On average, it takes approximately 17 years for clinical trial results to be adopted into routine practice. That’s not just a statistic, a warning.
This number originates from health policy research that has been reviewed and confirmed across multiple studies. One of the most cited estimates comes from Dr. Eugene Balas and colleagues, who found that it takes approximately 17 years for just 14% of clinical research to benefit patients at the point of care (Balas & Boren, 2000). A later review confirmed that figure, calling it “one of the most quoted but least challenged statistics in healthcare research” (Morris et al., 2011).
That is why I am writing this: to bring clinical trial results directly to people living with chronic pain. This study is significant, and its findings are ready for immediate application today.
What Was the Study About?
This 2025 study, published in JAMA, tested whether remote Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—either delivered by a health coach or through an online program—could help people living with high-impact chronic pain.
What Did Participants Do?
Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups:
- Health coach–guided CBT (8 sessions)
- Online self-guided CBT (painTRAINER)
- Usual care plus a mailed pain guide
Researchers followed over 2,300 adults across four U.S. health systems for 12 months.
What Did the Study Find?
- 32% in the health coach group had at least a 30% reduction in pain at 3 months
- 27% improved in the online painTRAINER group
- 21% improved in the usual care group
- Benefits lasted 12 months
- Function and pain coping also improved
Any Side Effects?
No serious side effects were linked to the study programs. Both were well tolerated.
What Does This Mean?
These CBT-based programs can work remotely.
They’re safe, scalable, and accessible.
And one of them—painTRAINER—is available for free right now: https://mypaintrainer.org
Source Document
Full Trial Report:
Cherkin DC, Morasco BJ, Day MA, et al. Effect of Remote Cognitive Behavioral Therapy–Based Interventions Versus Usual Care on Chronic Pain in Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2025;330(1):41–52. doi: 10.1001/jama.2025.11178
Final Thoughts
If we wait 17 years for the system to catch up, that’s 17 years too long for people already living with pain.
Thanks to this trial, you don’t have to wait.
These programs are ready. They work. And they’re here for you now.
Disclaimer: The views, positions, and recommendations expressed in this article are based on my personal experiences and independent research. They are solely my own and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA).
Acknowledgment: This article was developed with the support of ChatGPT.