Chronic Pain Australia, representing the interests of 3.6 million Australians living with chronic pain, is deeply concerned by the findings presented in the recent investigative report by ABC Four Corners titled “Pain Factory.” The revelations regarding the harm inflicted on individuals seeking relief from chronic pain are alarming and demand urgent attention.
The investigation has highlighted a concerning trend of adverse events related to spinal cord stimulators, with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) receiving 2000 reported adverse events. This is reminiscent of past scandals involving medical implants, such as the use of hernia mesh that resulted in 224 adverse events reported to the TGA.
As advocates for individuals living with chronic pain, we emphasise the urgent need for evidence-based practices and patient-centred care. It is imperative that patient safety remains the top priority, and measures are put in place to ensure that individuals living with chronic pain can access safe, evidence-based and effective treatments without fear of harm.
The ABC’s coverage has sparked vital conversations within our community, prompting individuals to bravely share their own healthcare experiences and the obstacles they’ve overcome. This surge in dialogue presents an opportunity for us to work collaboratively towards enhancing support systems and fostering greater understanding and empathy within the pain sector.
Chronic Pain Australia calls for a national inquiry to thoroughly investigate the issues highlighted in the investigative report and to develop comprehensive recommendations for reforming how chronic pain is funded, managed, and treated. We urge bipartisan support from the government to action these recommendations and lead with evidence-based treatments that prioritise patient safety and well-being.
We stand ready to collaborate with stakeholders across the healthcare sector to advocate for meaningful reforms that ensure all Australians living with chronic pain receive the quality care they deserve.
For media inquiries, please contact Renee Rankin, Chief Executive Officer on ceo@chronicpainaustralia.org.au
We strongly encourage anyone who feels distressed about the Pain Factory report and needs to talk to someone to call our peer support line, PainLink on 1300 340 357.