Entitlement to cover for chronic pain syndrome under the Accident Compensation Scheme

Abstract

Sufferers of primary chronic pain syndrome are not currently entitled to cover from New Zealand's Accident Compensation scheme. The Supreme Court decision in Allenby v H, which adopted a wider interpretation of the term "physical injury", presents an opportunity for the courts to reconsider whether chronic pain syndrome should constitute an injury. Policy factors, particularly the need to uphold the integrity of the legislation enacted by Parliament, demand that the status quo exclusion of chronic pain syndrome is maintained. A legislative amendment which clarifies this position is recommended.