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Chiropractic use: a test of several hypotheses
American Journal of Public Health
|July 1, 1982
Summary
Older individuals with chronic health issues and frequent physician use, but appointment difficulties, are more likely to use chiropractic services. This study explored chiropractic utilization factors in Wisconsin.
Area of Science:
- Integrative health
- Chiropractic care
- Health services research
Background:
- Understanding patient demographics and healthcare-seeking behaviors is crucial for health services planning.
- Previous research has explored various factors influencing the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, including chiropractic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate hypotheses regarding the utilization of chiropractic services.
- To identify key differences between individuals who use chiropractic care and those who do not.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of health attitudes and healthcare utilization data.
- Data collected from a population sample in central Wisconsin.
- Comparative analysis between chiropractic users and non-users.
Main Results:
- Chiropractic users were found to be older than non-users.
- Individuals utilizing chiropractic services reported a higher prevalence of chronic health problems.
- Frequent past use of physician services and reported difficulties in obtaining physician appointments were also associated with chiropractic use.
Conclusions:
- Demographic factors, health status, and access to conventional medical care significantly influence chiropractic service utilization.
- Findings suggest that chiropractic care may serve specific needs within certain patient populations, particularly those experiencing challenges with traditional healthcare access.