Addiction: Pain self-medication “the norm” in substance-using primary care patients

Posted on February 2, 2016 by Dr. Howard Chusid

Abstract BACKGROUND: Chronic pain is common among patients with drug use disorders. The prevalence of chronic pain and its consequences in primary care patients who use drugs is unknown. OBJECTIVES: To examine: 1) the prevalence of chronic pain and pain-related dysfunction among primary care patients who screen positive for drug use, and 2) the prevalence Read more about Addiction: Pain self-medication “the norm” in substance-using primary care patients[…]

Patients Will Be Asking: Do I need to see a therapist in person?

Posted on November 16, 2015November 16, 2015 by Dr. Howard Chusid

Depression is one of the most common reasons for GP consultations, and its associated personal and economic burden is considerable. While antidepressants remain an important treatment option, many patients and healthcare professionals would like to access psychological therapy as an alternative or adjunct to drug treatment Study question How effective is supported computerised cognitive behaviour therapy Read more about Patients Will Be Asking: Do I need to see a therapist in person?[…]

Patients with smartphones more likely to use online patient portals

Posted on November 16, 2015 by Dr. Howard Chusid

Patients who own smartphones are five times as likely to use online patient portals. Indeed, 27% of smartphone owners access patient portals, whereas only 5% of those who lack smartphones do. While monthly use of patient portals has been increasing overall among U.S. households with broadband internet access, this growth has been Read more about Patients with smartphones more likely to use online patient portals[…]