Methadone for Palliative Care Providers: A Case-Based Flipped Classroom Module for Faculty and Fellows

Area of Science:

• Palliative Care
• Pain Management
• Medical Education

Background:

• Methadone is effective for pain but requires specialized knowledge for safe prescription.
• Palliative care providers frequently use methadone for diverse patient populations.
• Updated 2019 guidelines exist, but a needs assessment revealed knowledge gaps among clinicians.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an educational intervention for safe methadone prescribing.
• To improve clinicians' knowledge and confidence in using methadone for pain management.

Main Methods:

• A virtual, flipped classroom learning module was created.
• The module included pre/posttests, readings, lectures, and interactive videoconference sessions.
• The target audience was palliative care fellows and practicing clinicians.

Main Results:

• 28 clinicians completed the intervention, showing improved self-reported confidence in all objectives.
• Participants demonstrated enhanced skills in dose calculation, administration conversion, and safety guideline identification.
• The virtual format proved efficient and engaging.

Conclusions:

• The virtual learning module effectively improved clinicians' confidence and skills in prescribing methadone.
• This educational approach offers an accessible, efficient, and engaging method for disseminating best practices in palliative care.