Related Experiment Videos
Disability, utilization, and costs associated with musculoskeletal conditions
National Medical Care Utilization and Expenditure Survey (Series). Series C, Analytical Report
|August 8, 1986
Summary
Musculoskeletal disorders affect nearly 20% of the US population, causing significant disability and economic burden. Many individuals with these conditions experience poor health and utilize healthcare services frequently, yet a substantial portion do not seek treatment.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) represent a significant public health concern, impacting a large segment of the population.
- Understanding the health characteristics, service utilization, and economic burden associated with MSDs is crucial for effective healthcare planning.
- Previous health surveys indicate increasing prevalence of MSDs with age, higher rates in women, and lower rates in Black individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze health characteristics, service utilization patterns, and associated costs for individuals with musculoskeletal diseases.
- To quantify the impact of MSDs on disability days and lost productivity.
- To examine healthcare seeking behaviors and treatment modalities for MSDs.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the 1980 National Medical Care Utilization and Expenditure Survey (NMCUES).
- Analyzed health status, functional limitations, and perceived health among individuals with MSDs.
- Quantified disability days (restricted activity, bed disability, work loss) and economic costs attributed to MSDs.
Main Results:
- Approximately 44 million Americans (19.8%) had at least one MSD, with prevalence increasing by age and higher rates in women.
- Individuals with MSDs reported poorer health, particularly those with combined back and peripheral joint problems.
- MSDs accounted for substantial disability days (13% restricted activity, 8.8% bed disability, 11.2% work loss) and $3.9 billion in lost productivity in 1980.
- Persons with MSDs had nearly double the ambulatory visit rate of the general population, with 35.6% of visits related to MSD treatment.
- Chiropractic care was utilized by 13% of those with any MSD and nearly 30% for back problems, yet 33% received no treatment visits.
Conclusions:
- Musculoskeletal disorders impose a considerable burden on individuals and the economy due to disability and lost productivity.
- Healthcare utilization for MSDs is high, but treatment patterns are diverse, with a notable portion of individuals not seeking professional care.
- The findings underscore the need for comprehensive strategies to manage MSDs and mitigate their impact on public health and economic well-being.