The National Strategy is unique in its approach, aiming to provide consistent and evidence-based pain management education across all health practitioner disciplines.
By creating a unified set of principles, values, and goals, the strategy will ensure that health practitioners, regardless of their field or location, are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide optimal pain care. This inclusivity extends to medical practitioners, nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, First Nations health workers, and aged care workers.
A remarkable aspect of this strategy's development was the extensive stakeholder consultation process carried out in 2021. Despite challenges presented by the global pandemic, the faculty remained committed to gathering diverse insights to shape the strategy effectively. Stakeholder consultation workshops held across the country, both in-person and virtually, served as platforms for multi-disciplinary groups to brainstorm and contribute their expertise to the project.
This inclusive approach ensured that the strategy was not only based on scientific evidence and best practice but also reflected the real-world experiences and needs of those directly involved in pain management and education
The launch of the National Strategy is just the beginning. Over the next five to ten years, the roadmap provided by the strategy will be instrumental in transforming pain education for health practitioners at all stages of their careers, from undergraduate students to seasoned professionals.
In 2023, the faculty secured further funding from the Australian Government, marking a significant leap towards Goal 1 of the strategy – developing national standards for health practitioner pain management education.
While the strategy provides a roadmap, its success lies in collective action. Continuous feedback, collaboration, and commitment from all stakeholders will ensure that the strategy remains dynamic and evolves as per the needs of the community.