The Center for Outcome Studies (COS) was created in 1991 to train and support chiropractors in practice-based research. This approach to research involves community-based providers and healthcare clients as researchers and research participants, strengthening the reciprocal relationship of research and practice.

In 1994 WSCC became the first chiropractic college ever awarded a federal grant for research. The nearly million dollar grant from the Department of Health and Human Services (HRSA) funded a collaborative study with Oregon Health Science University’s Department of Family Medicine. Since then, the Center for Outcome Studies has received an additional two grants from HRSA which supported a series of studies regarding low back pain. COS has also received four grants from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine at the National Institutes of Health.

Under the direction of Dr. Mitchell Haas, Associate Vice President of Research, COS activities are currently focused on the efficacy of chiropractic care. Work is proceeding on identifying the dose-response relationship between the number of chiropractic treatments and clinical outcomes for chronic low back pain and headache. In addition to conducting its own research agenda, the COS continues to participate in projects with local and national collaborators.

The Center for Outcome Studies is housed in the Administration Building, in rooms 11, 11½, and 12. Please contact the COS staff for research-related issues. We hope to facilitate faculty and student research, and will assist you as we are able. Adolescent