Acute or chronic pain can be debilitating and affect patients both physically and psychologically. Pain is subjective, and managing pain must be a collaborative approach between the provider developing a care plan and the patient/family.
The Institute of Medicine includes patient-centered care as one of the six domains of healthcare quality. Empathy is a crucial ingredient to patient engagement, and it is therefore essential that providers truly hear patients and acknowledge their concerns. Patients and their families want to be treated with respect and engaged in their plan of care.
Not every patient wants to be treated with medicine; there are effective nonpharmacological alternatives to improving pain. The National Institute of Health lists acupuncture, Tai chi, and osteopathic manipulation as evidence-based options for patients dealing with chronic pain. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has identified many noninvasive nonpharmacological treatments, such as yoga and massage therapy, for various pain conditions that have improved function and/or pain for at least one month after treatment. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Physical Activity Guidelines encourage regular physical activity to improve pain in people with rheumatic conditions affecting the joints and some physical disabilities.
There are many ways to manage pain, so providers must share the decision-making process with patients to achieve optimal treatment compliance.
If you are interested in attending any provider training, please visit the Provider Training web page for opportunities.