Primary Care Physicians' Views on Chiropractors
Author Information
Author(s): Barry R Greene, Monica Smith, Veerasathpurush Allareddy, Mitchell Haas
Primary Institution: The University of Iowa
Hypothesis
What are the referral patterns and attitudes of primary care physicians towards chiropractors?
Conclusion
PCPs have good relationships with other PCPs but are hesitant to refer patients to chiropractors, which affects patient care.
Supporting Evidence
- PCPs reported strong intra-professional referral relationships with other PCPs.
- Patients showed significant interest in chiropractic care, but PCPs were reluctant to formalize referrals.
- PCPs in private practice had more positive attitudes towards referring to chiropractors.
Takeaway
Doctors like to work with each other, but they don't often send patients to chiropractors, even though many patients ask about them.
Methodology
A survey was mailed to all practicing PCPs in Iowa to assess their referral patterns and attitudes towards chiropractors.
Potential Biases
Potential non-response bias due to the low participation rate.
Limitations
The study had a low response rate of 33%, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
517 PCPs participated, including 404 MDs and 109 DOs.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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