Practice-based research is central to our mission of advancing integrative health through real-world clinical evidence.
Practice-based research (PBR) is clinical investigation grounded in the outcomes of real-world care. Rather than relying on costly clinical trials, PBR draws from data already collected during integrative health visits—making it a practical, cost-effective way to study what works in everyday settings.
With support from the Krupp Endowed Fund, CIH uses PBR to evaluate the impact of our clinical programs on a range of health conditions. These studies help generate evidence that directly informs patient care, advances best practices, and improves outcomes across our community.
We also collaborate nationally through BraveNet, a 20+ member practice-based research network. Through initiatives like the PRIMIER registry, we contribute to standardized health data collection and cross-institutional insights into integrative medicine.
Read this essential document for complete details on eligibility, application requirements, timelines, and submission format for the Practice-Based Research program.
Submit your proposed study details through the online PBR application form. You will be asked to describe your research question, study design, data needs, timeline, and requested research support. Applications will be reviewed by the KCIR team.
The KCIR team will review your submission for alignment with our Primary Aim and Objective, feasibility, and requested support. We will contact you within 2–4 weeks to discuss next steps and, if appropriate, schedule a consultation.
- UC San Diego Health Inpatient Acupuncture and Massage
- Supervised Lifestyle and Integrative Medicine (SLIM) program
- Center for Integrative Medicine (IM) Outpatient
- Food is Medicine (FIM) program
- Exercise is Medicine (EIM) program
- Health and Wellness Coaching CPT Code Utilization Study
- Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) Service Study
- Integrative Medicine (IM) Consult Service Study
- IM PBR Pre and Post Survey Study
PRIMIER: 5,000 patients
CBD: UC San Diego, UCSF and Northwestern
ACUITY: NCCIH-funded U01 multicenter feasibility trial (Cleveland Clinics, Vanderbilt, UC San Diego) studying Acupuncture in the Emergency Department
Visit the PBR Resources page to explore resources, presentations and worksheets to help clinician-scientists learn about and implement practice-based research in clinic.
