SPPCP Statement on Racial Disparities in Pain, Palliative Care, and Hospice Medicine 

The Society of Pain and Palliative Care Pharmacists acknowledges the pervasive impact of systemic racism entrenched in America. As pharmacists practicing in pain management, palliative care, and hospice, we recognize that healthcare is not immune to bias and racism. A higher percentage of African Americans do not have access to, or are inappropriately denied, comfort care and pain management. Their voice is often marginalized when expressing pain or discomfort to a healthcare provider. This is in part due to the historical mistreatment and unethical experimentation of African Americans, which has resulted in the racial health disparities that we see presently. SPPCP leadership has created a task force to ensure our organization identifies and addresses racial health disparities in pain management, palliative care, and research. We join the collective voices of healthcare providers across the nation to develop both short-term and long-term actionable steps to do our part in addressing racial disparities [and correcting racial biases]. We want to be part of the solution and will do our part to inform SPPCP members of our progress.