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A community-based study of the use of chiropractic services

Author

Listed:
  • Shekelle, P.G.
  • Brook, R.H.

Abstract

Background: Little population-based information is available on the use of chiropractice services. Methods: We analyzed data from the RAND Health Insurance Experiment (HIE), a community-based study of the use of health services. Insurance claim forms for all fee-for-service patients who completed the study were examined for all visits coded as being seen by a chiropractor. Services provided and patient-specified symptoms were taken from these forms. Population-based use rates were calculated for each HIE site. Use rates and services were calculated separately for first visits and repeat visits. Results: There were 5,279 persons who contributed 19,021 person-years of exposure during the study; 395 different persons used 7,873 chiropractic services for a visit rate of 41 per 100 person-years and rate of use of 7.5 percent. Forty-two percent of all visits were for pain in the back. Spinal manipulation accounted for 61 percent of all services provided. Compared to non-users, users tended to be White, middle-aged, married, and high school educated. Seven-fold geographic variations in the use of chiropractic services were seen. Conclusions: Chiropractors deliver a substantial amount of health care to the US population, and there are significant geographic variations in the rate and intensity of use of chiropractic services.

Suggested Citation

  • Shekelle, P.G. & Brook, R.H., 1991. "A community-based study of the use of chiropractic services," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 81(4), pages 439-442.
    • Handle: RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:1991:81:4:439-442_5
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