PCSS MAT Half and Half Training 2021-2022-16693-Opioids for Pain: Understanding and Mitigating Risks

Video Transcription
Video Summary
In this video, Dr. Roger Chow discusses the risks and benefits associated with opioid use for chronic pain. He highlights the high prevalence of chronic pain and the common use of opioids to manage it. He also mentions the substantial burden caused by chronic pain and the need for evidence-based practice in prescribing medications.<br /><br />Dr. Chow explains the educational objectives of the module, which include recognizing risk factors for opioid misuse and overdose in patients with chronic pain, reviewing methods for screening and assessment, discussing methods for monitoring and evaluating patients prescribed opioids for chronic pain, summarizing non-opioid treatment approaches, and describing opioid taper strategies and risks.<br /><br />He goes on to present data on opioid prescribing and overdose rates in the United States, highlighting the increasing rates of overdose deaths related to prescription opioids, heroin, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl. He also discusses the connection between prescription opioid use and the rise in heroin use.<br /><br />Dr. Chow emphasizes the importance of implementing universal precautions in pain medicine to protect patients and the community. He explains the various strategies that can be used to mitigate risks associated with opioids, such as careful patient selection, use of medication agreements, monitoring and screening, and avoiding the concurrent use of opioids and benzodiazepines.<br /><br />He also discusses the need for regular reassessment of patients and the importance of considering non-opioid therapies for chronic pain. Dr. Chow highlights the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy, meditation and relaxation techniques, exercise, interdisciplinary rehabilitation, and other non-opioid treatments.<br /><br />In conclusion, Dr. Chow emphasizes the need for a cautious approach to the use of opioids for chronic pain, as well as the importance of assessing and treating opioid use disorder when present. He encourages healthcare professionals to obtain a buprenorphine waiver and engage in evidence-based practices for the prevention and treatment of opioid use disorder. The video also includes information on additional resources and a mentoring program for clinicians.
Keywords
opioid use
chronic pain
risks
benefits
prevalence
evidence-based practice
medications
opioid misuse
overdose
screening