You have full access to this open access article. Practice-based research networks are collaborations between clinicians and researchers to advance primary care research. This study aims to assess the feasibility for longitudinal data collection within a newly established chiropractic PBRN in Switzerland. A prospective observational cohort feasibility study was performed. PBRN participating chiropractors were asked to recruit patients seeking new conservative health care for musculoskeletal pain from March 28, , to September 28, Participants completed clinically oriented survey questions and patient-reported outcome measures before the initial chiropractic assessment as well as 1 h, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks thereafter.
Feasibility was assessed through a variety of process, resource, and management metrics. Patient clinical outcomes were also assessed. A total of 76 clinicians from 35 unique primary care chiropractic clinics across Switzerland participated. The Swiss ChiCo pilot study exceeded its prespecified feasibility objectives.
Nationwide longitudinal data capture was highly feasible. Similar to other practice-based cohorts, participant retention remains a challenge. Practice-based research networks PBRNs are a concept that originated with the expansion of the primary care medical specialty in the s [ 1 ].
PBRNs are defined as groups of at least 15 ambulatory practices devoted to the care of patients and affiliated by a mission to investigate questions related to community-based practice [ 2 ]. Although all PBRNs share common overarching characteristics, how data are collected can differ.
In sub-study PBRN models, clinicians willing to participate in research activities are identified. After a clinician roster is established, nested sub-studies are supported by these clinicians [ 6 ]. This approach is described as the more flexible PBRN model, as projects do not have to comply with a rigid patient management system [ 6 ].
