Rhode Island: Refer to the Low Back Pain Management Program

Last modified: July 1, 2021

We encourage you to use non-pharmacologic and non-opioid alternatives when deciding on the best course of treatment for Medicaid patients in Rhode Island with chronic pain.

According to the American Academy of Pain Medicine, more than 1.5 billion people around the world have chronic pain. This prevalence of pain is occurring as we face a widespread opioid epidemic in U.S. Consider programs like the UnitedHealthcare Low Back Pain Management program. The program:

• Focuses primarily on members who have chronic non-traumatic back pain 
• Includes non-medication supports, as well as alternative pain management options, such as chiropractic coverage, to help reduce or stop the use of any opioid medications
• Provides an RN to work with the member to create a treatment plan that addresses their specific lower back pain needs

Call 401-732-7373 or email CareManagement_RI@UHC.com to refer members to the Low Back Pain Management Program.

Non-pharmacologic and non-opioid alternatives

Combine non-pharmacologic alternatives with counseling, exercise and other lifestyle changes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the consideration of non-opioid medications before an opioid medication is prescribed for pain management. Examples include:

• Over-the-counter pain relief: Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen
• Prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID): Ibuprofen, naproxen, meloxicam, celecoxib
• Anticonvulsants: Gabapentin (generic Neurontin), Lyrica (pregabalin)
• Topical pain relief creams
• Skeletal muscle relaxants: Baclofen, cyclobenzaprine, tizanidine 
• Medications administered by a health care provider: Cortisone injection, nerve

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