About M. Richard Pavao

Dr. M. Richard Pavao received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, in Amherst, Massachusetts before he went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine from the UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester, Massachusetts. Dr. Pavao then completed 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. 

After completing his clinical education, he returned to UMass Chan Medical School as an assistant professor, teaching and mentoring students in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine. He has also contributed his expertise to various medical journals. Dr. Pavao previously served as the Chief of the Division of Pain Medicine at UMass Memorial Health and Chair of the UMass Chan Faculty Council.

Dr. Pavao was first inspired to become a physician during his childhood. He was always interested in science and enjoyed being around people. When choosing a career, he loved the concept of combining the two. Growing up in the South Coast region, prior to attending medical school, he was able to shadow primary care physicians who rounded and treated patients at Charlton Memorial Hospital. Today, he credits those positive experiences in solidifying his calling to become a physician. 

He believes that all patients deserve to be treated by highly qualified healthcare providers in a respectful, compassionate and inclusive environment, and that a physician’s role is to listen, and offer treatment that is safe and evidence-based to improve the quality of life. 

To him, Southcoast Health is a staple in the community and its positive impact expands far beyond the hospitals’ footprints. 

When not working, he enjoys participating in athletic training such as Cross-Fit, Orange Theory and 9Round kickboxing. He also enjoys golfing and swimming for recreation with family and friends.