The management of patients with chronic pain can be challenging given the complex psychosocial issues that are often present in this population. Interactions can be complicated when patient and physician expectations and goals are not in alignment. In addition, clinicians are frequently tasked with explaining complex diagnoses and treatment options, which can be difficult for patients to understand even when avoiding the use of medical terminology. Patient interactions can be further complicated by appointment time constraints, the at times massive electronic/paper records that accompany the patient, numerous comorbidities, and the use of concurrent medications. This lecture will review the essential elements that should be incorporated into any dialogue with patients with chronic pain. The first half of the session is didactic in nature, and the second half consists of simulated patient scenarios with role playing and heavy audience participation. In these scenarios, Dr. Mathew will play the role of the patient presenting with chronic pain, and members of the audience will voluntarily take turns on stage serving as the clinician navigating the at times challenging dialogs that can commonly occur in clinical practice.
Learning Objectives:
Identify the components of a comprehensive chronic pain assessment
Choose an effective treatment plan including both pharmacological and non-pharmacologic interventions
