About the Indiana Pain Initiative

The Indiana Pain Initiative (INPI) is a statewide program headquartered in Indianapolis and committed to ensuring Hoosiers will receive optimal pain management. More than 50 million Americans suffer from chronic pain caused by various diseases and disorders, and each year 25 million experience acute pain as a result of injury or surgery. 1 in 4 Hoosiers experience pain daily

Pain costs the US economy $100 billion every year due to illness and lost work days according to estimates of the National Institute of Health. Pain interferes with sleep, social activities, hobbies, sex and even how one thinks. Pain can isolate a person and take away hope and dignity.

The undertreatment of pain is a significant and continuing problem for thousands of Hoosiers. Pain sufferers should have access to appropriate and effective pain management.

Barriers to pain treatment include a shortage of physicians who treat pain, limitations of insurance, and distance needed to travel for care. Myths and lack of knowledge also interfere with appropriate and effective pain management. Medications and procedures to help control pain do exist! INPI seeks to educate healthcare professionals and the public about the effective management of pain.

• INPI is working on the development of a statewide network of patient advocates and clinical champions
• Dissemination of information and presentations about pain management at professional conferences and public meetings
• Analysis of laws and regulations that are barriers to sound pain management
• Projects that support improvements in healthcare systems to improve the quality and safety of pain management

INPI is a member of the Alliance of State Pain Initiative and a part of the Power Over Pain Campaign of the American Pain Foundation. INPI is a program of the Indiana Hospice & Palliative Care Organization, a 501C3 nonprofit organization.