A newly updated education program from the American Medical Association (AMA) is available to help physicians strike an appropriate balance between managing patients’ chronic pain and preventing abuse and overdose of prescription painkillers.

The first module in this comprehensive 12-part series focuses on the pathophysiology of pain and pain assessment. Additional modules review other such clinically important topics as structuring therapy and managing risks. This continuing medical education (CME) activity has been approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™.

The program was made possible by support from the Providers' Clinical Support System for Opioid Therapies (PCSS-O), a collaborative project funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT).

Access to the course materials is free. Physicians can complete the modules that address the specific needs of their practices and patients. Those who are interested in obtaining CME credit must register, and a $6.00 fee will be charged per module.

To access the program and register for CME, click here.