Complete physical examinations in Manitoba adults with an intellectual or developmental disability: A retrospective cohort study

Abstract

Background Complete physical examinations (CPE) can identify health disparities in persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The objective of this study was to determine and compare rates of CPE among Manitoba adults with and without intellectual or developmental disabilities over time and to identify factors that were associated with receiving a CPE. Method A retrospective cohort study using linked administrative health and non‐health data from 1995 to 2015 was conducted. Poisson and logistic regression were used to calculate CPE rates and examine factors associated with CPE. Results The rates of CPE are decreasing over time and are higher among Manitobans with an intellectual or developmental disability. Characteristics such as being male, living rurally, low socioeconomic status, and high continuity of care led to lower odds of receiving a CPE. Conclusions The current state of CPE provision to adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities in Manitoba is encouraging but needs improvement.