Abstract
Opioids are the mainstay of treatment for moderate to severe cancer pain. The variations in average monthly cost can make it difficult for most patients to procure them without adequate insurance coverage. There are increasing numbers of denials of payment and statements made by insurance agents and other sources regarding inappropriate opioid use, resulting in severe pain and emotional distress for cancer patients and their families. This case series describes five events where the insurer was a major barrier to opioid access.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 515-518 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Palliative and Supportive Care |
Volume | 12 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 20 2013 |
Keywords
- Barriers to pain management
- Cancer pain
- Insurance coverage
- Insurance denial
- Opioid analgesic
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Nursing
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry and Mental health