Pain Management Postgraduate Diploma and MSc Courses
Why Study Pain Management with us?
Our Courses
Postgraduate Diploma Delivered over 1 year, the online, part-time, distance learning, Postgraduate Diploma course is specially developed for busy health professionals. Formatted in 6 modules, each of 6 weeks duration; the course is designed to be practical and clinically focused. MSc The MSc runs over 1 calendar year. Starting with an initial 12 week online module to develop their skills in critical appraisal and knowledge of research methodologies, the students then complete the professional project module which consists of a 1,500 word proposal and 10,500 word professional project.
Diploma MSc 2
There are a large number and range of conditions associated with pain, and pain management (both acute and chronic) is a major challenge for the National Health Service (NHS). In the United Kingdom (UK) back pain is the number one chronic pain condition and the greatest cause of sick days taken from work. Due to advancing technology and understanding of physical illness, life expectancy is increasing every year. With that there is also an increase in the number of debilitating pain-centred conditions, which place an enormous financial burden on the NHS and for those patients (and their health insurance companies) seeking privately funded care. The PGDip/MSc Pain Management is the shortest and fastest route to the PGDip/MSc qualification. The course covers the wide range of the conditions pertinent to pain management and meets the educational needs of both primary and secondary healthcare professionals. This very practical Postgraduate Diploma and MSc will focus on direct application to current topics, case studies and processes relevant to the student’s own remit and country of practice. The pain management courses explore inter-disciplinary and multi-disciplinary approaches to pain management and service provision. Our courses are designed for a wide range of health professionals including; Doctors, Nurses, Allied Health Professionals, Practice Nurses and those with related undergraduate degrees (Clinical Nurse specialists, Physiotherapists, Chiropractors, Osteopaths, Dentists, Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, Podiatrists, Rehabilitation specialists) or equivalent professional qualifications and background experience. Upon completing the course, you will receive university accredited Pain Management Certification to state your medical ability and expertise in this field.
Diploma MSc 3
Pain Management Postgraduate Diploma Course Modules
Having a specialist knowledge in Pain Management is an increasingly important asset and extra responsibility of medical personnel. Our Pain Management Postgraduate Diploma is designed to help healthcare professionals specialise in their career and aid the need for more pain management professionals. Module 1 - Mechanisms of Pain History and epidemiology. Biopsychosocial model with gender consideration Chronic versus acute pain e.g.distinctions Pain science e.g. physiology of pain systems and syndromes. Taxonomy of pain systems Current evidence/research Severe pain syndromes Patient considerations (spiritual/social/ethical/occupational) Global impact on a person in pain (spiritual/social/ethical/occupational) On completion of this module the student should be able to demonstrate: Application of the biopsychosocial model to the varied presentations of pain Apply knowledge of complex pain mechanisms to the differentiation between, and impact of, acute and chronic pain Module 2 - Types of Pain ISP taxonomy of different types of pain Acute vs. chronic. Importance of early recognition and prevention of chronicity. Clinically important aspects of acute and chronic pain; difference between nociceptive and neuropathic pain. Cancer/Visceral Headache/Neuropathic Fibromyalia/musculoskeletal Understanding of pain changes in the light of new evidence On completion of this module the student should be able to: Critically discriminate between different types of pain Demonstrate knowledge of the complex clinical considerations that need to be taken into account in different types of pain
Module 3 - Principles of Pain Assessment and Management Assessment Measurement Diagnosis and Prognosis Treatment modalities - Primary Care (British Society Guidance 26/8) Alternative treatment modalities Clinical management (British Society Guidance 28/30) Roles, responsibilites and management On completion of this module the student should be able to: Critically analyse the assessment and treatment of patients with different pain presentations. Critically appraise treatment modalities in different clinical scenarios Module 4 - Multidisciplinary Approaches to Pain Management Physiology/Pharmacology /Medication Psychology/Cognitive Behaviour Manual therapies Patient Education/Self-Management/ Preventative Education Functional Rehabilitation Surgery and Post Surgery Care Deployment of different modalities for maximum effect On completion of this module the student should be able to: Critically analyse current evidence related to multi-disciplinary approach of treating different types of pain Critically evaluate the risk and benefits of different approaches to pain management Module 5 - Pain in Specialist Populations Older People Infants and children Disabilities including those with limited communication skills Pregnancy Vulnerable populations Pain in individuals with substance abuse Looking at how pain will present itself in all groups Considering similarities and differences Physical and psychological disorders How pain changes How to communicate in pain and cognitive impairment Working with vulnerable populations (mental health issues, homelessness, learning disabilities, delirium, dementia) Social aspects of pain (stigma, social isolation, labelling stigma, labelling isolations) Enhancing communication with different social groups On completion of this module the student should be able to: Demonstrate ability to manage pain in a variety of complex situations and /or populations Demonstrate ability to communicate with populations who have complex/specific or changing needs
Rutu Dave
Diploma MSc 4
