Revolutionizing Pain Management in the Algarve: Insights from the I Jornadas da Dor

Advancing Pain Management in the Algarve

The I Jornadas da Dor organized by the Grupo Lusíadas Saúde kick off this Friday, marking a significant milestone in pain management efforts in the Algarve. According to Sara Freitas, the coordinator of the Pain Treatment Unit, this event is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team over the past five years.

Despite being the inaugural event, it brings together a wide array of leading pain management specialists from across Portugal, highlighting the event's relevance and importance. Freitas emphasizes that their presence underscores the credibility of the program, aimed at fostering a valuable exchange of knowledge and experiences to enhance pain treatment and management.

A Focus on Accessibility and Effectiveness

The Pain Treatment Unit, established nearly five years ago across three locations in the Algarve (Faro, Vilamoura, and Albufeira), has significantly improved the quality of care and pain management for local patients. Freitas states, "We have implemented more effective and personalized treatment protocols, leading to greater patient satisfaction and better clinical outcomes." The goal is to place patients at the center of a multidisciplinary care approach, addressing their physical, emotional, and psychological needs.

Collaborative Efforts and Community Impact

Freitas also notes the importance of collaboration with other healthcare sectors, as evidenced by the increasing number of patients referred by family physicians and specialists from orthopedics, neurosurgery, rheumatology, and rehabilitation medicine. She asserts, "This synergy is crucial for providing quality service aligned with community needs."

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Pain Management

The I Jornadas da Dor will host over a dozen coordinators and directors from various specialties, reflecting the complexity of pain management that requires collaboration among psychologists, physiotherapists, nurses, and various medical specialists. Freitas believes that this diversity allows for a more comprehensive treatment tailored to each patient's specific needs. "The collaborative structure is one of the pillars of our work, enabling us to offer an unparalleled care network to our patients."

The Role of Family Physicians

The event will also address the critical role of Family Medicine in chronic pain management. Freitas highlights that family doctors are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing pain, making their initial assessment vital for proper diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, they play a key role in promoting health literacy and guiding patients towards healthy lifestyle choices.

Open to All Health Professionals

The I Jornadas da Dor are designed for various health professionals, including doctors from different specialties, nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists, and even graduate and postgraduate students. The program includes practical workshops on pain management techniques and discussions on contemporary issues in the field, all aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of health professionals in pain management.

For more details about the event, including the program and registration, you can find information here.