Impacting the Opioid Crisis: Prevention, Education, and Practice for Non-Prescribing Providers from Coursera

For CME Learners: View information about expected results, presenters, their disclosures, and CME credit here: https://ww2.highmarksce.com/micme/index.cfm?do=ev.viewEnduring&eventId=78167

This course will empower non-prescribing providers to directly impact the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States through increased knowledge and tools that will transform practice and policies. The course will inform you about the opioid epidemic and provide information and research about evidence-based strategies that are focused on prevention, intervention, education, or policy.

This open learning course is designed primarily for non-prescribing healthcare, behavioral health, dental and social services professionals, as well as graduate-level students in these fields. Other individuals may also benefit from this course such as educators and physicians.

As a learner, you have the ability to select any or all of the modules and topics that interest you. You can complete the course in a linear or non-linear structure according to your preferred viewing order. This course is taught by experts in the field of opioid prevention, intervention, treatment, and policy. Through lectures, panels and interviews, knowledge checks and quizzes, and additional readings and activities, you can explore topics that are most relevant to your work or practice.

After completing this activity, participants will be able to educate their patients on the safe use of opioids and the prevention of misuse, detect risk factors for opioid misuse and abuse, and refer patients to additional evidence-based resources.

The course was developed by three University of Michigan programs, including the Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation (IHPI), the Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network (OPEN) and the CDC-funded University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center.

The course consists of 6 “lessons” or modules of varying length, for a total commitment of about 16 hours. This translates to 16 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ and 16 Michigan Social work continuing education credits.

Course modules include:

1. Epidemiology of the Opioid Crisis

2. Understanding of Pain

3. Prevention of Misuse and Abuse

4. Working with Patients and the Public

5. Addiction Treatment and Recovery

6. Public Policy

Continuing Medical Education (CME) and Michigan Board of Social Work Continuing Education (CE) Credits

To view and complete content, you will be required to sign in and enroll in Coursera. To claim CME credit, you will be required to sign in and enroll in MiCME here: https://ww2.highmarksce.com/micme/index.cfm?do=ev.viewEnduring&eventId=78167

The University of Michigan Medical School is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The University of Michigan Medical School designates this enduring material for a maximum of 16 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s) ™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Maintenance of Certification in Anesthesiology™ program and MOCA® are registered trademarks of The American Board of Anesthesiology®. This activity contributes to the CME component of the American Board of Anesthesiology's redesigned Maintenance of Certification in Anesthesiology™ (MOCA®) program, known as MOCA 2.0®. Please consult the ABA website, www.theABA.org, for a list of all MOCA 2.0 requirements.

Released for CME Credit on 2/16/23, with credit available through 1/31/26.

This course is approved by the NASW-Michigan Social Work Continuing Education Collaborative Approval # 112723-00 for 16 CE Hours. This on-demand course is approved for 12 months.

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Epidemiology of the Opioid Crisis

After completing this module, you will be able to explain the factors that contributed to the current opioid crisis.

Module 2: Understanding Pain

After completing this module, you will understand the pathophysiology of pain and its treatment, including what opioids are and how they work.

Module 3: Prevention of Misuse and Abuse

After this module, you will understand how to reduce unintended use and misuse of opioids using various strategies, including prescribing guidelines, surveillance, safe disposal of unused opioids, and intervention messaging.

Module 4: Working with Patients and the Public

After this module, you will be able to identify what strategies and tools you can employ to impact the safe use of opioids across clinical care settings and with a variety of populations.

Module 5: Addiction Treatment and Recovery

After this module, you will be able to describe best practices for assessing and treating opioid use disorder (OUD) and explain the evidence that informs these best practices.

Module 6: Public Policy

After this module, you will understand different aspects of public policy that can impact the opioid epidemic.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops skills and knowledge that can help learners reduce unintended use and misuse of opioids, which aligns with the current opioid crisis

Explores the pathophysiology of pain, the treatment of pain, and the use of opioids, giving learners a strong understanding of the topic

Teaches strategies and tools to impact the safe use of opioids across clinical care settings and with a variety of populations, which is highly relevant to non-prescribing healthcare professionals

Provides CME (AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™) and Michigan Social Work Continuing Education (CE) Credits, which may be valuable for some learners depending on their profession

May require learners to pay fees for CME or CE credit, which could be a financial barrier for some

Reviews summary

Comprehensive opioid crisis course

Learners say this comprehensive course is very informative with helpful and detailed lectures, readings, and materials. The engaging assignments help understand the Opioid Crisis and how to prevent, educate, and help those affected by it. A variety of healthcare providers will find this course useful.

