Persistant Physical Symptoms - waiting list cluster RCT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Persistent physical symptoms Reduction INtervention: a system Change & Evaluation in Primary Care (PRINCE Primary)
IRAS ID
168010
Contact name
Trudie Chalder
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 5 months, 31 days
Research summary
The objective of this study is to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of studying a whole systems approach to primary care in general practice for adults with persistent physical symptom (PPS) (previously termed “medically unexplained physical symptoms”) Optimised GP care will be compared with treatment as usual (TAU) for patients with PPS within a waiting list controlled cluster randomised trial. Those on the waiting list will be crossed over to the systems approach after 6 months. The overall aims of the intervention are to help the patient: (a) develop an understanding of the relationship between cognitive, emotional, physiological and behavioural aspects of their problem; (b) understand factors that may be maintaining the problem; (c) learn how to modify the behavioural and cognitive responses which may be maintaining the problem; (d) adopt a healthy sleep routine which promotes healthy living. Patients will be identified from GP surgeries situated in Southwark and Lambeth. This will entail identifying patients (using GP informatics) with PPS who have had 12 or more consultations within the last year. Outcome measures will be taken at 12, 24, 36 and 48 weeks post baseline.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/0057
Date of REC Opinion
27 Feb 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion