 Treatment Philosophy
"I believe in applying as much science as possible to specifically diagnose the pain generator. It's like being a detective - examining the clues gathered from the patient history, the physical exam, and from x-rays, MRI's and lab data. It also involves giving the patient tools to measure their pain and accurately follow their progress." Of course, the science of pain management must be combined with compassion and sensitivity for the patient's unique pain experience. "One thing I have learned as a practitioner is that pain does not necessarily follow all the rules. Despite optimal detective work and treatment choices, the outcome may be compromised by peripheral issues, such as previously undiagnosed depression. To be successful, we must be ready to help in any way necessary, and to secure his/her active participation in the process."
I received training at one of the first physician assistant programs in the country." Out of 5,000 applicants, Wes, a former Navy corpsman, was one of only 23 accepted (as an alternate) to Dartmouth Hitchcock's first Physician Assistant program. Read how this innovative program was born.
Special Interests
"Every provider develops his or her own most effective way to communicate with patients. Through trial and error, I've developed a 'language' that I teach my patients - to include a modified version of the 1 to 10 pain scale. The patient keeps a daily 'pain diary,' but highlights in green, yellow and red the lowest, average, and highest levels of pain each day. Thus, it has been dubbed 'The Stop Light Pain Scale.' It has become my most valuable tool for evaluating and monitoring the pain patient's progress, pitfalls, and any impediment to success. It also allows the patient to see in a tangible, graphic sense not only the level of pain, but the success of treatment over an extended time."
Professional Journey
Wes arrived at PainCare with a wide gamut of medical experiences. His journey began as a Navy corpsman in the US Naval Reserve where he served eight years combined active duty and active reserve. "At Albany Medical Center in New York, I was a nuclear medicine technician and also received training at one of the first physician assistant programs in the country."
In Connecticut, Wes worked for many years in family practice where he was the first physician assistant (PA) on staff at two area hospitals. His deep desire to serve those in greatest need lead him to patient care at four different skilled nursing homes as well as at a Hartford community health center where he provided pediatric care for inner city kids.
Prior to his time at PainCare, Wes worked for two years as a PA at Dover Internal Medicine. Over the last several years, Wes has developed a strong interest in complex pain management and enjoys being part of a team where the spirit of learning and sharing is alive and well.
"Here at PainCare, we put a huge emphasis on education. All of us are encouraged to study, review the latest literature, attend continuing education lectures, and provide lectures for the medical community."
Professional Certifications & Associations
Member of the National Academy of Physician Assistants, the New Hampshire Medical Society, the New Hampshire Academy of Physician Assistants, and the American Pain Association
Education
- B.S. Charter Oak College, Hartford, CT
- Physician Assistant Program, Albany Medical College, NY
"When not with my patients, I enjoy... boating, fishing, photography and the cinema. I am also a new grandfather and enjoy my precious free time with family."
Joined the PainCare family: 2005
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Wesley Strevel, PA-C
