Delivering Value Through Equitable Care for Low Back Pain: A Renewed Call to Action

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022 Jul;52(7):414-418. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2022.10815. Epub 2022 May 17.

Abstract

Equitable care for low back pain (LBP) is key to ensuring the value and sustainability of services delivered by physical therapists. In this Viewpoint, we discuss how social determinants of health, implicit provider biases, structural characteristics of the health care system, and health care policies contribute to disparate care for many individuals with LBP. We aim to increase awareness of equity as a key component of value in physical therapy and highlight steps physical therapists can take to improve equitable LBP care. This "call to action" underscores the need to study, demonstrate, and advance equitable care for LBP by physical therapists to improve outcomes for patients and ensure the growth and sustainability of the physical therapy profession. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2022;52(7):414-418. Epub: 17 May 2022. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.10815.

Keywords: disparities; health care administration; pain; population health; psychology.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Low Back Pain* / therapy
  • Physical Therapists*
  • Physical Therapy Modalities