IOM Reports Needed Changes in Pain Management - July 6, 2011

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) last week released a report on how health professionals can better understand and manage pain and its causes. Chronic pain affects more than 116 million Americans and can cost as much as $635 billion annually. IOM has stressed the need to promote self-management and tailored, interdisciplinary care for patients with chronic conditions through the implementation of system-wide and cultural changes. The IOM report advises HHS to develop a plan for improved awareness, assessment and care of pain management.