Southcoast Health announced today that the not-for-profit health system has named M. Richard Pavao, MD as the new Medical Director of Pain Management.

“Growing up in Fall River, Southcoast Health has played a major role in my family. I was born at Charlton Memorial Hospital and this is where my family goes for care,” said Dr. Pavao. “Prior to attending medical school, I was able to shadow physicians who rounded and treated patients at Charlton Memorial Hospital. Those positive experiences solidified my calling to become a physician, and I am excited to return to Southcoast Health to share my passion of creating a culture of excellence in healthcare delivery in my community.”

Dr. Pavao earned his medical degree from the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, where he also completed an internal medicine internship. He then furthered his medical education with a residency in Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, and a fellowship in Pain Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Pavao as our new Medical Director of Pain Management,” said Dennis LaRock, MD, Executive Vice President and Chief Physician Officer at Southcoast Health. “Dr. Pavao brings with him extensive expertise and rooted knowledge of our community and commitment to delivering high-quality care.”

Dr. Pavao previously served as the Chief of the Division of Pain Medicine at UMass Memorial Health and Chair of the Faculty Council at UMass Chan Medical School. In addition to his clinical experience, Dr. Pavao has taught and mentored students as an Assistant Professor at UMass Chan Medical School and has contributed to various medical journals. 

Outside of Southcoast Health, Dr. Pavao is a member of The American Society of Anesthesiologists, The American Society of Regional Anesthesia and The American Medical Association.

To learn more about Dr. Pavao please visit, www.southcoast.org/doctors/m-richard-pavao-md/.