ID# 1905560 Developing The Postgraduate Certificate Course in Neuromodulation and Pain Management - University Accreditation in Neuromodulation
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Authors
Poply K.
Russo M.
Raslan A.
AbdElsayed A.
Gulve A.
Bux A.
Gulati A.
Ghai B.
Baranidharan G.
Gilligan C.
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2025
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Introduction: Since its inception in 1967, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has become a widely recognised intervention for not just chronic neuropathic pain but a host of other neurological, cardiac, and gastrointestinal disorders. In 2019, it was estimated that 50,000 SCS devices were being implanted annually, with an approximate market size of USD 2.8 billion. Despite the exponential increase in demand and advances in technology, the provision for structured education in this field has lagged. We propose a portfolio of neuromodulation education that has university accreditation and is free of industry bias. Method(s): Establishing a standard of education in neuromodulation and pain management by offering university-accredited courses to doctors, nurses, allied healthcare professionals, and field clinical engineers aiming for careers in neuromodulation. This follows the development of a portfolio of high quality programs which are clinically and financially sustainable, allowing us to deliver an excellent education and exceptional experience for candidates. Result(s): Through KOL engagement (Australia, India, Europe, UK and US) across the globe during the pandemic, the following fully online, university-based neuromodulation course was created. * The Postgraduate Certification in Neuromodulation and Pain Management (PGCert) was the first accreditation in the area and is the benchmark for any credential in the field of neuromodulation across the globe; generating studentship, nurturing collaborations and creating standards in neuromodulation education. * For the first PGCert intake (2022-23) 21 places were offered, resulting in 17 candidates completing the qualification. The subsequent 2023-24 cohort consisted of 23 candidates (UK 13, India 3, USA 6, Singapore 1). * The program consists of 4 modules - worth 60 credits in total, delivered over 2 semesters. The modules were 'Anatomy and Neurophysiology', 'Patient care and Procedurals skills', 'Devices and Available Technology', and 'Intrathecal Drug Delivery for Cancer and Non-Cancer Pain'. * Each module is taught online over 3 days and then assessed via a 2500-word assignment; after which candidates are provided with feedback to ensure successful engagement with the programme. * The modular nature of the program is designed to fit around the needs of students in full-time employment, allowing achievement of a qualification in one academic year through part-time study. Conclusion(s): We aim to provide structured education in the field of neuromodulation so that it sets and reviews standards and competencies for best practice, based on educational content. The executive KOL board aims to provide leadership and direction to education program to ensure an effective and integrated educational portfolio in neuromodulation education. Copyright © 2025
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Neuromodulation
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North American Neuromodulation Society 28th Annual Meeting.