Re: Effects of Implementing a Comprehensive Opioid Reduction Protocol on Overall Opioid Prescribing Among Patients with Chronic, Non-Cancer Pain in a Rural Family Medicine Clinic: A Controlled Crossover Trial

摘要

Stack et al1 describe a comprehensive opioid reduction protocol in patients with chronic noncancer pain conducted by Family Medicine providers in a rural community. Although the authors describe a multifaceted approach with medical and psychoeducational components, 1 key element is missing: the patient experience. Exclusion of patient function is mentioned as a limitation of the study, but the importance of the patient perspective as it pertains to opioid reduction, functional assessment, and pain is minimized. Comprehensive care of the patient with chronic noncancer pain should incorporate a patient-centered plan, which must include functional assessment and long-term followup.