AWARENESS AND PARTICIPATION OF OUTPATIENT DEPARTMENT PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC PAIN IN THE TREATMENT

Abstract

Chronic pain as a condition is more and more common due to population ageing and the high prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases. It has been demonstrated that pain affects all health-related dimensions of quality of life and analyses show that chronic pain is associated with high health costs. PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to investigate the awareness and participation of patients with chronic pain in the treatment METHODS: For the purposes of the study, a questionnaire was developed for a direct individual survey. Descriptive and analytical statistical methods were also used. RESULTS: A total of 280 patients with different diagnoses who visited their physician with complaints of persistent pain were included in the study. Although the patients surveyed confirmed that they seek information about their therapy and are satisfied with the information they receive, a significant proportion of them do not think that they can always cope with chronic pain. CONCLUSION: Good awareness of patients is of key importance for their participation in the treatment. Easily available, true and relevant information is a prerequisite for understanding the pain control options.