The following agreement relates to my use of controlled substances for chronic pain prescribed by a physician at the Athens Spine Center. I recognize that there are policies regarding the use of controlled substances which are followed by the staff at Athens Spine Center. I will be provided controlled substances while actively participating in this program only if I adhere to the following regulations:

• I will use the substances only within the parameters given by the Athens Spine Center physician. I will NOT increase my opioid usage or abruptly stop my opioid usage without authorization from the Athens Spine Center physician.
• I will NOT receive replacement medications for “lost” or “stolen” medications.
• I will receive controlled substances ONLY from Athens Spine Center. Information that I have been receiving controlled substances prescribed outside Athens Spine Center will lead to a discontinuation of treatment.
• I will NOT expect to receive additional medication prior to the time of my next scheduled refill, even if my prescription runs out.
• I will accept generic brands of prescription medication.
• I understand that opioids can impair motor skills. Caution is urged when driving a vehicle or operating equipment.
• I will notify Athens Spine Center if I am considering pregnancy or become pregnant.
• If it appears to the physician that there are no demonstrable benefits to my daily function or quality of life from the controlled substance, I will gradually taper my medication as prescribed by the physician. I will not hold any member of Athens Spine Center liable for problems caused by discontinuance of controlled substances, provided that I receive 30 days notice of termination.
• I agree to submit to urine and blood screens to detect the use of both prescribed and non-prescribed medications at any time.
• I understand that if illegal substances or undisclosed prescribed medications not approved by the physicians of Athens Spine Center are detected in the urine or blood screen I may not be accepted as a new patient or may be terminated as an existing patient of Athens Spine Center.
• I authorize Athens Spine Center to disclose, request and/or use information concerning my medical history (including medication history) from pharmacies, insurance companies, healthcare operations, and/or other physicians. This authorization will be effective as long as I am a patient of Athens Spine Center and will be revoked upon termination as a patient of Athens Spine Center.
• I understand that if I miss two appointments, I may be discharged from the care/management of Athens Spine Center.
• I recognize that my chronic pain represents a complex problem which may benefit from physical therapy, psychotherapy and behavioral medicine strategies. I also recognize that my active participation in the management of my pain is extremely important. I agree to actively participate in all aspects in the Pain Management Program to secure increased functioning and improved coping with my condition.

Georgia Pain Rule 360-36-.6 dictates that any physician in the state of Georgia who prescribes pain medication (controlled substances) for 90 days must monitor that patient for medication usage. Patients are required to comply with this mandatory testing either during a scheduled office visit or by coming into the office for the sole purpose of drug screening within any 90 day period. Patients are responsible for checking with their insurance carrier regarding any co-payments or deductibles that apply to medication monitoring/drug screenings.

• I understand GA Pain Rule 360-36-.6 and will comply with any request for testing. I understand that non-compliance results in dismissal as a patient or discontinuation of prescriptions of controlled substances.