Rheumatology and Pain Management for Primary Care
Jan 16, 2026 – Jan 18, 2026
Whistler - Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa
This program includes 3.0 hours of content intended to meet the MATE Act requirements.
Experience world-class skiing and après-ski luxury at Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa, nestled in the heart of North America’s largest ski resort. With direct access, being just steps from the gondolas, this premium property offers unbeatable convenience to access the slopes. Ski from first light to last run, then step into the vibrant village for exceptional world-class dining, shopping, and nightlife right outside your door. Here you can discover the ultimate alpine getaway, where stunning mountain views, legendary terrain, and lively village life come together in one unforgettable destination. With endless winter activities and breathtaking scenery, Whistler is where adventure meets alpine charm.
Tuition Discount
Past Attendees Save $50: Past MCE Conferences attendees (within the previous three years) automatically receive a $50 discount at checkout.
Bring a Friend or Colleague and Save $50: If you are attending with another healthcare professional you are eligible for a $50 discount.
Overview & Agenda
Rheumatology and Pain Management for Primary Care – 12 Credits
This program includes 3.0 hours of content intended to meet the Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act requirements for DEA license renewal.
Overview
This conference is designed to provide primary care practitioners with up-to-date, evidence-based information on commonly encountered issues in Rheumatology and Pain Management while suggesting pragmatic approaches to clinical management. The discussion-based format of the conference will encourage audience participation through dynamic lectures, case-based studies, and hands-on workshops. Keynote speakers will present and critically assess recent advancements and industry updates in Rheumatology and Pain Management to enhance the knowledge base and core competence of attendees. The successful completion of this interactive program diagnosing, treating, and prescribing the most effective courses of treatment, with the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes.
Target Audience
All Physicians and other Healthcare Professionals seeking clinical information about various issues in Rheumatology and Pain Management.
Speakers
Our presenting national faculty speakers make it their professional goals to enhance the training of primary care clinicians. This Continuing Medical Education program promises to help you learn the most current, best medicine, and techniques for making the diagnosis easier during a 20-minute office visit.
Schedule
Friday, January 16th
Assessment of Low Back Pain
Objectives: 1) Discuss how multiple structures in the lumbar spine may serve as pain generators, including the disc, facet joint, myofascial, and ligamentous structures 2) Review, demonstrate, and practice basic physical exam techniques used for assessing spine-related pain conditions 3) Differentiate lumbar radiculopathy signs and symptoms from other causes of low back pain, including facet-mediated, soft tissue, and sacroiliac joint pain
Management of Fibromyalgia
Objectives: 1) Become familiar with recent pathophysiology related to mechanisms of fibromyalgia 2) Discuss recent clinical criteria for diagnosing fibromyalgia in a primary care setting 3) Identify a multidisciplinary approach that can be applied to patients with chronic widespread pain
Osteoarthritis: A Practical Guide
Objectives: 1) Identify the features that are typical for primary osteoarthritis and those that may be a consequence of a different disease 2) Properly order imaging studies to aid in diagnosis and management 3) Manage treatment with use of both nonpharmacologic measures, such as weight reduction and exercise, supplements, cannabis for pain control, as well as medications for relieving joint symptoms) Determine when surgery is needed
Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and the Long COVID Syndrome
Objectives: 1) Recognize the typical features of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia 2) Distinguish their clinical features from other rheumatic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and Sjogren’s syndrome 3) Recognize the broad overlap of clinical symptoms between FM/CFS and post-acute COVID syndrome 4) Effectively treatment for these disorders
Saturday, January 17th
Overview of Opioid Pharmacology, Assessment, and Management
Objectives: 1) Highlight pharmacologic differences between various opioids used for chronic pain management 2) Describe risk factors that may help to predict problematic opioid use, including addiction and misuse 3) Review validated screening tools used to help identify possible aberrant behaviors related to long-term opioid use 4) Review and utilize Patient Provider Agreements (PPAs) and Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs), as a means of improved monitoring of patients using opioid products
