The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #63646

John K. Hyland, DC, MPH, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Washington, PO Box 350700, Westminster, CO 80035-0700, 303-465-9158, jhyland@u.washington.edu

Objective: To describe the development of a public health intervention targeted to doctors of chiropractic. The goal of the program was to decrease pain and disability in people with arthritis. Methods: The PRECEDE/PROCEED model of health promotion planning was used to design a state-wide effort to increase the knowledge and skills of doctors of chiropractic in aiding their patients with arthritis. Results: A partnership was developed among the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the Colorado Chiropractic Association, and the local affiliates of the Arthritis Foundation. Several presentations were developed and offered, with moderate attendance. Evaluation of the program’s results found increased self-efficacy in providing physical activity recommendations to patients with arthritis in attendees. The challenges and barriers to implementation of such programs are reviewed. Conclusions: Physical activity and exercise counseling is an important part of the health care needs of people with arthritis. Doctors of chiropractic treat many people who fit the CDC’s definition of arthritis, and they can help decrease the burden of disability from this condition. Knowledge and skills regarding the use of exercise by people with arthritis can be improved through a health promotion program targeted to doctors of chiropractic. Public health partnerships are difficult to develop, but have great possibilities in this, and in other areas of health concerns.

Learning Objectives:

Attendees at this session will be able to:
• Describe the PRECEDE/PROCEED process for planning health promotions.
• List an enabling, a predisposing, and a reinforcing factor for exercise in people with arthritis.
• Identify 3 challenges in developing a public health/provider partnership.

Keywords: Arthritis, Health Promotion

Related Web page: none

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: none
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.