NCT06327542 · University of California, San Francisco
Group-based Integrative Pain Management in Primary Care Safety Net Clinics
(IPMP+)
What this study is about
Socioeconomically disadvantaged populations have a high prevalence of chronic pain, exacerbated by social isolation, intersectional stigma, and disparities in pain assessment and treatment options. Effective interventions using a multilevel, biopsychosocial approach are needed to decrease the unequal burden of pain.
View original scientific description
Socioeconomically disadvantaged populations have a high prevalence of chronic pain, exacerbated by social isolation, intersectional stigma, and disparities in pain assessment and treatment options. Effective interventions using a multilevel, biopsychosocial approach are needed to decrease the unequal burden of pain. The proposed study will test group-based integrative models of pain management in primary care safety net clinics to improve pain care for racially and ethnically diverse low-income patients.
Interventions
OTHER
Group Acupuncture
Acupuncture will be delivered in a group setting, in a common space with multiple reclining chairs. Acupuncture treatments will include a 10-15 minute diagnostic intake with the acupuncturist, followed by administration of acupuncture needles retained for 20-40 minutes. Acupuncture points will be selected based on a treatment manual developed for the study. All treatments will be administered using sterile, disposable, surgical stainless steel acupuncture needles.
OTHER
Integrative Group Medical Visits
IGMV sessions will be weekly for 90-120 minutes in a group meeting space. Sessions will start with a "check-in" where participants can share their emotions, thoughts, hopes, and fears related to their health and pain and provide updates since the last session. Group sessions will be led by a primary care provider and a health educator and will include psychosocial support, tools for pain self-management, and psychoeducation for pain management. Invited experts will provide information on educational topics, including neurobiology of pain, medication safety, and connections between mood and pain, as well as participatory activities such as therapeutic movement or mindfulness practice.
Primary outcome measures
Change in pain impact measured as a composite score of pain intensity, pain interference, and physical function.
Time frame: Baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks
Self-reported pain impact will be measured as a composite score of pain intensity, pain interference and physical function. These scores are summed to create Pain Impact, which ranges from 3-50, with higher scores indicating greater impact of pain on one's life, capturing overall day-to-day physical function, the impact of pain on ability to do regular life tasks, and the intensity of pain experienced.
Change in Social support and Pain Questionnaire (SPQ)
Time frame: Baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks
Social Support in Chronic Pain will be measured using Van Der Lugts' 6-item Social support and Pain Questionnaire (SPQ). Total scores range from 0 to 24, with higher scores indicating greater levels of social support.
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
- Adults aged ≥ 18
- Fluency in English or Spanish
- Panelled to a primary care provider at one of the study clinics
- Diagnosis of chronic pain (\> 3 months)
- Had a primary care visit for chronic pain within the past six months
- Ability to provide a phone number
- Able to participate in groups
- Intent to be available for up to 24 weeks
Exclusion criteria
- Received group-based pain management in the past 3 months
- Received acupuncture treatment for pain in the past 3 months
- Active cancer treatment
- Inability to provide informed consent due to mental illness or cognitive impairment
Where
- San Francisco, California
Collaborators
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)
Related conditions & keywords
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 Jun 11, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations