EK HEALTH

by Richard Thompson, MD
EK Health Services' Chief Medical Officer

EK Health Services hosted a half-day seminar Wednesday, March 23 in Pasadena to help workers’ compensation stakeholders understand prescription drug management for chronic pain. The seminar, “Understanding the Pharmacology of Chronic Pain,” offered CEU (Continued Education Unit) credits to RN’s and claims adjusters and was open to clients, employers and medical professionals who treat injured workers. More than 100 persons attended and enjoyed the stimulating presentations as well as the (given) networking with their peers in the industry. We received many strong words of praise, but I particularly liked the one that said, “It was the best seminar I have ever attended!”

This subject is so popular because of the proliferation of controlled substances prescribed to injured workers with chronic pain. Statistics were shown demonstrating that patients can often receive multiple prescriptions, leading to 20 to 30 percent prescription cost escalation. All of this with no benefit to the patient. Dr. Golden, a board-certified internist, oncologist, and addictionologist was the keynote speaker. He explored the physiology, neurobiology, and psychosocial factors affecting patients with chronic pain as well as his experience of doing UR for EK Health Services.

“Understanding the Pharmacology of Chronic Pain” is one in a series of topical seminars offered periodically throughout California by EK Health, a leader in medical and disability management services. We will continue to provide educational seminars in various locations throughout California to respond to your needs. Please feel free to contact me regarding subjects you would like to explore.

Pasadena seminar topics and speakers were:
Pharmacy Benefits Network (PBN) Cost Containment
Anita Weir, Director, Medical & Disability Mgmt., Corp Risk of Safeway, Inc.

Defending PBM Bills
Pablo Kontarovsky, Lien Specialist, Safeway, Inc.

Trends in UR, Urine Drug Screening and CURES
Richard F. Thompson, M.D., EK Health Chief Medical Officer

UR of Chronic Pain
James Golden, M.D., EK Health Physician Reviewer

To learn more about upcoming seminars please contact Shayna Harrison at (877) 861-1595 or education@ekhealth.com