Integration of Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Care in the Patient Centered Medical Home

Detailed Summary

Purpose and Objective: To determine the effectiveness of a physical therapist first versus a primary care physician first for patients entering a primary care setting with a musculoskeletal complaint on the outcomes of costs/charges, utilization and healthcare satisfaction. Study activities and population group: This will be a randomized clinical trial enrolling patients who are seeking care to the Duke Outpatient Clinic with a musculoskeletal complaint. Patients, adults aged 18 years or greater, that agree to be part of the study will be randomized to see a physical therapist first or primary care physician first. All aspects of the evaluation and treatment by both providers will be standard care for musculoskeletal conditions. Data analysis and risk/safety issues: Descriptive data including means and standard deviations and counts and proportions of baseline scores will be conducted. Differences in total costs/charges, opioid prescriptions, emergency department visits will be calculated and tested across groups. Participants may not personally be helped by taking part in this study. Participants may experience improvements in pain, function, or other symptoms from physical therapy program in this study. There is a minimal risk of loss of confidentiality. If a patient chooses not to participate, there will be no effect on their medical treatment and the study team will cease contact.

Study Details

Timeline

Interventions