Comparing proportions: Methods beyond Chi-square tests

The traditional method of comparing proportions is a Chi-square test. It provides an X 2 value, which can be evaluated for statistical significance along with the degree of freedom. Another method of evaluating proportions is the calculation of the confidence intervals (CIs) for the difference between the proportions. It involves the calculation of the standard error of the difference in proportions. The result difference in CIs can help the clinician better understand the actual difference between the proportions when the data are applied to the whole population.