About UAPM

Pain medicine is a multi-disciplinary specialty. The strength of the field lies in the diversity of its members: Pain specialists hail from many specialties of origin. We are internists, general practitioners, psychiatrists, psychologists, physiatrists, anesthesiologists, neurologists, oncologists and more.

However, few pain sufferers will ever visit a board-certified pain specialist. Most pain is treated by family doctors and other professionals. The numbers tell the tale: Pain is the No. 1 reason patients see doctors, accounting for 80% of all physician visits.* Pain results in more than 50 million lost workdays each year.**

Because pain is such a common complaint, it's vital for all who treat it -- and that's nearly every medical professional -- to keep up with the latest developments and the newest tools. The UAPM aims to offer a variety of resources and educational opportunities. Visit Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) and Internet Resources for a variety of links to important pain-management sites, documents and organizations.

Another goal of the UAPM is to champion research that will contribute science-based evidence to a field sometimes rife with myth. Areas of controversy, such as the prevalence, causes and means to minimize narcotic painkiller (opioid) abuse, should be the focus of rigorous research and enlightened discussion.

Advocacy is a third UAPM goal. The UAPM holds a seat in the UMA House of Delegates. The UMA connection gives physicians a voice in shaping vital policies and laws that ensure adequate, safe pain care for all patients.

The president or any board member welcomes your questions and suggestions. Your input is crucial to our success.

Sources: *"Untying the Knot," National Pain Awareness Campaign.
**American Pain Society.