This session is part of the ancillary and adjunctive PMSP module, which highlights and summarizes best practices for incorporating ancillary and adjunctive therapies into an effective and appropriate pain management regimen. This session is dedicated to the appropriate management of patients who are at a higher risk of opioid abuse. Strategies for navigating the corresponding responsibility of the pharmacist are weighed with opportunities for intervention and patient referral resources. This session tackles the ‘difficult patient conversations’ and proposes proven strategies for effectively directing that communication.

1. Recognize appropriate treatment options for patients with pain who have a higher risk of opioid abuse.

2. Recognize appropriate steps a healthcare professional should take while dismissing a patient from a patient and provider relationship.

3. Recognize appropriate actions for a pharmacist related to the federal mandated corresponding responsibility to ensure the legitimate medical purpose and usual course of practice for any given prescription.

4. Recall appropriate referral resources within substance-use disorder and drug diversion/abuse for patients and healthcare professionals alike.