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Update on Pain Management and Opioid Prescribing

7-Night Western Caribbean & CocoCay Cruise
Round-trip Miami, Florida
June 13 - 20, 2026

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas

COURSE CREDITS & HOURS

14 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
14 ACPE Credits
14.0 Contact Hours

COURSE FEES

$995.00 for Physicians, Psychiatrists, Pharmacists, & Attorneys

$795.00 for Physician Assistants & Nurse Practitioners

$595.00 for Nurses, Students & Others

TARGET AUDIENCE

Physicians, Physician Assistants, Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Pharmacists

PROGRAM PURPOSE

Dr. Benedetti's Topics

Chronic Pain
Low Back Pain
Myofascial Pain and Fibromyalgia
Post-Herpetic Neuralgia
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Opioids for Chronic Non-Malignant Pain
Complex Chronic Pain Case Presentation and Discussion
Auricular Acupuncture

Dr. Sarantopoulos's Topics

The Basics of Pain I: The Basic Physiology and Pharmacology of Pain
- Describe and explain basic concepts and clinical types of pain (acute, chronic, nociceptive, neuropathic)
- Discuss the contribution of biological, psychological, and social factors to the pain experience
Diagnostic Evaluation of Pain
- Demonstrate the ability to obtain a comprehensive health history and perform a physical exam
- Recognize clinical indications for diagnostic imaging and testing
- Develop a differential diagnosis that recognizes pain classification subgroups
Neuropathic Pain Syndromes
- Diagnose specific etiologies and syndromes related to neuropathic pain
- Discuss mechanism-based and evidence-based pharmacological treatments
- Choose non-pharmacological and interventional approaches for management
Clinical Pharmacology of Pain and Alternatives to Opioids
- Correlate the pain pathway with therapeutic targets for analgesia
- Describe the concept of multi-modal analgesia and non-opioid options
- Apply evidence-based principles in the rational use of non-opioid pharmacological agents
Opioid Use Disorders (OUD)
- Discuss the epidemiology of OUD in primary care
- Implement screening tools and harm reduction strategies
- Describe strategies for primary care-based management of OUD
Management of Cancer Pain: Pharmacological and Interventional Therapies
- Describe types of cancer-related pain and underlying mechanisms
- Discuss steps for diagnostic evaluation in the context of palliative care
- Design evidence-based, patient-centered therapeutic plans including interventional therapies
Pain in the Face, Eyes, and Oral Cavity
- Differentiate common pain syndromes in the face, oral cavity, and eyes
- Perform proper diagnostic evaluation and differential diagnosis
- Initiate first-line treatment and recognize when to refer to specialists

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment to take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

BIAS FREE CME - No Commercial Support was provided for this CME activity.

Faculty

Esther Benedetti, MD

Chief, Chronic Pain Medicine
Bruce Carter Miami VA Healthcare System
Miami, FL

Dr. Benedetti is a Venezuelan anesthesiologist who received her degree in Pain Medicine from Fletcher Allen Heath Care at the University of Vermont. She went on to become faculty at the University of Iowa where she worked as an attending physician in the Department of Anesthesia’s Pain Clinic and later received an Associate Clinical Professor degree. After nearly a decade, she moved to the wonderful State of Florida where she became part of the Miami VA family where she became the Chronic Pain Section Chief and was later named the the VISN 8 Chief Pain Consultant.

Konstantinos Sarantopoulos, MD, PhD

Chief, Division of Pain Management
Professor of Clinical Anesthesiology
Professor of Ophthalmology
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Miami, FL

Dr. Sarantopoulos serves as Chief of the Division of Pain Management at the Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine and Pain Management of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. He holds academic appointments as Professor of Clinical Anesthesiology, and as Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Miami.

