Attitudes to family practice registration programmes. Survey of Korean and Norwegian family doctors.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In order to save money and improve continuity, many countries plan to introduce registration programmes and capitation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore family doctors' attitudes towards such programmes. METHODS: Random samples of board-certified Korean family doctors (n = 205) and Norwegian general practice specialists (n = 257) were included in a postal survey using a structured questionnaire with visual analogue scales. Main outcome measures were demographic characteristics, practice types, workload, level of agreement with 10 statements and explanatory variables for the principal attitude towards a registration programme (regression analyses). RESULTS: Overall response rate was 79%. Nineteen per cent [95% confidence interval (CI) 14-23%] of Norwegian and 96% (95% CI 93-99%) of Korean doctors were solo practitioners. Korean doctors reported 388 (95% CI 359-418) consultations per week and Norwegian doctors 83 (95% CI 80-87). Satisfaction with their present organization was lower in Korea (50%, 95% CI 46-53%) than in Norway (71%, 95% CI 68-74%). Korean doctors were more in favour of a registration programme (70%, 95% CI 66-73%) than Norwegian doctors (57%, 95% CI 53-61%). Main explanatory variables for being in favour of a registration programme were increased continuity (beta 0.495, P < 0.001) and dissatisfaction with the present system (beta -0.212, P < 0.001). In Korea, the prospect of more comprehensive care (beta 0.440, P < 0.001) and a positive attitude towards gatekeeping (beta 0.193, P < 0.001) were strong predictors, while Norwegian doctors favour a registration programme if it will not increase their workload (beta -0.166, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Regardless of nationality, most family doctors favour a registration programme.