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A new report has revealed millions of Australians suffering chronic pain are becoming addicted to opioid drugs, while they wait up to four years for specialist care. The Deloitte report, due to be released by Health Minister Greg Hunt, reveals chronic pain is leading to depression, unemployment and is adding an additional $360 million to the welfare bill. The report, which also reveals up to three people a day are dying from chronic pain, has prompted calls for specialist GP training programs on how to manage chronic pain.

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