ABSTRACT
Objective This study aims to investigate the characteristics of chiropractic patients in Hong Kong, their experiences with chiropractic care, and their perspectives on chiropractors' authority over sick leave certificates. Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted among individuals receiving chiropractic treatment in Hong Kong. Data were collected through an online survey from May 11 to August 8, 2023, and descriptive analysis was employed to examine patient demographics, treatment effectiveness, and views on chiropractic sick leave authorization. A total of 522 valid responses were received. Result Among respondents, back pain was the primary reason for seeking chiropractic care, with many experiencing rapid relief and high satisfaction. However, many patients initially consulted other healthcare professionals, indicating potential integration challenges. Lengthy orthopedic wait times in Hong Kong highlight the need for chiropractic care. Concerns arose over chiropractors' inability to issue sick leave certificates, impacting patient convenience, treatment effectiveness, finances, and emotional well-being. Allowing chiropractors to authorize sick leave, with proper regulation, could address these issues. Conclusion In conclusion, this study underscores chiropractic care's potential in Hong Kong's healthcare system and suggests that recognizing chiropractors' role in sick leave authorization can enhance comprehensive patient care.
ABSTRACT
Chiropractic treatment in Hong Kong has demonstrated high effectiveness in cases where traditional therapies have failed, with minimal associated adverse events. The growing aging population, prevalence of disabilities, and musculoskeletal conditions have increased the demand for rehabilitation services. Over the past few years, the chiropractic profession has raised awareness of treatment benefits. Providing high-quality training and education, licensing/regulation, interprofessional collaboration, increased accessibility, and research are factors influencing the chiropractic workforce and meeting the population's health needs. To achieve the number of chiropractors required by Hong Kong for adequate service according to international standards, future efforts could include increased licensing/registration efficiency, expanded coverage of public/private insurance, system integration/interprofessional collaboration, public education, and local research to build evidence and to support workforce growth and acceptance.
ABSTRACT
Hong Kong's healthcare system is moving toward preventive and primary care to address the complicated demands of the aging population. Chiropractic professionals are in an advantageous position to support a prevention-focused strategy by identifying musculoskeletal problems early, reducing risks, and promoting healthy lifestyles. This article examines how the involvement of chiropractors in public health programs could improve population health in Hong Kong and boost primary care. The inclusion of chiropractors in district health centers and other initiatives would offer safer and more cost-effective choices for treating functional problems and chronic pain. Chiropractors should be involved in policymakers' attempts to create a sustainable healthcare system that meets Hong Kong's long-term healthcare requirements.
ABSTRACT
Although registered under Hong Kong's legislative framework, chiropractors are not able to certify sick leave, restricting the effectiveness of their services for patients with musculoskeletal issues requiring time away from work. This paper explores the evolution of chiropractic regulation in Hong Kong, the growth of the profession, and the tardy recognition of chiropractors' power to issue sick leave certificates. The chiropractic profession and its patients have long lobbied for this authority, but the government has been slow to respond. This document presents a comprehensive analysis of the benefits and restrictions of allowing chiropractors prescriptive authority for sick leave and requests that this change in policy be considered. Developing responsible criteria for chiropractors to prescribe sick leave within their scope of practice could legitimize chiropractic's position in the population's health and interdisciplinary pain care while lowering the burden on injured workers.