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

Abstract

In order to save money and improve continuity, many countries plan to introduce registration programmes and capitation. The aim of this study was to explore family doctors' attitudes towards such programmes. 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). 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). Regardless of nationality, most family doctors favour a registration programme.