Links between perceived general practitioner support and the wellbeing of Australian patients with persistent pain

Approximately one-fifth of the population have persistent pain of moderate-to-severe intensity, which affects patients physically, mentally, psychosocially and financially. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between self‑reported wellbeing of patients with persistent pain attending a pain clinic and perceptions of care from general practitioners (GPs) and other treating health professionals.

Patients with persistent pain completed a self-administered survey.

Overall, only 29 (35%) patients with persistent pain were satisfied with their overall wellbeing, with a positive sense of wellbeing solely predicted by a belief that their GPs are 'treating their problem sympathetically' (P = 0.001; prevalence odds ratio = 5.4; 95% confidence interval: 1.9, 14.9). Voluntarily disclosed free-form comments from patients with persistent pain also appear to indicate that GP-managed pain clinics may be able to provide a more consistent level of support and care to patients with persistent pain than other practice settings.

These findings suggest psychological support provided by GPs is an important factor for the maintenance of a positive sense of wellbeing for patients with persistent pain.