Chronic Pain Management and Marijuana Use: Science-Based Education in Times of Legalization

This project addressed gaps in science-based training and education in the area of chronic pain management and cannabis use. The ultimate goal was to increase awareness of treatment options to treat pain and other medical conditions, and decrease unnecessary suffering among people living with chronic pain in the state of Washington. The project also provided information and education about medical conditions and populations for whom cannabis is not recommended, as well as side-effects and risks. This project proposed development and provision of training and education resources on chronic pain and medical cannabis for the following target groups: a) staff and volunteers of community organizations that provide information and referral for a range of situations involving substance use and people struggling with chronic and acute conditions (Poison Center, Crisis Clinic and Washington Recovery Helpline); b) health care providers and c) the general public.