Characteristics of New Zealand Osteopaths Who Discuss Occupational Health and Safety with Patients

The aim of the study was to identify the characteristics of Aotearoa/New Zealand osteopaths who report often discussing occupational health and safety (OHS) issues with patients. Participants completed a questionnaire, through a practice-based research network, exploring their demographic, practice, and clinical management characteristics. Backward logistic regression was used to identify statistically significant predictors of often discussing OHS issues with patients. Two hundred and seventy-seven (N = 277) completed the questionnaire. One hundred and fourteen participants (41.2%) reported often discussing OHS with patients. Predictors associated with lower odds of often discussing OHS included more years in osteopathy practice (aOR 0.95, 95% CI 0.92–0.98), volunteering as an osteopath (aOR 0.40, 95% CI 0.19–0.91), sending referrals to a massage therapist (aOR 0.49, 95% CI 0.26–0.91) or naturopath (aOR 0.43, 95% CI 0.24–0.79), and working across more than one practice location (aOR 0.46, 95% CI 0.24–0.87). Predictors associated with higher odds included receiving referrals from another osteopath (aOR 2.72, 95% CI 1.33–5.58), often treating work-related injuries (aOR 2.26, 95% CI 1.19–4.30), often discussing medications (aOR 2.21, 95% CI 1.20–4.07), and often discussing physical activity (aOR 7.74, 95% CI 2.42–24.80), though the latter estimate carries considerable imprecision. A significant proportion of Aotearoa/New Zealand osteopaths report discussing OHS issues with their patients. These findings reflect self-reported consultation behaviours and should not be interpreted as evidence of formal occupational health competence or effectiveness. Further research on the nature, content, and outcomes of osteopathic engagement with OHS concerns is needed.