28 August 2023
Introducing Matthew:
Currently a consultant with HWL Ebsworth Lawyers, Matthew has extensive experience as a lawyer in the areas of financial services, life and general insurance, and Royal Commissions (Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, Financial Services and Disability Royal Commissions).
He regularly guest lectures with the University of NSW’s LLM and JD insurance course, and in addition to his role with Pain Foundation, he is a national board member with the Australian Insurance Law Association.
What attracted you to a Board position with Pain Foundation?
I have spent my career in the legal profession over the last 30 years, and I was keen to give something back to the community. I have spent a great deal of time practising in life insurance, and I have developed an interest in chronic pain and the role of the brain. Many life insurance claims are not necessarily for physical injuries or illnesses but stem from mental and psychological conditions. As I am intrigued by neuroscience. In terms of prospective board positions – Pain Foundation ticked all the boxes.
What do you believe are some of the misconceptions about chronic pain?
There are many misconceptions for sure. Many misconceptions about pain have their origins in archaic medical theories and practices date back to centuries ago. A patient can have an amputated leg, and yet there have been instances where those patients have experienced pain in their leg post-amputation – we can see that chronic pain can be linked to the brain rather than just the physical body. Often when people can’t see physical injury, they assume symptoms are exaggerated or made up. It’s a very complex area.
What is your personal view on drugs vs alternative methods of treatment?
I believe drugs have their role, as do alternative methods of treatment such as cognitive therapy; it’s not about choosing one over the other – but rather getting the treatment right.
What would you like to see the Board achieve during your tenure?
For me, it’s about strengthening what the Pain Foundation is currently doing and finding new ways to develop initiatives and increase the support base. I am really looking forward to getting involved with making real contributions where I can.
