Overview
This is a cluster randomized controlled trial to to evaluate the individual and health system impacts of implementing a new physiotherapist-led primary care model for back pain in Canada.
Description
This study aims to evaluate the individual health outcomes and health system impacts of implementing a new physiotherapist-led primary care model for people with low back pain (LBP).
The overarching goal of this study is to determine the impact of integrating a physiotherapist (PT) within primary care teams for people with LBP and making them available to patients as the first point of contact. The specific aims of the research are to
- determine
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- Whether a PT-led primary care model for LBP is effective at improving function (primary outcome), pain intensity, quality of life, global rating of change, and adverse events in comparison to usual physician led primary care.
- The impact of a PT led primary care model for LBP on the healthcare system and society (healthcare access, primary care physician workload, healthcare utilization, missed work, and cost-effectiveness). A process evaluation will assess the healthcare delivered, potential mechanisms, context of implementation, and perspectives of patients and primary care providers towards the PT-led primary care model.