Article Title

The Service Use Index: A Tool for Examining Rural/Urban Differences

Authors

Rosemary K. Chapin Ph.D., University of KansasFollow
Beth Anne Baca MSW, University of KansasFollow
Skye N. Leedahl MA, University of Kansas
Roxanne Rachlin MHSA, University of Kansas
Xanthippe Wedel BS, University of Kansas
Mary K. Zimmerman PhD, University of Kansas

Abstract

Development of tools for identifying and tracking differences in older adult service utilization by race, ethnicity, income, and geographic area is vital in the face of current demographic and economic changes in rural areas, particularly in areas experiencing rapid demographic changes. In this conceptual article, we explain how to calculate a service use index that compares service utilization of a specific group of older adults to that of the entire older adult population. We then illustrate its usefulness with a case example using geographic information systems (GIS). This unique approach can be utilized to understand differences across fields of practice, enhance planning to address differences, and monitor changes over time.

Recommended Citation

Chapin, Rosemary K. Ph.D.; Baca, Beth Anne MSW; Leedahl, Skye N. MA; Rachlin, Roxanne MHSA; Wedel, Xanthippe BS; and Zimmerman, Mary K. PhD (2012) "The Service Use Index: A Tool for Examining Rural/Urban Differences," Contemporary Rural Social Work Journal: Vol. 4: No. 1, Article 5.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.61611/2165-4611.1033
Available at: https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/crsw/vol4/iss1/5