"When I enrolled into the course I had no idea about the opportunities it would provide me with. Having my first paper published through this course helped me overcome my apprehensions of academic writing and made me more confident to pursue it further. " - Rutu Dave
Dr Kevin Fernando
Diploma MSc 5
"Little did I know that the MSc was going to be a significant stepping stone in my medical career! Both the diploma and MSc were invaluable in terms of expanding my knowledge and management, but also enhanced my critical thinking and writing skills." - Dr Kevin Fernando
Module 6 - Interdisciplinary Service Provision Evidence supporting inter-disciplinary and multi-disciplinary of pain Organisational services The consequences and influence rising from organisations The management team in a clinical setting The role of evaluating organisations, clinical settings (the way care is organised) The realistic expectations of the practitioner and carer Emerging ideas of services How emerging updated guidelines and impact of services. On completion of this module the student should be able to: Critically analyse the benefits of inter and multi-disciplinary pain management in a clinical setting and the consequences within healthcare schemes Demonstrate expertise in organising approaches to pain management Postgraduate Diploma in Pain Management - Assessment The course puts assessment at the heart of learning by using clinical scenarios to facilitate problem-solving, critical analysis and evidence-based care. The scenarios act as both the focus for learning and assessment thus embedding assessment within the learning process. Each of the 6 modules has the same assessment format. Due to the online nature of the course, students are expected to login and participate in the course regularly throughout the module (ideally on a daily basis). Students are split into groups of 10-15 students and are assigned a dedicated expert tutor who: Facilitates clinical case discussions with the group. Monitors, assesses and marks each student throughout the module. Students use the following skills gained during the lectures to engage with the different activities : Clinical Case-Based Scenarios and Discussion - 40% Reflective Journal - 10% Module Assignment - 20% Case-Based Examination - 30%
Diploma MSc 6
Teaching Methods Our courses are conducted entirely online through self-directed distance learning. However, you will receive guidance throughout with tutor-stimulated academic discussions, which are based on clinically-rich case scenarios. These usually occur within groups of 10-15 students, allowing you to clearly communicate with both your tutor and fellow students. You will participate in a combination of group and individual activities, which are recorded in a reflective journal. This innovative teaching method enables you to envisage the translation of your studies into your every day work and practice. Our dedicated Student Support Team are also available to help with any problems you may face. From navigating our online platform to advising you on deadlines, our team can assist with any questions or challenges you may have along the way. Online Induction Day Once you have secured your place on the course, you will be invited to an online Induction Day webinar. This will give you the opportunity to participate in study skills workshops on Harvard referencing, scientific and reflective writings, and levels of evidence in preparation for your studies. It is not compulsory for you to attend our Induction Day but it is recommended, as it'll provide you with a sturdy introduction to the course. Entry Requirements Health professionals working within a clinical setting, both UK and overseas, with a related Healthcare Science degree (including international qualifications) are eligible to apply for the PG Diploma course. Applicants without the above academic criteria but relevant/suitable experience can apply. Applications will be judged on the individual specifics of background and qualifications including ability to work at Postgraduate level (applicants may be asked to submit a piece of work for assessment to confirm that they are able to work comfortably at Postgraduate level and demonstrate requisite clinical/professional knowledge). Applicants should submit copies of the following with their application: Qualification certificates One written reference English language qualification (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
Diploma MSc 8
Module 1 - Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal Aim of the module: To help students recognise, understand, interpret and apply methods used in healthcare research and critically appraise the various methodologies in Pain Management research thus developing leadership skills Synopsis of module content: Terminology used in epidemiology and research studies such as prevalence, incidence, sensitivity, specificity, false positive and false negatives. Interpreting graphical representation of epidemiological and statistical data such as Kaplan-Meier Curves, Forrest Plots and Meta-analyses. Calculations used in the assessment of research data such as relative risk, absolute risk, number needed to treat. Basic statistical tests and their applications including t-Tests, ANOVA, Chi-Square. Methodologies as applied to inter-disciplinary & multi-disciplinary Pain Management research. Principles of evidence based practice and its application into the clinical setting. Research into educational principles for both healthcare practitioner and patient. Understanding what may work for the patient as well as the educator. On completion of this module the student should be able to demonstrate: Analyse and interpret research in pain management Compare and contrast the different research methods in healthcare with an emphasis on pain management
Pain Management MSc Course Modules
The MSc Pain Management course aims to create professionals who can independently access information and use the information to critically assess, evaluate and disseminate the evidence base related to Pain Management. The course will enable more health care professionals to have the required knowledge to treat patients. It will develop problem-solving and clinical skills together with preparing students to take a leadership role in Pain Management.
