PRESIDENT'S STATEMENT

December 2004

Dear Colleague:

A bit of good news from the AMA (American Medical Association), where I am a delegate representing the physicians of Maryland State. The AMA convened its Interim meeting in Atlanta Georgia, December 4-7, 2004 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Among the medical issues that were addressed through the resolution process, was the issue of pain management. Doctors recognize that there is more to be done to ensure that patients with pain get the best possible treatment; while at the same time addressing chronic substance abuse issues and regulations with which physicians must comply.

The following resolution was addressed:

“[AMA] Resolution 809 asks that the AMA support more effective promotion and dissemination of educational materials for physicians on prescribing for pain management, and take a leadership role in resolving conflicting state and federal agencies’ expectation in regard to physician responsibility in pain management.”

This passed by consensus with the addition of the following resolve:

“That…AMA coordinate its initiatives with those state medical associations and national medical specialty societies that already have…established pain management guidelines.”

SCDAA is a national organization that helps communicate information such as this to our patients and their health care providers. Working collaboratively, we can better address the pain issues of our SCD clients. Working in partnership with health care communities, we can create a better understanding of how SCD clients might seek the best care and how providers can give more compassionate and mutually respectful care.

Sincerely,

Willarda V. Edwards, MD, MBA
SCDAA, President and COO