The study was conducted as a cross-sectional analysis based on the Danish National Health Profile in 2010 and 2017. In total, researchers included 288,099 individuals aged 30 years or older from both years. For each participant, data on their use of chiropractic care, socioeconomic status, and health status (as an indicator of the need for chiropractic care) were extracted from nationwide registries. Three socioeconomic characteristics (educational level, employment status, and income) were examined. Health status was assessed using demographic data, poor self-rated physical health, activity limitations, musculoskeletal pain, the number of musculoskeletal disorders, and the number of chronic diseases.
Currently, individuals with higher socioeconomic status, such as higher education levels, employment, and higher income, are more likely to use chiropractic care than individuals with lower socioeconomic status.
To further measure the extent of social inequality in the use of chiropractic care, researchers calculated the concentration index of inequality for each of the three socioeconomic characteristics. The analysis revealed that income and employment status contributed more significantly to inequality compared to educational level.
Even after accounting for health status, the study showed a clear trend: individuals with higher incomes and those employed were more likely to visit chiropractors, while individuals with lower socioeconomic status were underrepresented, even when they needed treatment.
The results of the study may serve as a significant input for healthcare planners and inform strategies to ensure equal treatment for equal needs, regardless of socioeconomic status. Potential measures could include reconsidering patient co-payment policies and initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and support for specific vulnerable patient groups.
Read the research paper here