He has practiced pain medicine for several years, with special emphasis on the evaluation and management of patients suffering from chronic pain in the eyes. His clinical research has focused on the prevention of transition from acute to chronic pain, and currently on management of chronic ocular pain. His basic research includes investigations of neuronal ion channels and signal transduction in peripheral neuropathic pain. He has published extensively in peer reviewed biomedical journals and written numerous book chapters pertinent to his specialties.

Accreditation

	In support of improving patient care, Continuing Education, Inc./University at Sea® is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

	Credit Designation for Physicians: Continuing Education, Inc. designates this live activity for 14 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. Osteopathic Physicians: This program is eligible for Category 2 credit with the American Osteopathic Association (AOA).

	Credit Designation for Nurses: Continuiung Education, Inc. designates this continuing nursing education activity for 14 contact hours. Accredited status does not imply endorsement by Continuing Education, Inc./University at Sea® or ANCC of any commercial products displayed or used with an activity. Nurse Practitioners: Can claim either ANCC Contact Hours or AMA PRA Category 1 Credits^TM as needed. Pharmacology credits are identified on individual activities.

	Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada: Through an agreement between the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, medical practitioners participating in the Royal College MOC Program may record completion of accredited activities registered under the ACCME’s “CME in Support of MOC” program in Section 3 of the Royal College’s MOC Program.

	Credit Designation for Pharmacists: This knowledge-based activity is approved for 14 hours of pharmacy continuing education credit.

ITINERARY

This seven-night Western Caribbean itinerary is best suited for travelers interested in marine life and water-based activities. The route highlights the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, with stops in Roatan, Honduras, and Cozumel, Mexico, offering some of the region's premier snorkeling and diving conditions. In Cozumel, planning ahead to visit specific sites like Palancar Reef ensures a high-quality experience away from the main port crowds. The voyage also includes Costa Maya, where a visit to the village of Mahahual provides a glimpse of the authentic Yucatán coast, and a day at Coco Cay for a structured beach experience. Sailing in June guarantees warm water temperatures ideal for swimming, though the summer humidity makes morning excursions preferable. This roundtrip voyage from Miami takes place aboard Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas.

For more details, see our port-by-port descriptions below the itinerary table.

DATE	PORT OF CALL	ARRIVE	DEPART
Sat Jun 13	Miami, Florida	-	4:30 pm
Sun Jun 14	At Sea - Cruising Lectures 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM*	-	-
Mon Jun 15	Costa Maya, Mexico	8:00 am	5:00 pm
Tue Jun 16	Roatan, Honduras	7:00 am	4:00 pm
Wed Jun 17	Cozumel, Mexico	8:00 am	6:00 pm
Thu Jun 18	At Sea - Cruising Lectures 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM*	-	-
Fri Jun 19	Coco Cay, Bahamas	7:00 am	5:00 pm
Sat Jun 20	Miami, Florida	6:00 am	-
*Tentative course schedule, actual class times may differ.

PORTS OF CALL

Miami, Florida

Miami is far more than a convenient departure point; it is a destination in its own right, a vibrant crossroads of culture, art, and energy that merits dedicated exploration. To treat it as a mere transit hub is to miss the essence of one of America’s most dynamic cities. We strongly recommend arriving two or three days early to immerse yourself in its distinct rhythm before your voyage begins.

The city’s identity is a rich tapestry woven from Latin American and Caribbean influences, most palpable in Little Havana. A walk down Calle Ocho is an immersion of the senses: the rhythmic click of dominoes from Máximo Gómez Park, the rich aroma of hand-rolled cigars, and the lively pulse of salsa music spilling from open doorways. The essential experience here is ordering a potent, thimble-sized *cafecito* and a guava-filled *pastelito* from a *ventanita* (a walk-up coffee window). It’s a simple, authentic ritual that connects you directly to the neighborhood’s soul.

For a completely different cultural current, head to the Wynwood Arts District. Once a warehouse district, its windowless facades have been transformed into a world-renowned outdoor art gallery. While the Wynwood Walls offer a curated collection of stunning murals, the true spirit of the neighborhood is found by wandering the surrounding streets, where nearly every surface is covered in vibrant, thought-provoking street art. It’s a dynamic, ever-changing landscape of creativity, complemented by independent galleries, craft breweries, and unique shops.

