OA11.01. Integrative care for the management of low back pain: design of a clinical care pathway
Year: 2012
Type: conference-abstract
Abstract: A clinical care pathway was used by a multidisciplinary group of providers, which included acupuncturists, chiropractors, cognitive behavioral therapists, exercise therapists, and primary care physicians. Treatment recommendations were based on an evidence-informed practice model, and reached by group consensus. Research study participants were empowered to select one of the treatment recommendations proposed by the integrative group. Common principles and benchmarks were established to guide treatment management throughout the study. Thirteen providers representing 5 healthcare professions collaborated to provide integrative care to study participants. On average, 3 to 4 treatment plans, each consisting of 2 to 3 modalities, were recommended to study participants. Exercise, massage, and acupuncture were both most commonly recommended by the team and selected by study participants. Over one-third of treatment plans were re-evaluated over the course of care by the integrative team; changes most commonly incorporated cognitive behavioral therapy to care. The integrative care pathway designed for this trial proved to be an essential mechanism to operationalize care, allowing team members and patients to consistently and effectively apply treatment plans. The pragmatic design of this research study required a high level of communication and flexibility between participants, providers, case managers, and project managers. Clinical care pathways can be useful tools in providing evidence-based treatment, especially in the context of multidisciplinary or integrative care settings.
Authors: M Maiers, K Westrom, C Legendre, G Bronfort
Institution: Northwestern Health Sciences University
Language: English
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,990
OpenAlex ID: W2016307998