Rational Polypharmacy for Chronic Pain Management
Objectives: 1) Apply new pathophysiologic understanding to treating pain 2) Determine mechanisms of action for the various muscle relaxers and anticonvulsants commonly used to treat various chronic pain states 3) Use case examples to better understand titration and adjustment of adjuvant analgesics
Approach to a Patient with Multiple Aches and Pains
Objectives: 1) Recognize the importance of pathophysiology in understanding rheumatic disease – target tissue and characteristic joint distribution 2) Distinguish inflammatory from non-inflammatory (degenerative) arthritis and non-articular (soft-tissue) rheumatic conditions 3) Recognize the role of laboratory and imaging studies in the rheumatologic diagnosis 4) Identify the features that distinguish fibromyalgia from other rheumatic diseases 5) Distinguish symptoms of COVID-19 long haul syndrome and similarities to fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome
Clinical Aspects and Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Objectives: 1) Recognize the prevalence, symptoms and physical findings of patients with RA 2) Discuss the diagnosis of RA and risk assessment for potentially severe disease outcome 3) Strategize on the use of conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, biologic and synthetic agents with a treat-to-target approach 4) Determine the appropriate timing of medication use and vaccination schedule in current COVID-19 pandemic
Sunday, January 18th
Gout and Other Crystal Arthropathies
Objectives: 1) Identify the populations at risk for gout 2) Identify comorbidities and risk factors in gout patients 3) Diagnose gout and order appropriate laboratory and imaging studies 4) Recognize pseudogout and other crystal arthropathies 5) Treat acute gout effectively and initiate a strategy for successful long-term treatment 6) Develop a strategy to manage asymptomatic hyperuricemia
How Do I Identify and Treat Lupus and Other Autoimmune Diseases?
Objectives: 1) Recognize the features of an autoimmune disease and make a definitive diagnosis of lupus 2) Develop a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of lupus as an immune-complex disease 3) Properly order laboratory studies and kidney biopsy to diagnose and manage lupus 4) Treat lupus and instruct the patient on self-management
Individualized Pain Treatments Demystified
Objectives: 1) Implement evidence-based strategies for safely tapering and weaning patients off opioids, including individualized withdrawal timelines and monitoring protocols 2) Formulate an approach for converting patients between adjunctive analgesics 3) Apply non-opioid pharmacological therapies in practice, including advanced combination regimens, to optimize pain management while reducing opioid reliance.
Approaching Difficult Conversations about Chronic Pain
Objectives: 1) Discuss the best approach in addressing the patient who is resistant to change 2) Describe a strategy for treating patients with anxiety around pain therapy 3) Characterize patients with clear addiction 4) Manage patients who are angry or upset in the office 5) Discuss the approach to patients who have lost self-control
Please Note: Content is subject to change without notice. Please refer to this activity website for the most current information.
Program Schedule
Date
Location
Description
Time
January 16 2026
Hilton Whistler
Conference - Day 1
Snacks and Beverages for Registered Attendees
Check-In Opens at 2:15 PM
2:30 PM - 6:50 PM
January 17, 2026
Hilton Whistler
Conference - Day 2
Snacks and Beverages for Registered Attendees
2:30 PM - 6:50 PM
January 18, 2026
Hilton Whistler
Conference - Day 3
Continental Breakfast for Registered Attendees
7:30 AM - 11:50 AM
Accreditation
Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education – ACCME
MCE Conferences is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
MCE Conferences designates this live activity for a maximum of 12 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credits commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
ABIM MOC Recognition
Successful completion of this CME activity, which includes participation in the evaluation component, enables the participant to earn up to 12 (part II) MOC points in the American Board of Internal Medicine’s (ABIM) Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program. Participants will earn MOC points equivalent to the amount of CME credits claimed for the activity. It is the CME activity provider’s responsibility to submit participant completion information to ACCME for the purpose of granting ABIM MOC credit.
American Academy of Family Physicians – AAFP
MCE Conferences continuing medical education programs are organized by primary care healthcare professionals who are leaders in their field, and MCE Conferences plans to apply for American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) credit for all of its courses prior to the program date.
