Doctors and Consumers Have Different Views on Health Care Costs
Author Information
Author(s): Robertson Jane, Walkom Emily J., Henry David A.
Primary Institution: The University of Newcastle
Hypothesis
It is unclear whether doctors and consumers agree on the main challenges to health system sustainability.
Conclusion
Australian doctors and consumers hold different views on the sustainability of the healthcare system, particularly regarding costs and responsibilities.
Supporting Evidence
- Doctors were more concerned than consumers about the effects of an ageing population.
- Doctors recognized their dual responsibility to patients and society.
- Consumers expressed willingness to be involved in health care decision making.
Takeaway
Doctors and consumers think differently about health care costs; doctors worry more about aging populations and new treatments, while consumers focus on personal health responsibility.
Methodology
A mail survey of Australian doctors and a computer-assisted telephone interview of consumers were conducted to gather their views on health care costs.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to different response rates and the nature of the surveys conducted.
Limitations
The study's response rates varied between doctors and consumers, and the consumer survey may not reflect personal experiences with health care.
Participant Demographics
Doctors included both specialists and general practitioners; consumers were randomly selected from households in New South Wales.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
99% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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