Self-care: An Australian case study of chiropractic patients.
OBJECTIVE
Self-care is becoming an important objective for achieving a sustainable health care system. This study examines the health care initiatives of chiropractic patients ascertaining their self-care behaviors, knowledge and information sources.


METHODS
Convenience sampling of chiropractic patients attending 10 chiropractors in 3 states. Of 155 patients invited to participate, 147 agreed.


METHODS
Patients were interviewed to determine their smoking, alcohol, maintenance chiropractic care, exercise and nutritional supplementation practices. Data collection included dose/frequency of the activity, expected benefits, concerns about side-effects and sources of information. Data was collated and trends identified.


RESULTS
Overall, the chiropractic patient sample reported a healthy lifestyle. Seventy-four percent (74%) had maintenance chiropractic; 69%, regular exercise; 40%, nutritional supplements; 84%, were non-smokers; and 86% were teetotallers or drank alcohol within safe limits. Few displayed appreciation of possible side-effects or 'dose-response' relationships. Lay persons were important information sources.


CONCLUSIONS
Chiropractic patients' self-care behaviors could be refined by making them more aware of the protean effects of self-care initiatives.
Jamison
Jennifer R
JR
RMIT, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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