Course offers a variety of viewpoints.

"Wonderful and comprehensive course on the Opioid crisis for a variety of healthcare providers."

Materials are useful and insightful.

"very useful"

"It helps a lot to be educated about the things I didn’t about substance abuses"

Course is detailed and provides in-depth information.

"very detailed course, well understandable."

"This course provided all I needed to understand the epidemic."

Course could be more tailored to behavioral health.

"I was looking more for a course geared towards behavioral health such as counseling, social work or psychology."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Impacting the Opioid Crisis: Prevention, Education, and Practice for Non-Prescribing Providers with these activities:

Organize and review the handouts and online resources from the course

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Enhance retention of course concepts by actively reviewing and organizing the materials provided.

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Gather all the handouts, presentations, and online resources.
Create a system for organizing the materials, such as by topic or module.
Review the materials periodically to reinforce your understanding.
Develop a set of short notes or summaries that capture the key points.
Utilize flashcards or other active recall techniques to test your knowledge and identify any areas that need further review.

Review "Understanding Pain" by Jeffrey S. Mogil

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Improve your understanding of the complexities of pain and the relationship between its mechanisms and opioid use.

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Skim the preface and introduction to understand the book's objectives and scope.
Read through a chapter that is relevant to your practice and interests.
Take notes on the key concepts, theories, and methodologies discussed.
Consider how these concepts apply to your practice and patients.
Discuss your insights with a colleague or in a relevant online forum.

Engage in discussions with peers on the complexities of the opioid crisis

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Expand your perspectives and gain insights by engaging with peers in discussions on the multifaceted nature of the opioid crisis.

Browse courses on Opioid Crisis

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Identify peers within the course or in your professional network.
Set up regular discussion sessions to explore different aspects of the opioid crisis.
Share your experiences, insights, and perspectives.
Critically analyze the various factors contributing to the crisis.
Discuss potential solutions and strategies for addressing the crisis.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Volunteer at a local organization providing support to individuals affected by opioid use disorder

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Gain practical experience and contribute to your community by assisting individuals in their recovery journey.

Browse courses on Opioid Use Disorder

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Identify a local organization that provides support to individuals with opioid use disorder.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Complete any necessary training or orientation.
Provide support and assistance to individuals in accordance with the organization's guidelines.
Reflect on your experiences and identify any areas for personal growth and development.

Practice screening patients for opioid misuse using the Opioid Risk Tool

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Enhance your ability to identify patients at risk of opioid misuse through hands-on practice with a validated screening tool.

Browse courses on Screening

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Familiarize yourself with the Opioid Risk Tool and its components.
Conduct a mock screening using the tool on a hypothetical patient.
Interpret the results and develop a plan for further assessment or intervention, if necessary.
Seek feedback from a colleague or healthcare professional to refine your approach.
Regularly practice using the tool in your clinical setting.

Develop a quality improvement project to implement evidence-based practices in your workplace

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Apply your knowledge and skills to a practical project that can positively impact opioid-related care in your work environment.

Browse courses on Quality Improvement

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Identify an area in your workplace where you can implement evidence-based practices.
Research and select an appropriate evidence-based practice.
Develop a plan for implementing the practice, including timelines, responsibilities, and evaluation metrics.
Implement the practice and monitor its progress.
Evaluate the outcomes of the project and make necessary adjustments.

Develop educational materials on safe opioid prescribing practices

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Strengthen your communication and patient education skills by creating materials that convey the complexities of opioid use and promote safe practices.

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Research current opioid prescribing guidelines and best practices.
Identify the target audience and their information needs.
Develop the educational content in a clear, concise, and engaging manner.
Choose an appropriate format for dissemination, such as a pamphlet, website, or social media campaign.
Share your materials with colleagues, patients, or community organizations.

Career center

Learners who complete Impacting the Opioid Crisis: Prevention, Education, and Practice for Non-Prescribing Providers will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Addiction Counselor

Addiction Counselors help people overcome addiction. They provide counseling, support, and resources to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Addiction Counselors use best practices for assessing and treating opioid use disorder to guide their patients to successful recovery. This course may provide a strong foundation of knowledge for those considering a career as an Addiction Counselor, as it covers understanding the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and working with patients and the public.

