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People in state high-risk insurance plans often feel left behind
The federal health law set up new plans that are cheaper and more comprehensive than the older ones run by states but consumers need to go without insurance for six months to qualify.
Pain Medicine
Viewpoint: Exploring effective pain relief options
The Seattle Times series on methadone deaths highlights the drawbacks of drug treatment for pain and the need to explore alternative approaches, writes Bill Scott.
State to issue warning on opioid risks — Seattle Times
Following an series of articles in the Seattle Times drawing attention to the high death rate among patients taking methadone. Washington state will issue a public health advisory that singles out the unique risks of methadone, a commonly prescribed pain medicine that’s linked to the most accidental overdose deaths.
Seattle Times investigates Washington state’s methadone policy
The Seattle Times has launched an investigative series on Washington state’s policy towards the use of the pain killer methadone for the treatment of chronic pain. The paper argues the drug is dangerously unpredictable and responsible for the deaths of hundreds, particularly among the poor.
Physicians strongly favor larger role for palliative care — poll
96 percent responding that they believe enhancing the quality of life for seriously ill patients is more important than extending life as long as possible.
Cutting through ICU confusion
Every year more than 5 million people in the U.S. are treated in ICUs. For patients, family and friends, the ICU experience is often emotional and confusing. Here are some tips to help you cope.
Getting the right help for acute pain
Acute pain can be harrowing — and receiving prompt and helpful treatment can make all the difference in the world.
New ER programs focus on quality-of-life
Programs aim to bring palliative care to emergency rooms where end-of-life wishes can be forgotten in the rush to provide treatment.
When pain doesn’t end
“Pain encompasses the entire person. It’s not just in your leg or back. It encompasses the entire being of who you are and what you can do and don’t do. So physically, mentally psychologically: you have to take care of all of those things.”
Acetaminophen overdoses send tens of thousands to ER each year
Taken correctly, acetaminophen — the active ingredient in Tylenol and hundreds of other over-the-counter medications — is safe and effective, but the margin between a therapeutic and a dangerous dose is smaller than many people might realize.
Some doctors asking patients to sign ‘pain contracts’ to get prescriptions
Some doctors are asking pain patients to sign “pain contracts” that spell out the rules patients must follow in order to obtain a prescription for opioid medications.
Demand grows for palliative care
Very ill patients, even when not facing death, can benefit from better pain and symptom management from specially trained palliative care teams.
Kids get migraines, too — Tips from The Polyclinic
You might be surprised to know that children as young as 2-years-old can have migraines. Up to 5 percent of elementary school kids suffer migraines, and up to 20 percent of adolescents, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
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