There’s a fundamental question that plagues our society. Are they worthy? Legislators, Doctors, and Executives make the hard choices. They determine who is worthy of pain care and who is not. Pain is something that we have never been able to accurately measure. People who have experienced true pain will tell you there is a big difference between a day to day pain and seriously true pain.
Determining who is worthy of pain care is based on an assessment by doctors. Medical professionals use established guidelines and protocols to assess and treat pain in patients. The decision to provide pain care is typically based on several factors such as the severity of the pain, the underlying condition or illness, the patient’s medical history, and their individual needs. Doctors use their expertise to evaluate the source and intensity of the pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan, which may include medication, physical therapy, psychological support, or other interventions. The goal is to alleviate suffering and improve the patient’s quality of life.
In recent years, there have been increasing challenges for patients attempting to fill their prescriptions. These hurdles can be attributed to various factors such as changes in healthcare policies, stricter regulations on controlled substances, and efforts to combat the misuse and abuse of medications. Meaning, more often patients have a prescription yet cannot find a pharmacy to fill it.
One of the hurdles that patients may encounter is the requirement for prior authorizations. Insurance companies often require patients to obtain approval from their healthcare provider before they will cover certain medications. This process can be time-consuming and may result in delays in receiving necessary medications.
Additionally, some medications may require step therapy, where patients are required to try and fail on less expensive or alternative treatments before they can access certain medications. While this approach may help control healthcare costs, it can be frustrating for patients who may already be suffering and in need of immediate relief.
Furthermore, there has been an increased focus on combating the opioid crisis, leading to stricter regulations and monitoring of controlled substances. We ask, are these hurdles crucial for addressing public health concerns? Can creating additional barriers for patients who legitimately need pain medication lead to increased suicides and deaths?
One way professionals are attempting to address the issues around pain medication may include requirements for frequent check-ins with healthcare providers, urine drug screening, or adherence to strict dosage limits. Industry professionals want you to believe these hurdles are important to strike a balance between ensuring the appropriate use of medication and providing timely access to treatment for patients in need. Open communication between healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patients is key to navigating these hurdles and ensuring that patients receive the care they require.
The tragic suicide of Robin Williams in 2014 brought the issue of mental health and the connection with chronic pain into the spotlight. While it is well-known that Williams struggled with depression, it is important to note that the relationship between chronic pain and suicide is complex and multifaceted.
Chronic pain can have a profound impact on an individual’s mental health and overall quality of life. The constant physical suffering and limitations it imposes can lead to feelings of hopelessness, despair, and even thoughts of suicide. It is crucial to acknowledge the emotional toll that chronic pain can take on an individual, and to provide them with the necessary support and resources to cope with both their physical and mental well-being. We have to ask… Would Robin Williams have surcomb to suicide if pain medication had been available? When will we advance as a compassionate society and consider patients in pain as worthy of relief?
It is important to emphasize that each individual’s experience with chronic pain is unique, and not everyone who suffers from chronic pain will contemplate or attempt suicide. However, it is vital for healthcare professionals to be aware of this potential risk and to screen patients for signs of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. Integrating mental health services into pain management programs can be beneficial in providing comprehensive care to individuals who are struggling with both physical pain and emotional distress. When a patient is treated as unworthy of relief it creates many mental health issues aside from pain.
*Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or having thoughts of suicide, it is essential to seek help immediately. Reach out to a mental health professional, a trusted healthcare provider, or a helpline in your country. You are not alone, and support is available to help you through this difficult time.
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