Public Financing of Pain Management: Leaky Umbrellas and Ragged Safety Nets

Posted: 5 Jan 1999

See all articles by Timothy Stoltzfus Jost

Timothy Stoltzfus Jost

Washington and Lee University - School of Law

Abstract

The undertreatment of pain has increasingly been recognized in recent years as a major problem. Many persons in pain are dependent upon public health care financing programs for their medical care. Limitations in these programs is a significant contributing factor to the undertreatment of pain. This article analyzes gaps and deficiencies in the Medicare and Medicaid programs with respect to pain management. Particular problems in Medicare include its lack of coverage of outpatient medications, its skilled nursing home standards, and its restrictions on hospice coverage. Problems with Medicaid drug coverage and drug use limitations are also explored. Finally, the effect of Medicare and Medicaid fraud and abuse law in potentially deterring adequate pain management is also considered. The article includes recommendations for covering and encouraging proper pain management in Medicare and Medicaid.

JEL Classification: I11, I12, I18

Suggested Citation

Jost, Timothy Stoltzfus, Public Financing of Pain Management: Leaky Umbrellas and Ragged Safety Nets. Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=144569

Timothy Stoltzfus Jost (Contact Author)

Washington and Lee University - School of Law ( email )

Lexington, VA 24450
United States
540-458-8510 (Phone)
540-458-8488 (Fax)

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