Pain University (Pain U)
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Pain University is a multi-discipline program created with one goal in mind: To help our Veterans with persistent pain.
A framework built on three supporting pillars: Patient Education, Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Veteran Feedback, Pain University expands traditional persistent pain care by recognizing the need for education, paced activity and supportive clinician follow up.
Pain University is constantly evolving to ensure quality care for Veterans. As a response to COVID 19, Pain University programming has morphed from a group platform to an individual program. This allows greater focus on the Veteran's individual story and gives the option to complete treatment through telehealth.
Origin:
January 2014, Tomah VA Medical Center
Adoptions:
5 successful, 2 in-progress
Awards and Recognition:
Diffusion of Excellence Promising Practice, VHA Shark Tank Winner
Partners:
Diffusion of Excellence
Recent Updates
Overview
The problem
The solution
Though its core courses offer a standardized platform for each facility, Pain University offers courses that are adaptable based on the needs and availability at each facility, which range from basic pain manage ... Pain University is a comprehensive persistent pain management program for Veterans that educates and empowers Veterans to self manage their pain.
Though its core courses offer a standardized platform for each facility, Pain University offers courses that are adaptable based on the needs and availability at each facility, which range from basic pain management to electives.
Empowering to Veterans: By adapting this program, Veterans are empowered to self manage pain using methods other than medication.
Pain University content is also available through telehealth to support Veterans through the COVID 19 pandemic. See more
The results
-92.9% improved function among Veterans enrolled in the program
-78.5% reduced pain among Veterans enrolled in the program
Diffusion tracker
Does not include Clinical Resource Hubs (CRH)
Implementation
Timeline
-
Month 1
Identify Facility ChampionDevelop an Action Plan for ImplementationEngage Appropriate Stakeholders -
Month 1
Assemble a Core TeamIdentify an Elective TeamEnsure Competency and Instructor Training Needs -
Month 1-6
Perform Outreach Efforts -
Month 2
Connect with Local TeamsSet Up Clinic Infrastructure -
Month 2-4
Identify Course OfferingsCreate Course MaterialsDetermine Course Logistics -
Month 5
Go Live -
Month 6
Analyze DataEvaluate Impact and IteratePlan for Sustainment
Departments
- Billing
- Building management
- Education and training
- Marketing
- Medical records
- Patient services
- Pharmacy
- Psychology
- Telehealth
- Information management
- Information technology
- Nutrition, food, and dietary
- Physical therapy, occupational therapy and kinesiothology
- Primary care
- Geriatrics
- Administration
Core Resources
Files
- Implementation_Guide.pdf Implementation Documents
Risks and mitigations
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
| Poor Turn Out/High Missed Opportunity Rate | Ensure MSA Training. Complete Reminder Calls. Ensure competent and correct information is provided to the Veteran pre program. |
| Completing Facility Programs | Ensure interdisciplinary collaboration. Set up meetings with different departments. Develop champions in different departments. |
| Lack of Clinician Instructor Competence with Program Curriculum | Ensure all staff have the education and training needed to provide adequate instruction to Veterans. |
Contact
Comment
Comments and replies are disabled for retired innovations and non-VA users.
Email VAPainUniversity@va.gov with questions about this innovation.
About
Origin story
Original team
Amanda Roberge, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Instructor
Dr. Wes Kurszewski, PT, DPT
Clinician Instructor
Kelly Joyce, PT, MSPT
Clinician Instructor
Dr. Bradley Schaack, PT, DPT
Clinician Instructor
Erin Hebrink, OTR
Clinical Instructor
Dr. Bradley Zupancich, DC
Clinical Instructor
Dr. Debbie Phelps, PT, DPT
Clinical Instructor
VA Southern Oregon Chronic Pain & Wellness Team (CPWT) is currently adopting this.