Patient and provider factors related to comprehensive arthritis care in a community setting in Ontario, Canada.

Abstract

To determine factors that correlate with recommendations for nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions (comprehensive therapy) in community dwelling adults. Eligible participants were >/= 55 years of age with hip and knee arthritis symptoms and disability. Comprehensive therapy was classified as a recommendation for exercise and weight loss (if required) and any pharmacotherapy. Only one-half of participants received a recommendation for comprehensive therapy. Participants who had seen a specialist and a therapist were almost twice as likely to receive a recommendation for comprehensive therapy. In our setting, many people with hip or knee arthritis were not receiving even minimum recommended treatment. Changes in educational and organizational policies are needed to address this situation.