How do patients choose their doctors for primary care in a free market?

Abstract

Convenient accessibility was the most important factor for the initial choice of primary care doctors by the general public. The perceived clinical proficiency of the doctor determined future continuity of care. Patients liked to have direct access to specialists. Though some chose to see the specialists even for primary care problems, most people had regular doctors who were likely to have the attributes of family doctors.

Are women aware of religious restrictions on reproductive health at Catholic hospitals? A survey of women’s expectations and preferences for family planning care

“…Traditionally, Catholic hospitals were recognized for the increased care they provide to underserved and uninsured patients, who likely represent a cohort of women that may differ in terms of educational, financial, and religious demographics than our sample. Recently, however, reports demonstrate that Catholic hospitals and secular hospitals bill Medicare and Medicaid similarly, and most patients choose a hospital for reasons other than religiosity [1,[9][10][11]. Further, use of a convenience sample has the inherent limitation of selection bias.…”

“…Most patients seek out primary care providers (PCPs) or hospitals based on recommendations from friends and relatives, recommendations from doctors or other health care providers, information supplied by their health plans and/or geographical proximity; there is no data that patients primarily attend faith-based institutions for religious considerations [9][10][11]. Data on patients' expectations of reproductive health care at Catholic institutions is scant, but there is some evidence that patient's may be very surprised to learn of limitations [12,13].…”

Linking Perceived Service Quality to Relational Outcomes in a Chinese Context

“…Although customers may not possess the knowledge to judge the adequacy of delivery of technical components, they may use available indicators as proxies to judge technical competency such as professional qualification and thoroughness of physical examination. Technical skill is rated as "top of satisfaction" since consumers may relate this to the accuracy of diagnosis and effectiveness of treatment (Wun et al 2010). Ontani, Kurz, and Harris (2005) consider that customers would not feel satisfied with a visit unless care providers are perceived as having competent technical skills.…”

An exploration of individuals’ preferences for nutrition care from Australian primary care health professionals

“…Patients' perceptions of health care are receiving increased attention (Stewart 2001), and are a focus of the current Australian healthcare reform (National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission 2009). Patients consider multiple factors when selecting a health professional or health service, including the convenience, trust and accessibility of the professional or service, and recommendations provided by family and friends (Schwartz et al 2005;Wun et al 2010). Interestingly, patients generally do not consider the effectiveness of a service or the reliance on evidencebased health care practices when selecting a health professional or health service (Bornstein et al 2000;Carman et al 2010).…”