SKIP Launches "Youth in Pain" Project to Address Medical Use of Opioids for Youth
Solutions for Kids in Pain (SKIP) has announced the launch of its new project, "Youth in Pain: Solutions for effective opioid use." The initiative aims to share evidence-based solutions for the safe and equitable medical use of opioids in addressing short and long-term pain in youth. Funded by Health Canada's Substance Use and Addictions Program, the project was developed in response to Health Canada's Action Plan for Pain and guided by SKIP's national scoping meeting on opioids and children.
The project addresses the need for improved pain management for children, as two out of three children in Canada undergo painful medical procedures without proper pain management, and one in five children live with long-term pain. While opioids should not be the first or only option for pain management in youth, they can play a crucial role when used appropriately. The Youth in Pain project focuses on the evidence-based use of opioids as part of comprehensive pediatric pain care, which includes psychological, physical, and medication-based treatments.
SKIP aims to bridge the gap in pain management by providing resources and information to healthcare professionals, families, and decision-makers. The project emphasizes the importance of considering all evidence-based solutions for pain, including opioids when appropriate, without judgment or stigma. Through collaboration with youth, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and diverse partners, SKIP will develop new resources and share information to effectively, safely, and equitably manage pain for youth.
The project aligns with Canada's first national Pediatric Pain Management health standard, published by SKIP and the Health Standards Organization. By addressing the stigma and fear surrounding opioid use, SKIP aims to improve pain management for youth and enhance their overall well-being.
Impact of SKIP's "Youth in Pain" Project on New Businesses in the Healthcare Sector
The launch of Solutions for Kids in Pain's (SKIP) "Youth in Pain" project could have significant implications for new businesses in the healthcare sector. The initiative, which focuses on sharing evidence-based solutions for the safe and equitable use of opioids in youth pain management, highlights a critical area of need in pediatric healthcare. This could present opportunities for new businesses to innovate and contribute to this field.
New healthcare businesses could potentially leverage the resources and information provided by SKIP to develop novel solutions or services that align with the project's goals. For instance, businesses could create educational tools or platforms that help disseminate SKIP's findings and recommendations to a wider audience, including healthcare professionals, families, and decision-makers.
Moreover, the project's emphasis on comprehensive pediatric pain care - encompassing psychological, physical, and medication-based treatments - underscores the need for a multi-disciplinary approach. This could encourage new businesses to explore partnerships and collaborations across different sectors, ultimately leading to more holistic and effective solutions for youth pain management.
However, businesses must also be mindful of the complexities and sensitivities surrounding opioid use, particularly given the ongoing opioid crisis. As such, any business efforts in this area should prioritize safety, equity, and the elimination of stigma.