Implementation of a Comprehensive Pain Program: Breaking Barriers in Managing Chronic Nonmalignant Pain

Abstract

Implementation of a comprehensive pain management program faces numerous s barriers including the time in tensive work-up and treatment of patients with chronic non malignant pain. A task force at the Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Health Care System identified this barrier and implemented a program that addressed the multi dimensional needs of the chronic non malignant pain patient and the primary care providers managing their pain. Elements leading to successful implementation included senior administrative support, systems to in crease primary care providers' knowledge base, realistic work load and on going support from an inter disciplinary team. This paper describes the methods used to implement a comprehensive pain management program that meets the new Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations pain standards and the Veterans Health Administration Pain Initiative. Administrative changes, provider education, and development of algorithms for treatment of chronic non malignant pain are described.