Mr Safwat Gergis1, Ms Divya Nair1, Dr Alette Roux1, A/Prof Maayken Van den berg2
1Modbury Hospital, Modbury, Australia, 2Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia
Abstract:
Background:
Long-term opioid medications are ineffective for chronic non-cancer pain and increase the risk of serious harm. Clients on high-dose opioid therapy still report significant pain, poor functioning, and experience shame, stigma, and fear of worsening pain if their medication is reduced. Although recommended, it remains difficult to wean patients from their long-term opioids. They lack supportive ways for this process, resulting in a sense of hopelessness and helplessness for the individual.
Project implementation:
The first of its kind in South Australia, the award-winning interdisciplinary “Reducing Opioid Reliance (ROR)” program, helps individuals reduce their reliance on opioid medications. It is unique in that a pharmacist and psychologist are working together under the lead of a physician, to provide evidence-based alternatives through group and individual interventions, using a psychosocialbiomedical framework.
Results:
Of 24 participants, 80% of participants reduced their opioid use, with 20% completely ceasing opioids by the end of the program. Participants self-reported improved quality of life, increased confidence in managing pain with lower doses, better relationships, enhanced daily activity, sleep, reduced social impact of chronic pain, and reduced healthcare visits, offering financial benefits. The program supported individuals long reliant on opioids and would otherwise be unable to wean off successfully.
Conclusions:
An interdisciplinary opt-in educational skills and support program effectively supports opioid weaning with high success rates, offering hope and practical strategies for navigating the challenges of chronic pain and opioid dependence. Given high opioid prescriptions for chronic non-cancer pain, other regions may benefit from similar programs.