Do pain specialists meet the needs of the referring physician? A survey of primary care providers.
OBJECTIVE
To study the factors that influence the use of opioids in the management of chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) by primary care providers (PCPs) for patients returning from a pain specialist.


METHODS
A survey of PCPs.


METHODS
Two physician groups in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.


METHODS
Two seventy-six PCPs surveyed and 80 surveys returned.


METHODS
Participants rated the importance of specific concerns regarding the role of pain specialists and the use of opioids in the management of CNCP. Past experience with pain specialists, comfort using opioids, and opinions regarding a trilateral opioid agreement were also examined.


RESULTS
The top concerns for PCPs were as follows: the use of opioids in patients with chemical dependency or psychological issues, the escalation of opioid dosing, and the use of opioids in pain states without objective findings. They also ranked highly the importance of coordinating the return of patients from a pain specialist with explicit opioid instructions and the availability of consultation by phone or a timely follow-up visit. PCPs were supportive of the concept of a trilateral opioid agreement.


CONCLUSIONS
PCPs have significant concerns regarding the prescribing of opioids in CNCP. They desire closer collaboration with pain specialists, including more explicit plans of care when patients are transferred back to them. The trilateral agreement may provide one framework for better collaboration.
Wilkens
Jane R
JR
Department of Pain Management, Stillwater Medical Group, Stillwater, Minnesota, USA.
Belgrade
Miles J
MJ
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010821:Physicians, Family; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D013038:Specialization
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid