The Medical Stasi

Managing risk is an essential part of medical practice, particularly in light of the reported increase in morbidity and mortality associated with the use of opioids. Recent anecdotal data indicate that as a result of the "opioid crisis," patients are being told by their prescribers that they can no longer manage pain with opioids and must therefore find another healthcare provider. Consequently, healthcare professionals are now faced with the increased likelihood of inheriting patients. The moderated panel will discuss the many clinical, legal, and ethical challenges that are associated with terminating/discharging patients, inheriting a patient, and managing risk. (Recorded at PAINWeek 2016)