Which statement about the Board's pain management rules is true?

• A. They help ensure safe prescribing practices for chronic pain
• B. They are optional guidelines
• C. They only apply to surgeons
• D. They are unrelated to controlled substances

Answer: (A)

The rules are meant to promote safe prescribing of controlled substances for chronic pain. They establish mandatory standards for evaluating patients, documenting the treatment plan, using the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, and monitoring ongoing use to reduce misuse and diversion. These requirements apply to any licensed practitioner who prescribes controlled substances for chronic pain, not just surgeons, and they are not optional guidelines. Because they are specifically about controlling and safeguarding the use of controlled substances in chronic pain management, the statement that they help ensure safe prescribing practices is the true one.