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Foot care data from two recent nationwide surveys. A comparative analysis
1LBD Associates, Herndon, VA 22070.
Summary
Comparing national surveys on foot problems, findings from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and BrimmComm align closely, with minor variations attributed to reporting differences. Podiatrists are the primary choice for common foot issues.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Podiatric Medicine
Background:
- Assessing the incidence, prevalence, and treatment of specific foot problems is crucial for public health.
- Comparing data from different national surveys aids in understanding population health trends.
- Podiatrists play a significant role in managing common foot conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the findings of the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and the BrimmComm survey regarding foot problems.
- To analyze the utilization patterns and treatment preferences for foot conditions.
- To estimate the total number of visits to podiatrists for foot care.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of data from the NHIS and BrimmComm surveys.
- Examination of foot problem incidence and prevalence across demographic segments (sex, age, income).
- Analysis of basic treatment patterns and overall visit numbers to podiatrists.
Main Results:
- Remarkable agreement between NHIS and BrimmComm findings on overall foot problem incidence and prevalence.
- Podiatrists are the preferred providers for toenail problems, corns, calluses, and bunions.
- An estimated 50 million visits to podiatrists by civilian noninstitutionalized patients in 1990.
Conclusions:
- NHIS and BrimmComm data provide consistent insights into foot problem prevalence.
- Podiatrists are a key healthcare provider for various common and specific foot conditions.
- The study estimates a substantial volume of podiatric care utilization.