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Summary

In this episode, Josh discusses the impact of the opioid crisis on chronic pain patients, highlighting how they have become collateral damage in the overcorrection of pain management policies. He addresses the stigma surrounding pain medication, the myths that contribute to the suffering of chronic pain patients, and the urgent need for change in healthcare policies to ensure that patients receive the care they deserve.

Takeaways

The opioid crisis has severely impacted chronic pain patients.

Chronic pain patients are often treated as criminals.

The narrative around opioids has become overly simplistic and harmful.

Many chronic pain patients are denied care due to fear and stigma.

Suicide rates among chronic pain patients have increased significantly.

The medical system has abandoned many chronic pain patients.

There are numerous myths surrounding chronic pain and its treatment.

Individualized care is essential for effective pain management.

Doctors need protection to treat chronic pain patients without fear.

Chronic pain patients deserve to be treated with compassion and respect.

Titles

The Silent Suffering of Chronic Pain Patients

Collateral Damage: The Opioid Crisis and Pain Management

Sound bites

"Chronic pain patients die by suicide at twice the rate."

"We've decided these deaths don't count."

"Chronic pain patients deserve to be seen, heard, and respected."

Chapters

00:00 The Stigma and Its Effects on Treatment

07:56 THE HUMAN COST: WHAT HAPPENED TO PATIENTS

15:52 THE MYTHS THAT ARE KILLING US

20:34 WHAT THE SYSTEM DOESN'T UNDERSTAND

24:25 THE REAL CRISIS: NATIONAL NEGLECT

31:31 WHAT NEEDS TO HAPPEN

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