The Ethics of Managing Chronic Pain in Multidisciplinary Care: Balancing Effective Treatment with the Risks of Over-Treatment and Misuse

Authors: Mada A. Alanizi, Reem M. Aldosary, Anoud O. Alanezi, Mohammed A. Khafaji, Ahmed A. Shareefi, Saleh R. AL-Zahrani

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14013190

Short DOI: https://doi.org/g8pqtc

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Managing chronic pain in a multidisciplinary care setting presents significant ethical challenges. Healthcare providers must balance the need for effective pain relief with the risks of over-treatment, particularly with opioids, diagnostic imaging, and repetitive therapies. These ethical dilemmas are compounded by fragmented communication between disciplines, which can lead to conflicting treatment plans and patient confusion.

Objective: To explore the ethical challenges faced by radiologists, dentists, physiotherapists, nurses, and laboratory specialists in managing chronic pain, with a focus on balancing effective treatment with the risks of over-treatment and misuse.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in a tertiary hospital, involving semi-structured interviews and focus groups with 40 healthcare professionals. Thematic analysis was used to identify key ethical dilemmas in chronic pain management.

Results: Three main themes emerged: balancing effective treatment with the risks of over-treatment, challenges in interdisciplinary communication, and the ethical tension between patient autonomy and professional responsibility. Participants highlighted the need for better coordination and patient education to improve ethical pain management.

Conclusion: Ethical management of chronic pain requires improved interdisciplinary communication, clear treatment guidelines, and shared decision-making processes to balance effective care with the prevention of over-treatment and misuse.

Keywords: Chronic Pain, Multidisciplinary Care, Over-Treatment, Opioid Misuse, Patient Autonomy, Ethical Dilemmas, Pain Management.

Paper Id: 231450

Published On: 2020-01-07

Published In: Volume 8, Issue 1, January-February 2020

Cite This: The Ethics of Managing Chronic Pain in Multidisciplinary Care: Balancing Effective Treatment with the Risks of Over-Treatment and Misuse - Mada A. Alanizi, Reem M. Aldosary, Anoud O. Alanezi, Mohammed A. Khafaji, Ahmed A. Shareefi, Saleh R. AL-Zahrani - IJIRMPS Volume 8, Issue 1, January-February 2020. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.14013190

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