Quality of Life, Chronic Pain, and Issues for Healthcare Professionals in Rural Communities

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to examine differences that existed in the perception of individuals with chronic pain concerning quality of life in two groups: (1) a group who had an intervention for chronic pain (2) and a group who had not had any intervention. No existing literature was found that compared any difference in perceptions of quality of life in individuals who had an intervention for chronic pain and those who had not had an intervention for chronic pain. Thirty-six individuals' scores on the Ferrans and Power's Quality of Life Index were analyzed. Data analysis revealed that both groups in this pilot study perceived their quality of life as decreased, but no statistically significant differences were found in the perception of either group (t = -1.65, p= .108). Although not statistically significant in this sample, the group (n=16) who had received an intervention program reported less perceived quality of life. Issues of concern for healthcare professionals in rural communities and ideas for further research are presented. Keywords: chronic pain, quality of life, rural healthcare http://dx.doi.org/10.14574/ojrnhc.v1i2.488