Countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, United States
Survey Organization: Harris Interactive
Field Dates: April 27–July 27, 2000
Sample: Stratified sample of generalist and specialist physicians
Sample size: 517 physicians in Australia; 533 in Canada; 493 in New Zealand; 500 in the U.K.; 528 in the U.S.
Interview Method: Mail, telephone, and Internet
Physicians in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States reported a decline in quality of care and concerns with how hospitals address medical errors. Physicians in four countries expressed serious concerns about shortages of medical specialists and inadequate facilities. U.S. physicians reported problems caused by patients' inability to pay for prescription drugs and medical care. Asked about efforts to improve quality of care in the future, physicians indicated support for electronic medical records, electronic prescribing, and initiatives to reduce medical errors.
To view the survey questions, download the attachment posted on the right. To read analyses of the surveys, see the Fund publications under Related Resources, on the right.