See salaries and explore the career path for Addiction Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselors help people overcome addiction. They provide counseling, support, and resources to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Substance Abuse Counselors use best practices for assessing and treating opioid use disorder to guide their patients to successful recovery. This course may provide a strong foundation of knowledge for those considering a career as a Substance Abuse Counselor, as it covers understanding the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and working with patients and the public.

See salaries and explore the career path for Substance Abuse Counselor

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists investigate the causes and spread of disease. They also develop and implement strategies to prevent and control disease. Epidemiologists study the opioid crisis in order to understand its causes and develop strategies to prevent and control it. This course helps build a foundation for Epidemiologists by providing knowledge on the epidemiology of the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and public policy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Toxicologist

Toxicologists study the effects of toxic substances on humans and the environment. They also develop and implement strategies to prevent and control exposure to toxic substances. Toxicologists study the opioid crisis in order to understand the effects of opioids on humans and the environment. This course helps build a foundation for Toxicologists by providing knowledge on the epidemiology of the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and public policy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Toxicologist

Public Health Administrator

Public Health Administrators plan, implement, and evaluate public health programs. They also work to protect and improve the health of communities. Public Health Administrators play an important role in preventing opioid misuse and abuse. This course helps build a foundation for Public Health Administrators by providing knowledge on the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and public policy.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. They also develop and recommend policy solutions. Policy Analysts play an important role in developing and implementing policies to prevent opioid misuse and abuse. This course helps build a foundation for Policy Analysts by providing knowledge on the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and public policy.

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Social Worker

Social Workers help people cope with mental, emotional, and social problems. They work with individuals, families, groups, and communities. Social Workers provide counseling, support, and resources to individuals struggling with opioid use disorder. They also support those who are affected by opioid addiction. This course may be helpful for those seeking a career in Social Work, as it provides knowledge on the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and working with patients and the public.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Public Health Nurse

Public Health Nurses work with communities to prevent disease and injury. They also promote health and wellness, and provide education on a variety of health topics. Public Health Nurses can utilize the education on opioid misuse and abuse prevention to implement strategies that prevent opioid misuse and abuse in their communities. This course can help Public Health Nurses serve their community by providing knowledge and best practices on pain management, addiction treatment, and recovery in addition to public policy.

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Healthcare Advocate

Healthcare Advocates help people navigate the healthcare system. They provide information, support, and resources to individuals seeking medical care. Healthcare Advocates play an important role in helping people access treatment for opioid use disorder. This course may be helpful for those seeking a career in Healthcare Advocacy, as it provides knowledge on the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and working with patients and the public.

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Medical Writer

Medical Writers create and edit medical content, such as journal articles, patient education materials, and marketing materials. Medical Writers play an important role in educating the public about the opioid crisis. This course may be helpful for those seeking a career in Medical Writing, as it provides knowledge on the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and public policy.

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Physician Assistant

Physician Assistants provide medical care under the supervision of a physician. They can diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and perform procedures. Physician Assistants play an important role in preventing opioid misuse and abuse. This course can help Physician Assistants fulfill their duties by providing knowledge on the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and working with patients and the public.

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Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications and provide information on their use. They also counsel patients on how to take their medications safely and effectively. Pharmacists play an important role in preventing opioid misuse and abuse. This course helps build a foundation for Pharmacists by providing knowledge on the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and working with patients and the public.

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Registered Nurse

Registered Nurses provide care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They administer medications, monitor patients' vital signs, and provide wound care. Registered Nurses play an important role in preventing opioid misuse and abuse. This course helps build a foundation for Registered Nurses by providing knowledge on the opioid crisis, understanding pain, prevention and intervention of opioid misuse and abuse, and working with patients and the public.

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Health Educator

Health Educators aim to improve the health of communities. They teach about disease, injury prevention, nutrition, and other health-related topics. The ability to educate on prevention, intervention, and the safe use of opioids can help Health Educators fulfill their duties. This course helps build a foundation for Health Educators by providing knowledge on the opioid crisis and its impact. Health Educators may also find lessons on addiction treatment and recovery, public policy, and working with patients and the public to be helpful.

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Community Health Worker

Community Health Workers serve the healthcare needs of underserved communities. They often serve in areas with health disparities, such as lower income communities, racial and ethnic minority communities, and rural communities. These professionals teach about health and wellness, assist patients with accessing healthcare, and address the health concerns of the community. The understanding of pain and its treatment, along with best practices for assessing and treating addiction, can help Community Health Workers increase access to care and serve the needs of their community. This course may also be helpful for those seeking a career in healthcare.

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