Pre-Implant Psychological Evaluations for Spinal Cord Stimulators (SCS)

Psych Assessments provides pre-implant psychological evaluations for clients being considered for a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) or other implanted medical device. These evaluations are provided on a lien basis for personal injury clients and are limited to evaluation and reporting.

Evaluations are performed by Elazar Tehrani, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist (California license PSY28780), also licensed in Texas and Colorado.

Why a Psychological Evaluation Is Often Requested Before Implantation

Many surgeons, pain management physicians and payers ask for a psychological evaluation before an SCS trial or permanent implant. The purpose is to identify psychological and behavioral factors that may be relevant to the procedure and to recovery. These factors are considered alongside medical findings; the decision about whether to proceed remains with the treating physician.

What the Evaluation Typically Covers

• Clinical interview covering pain history, functioning and medical background
• Screening for depression, anxiety, trauma-related symptoms and other mental health concerns
• Review of substance use history and current medications as reported and documented
• Assessment of the client's understanding of the device, the procedure and the recovery process
• Evaluation of expectations about pain relief and daily functioning
• Review of coping skills and social support
• Standardized psychological measures where appropriate

The Written Report

The report summarizes the evaluation findings in plain language and addresses the questions asked by the referring physician or attorney. Depending on the findings, a report may state that no psychological contraindication was identified, may identify factors that merit attention before or after implantation, or may recommend additional steps. The report reflects the clinical findings for each individual. We do not pre-determine results, and we cannot promise that any client will be cleared.

Other Medical Devices and Procedures

In addition to spinal cord stimulators, we can provide pre-procedure psychological evaluations for other implanted or elective pain-related devices and procedures, when requested by the treating provider or the referring attorney. Please call to confirm that the evaluation requested falls within our services.

Personal Injury Clients on a Lien Basis

For clients with an active personal injury matter, the evaluation and report can be billed on a lien, with terms confirmed with the referring office in advance. This allows the pre-implant requirement to be addressed without the client paying out of pocket at the time of the visit.

Free Pre-Screening

We offer a free pre-screening of each client before scheduling. This confirms that the evaluation request is appropriate and gives your office a clear understanding of what to expect.

Telehealth Across California, Texas and Colorado

Many pre-implant evaluations can be completed by telehealth, which can be useful for clients who are in significant pain, have limited mobility or live far from our Sherman Oaks office. In-office evaluations are also available. Telehealth is offered to clients located in California, Texas and Colorado, where Dr. Tehrani is licensed.

Minors and Spanish-Speaking Clients

Spanish-speaking clients are welcome. Se habla español. Please tell us the client's preferred language at the time of referral.

Evaluation Only

We provide evaluation and reporting only, and do not offer ongoing treatment. This allows the evaluation to remain focused on the referral question.

Information to Send With a Referral

• Client name, contact information and preferred language
• Name of the implanting physician or practice, if known
• Type of device or procedure being considered
• Any specific requirements from the physician or payer
• Relevant medical records, if available
• Timing considerations, such as a scheduled trial date

Frequently Asked Questions

Does passing the evaluation mean the device will be approved?

No. The psychological evaluation is one component of the overall decision. Medical necessity and approval are determined by the treating physician and, where applicable, the payer.

Will the evaluation include treatment?

No. We provide evaluation and reporting only.