Research Database: Article Details

Citation:  Hill, J., Koch, L. C., & Rumrill, P. D. (2018). Ethical considerations for providing vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with chronic pain. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 48 (3), 321-330.
Title:  Ethical considerations for providing vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with chronic pain
Authors:  Hill, J., Koch, L. C., & Rumrill, P. D.
Year:  2018
Journal/Publication:  Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:  IOS Press
DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3233/JVR-180941
Full text:  https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-vocational-rehabil...   
Peer-reviewed?  Yes
NIDILRR-funded?  Yes

Structured abstract:

Background:  Approximately 100 million Americans live with chronic pain. These individuals are often negatively affected by the many myths, misunderstandings, and stigma associated with chronic pain and its treatment. These negative attitudes and misunderstandings on the part of the general public, significant others, vocational rehabilitation (VR) professionals, and health care providers can exacerbate their pain, preclude them from receiving effective treatment and rehabilitation, and undermine their overall quality of life.
Purpose:  The purpose of this article is to examine ethical considerations for providing responsive VR services that validate and appropriately address the needs of individuals with chronic pain.
Conclusions:  The authors (a) define chronic pain, (b) provide examples of chronic illnesses and disabilities associated with chronic pain, (c) examine the demographic characteristics of individuals with the highest rates of chronic pain, (d) discuss common myths about chronic pain, and (e) discuss sections in the 2017 Code of Professional Ethics for Rehabilitation Counselors that are especially relevant to providing services to this growing VR clientele.

Disabilities served:  Chronic pain
Interventions:  Vocational rehabilitation
Outcomes:  Other