Ethical considerations for neurologists in the management of chronic pain

Abstract

To the Editor: I read with interest the special article by Mackin et al.1 This article, produced by nine members of the AAN Ethics, Law and Humanities Committee, stated the following: “Neurologists should provide adequate evaluation … personally or through timely referral,” be “educated about chronic pain,” “consider alternative methods of analgesia,” “keep adequate records,” and “understand the law.” The article adds nothing to an area that badly needs attention. I often encounter patients with unexplained chronic pain. “Adequate, timely, educated …” assessment has turned up nothing. Fibromyalgia and sympathetically mediated pain are considered. Physicians, having had adequate training in pain, …