Interventions to overcome clinician- and patient-related barriers to pain management

Abstract

Barriers to optimal cancer pain management exist among clinicians and patients, and within the healthcare system. This article focuses on clinician- and patient-related barriers and the interventions that have been tested to overcome them. Although individual studies have shown promise in improving patient outcomes, overall the studies do not provide clear answers to guide practice. Further research is required to determine what components of educational interventions are necessary to facilitate optimal cancer pain management.