Factors Associated with Changes in Knowledge and Attitude towards Public Health Concepts among Chiropractic College Students Enrolled in a Community Health Class.

PURPOSE: This survey was conducted to identify factors that may be associated with changes in knowledge and attitudes towards basic health promotion and public health concepts among chiropractic students enrolled in a course in community health.
METHODS: Anonymous surveys were conducted of students before and after a second-year chiropractic college course in community health. Results were analyzed using percentages and Chi Square statistics as appropriate.
RESULTS: Students' knowledge of health promotion and public health concepts improved significantly by the end of the course. Students' attitudes towards these also improved, although to a lesser degree. Students indicated that they had a favorable impression of the importance of utilizing health promotion in practice and working with other public health professionals. However, vaccinations were still looked upon unfavorably by half of the students by the end of the course. Pre-class, a positive attitude towards public health concepts was associated with being female, older, Latino, having children, having a poorer perceived health status, conservative politically and religious. These differences tended to lessen by the end of the course.
CONCLUSION: A course in community health was successful in adding to students' knowledge and positive attitudes towards health promotion and public health. However, additional educational strategies are needed to ensure changes in future practice behavior, particularly in the area of vaccinations.