Is It Painful to Manage Chronic Pain? A Cross-Sectional Study of Physicians In-Training in a University Program.

Background: Prescribing opioids for chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) is a challenge due to associated risks from abuse, addiction and adverse effects. We surveyed resident physicians on their knowledge, attitude and practices in opioid prescription practices in the ambulatory setting and conducted an educational module to address their knowledge gaps.

Methods: A phase 1 survey assessed knowledge, attitudes and practices of residents in the out-patient management of CNCP with opioids.