Of course, there is the Miami of postcards: South Beach. Its reputation is well-earned, and a visit is essential to understanding the city’s glamorous side. The Art Deco Historic District is a candy-colored architectural treasure, best appreciated on a morning walk along Ocean Drive before the crowds swell. The beach itself is a wide, beautiful expanse of white sand and turquoise water, perfect for an afternoon of sun and world-class people-watching. While the energy is high, it’s an iconic experience that defines a key part of Miami’s character.

For those seeking tranquility, Miami offers elegant escapes. The Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is a breathtaking Gilded Age estate that feels a world away from the modern city. This Italian Renaissance-style villa, with its opulent interiors and sprawling formal gardens on the shores of Biscayne Bay, offers a serene and fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century Florida. Another peaceful retreat is Key Biscayne. A short drive from the city center, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park provides a more natural beach experience, complete with a historic lighthouse you can climb for panoramic views of the Atlantic and the Miami skyline.

The city’s culinary scene is a direct reflection of its cultural diversity. Beyond the requisite Cuban sandwich (Versailles restaurant is an institution for a reason), you’ll find exceptional Peruvian ceviche, authentic Colombian arepas, and refined Haitian cuisine. The Design District and Brickell neighborhoods are home to world-class restaurants helmed by celebrated chefs, while a classic Miami experience involves indulging in seasonal stone crabs at Joe's Stone Crab in South Beach (open mid-October to mid-May).

**A Suggested Itinerary for Your Pre-Cruise Stay**

To make the most of your time, consider this unhurried two-day itinerary that balances culture, relaxation, and Miami’s signature style.

* **Day 1: Mainland Culture & Art**
Begin your day in Little Havana. Grab a *cafecito* and a pastry to fuel a walk down Calle Ocho, absorbing the sights and sounds. By late morning, make your way to the Wynwood Arts District. Spend a few hours exploring the Wynwood Walls and the surrounding street art, stopping for lunch at one of the neighborhood’s casual, creative eateries. For the evening, consider dinner in the sophisticated Brickell area, where you can enjoy waterfront dining with stunning views of the city lights.

* **Day 2: Coastal Glamour & Historic Elegance**
Dedicate your morning to South Beach. Take a leisurely stroll through the Art Deco district to admire the architecture, then find a spot on the sand to relax. In the afternoon, escape the heat and bustle with a visit to the magnificent Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Allow at least two to three hours to explore the house and the stunning grounds. For your final evening, you can either embrace the vibrant nightlife with dinner in South Beach or opt for a more relaxed meal in the charming, historic neighborhood of Coconut Grove.

**Practical Considerations**

Miami is a large, sprawling city. The mainland (where downtown, Wynwood, and Little Havana are located) is connected to the barrier island of Miami Beach by a series of causeways. Ride-sharing services are the most efficient way to travel between neighborhoods. Allow ample time for travel, as traffic can be heavy. By investing a couple of days here, you don’t just start your vacation early—you add an entirely distinct and memorable destination to your journey.

At Sea - Cruising

Costa Maya, Mexico

It’s best to think of Costa Maya not as a historic town, but as a modern, purpose-built gateway to the southern Yucatán’s authentic treasures. The port itself is a clean, self-contained village with pools, shops, and restaurants—a perfectly pleasant, if manufactured, way to spend a few hours. For a more genuine experience, we highly recommend venturing beyond its walls.

