Pain and public policy

Article Abstract:

Disability after an accident may depend on economic, social, and legal factors as well as biological factors. When the Canadian province of Saskatchewan switched to no-fault auto insurance, the number of insurance claims filed for whiplash injury dropped significantly. It is unlikely that most whiplash victims are lying, but excessive attention to symptoms could affect their perception. They may also file claims to seek revenge. Doctors can also increase the rate of perceived disability by using excessive diagnostic tests and unnecessary treatments.

Editorial

---

Effect of eliminating compensation for pain and suffering on the outcome of insurance claims for whiplash injury

Article Abstract:

Financial compensation for injuries sustained in an accident may promote illness and disability. On January 1, 1995, the Canadian province of Saskatchewan switched to no-fault auto insurance, eliminating financial compensation for many victims of whiplash injury. By the end of the year, the number of insurance claims for whiplash injury dropped 43% in men and 15% in women. Claims were processed more quickly and the symptoms of whiplash also resolved more quickly under the no-fault policy.

Statistical Data Included, Canada

---

The messenger under attack - intimidation of researchers by special-interest groups

Article Abstract:

Research scientists and their institutions need to develop policies for dealing with attacks from special interest groups. Three case studies illustrate how special interest groups such as the National Rifle Association can attack research findings that threaten their interests. These groups use the media and the courts to challenge and intimidate researchers and discredit their findings. Various means are described to prevent special interest groups from shaping the US research agenda.

Psychological aspects, Political activity, Political aspects, Medical research, Harassment (Law), Harassment, Pressure groups, Special interest groups

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Clinical utility and cost-effectiveness of an air suspension bed in the prevention of pressure ulcers. Sedation in the Intensive Care Unit: A Systematic Review
• Abstracts: Relation between negligent adverse events and the outcomes of medical-malpractice litigation. The Institute of Medicine report on medical errors -- could it do harm?
• Abstracts: Medical decision making in patients with chest pain. Evaluation of chest pain in the emergency department. Missed diagnoses of acute coronary syndromes in the emergency room -- continuing challenges
• Abstracts: Treatment, and retreatment, of Cushing's disease. Treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism. Treatment of acromegaly

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.