The College of Family Physicians of Canada – CFPC
The AAFP and the CFPC have a bilateral reciprocal certification agreement whereby: CME/CPD activities held across the Canada – U.S. border are certified according to the nationality of the primary target audiences regardless of where the providers are located. CFPC members who complete any CME/CPD activity certified by the AAFP for Prescribed credit can claim the equivalent number of Mainpro+ Certified or Mainpro+ Certified Assessment credits.
American Osteopathic Association – AOA
The AOA automatically recognizes AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ as AOA Category 2 credit.
American Nurses Credentialing Center – ANCC
American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) accepts AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ for recertification and continuing education credits. One AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ is equivalent to one contact hour for registered nurses or one advanced practice CNE for nurse practitioners.
Nurse Practitioners
American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certified Program (AANPCP) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) accept AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ from organizations accredited by the ACCME.
Physician Assistants
PAs may claim a maximum of 12 Category 1 credits for completing this activity. NCCPA accepts AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ from organizations accredited by ACCME or a recognized state medical society.
Pharmacology Credits
This course is being reviewed and will be acceptable for up to 12 CME credits; please verify with your Medical Board which hours may be applied toward Pharmacology credit.
Hotel Accommodations
Lodging Reservations -To make your lodging reservation, please Click Here (Reservation Link Coming Soon!). If you need assistance, please contact our office at info@mceconferences.com.
Please note: Room categories and bedding are based on availability at the time of request.
Accommodations and Amenities – Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa offers spacious, alpine-inspired accommodations with cozy fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, and kitchenettes in select suites—perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes. Guests can unwind in the heated outdoor pool and hot tub, rejuvenate at the full-service spa, or stay active in the on-site fitness center. With ski valet service, on-site dining, and a prime village location, every detail is designed for comfort and convenience.
- Hilton Guestroom with (2) Double Beds – $399 CAD ($289 USD Exchange at Time of Publishing)* – Per Room Per Night, Plus Applicable Taxes and Fees375 sq. ft. – Maximum Occupancy 4 people. Pamper yourself with one of the largest standard guest rooms in Whistler Village. Room amenities include a work desk, mini-fridge, coffee maker and electric tea kettle. After a day of fun, relax and enjoy our modern, elegant decor and order room service while enjoying a movie on our 55-inch flat screen television. Some Hilton Rooms may connect to a King Studio creating a spacious suite with over 700 sq. ft. of space sleeping up to 6 people.
- *The USD rate posted is only intended as a reference point, MCE is not responsible for fluctuations in exchange rates at the time transactions occur. Exchange rates change on a moment-to-moment basis, for current rates please click here. Please also note some banks charge a foreign transaction fee for international payments, please check with your bank for additional information on these charges.
- King Studio with Kitchenette – $399 CAD ($289 USD Exchange at Time of Publishing)* – Per Room Per Night, Plus Applicable Taxes and Fees400 sq. ft. – Maximum Occupancy 2 people. The King Studio combines the comfort of the Hilton Room with the convenience of a kitchenette. Whether you’ve been on the slopes or links, enjoy a soothing bath in the deep soaker tub. After a day of fun, relax and enjoy our modern, elegant decor and order room service while enjoying a movie on our 55-inch flat screen television. Some Studios have the option of connecting to a Hilton Room with two double beds creating a spacious suite with over 700 sq. ft. of space sleeping up to 6 people.
- *The USD rate posted is only intended as a reference point, MCE is not responsible for fluctuations in exchange rates at the time transactions occur. Exchange rates change on a moment-to-moment basis, for current rates please click here. Please also note some banks charge a foreign transaction fee for international payments, please check with your bank for additional information on these charges.
Addition Resort Fee – A Resort Fee of $35.00 CAD per room per night plus applicable taxes will be added to each room night which includes the following amenities: Guest Internet access, ski/bike/golf valet & storage; bike & snowshoe rental; hotel car service within Whistler Village
Additional Lodging Information
- Taxes: Rates are subject to 16% tax (5% GST, 8% PST and 3% MRDT). Taxes are subject to change.
- Additional Adult Charge: A $30.00 charge is applicable for each additional adult (over 18 years old) over double occupancy.
- Check-in/Check-out times: Check-in is at 4:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM
- Please note, group rates are charged in Canadian Dollars.
