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Patient survey shows preference for subspecialist care
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Patients with diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma preferred to be seen by subspecialists in those areas of expertise, according to a patient survey. The survey participants had a higher level of satisfaction when seen by subspecialists, the survey found.
José Escarce, MD, PhD, and colleagues, including some from the RAND Health Program in Santa Monica, Calif., surveyed 913 patients from 144 eye care practices. The purpose of the survey was to determine whether patient satisfaction correlates with care by subspecialists. Patients surveyed had been diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy and were enrolled in a managed care program.
The survey showed that increased patient satisfaction was associated with treatment by glaucoma and retina specialists. Practices in which revenue was derived from capitation or bonuses were associated with lower patient satisfaction.
The researchers concluded that patients preferred treatment by subspecialists in their conditions. It is likely the providers’ behavior, which is influenced by the financial arrangements of his or her practice, in turn influenced patient satisfaction, the researchers said. The researchers said provider groups should attempt to minimize the negative impact managed care participation can have on patient satisfaction.
The study is published in Health Services Research.