Der Schmerz
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Chronic pain requires graduated and staged levels of care. The aim of this study is to provide a regional overview regarding the accessibility of specialized outpatient and (partial) inpatient pain medicine care from the patient's perspective in Germany. ⋯ The results show relevant nationwide differences in the accessibility of facilities for specialized pain treatment depending on the place of residence. Considering the treatment of a chronic condition with long-term therapeutic goals and the need for graduated care (outpatient and inpatient treatment), the results reveal a partly critical situation from the patient's perspective.
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The COVID-19 pandemic led to significantly restricted access to pain medicine services. Patients with cancer-related pain are considered a vulnerable group in terms of care deficits. A questionnaire among providers providing treatment to this group was used to assess limitations and solutions in this critical situation. ⋯ The COVID-19 pandemic revealed numerous deficits in the care of patients with cancer-related pain, as well as burdens on healthcare providers. The development of new concepts could help to ensure better care in future crisis situations.