Changing the Conversation about Pain – Online course for clinicians

This 90 minute course introduces the patient and clinician toolkits and explains how they can be used to help patients with long term chronic pain. This course was developed to meet the Oregon State requirement for pain management education, which mandated that all clinicians complete this module.

Accreditation Status

The course was accredited for continuing education by the Oregon Medical Association, the Oregon Nurses
Association, and the Oregon Board of Pharmacy. Between 2022 and 2024, more than 140,000 clinicians in
Oregon completed the course. Currently, we provide a certificate of completion. We will apply for national accreditation in 2026.

Learning Objectives

Language and Communication – Demonstrate the use of positive, reassuring language to help patients reframe their pain experience
Competency: Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Neuroscience Education – Explain to patients the principles of neuroplasticity and how lifestyle changes can positively influence chronic pain
Competency: Medical Knowledge; Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Lifestyle and Self-Management – Counsel patients on evidence-based strategies for sleep, nutrition, activity, mood, social connection, and flare-up management
Competency: Patient Care; Practice-based Learning and Improvement

Equity and Trauma-Informed Care – Integrate awareness of health equity, trauma, and social determinants into chronic pain care plans
Competency: Systems-based Practice; Professionalism

Medication Management – Apply safe prescribing practices, including risk/benefit assessment, setting realistic goals, and tapering when appropriate
Competency: Patient Care; Medical Knowledge; Professionalism