The Health Workforce Delivering Evidence-based Non-pharmacological Pain Management

Authors: Samantha Pollack, MHS | Susan Skillman, MS | Bianca Frogner, PhD

Topics: Allied Health, Education and Training, Emerging Models and Innovations

Research Center: University of Washington Center for Health Workforce Studies

February 20, 2020

Chronic pain is widespread among US adults, and overreliance on pharmacological approaches to managing this pain has contributed to the nation’s opioid addiction crisis. There is growing recognition of the importance of directing patients towards non-pharmacological approaches to manage pain.

This report compares 10 different health care occupations and certified practitioners in providing non-pharmacological pain management treatments to patients with chronic pain. In addition, the research findings describe how education, policy, and practice-related factors serve as barriers or facilitators to accessing these treatments.

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University of Washington Center for Health Workforce Studies