Prescribing Medications for Chronic Pain Management: The State of Education in Florida Medical Schools and Residency Programs

Authors

Wyndham A. Bonnett
Katherine Perdomo
Suzanne C. Baker
Marshall B. Kapp

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the state of chronic, non-cancer pain management education in Florida medical schools and residency programs. Surveys were developed and distributed to Florida allopathic and osteopathic medical schools. One survey was specific to students and residents and one to faculty. Confidence in their general education, as well as in treating patients with chronic, non-cancer pain, was measured. A majority of medical students and residents (59.5%), in addition to a majority of faculty (58.1%), agreed or strongly agree that more clinical time needs to be dedicated to chronic, non-cancer pain management education. Students, residents, and faculty suggested offering more lectures, online modules, workshops, and clinical scenarios as ways to improve the current educational environment. Results demonstrate that while Florida medical schools and residency programs provide education on chronic, non- cancer pain management, there is still room for improvement. Increased communication between institutions and standardizing competencies related to pain management may prove beneficial.

Recommended Citation

Bonnett, Wyndham A.; Perdomo, Katherine; Baker, Suzanne C.; and Kapp, Marshall B. (2019) "Prescribing Medications for Chronic Pain Management: The State of Education in Florida Medical Schools and Residency Programs," Florida Public Health Review: Vol. 14, Article 3.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/fphr/vol14/iss1/3