry if you want to make an appointment, make changes to an appointment, reschedule or cancel, or get additional information such as reports or answers to your questions.

Call MLS Today

At MLS, our high-level medical professionals perform all WCAs for your clients. Their specialised knowledge ensures a comprehensive approach, embodying excellence and targeted support. With a determined focus on enhancing results for your clients, MLS has established itself as a leader in the industry, setting a standard for quality and commitment.

Contact us today to discuss your specific requirements and experience the MLS difference.