A short taxi ride brings you to the neighboring fishing village of Mahahual. Here, a laid-back beachfront boardwalk, or *malecón*, is lined with local restaurants and unpretentious beach clubs, offering a true taste of coastal Mexican life. The real cultural highlight, however, is the access to lesser-visited Mayan ruins. An excursion to the Chacchoben ruins offers a fascinating and accessible glimpse into ancient history, set within the jungle and free from the overwhelming crowds of more famous sites. For pure natural beauty, the nearby Bacalar Lagoon—the famed “Lagoon of Seven Colors”—provides a stunningly beautiful and tranquil setting for a day on the water. Costa Maya is an excellent, comfortable base for exploring these worthwhile regional highlights.

Roatan, Honduras

Roatan’s reputation is built on one magnificent, undeniable asset: its location on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world. For anyone with an interest in the underwater world, this is a premier, world-class destination. The snorkeling and diving here are not just activities; they are the main event, offering accessible, vibrant coral gardens and a rich diversity of marine life just offshore.

Beyond the reef, Roatan delivers a classic, high-quality Caribbean beach experience. The key is choosing the right spot for your mood. West Bay Beach is the island’s postcard-perfect star, with powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters ideal for a relaxing day. For a more bohemian and active vibe, the adjacent village of West End offers a lively strip of dive shops, laid-back restaurants, and local artisan stalls.

While the island’s interior is lush and hilly, most day visitors understandably stick to the coast. You’ll find opportunities for zip-lining and visiting animal sanctuaries, which can be enjoyable diversions. However, our honest advice is to focus on Roatan’s strengths. This isn’t a destination for deep cultural immersion or historical sightseeing. It is, quite simply, a stunning natural paradise. Embrace it for what it is: an exceptional opportunity to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful shorelines.

Cozumel, Mexico

Let's be direct: Cozumel is one of the world's busiest cruise ports, and it's essential to have a plan to navigate the crowds and find its genuine highlights. The island's global reputation is built on what lies just offshore: the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. For divers and snorkelers, this is a premier, bucket-list destination. The clear, warm water and vibrant coral formations of sites like the Palancar and Colombia reefs are genuinely world-class. For an accessible taste without a dedicated boat trip, parks like Chankanaab or the more remote Punta Sur Eco Beach Park offer excellent snorkeling directly from shore, combined with beaches and other amenities.

Many are drawn by the allure of Mayan ruins, but here’s a critical piece of advice: the famous sites like Tulum and Coba are on the mainland, not on Cozumel. Reaching them requires a 45-minute ferry to Playa del Carmen and then a bus journey, consuming nearly your entire day. While magnificent, choosing this option means forgoing the island experience entirely. It's a trade-off you must be comfortable with.

If you stay on the island, the main town of San Miguel offers a bustling waterfront and a dizzying array of shops. We recommend walking a few blocks inland from the main tourist thoroughfare to find more authentic local restaurants for a fantastic lunch. For pure relaxation, Cozumel’s beach clubs are a popular and effective choice. They range from lively, all-inclusive party spots with water toys to more serene, upscale retreats where the focus is on a good book and a great cocktail. You can easily find one that matches your pace. Cozumel is a highly developed tourism hub that excels at water sports and beach relaxation; embrace it for these strengths, and you’ll have a fantastic day.

Coco Cay, Bahamas

Let's be clear: Coco Cay is not a port for cultural immersion; it's a private island meticulously engineered for a perfect day of sun and fun. Think of it as a high-end water park and beach club rolled into one, accessible right off the ship. The island is divided into distinct zones, from the high-energy Thrill Waterpark with its impressive slides to the sprawling Oasis Lagoon, one of the largest freshwater pools in the Caribbean.

For those seeking relaxation, several white-sand beaches offer a classic tropical escape. If you're looking for a more exclusive, serene experience, the Coco Beach Club provides a quieter atmosphere with an infinity pool and overwater cabanas, available for an additional fee. While you won't find local markets or historical sites here, Coco Cay delivers exactly what it promises: a seamless, high-quality day of resort-style leisure and aquatic adventure.

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas

PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment and take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

Request a Quote online or by voice at 800-422-0711 (US/Can) or direct/int'l tel: +1-727-526-1571.

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