Dorset’s Pain Service provides online support for patients

People suffering with on-going pain issues can now learn how to access support online, saving time and travel costs.

Dorset HealthCare’s Pain Management Service has developed a new introduction process for patients referred to it for help.

The service has changed the way it works as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has limited opportunities for face-to-face group meetings.

Now, instead of having to travel to a pre-arranged appointment, patients referred and accepted into the service can instantly watch a new animated video.

Created in collaboration with volunteer ‘Experts by Experience’, the video provides information on what to expect from the service and how the team will work with people to help them manage long-term pain.

And those unable to access the video can have a one-to-one appointment with a pain management practitioner.

Ed Cvijan, Operations Manager for the service, said: “In the past, face-to-face group sessions were arranged across the county to explain how the service works and introduce the concept of self-management.

“But when COVID-19 hit, we had to consider how we could do things differently.

“Thankfully, we have some creative and talented team members who were able to work with our Experts by Experience – people with direct experience of healthcare services – to deliver a digital solution. This has made our service more accessible and represents a huge time saving for patients and staff alike.

“It also ensures service users know what to expect from us as a service and how we can support them to lead as fulfilling and independent a life as possible.”

Dorset’s Pain Management Service is made up of a team of specialists, including consultants, psychologists, therapists, nurses and therapy assistants.

Together, they provide a range of services that can be tailored to match a person’s needs and help them deal with pain with greater knowledge and confidence.

Ben Benjamin, 64, from Dorchester, is a former Pain Service patient and now an Expert by Experience. He said:

“Before I received support from the Pain Service, I was in despair. I’d been suffering neck pain for five years, and a hip replacement caused me a number of complications. The pain slowed me down and I relied on medication. I felt there was nothing else that could be done.

“But the Pain Management Service has successfully assisted me to live a more fulfilling life. It has helped me cope and manage the intensity of my pain, so I can be more active and mobile on a daily basis.”

If you are in pain and suffering in silence, visit www.dorsetpain.org.uk and find out if the service could help you.