Table 1 Outline of the four STarT MSK research programme work packages

• WP1 – epidemiological study to test and validate the Keele STarT MSK tool to predict patients’ risk of persistent pain [12]

• WP2

 ◦ Qualitative research with patients and clinicians to identify anticipated barriers and facilitators to the adoption of stratified care [4]

 ◦ Evidence synthesis of effective treatments [13]

 ◦ Consensus process with stakeholders and practitioners to agree recommended matched treatment options for patients at low, medium and high risk, for decision-making in general practice [14]

 ◦ Integrated delivery platform within the electronic health record (EHR)

 ◦ Development of clinician support package

• WP3 – pilot/feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial of stratified care in general practice [15, 16]

• WP4 – main cluster randomised controlled trial of stratified care in general practice [17]