"The Proverbial Rock and Hard Place"

Below is an excerpt:

Physicians (and other prescribers) face a dilemma. Physicians are at least encouraged, and at times required, to evaluate pain and take steps to address it. Prescribing opioids has been a necessary part of the standard of care in addressing pain. There are certainly patients who legitimately cannot find relief any other way. However, the obligation to treat patients and address their pain is fundamentally inconsistent with the increasing pressure on physicians not to cause, facilitate, or tolerate patient opioid abuse.

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