NCT06223503 · VA Office of Research and Development
VA Transitional Pain Service Study
(VATPS)
What this study is about
The VA Community Care Program has provided an important resource to improve access to surgical care for Veterans unable to have treatment at VA Medical Centers (VAMC). However, there is an increased risk of developing chronic opioid use when at-risk surgical patients receive opioids from non-VA providers.
View original scientific description
The VA Community Care Program has provided an important resource to improve access to surgical care for Veterans unable to have treatment at VA Medical Centers (VAMC). However, there is an increased risk of developing chronic opioid use when at-risk surgical patients receive opioids from non-VA providers. A multidisciplinary approach to perioperative pain management known as the Transitional Pain Service (TPS) has been shown to effectively reduce chronic opioid use among Veterans after surgery, but it is unknown whether it can be used to achieve the same outcomes for Veterans using Community Care for high-risk surgery. Through this project, the investigators will generate important data to establish whether a telehealth TPS approach can serve as a scalable and effective strategy to ensure safe opioid use among Veterans undergoing orthopedic surgery. The investigators will randomize Veterans using Community Care for orthopedic surgery to telehealth TPS versus standard of care. Finally, the investigators will interview patients using Community Care to better understand barriers and facilitators to telehealth TPS and Veteran satisfaction with the approach to pain management.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Aims 1 \& 3:
- The investigators will include Veterans who are referred to the Veteran Community Care Program (VCCP) for an orthopedic surgery procedure from any VA medical center throughout VISN-19.
- Additionally, these Veterans must be 18+ years of age who are not on chronic opioids at the time of surgery, and who have a VA primary care provider (PCP). Aim 2:
- Veterans who received TPS (Aim 1) and referring VA Primary Care Providers.
Exclusion criteria
- The investigators will exclude Veterans who are scheduled for other types of surgical procedures, are on chronic opioid therapy before surgery, are on hospice or end-of-life care, are cognitively impaired, or unable to complete the follow-up visits for any other reason. Aim 2:
- The investigators will exclude Veterans not randomized to the TPS Telehealth intervention of Aim 1.
- Primary Care Providers will be excluded if they do not primarily work at the VA. Aim 3:
- The investigators will exclude Veterans who were not randomized to the TPS Telehealth intervention.
- Veterans who experienced a major complication during the perioperative period or experienced an extended length of stay (LOS) based on exceeding the upper interquartile range of median LOS.
Where
- Salt Lake City, Utah
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations