Considerations for the implementation of a non-pharmacological, patient-centered approach to chronic non-oncological pain treatment in the UK and Chile

Abstract

Non-oncological chronic pain imposes a significant global burden, and its prevalence is increasing. The World Health Organisation and UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence promote patient-centered care as an effective approach to treating chronic non-oncological pain. This approach improves long term health outcomes by identifying root causes which impact these conditions, within the framework of the biopsychosocial care model. Within Chile and the United Kingdom, patients advocate for pharmacological interventions, however Centres for Disease Control and Prevention emphasise a preference for non-pharmacological management strategies. As the UK healthcare system actively seeks to reduce reliance on pharmacological treatment modalities, using alternative interventions, Chilean healthcare has also begun to regenerate its approaches to treatment. The objective of this paper is to reflect upon the implementation of these strategies to gain insights into their potential for driving change.