Chiropractors as safety net providers: first report of findings and methods from a US survey of chiropractors

J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2007 Nov-Dec;30(9):718-28. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2007.11.001.

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluates the actual or potential contribution of the chiropractic profession in meeting US healthcare workforce needs.

Methods: The authors performed a descriptive cross-sectional mail survey of US chiropractors in 2002 to 2003.

Results: The amount of charity care provided by chiropractors closely approximates that of medical physicians; on a weekly basis, approximately 2 weekly hours of chiropractic care are provided for free, and 4 weekly hours are provided at a reduced fee.

Conclusion: Chiropractors serve a vital, though often overlooked, role in the US health care safety net.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Charities / economics*
  • Charities / statistics & numerical data
  • Chiropractic / economics*
  • Chiropractic / standards
  • Chiropractic / statistics & numerical data
  • Cost Savings
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Fee-for-Service Plans / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Health Care Surveys*
  • Health Services Accessibility / economics*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Practice Management, Medical / economics
  • Practice Management, Medical / standards
  • Quality of Health Care
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Uncompensated Care / statistics & numerical data*
  • United States