A Sociological Framework for Improving Palliative Pain Care in Low-Resource Nations.

This paper applies institutional theory to palliative pain care in low resource nations (LRNs), suggesting that three interdependent pillars shape access: regulative (laws and rules), normative (professional standards and values), and cultural-cognitive (shared beliefs). Biomedical solutions alone are insufficient. Lasting progress requires coordinated legal reform, professional accountability, and culturally sensitive engagement. RECENT FINDINGS: Restrictive regulations, stigmatizing policy language, and administrative bottlenecks limit access to essential analgesics, while the inverse care law magnifies inequity. Effective regulative responses include a balanced opioid policy and pooled procurement, local analgesic production, and task-shifting to non-physicians. Normative levels such as pain competencies in training/licensure, stewardship with audit/monitoring, and quality indicators improve delivery. Capacity building with Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) shows knowledge and practice gains. Cultural strategies that design education with community leaders and traditional healers, reframing opioids as compassionate care, and routine pain assessment all shift beliefs and behaviors positively. CONCLUSION: A sociological, three pillar approach reframes pain relief as a health system obligation and human right. Multi-pronged interventions such as simplifying policies and financing, mandated competencies and stewardship, and culturally grounded engagement can transform pain care from a neglected option to an expected standard across LRNs.

Duke Scholars

Author Mazen Zein Neurosurgery