The latest EMR industry study reveals that 49% of individuals experiencing pain feel stigmatized, and 42% regularly experience loneliness due to pain, with one-third reporting serious loneliness. Conducted across 18 countries with 18,097 participants, the research underscores a shift in societal attitudes toward pain post-COVID-19, reflecting increased judgment and reduced tolerance. Since 2014, the social and emotional impact of pain has surged by nearly 25%, indicating a global trend of heightened stigma and social isolation associated with everyday pain. Those encountering bias, discrimination, and exclusion are disproportionately affected.
Women (58%), people of color (59%), and the LGBQ+ community (44%) report differential treatment, disbelief, or discrimination related to their pain. A clear generational divide is apparent, with 70% of Gen Z experiencing mistreatment compared to 40% of Baby Boomers. Younger individuals perceive pain as a taboo topic, as 45% of Gen Z express hesitancy to speak out compared to 35% of Boomers.
The study emphasizes the need for a more empathetic and compassionate approach to pain. Over two-thirds of respondents express a desire for increased empathy to address bias and exclusion, while 69% wish for better-trained doctors, and 62% wish for better-trained pharmacists to understand individual pain experiences.
The EMR industry’s #ListenToPain initiative supports health professionals in enhancing communication and tailoring pain discussions to individual needs. The program seeks to dismantle barriers and reshape perceptions surrounding pain management, advocating for more personalized and effective approaches.
