Congratulations on taking the next step in advancing your anesthetic practice. I am excited you have joined this exceptional program. Our fellowship is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in acute surgical pain management.
In recent years, the medical community has faced one of the most pressing and challenging issues in healthcare—the opioid epidemic. This crisis has deeply affected individuals and communities across the globe, and as healthcare professionals, it is our responsibility to address this issue head-on.
While opioids have traditionally played a vital role in the perioperative management of pain, it is crucial we recognize the potential risks and consequences associated with them. The opioid epidemic has exposed the dire need for alternative management strategies that effectively alleviate pain while minimizing the risk of addiction and other adverse effects.
As fellows in this program, you will redefine your approach to acute surgical pain management. Our curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from various fields including anesthesiology, pain medicine, psychology, and pharmacology. By fostering collaboration and encouraging innovation, we will expand your armamentarium necessary to implement evidence-based, comprehensive pain management strategies that prioritize patient safety and long-term outcomes.
Throughout your fellowship, you will have the opportunity to work alongside renowned experts in the field and gain hands-on experience in various clinical settings. We will explore a wide range of non-opioid pharmacological interventions, regional anesthesia techniques, and novel pain management strategies. By incorporating emerging technologies and advancing our understanding of pain mechanisms, we can revolutionize the way we manage acute surgical pain and contribute to the larger goal of combatting the opioid epidemic.
I encourage you to actively participate in discussions, share your ideas, and challenge conventional practices. Your unique perspectives and contributions will enrich the fellowship experience for all of us and play a crucial role in shaping the future of acute surgical pain management.
I am confident the fellowship will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to make a lasting impact on patient care and contribute to the broader fight against the opioid epidemic. I look forward to witnessing your growth and development over the next year, and I am honored to be part of your journey in becoming leaders and advocates for effective, safe, and compassionate pain management.
Once again, welcome to the Acute Surgical Pain Management Fellowship. Let us work together to bring about positive change and create a future where pain is managed effectively, responsibly, and with the utmost attention to optimal patient outcomes.
Warm regards,
Christian Falyar, DNAP, CRNA, FAANA
Director | Acute Surgical Pain Management Fellowship