Influence of Colleagues on Urologic Oncologists' Treatment Strategies
Author Information
Author(s): M.J. Moore, B. O'Sullivan, I.F. Tannock
Primary Institution: Princess Margaret Hospital
Hypothesis
Are treatment strategies of urologic oncologists influenced by the opinions of their colleagues?
Conclusion
Treatment strategies of urologic oncologists are influenced minimally by opinions of their colleagues, but the method of using surrogate questionnaires is valuable for clinical trial design.
Supporting Evidence
- Most respondents did not modify their treatment preference after reviewing colleagues' opinions.
- 29% of respondents agreed to enter themselves in trials, while 45% would offer trials to their patients.
- Awareness of treatment controversies was high among physicians, with 95% acknowledging such controversies.
Takeaway
Doctors often stick to their own treatment choices even when they know their colleagues disagree, but they might be more willing to let their patients join clinical trials.
Methodology
A questionnaire was mailed to 227 expert clinicians to assess their treatment preferences and willingness to enter clinical trials based on previous survey results.
Potential Biases
Specialists showed a preference for their own treatment modalities and had strongly held beliefs despite a lack of clear supporting data.
Limitations
The study had a decrease in the number of doctors surveyed from 227 to 217 due to retirement, change of location, or death.
Participant Demographics
The population surveyed included urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists from Canada, Great Britain, and the United States.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.008
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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