Damned if they do, damned if they don't: the need for a comprehensive public policy to address the inadequate management of pain.

Amy Dilcher examines the need for a comprehensive pain policy and argues that opioids--highly effective drugs for pain management--should be legally and practicably accessible to medical professionals and their patients, as and when needed to provide relief from pain. The article synthesizes a number of perspectives regarding the regulation of pain management and demonstrates that the inadequate treatment of pain stems from a multitude of barriers. After reviewing Congressional action on the topic, Ms. Dilcher concludes with recommendations for a more comprehensive pain policy that would enhance the management of pain.