Diploma MSc 9
Module 2 - Professional Project Aims of the module: To develop an ability to critically evaluate areas of professional practice. To critically appraise specific areas of clinical, research and organisational practice. To develop skills in independent research and study. To develop skills relevant to scientific publications. Synopsis of module content: The module will depend on the creation of a piece of work based upon a specific clinically related project relevant to the student’s practice. This project may comprise: Literature review and appraisal of the evidence. Audit of practice including organisational or clinical. Review and implementation of evidence-based practice. Qualitative or quantitative research (formal research involving human subjects is not anticipated). Case(s)-based and quality of service review with critical appraisal. Case report, review of literature and organisational assessment. On completion of this module the student should be able to: produce an extensive piece of literature which may be suitable for peer-reviewed publication. critically evaluate practice and suggest improvements or change. Incorporated knowledge of the research process in developing services appropriately. Teaching Methods Module 1 - Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal. MSc teaching methods for this module are similar to the PG Diploma course modules however it is run over 12 weeks. Module 2 - Professional Project. To produce the professional project, students continue to use the online course; however much of the work is self-directed. Students are expected in the first 8 weeks to interact with their tutor on a weekly basis. Students select a specific project and submit a project summary/proposal (approximately 1500 words). Once the proposal has been approved, the professional project (10,500 words) itself is then completed through online guidance and supervision offered by the tutor. The student and tutor will interact regularly (weekly) on the dedicated students/tutor discussion area or through any other means of communication deemed appropriate by both parties (telephone/SKYPE/email). Note of any verbal communication with the tutor is recorded in the student's journal by the student. Entry Requirements Entry to the 1 year MSc Pain Management programme will require the successful completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Pain Management (120 credits) either from the University of South Wales or from another UK University. Students may apply for the MSc as a two-year course consisting of 8 modules (180 credits), the first 120 credits of which being the Postgraduate Diploma. Applicants should submit copies of the following with their application: Qualification certificates One written reference
Graduates of this course will receive a Master of Science award from the University of South Wales, Diploma MSc’s collaborative partner. The Pain Management MSc course provides a progression route for the Postgraduate Diploma course in Pain Management.
What do our students think?
Since 2010, over 1000 students have progressed their medical career by enrolling in one of our qualifications. We ourselves have learned a lot during this time and continually seek to improve the student learning experience. Here is what some of our previous students have said:
"I found the online learning very interesting. It enabled me to save money and time." Dr Imad Eddin Rahamtalla, Doctor "I strongly recommend Diploma MSc to all those busy physicians who are working in remote areas and wish to upgrade their knowledge." Dr Junaid Zaffar, Diabetologist. "The learning was fun and enjoyable. The course was awesome and it increased my confidence." Dr Sankar Nath Jha, Assistant Professor "I found learning with Diploma MSc interesting, it helped to update my academic knowledge" Dr Prasanth Kinattupurayil, Doctor "I love that it was flexible and that I could log in at my convenience. I found this course to be very in-depth, informative, challenging and stimulating." Kerri-Ann Best PGDip, RD "I feel that the diploma MSc program helped me consolidate my practical knowledge of Pain Management and understand the global perspective of the disease as well. The PG Diploma has helped me grow professionally and helped me accomplish my dream of increasing patient education & awareness regarding the disease." Hemi Soneja PGDip MSc
Ty Bevan House, Cleeve Drive, Llanishen, Cardiff CF14 5GF Tel: +44 (0) 29 2192 1312 email: admissions@diploma-msc.com
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