Perceptions of opioid misuse and chronic pain: A qualitative assessment of Rhode Island commercial fishing captains

Travis Brown, BS; Paul George, MD, MHPE

doi:10.5055/jom.2019.0494

Authors

Travis Brown, BS
Paul George, MD, MHPE

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jom.2019.0494

Keywords:

commercial fishing, occupational health, opioids, chronic pain, primary care

Abstract

Objectives: To better understand how the contextual circumstances and lifestyle of commercial fishermen influence their access to healthcare and potentially contribute to the use and misuse of opioids.

Methods: The authors conducted in-person, semistructured interviews with 15 full-time fishing captains in Rhode Island between the months of May and July of 2017.

Results: The authors identified five major themes: Recurrent patterns of addiction and opiate use among crewmembers; chronic pain and injury as common constructs of life in the fishing industry; insufficient pain management resources; practical barriers to obtaining primary healthcare; and perceived lack of support from state government.

Conclusions: Rhode Island commercial fishing captains perceived opioid misuse among crewmembers, work-related chronic pain, and inadequate healthcare access as barriers to sustainability of their industry.

Author Biographies

Travis Brown, BS

Office of Medical Education, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island

Paul George, MD, MHPE

Office of Medical Education, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island

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