Comment from Keela Herr

[200.202(e), 200.220] To Whom it May Concern: I am a Professor of Nursing and have conducted cross-country collaborative research to improve the quality of pain care in US and China for over 30 years I am writing in my personal capacity to oppose the proposed revisions to sections 200.202(e) and 200.220 that would restrict international scientific collaboration and isolate American scientists. Over the course of my career, I have mentored colleagues in China and conducted research collaboratively that has improved the recognition and assessment of pain in vulnerable infants, children and older adults. We have established best practice to assure all people receive quality pain care. We have received funding through international organizations and restrictions on the conduct of research with international collaborators would harm these advancements in pain care. China nursing collaborators are vested in improving the care of their population and contributing to advancements in knowledge. Most of my international work would have been impeded with proposed bans on collaboration and many vulnerable patients impacted in not receiving improvements in their pain care. Limiting scientific investment and collaborations with international partners is limiting to the improvement of quality of pain care around the world--an ethical obligation of scientists and priority of the International Association for the Study of Pain--an organization I strongly support in mission and values and commitment.