Conflicting info at pain clinic

So I was referred to a pain clinic by my GP as I was in a motorcycle accident that left me with chronic injuries. I went in, the doctor was very nice and prescribed me Tramadol with 3 refills with no restrictions(meaning I don't have to come in for urine tests every month etc) He said if I wanted something stronger go in for follow up. This doc. was filling in for another who was out. When I talked to them again a RECEPTIONIST told me they didn't prescribe meds on first visit I needed to come in and discuss it with the doc. I'm thinking I should listen to the doc. who prescribed the meds and not the receptionist and go in when I'm out of refills. Would anyone do anything different? I mean why go in there and pay all that money when I've got 4 months worth of medication? Keep in mind Tramadol is schedule 4 low risk.They didn't contact me, I called them. I still have 3 refills left.

Post Edited (Easygreen44) : 11/7/2020 2:28:54 PM (GMT-7)

You need to either call and talk to your doctors nurse. or get an appointment and go in. The doctor you saw was, filling in for the doctor that will be treating you. Doctors are not all alike. Even though Tramadol is a Schedule IV and can be refilled. Some doctors require patients to come in each month.

Why did you call the office after your appointment?

Any doctor can prescribe tramadol. My pain doc prescribes three month supply and a refill and schedules visits for 6 months if you're not taking an opioid.

Best way to schedule a visit is before you leave the office from your last visit.

If tramadol isn't working you do need another visit. I wouldn't mention that you have a prescription for tramadol when making the appointment, but say that tramadol didn't work and you were told to make an appointment. No use confusing or arguing with a receptionist. KISS principle.