Discounted Ski and Snowboard Rentals – Discounted rates on ski and snowboard rentals may be made available for MCE Conference attendees. Please (CHECK BACK FOR UPDATES).
Hotel Parking – Nightly, secured underground parking has been discounted to $30.00 per night (plus 5% GST) for self-parking (Currently $37); and valet parking is available for $41.00 per night (plus 5% GST). Parking rates are subject to change.
Lodging Deposit – Individual guests will be required to guarantee their reservations by use of a major credit card or advance deposit. The Hotel will accept cancellation or changes to individual reservations up to 14 days prior to arrival. After that time the individual’s credit card will be billed for the full duration of the stay and no changes, early departures or refunds will be issued. Any reservation which fails to materialize and has not been cancelled a minimum of 14 days prior to arrival will be charged full stay room and tax to the individual’s credit card provided.
Lodging Cancellations – Terms and conditions as per MCE’s room allotment agreement with the conference lodging venue:
- Cancellation made 31 days or more prior to arrival: A full refund will be issued.
- Cancellation 30 days or less prior to arrival: No refunds will be issued.
- No-shows and early departures are considered a cancellation: No refunds will be issued.
All lodging cancellations must be made directly with the lodging venue. Please refer to your lodging confirmation for contact information and policies.
Register & Book Your Lodging Early! The MCE reduced room rates will be available to registered attendees up until December 11, 2025 (based on availability). Our allotment for reduced room rates may sell out before this date. We urge you to secure your lodging reservation as early as possible. Reduced rates will also be offered for 3 nights pre and post-program dates (based on availability).
Room Reservation Guidelines – The lodging reservation link has been created for the MCE Conference continuing medical education program, and only guests that are registered for this CME conference are eligible to use this site in order to access discounted rooms and/or theme park tickets (if applicable).
- Attendees must register within (7) seven days of booking MCE discounted lodging to avoid cancellations or increased nightly rates (depending on Hotel/Resort policy).
- We allow a maximum of 2 room reservations per registered attendee, based on availability and rates at the time of booking.
- Rooms and/or tickets (if applicable) cannot be purchased for the purpose of, or with the intention of being resold.
- All reservations and ticket orders (if applicable) will be audited against the CME program registration list. Should it be necessary, we reserve the right to contact you to request proof of registration. If it is discovered that the reservation and/or ticket order is not directly associated with an MCE Conferences participant, the reservations and/or ticket order may be canceled or modified based on the Hotel/Resort policy, and deposits may not be eligible for a refund.
Please note: In order to provide a quality and interactive CME program, MCE Conferences will limit the number of registrations per conference.
Additional Travel Information
Airport Information – The Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is located approximately 83 miles (134 km) from the Hilton Whistler.
Airport Transfer: YVR Whistler SkyLynx connects travelers from Vancouver International Airport to Whistler along the sea to sky corridor.
For information about YVR Whistler SkyLynx fares and schedules, please call 1-800-661-1725 (North America) or 1-604-662-7575 (Local). Tickets can also be purchased at the Whistler/SkyLynx bus counter of Pacific Coach located in International Terminal, Arrivals Level 2.
Car Rental – To make your discounted car rental reservation, please click on the following links:
(please note: car rental company availability may differ based on airport/ destination)
- AVIS – Click Here and enter G028287 in the “AWD Number” box to receive the Group Discount.
- Budget – Click Here
- Enterprise – Click Here and enter XZB6145 to receive the MCE Conferences Group Discount.
- Hertz – Click Here and check the “Enter a Discount or Promo Code” and “I am a Corporate Customer” boxes. Enter 2086989 in the “Discount/CDP/Club Code” box to receive the Group Discount.
- National – Click Here and enter XZB6145 under Contract ID to receive Group Discount.
Special Assistance – MCE’s policy is to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If special arrangements are necessary for an individual with a disability to attend a conference, please contact our office at 1-888-533-9031.
Please Note: MCE is not associated with the third-party services listed herein and shall not be liable for any services of such third-party providers.
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What Are You Waiting For?
Register Early! In order to provide a quality and interactive CME program, MCE Conferences will limit the amount of registrations per conference. Some conferences may have a lower registration limit due to the destination logistics and lodging availability.