The dissertation defense is open and will be held virtually.
Participants are requested to RSVP to receive the link to the presentation.
The PhD in Translational Health Sciences Program is proud to announce the Dissertation Defense of:
PhD Candidate: Lena Volland PT, DPT
Implementation of the MASAC Recommendations for the Practical Application of the CDC Opioid Prescription Guidelines for Chronic Pain Management in Persons with Bleeding Disorders (PWBD): A Mixed-Methods Study
Dissertation Committee Chair: Kenneth Harwood PT, PhD, FAPT
April 8, 2025 – 12:00p.m. ET
Chronic pain profoundly affects people with bleeding disorders (PWBD), yet guidance tailored to their unique needs has been limited. To address this gap, the Medical and Scientific Advisory Council (MASAC) of the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation (NBDF) published evidence-based recommendations in 2020, adapting the 2016 CDC opioid prescribing guidelines. This study assessed the nationwide interdisciplinary implementation of these recommendations at U.S. Hemophilia Treatment Centers (HTCs), examining adherence rates, barriers, and facilitators across different healthcare provider (HCP) groups. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach, 201 HCPs completed surveys, and 17 participated in interviews to evaluate knowledge, adoption, and implementation challenges. While some recommendations, such as screening for pain, anxiety, depression, and opioid risks, were widely practiced, other recommendations, such as adherence to multimodal treatment plans, non-pharmacological education, goal setting, and opioid monitoring, remained low in adherence. Barriers to provider knowledge gaps, opioid-related stigma, resource constraints, organizational limitations, and funding challenges were highlighted. Key facilitators included interdisciplinary collaboration, strong organizational support, educational programs, telemedicine, and improved access to the MASAC recommendations. The study also developed actionable mitigation strategies to enhance continued implementation and promote sustainable clinical practices. Ultimately, findings underscored the need to balance patient-centered care with evidence-based practices to optimize outcomes for PWBD.