Dr. Kenneth P. Finn, MD: A Leader in Pain Medicine and Cannabis Research
Dr. Kenneth P. Finn, M.D.
Dr. Kenneth P. Finn is a distinguished physician specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) and Pain Medicine. With a medical career spanning over three decades, Dr. Finn has significantly contributed to pain management, medical education, and public health policy, particularly concerning cannabis use and its implications.
Early Life and Education
Dr. Finn earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston in 1990. He subsequently completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City in 1994. His rigorous training laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in pain management and rehabilitation.
Professional Practice
Since 1994, Dr. Finn has been practicing medicine in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He is board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (since 1995), Pain Medicine (since 1998), and Pain Management (since 2000). His clinical practice focuses on helping patients recover from injuries or diseases to improve their quality of life, emphasizing non-surgical interventions and comprehensive pain management strategies.
Leadership and Service
Dr. Finn has held several prominent positions within professional organizations. He has been a member of the American Board of Pain Medicine Exam Council since 2001, serving on the Appeals Committee and Executive Board since 2014. In 2020, he was appointed President-Elect of the American Board of Pain Medicine, reflecting his peers' recognition of his expertise and leadership in the field.
Contributions to Cannabis Research and Policy
Dr. Finn has been actively involved in researching the health impacts of cannabis use. He served on the Colorado Governor's Task Force on Amendment 64, which legalized recreational marijuana, contributing to the Consumer Safety and Social Issues Work Group in 2012. Additionally, he was a member of Colorado's Medical Marijuana Scientific Advisory Council from 2014 to 2018, providing guidance on medical marijuana policies and safety considerations.
In 2020, Dr. Finn edited "Cannabis in Medicine: An Evidence-Based Approach," a comprehensive book examining the scientific evidence surrounding cannabis use in medical contexts. His work aims to provide healthcare professionals with accurate information to make informed decisions regarding cannabis-related treatments.
Academic and Educational Roles
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Finn has contributed to medical education as a voluntary clinical instructor for the University of Colorado Medical School's Colorado Springs Branch from 2017 to 2020. He has also been involved in developing position statements on cannabis for organizations such as the Colorado Medical Society and the Colorado Pain Society, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based guidelines in medical practice.
Professional Affiliations
Dr. Finn is affiliated with several medical organizations, including:
- American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
- American Academy of Pain Medicine
- Spine Intervention Society
His active participation in these organizations underscores his commitment to advancing the fields of pain medicine and rehabilitation.
Clinical Practice and Patient Care
Dr. Finn practices at Springs Rehabilitation, PC, located in Colorado Springs, CO. His practice offers comprehensive rehabilitation services, focusing on individualized patient care to address various pain conditions and functional impairments. He is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including UCHealth Memorial Hospital and Penrose-St. Francis Health Services-Colorado Springs, ensuring continuity of care for his patients.
Conclusion
Dr. Kenneth P. Finn's extensive experience and leadership in pain medicine, coupled with his dedication to research and education, have significantly impacted patient care and public health policies. His work continues to influence the medical community's understanding of pain management and the implications of cannabis use in medicine.
