Filling the knowledge gap: a continuing medical education course on prescribing drugs with abuse potential

Learning the components of the task of writing a prescription is not the same as learning when to prescribe what drug, in which quantity, dose, and frequency; how to counsel the patient about taking the drug; what to look for while monitoring the patient; and particularly, in the case of controlled drugs, what to do if a patient abuses a medication. Education about prescribing drugs with abuse potential is very limited in medical school, and little exists in the way of continuing medical education. We have designed a two-day continuing medical education course for primary care practitioners that blends a variety of learning experiences and incorporates innovative approaches. This program emphasizes active participation, even within a traditional large group format. Computerized clinical case simulation activities call on participants to draw on their own medical practice experience, and to apply newly acquired knowledge to solve clinical problems before they leave the classroom. The pilot test of the program reinforced how powerful teaching can be when it is led by credible, skillful experts interacting with individuals face-to-face and when it is complemented by small group discussion. Plans for dissemination of this program are under way.