This line of research ultimately seeks to assess the impact of integrating an APP as the first point of contact within interprofessional chronic pain clinics on patient health outcomes, care provided to patients, chronic pain clinic flow, and cost-utility in comparison to usual physician or nurse practitioner-led care.~The primary objectives of the feasibility study are:~To determine the feasibility of implementing the trial methods by evaluating participant recruitment rates, retention, and assessment completion at each of four follow-up time-points over a 12-month period.~To determine the feasibility of implementing the new APP model of care by monitoring the care provided and treatment fidelity.~To explore the perspectives of participants and health care providers related to the acceptability of the APP role; barriers, facilitators, and strategies for refining implementation; and perceived impact on clinic processes and outcomes.
The current study is intended to evaluate the feasibility of conducting a future trial to evaluate the effects of implementing an advanced practice physiotherapist (APP) role within a chronic pain clinic setting.