Changes in the Structure of General Practice: the Patient's Viewpoint, 1977

<P>Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.</P><br>The purpose of this study was to examine the public's attitudes towards,and experience of,different aspects of the structure of GP services and the social, rather than the clinical, aspects of the process of care given by general practitioners.<br><br><B>Main Topics</B>:<BR><br>Attitudinal/Behavioural Questions<br>
G.P. Services<br>
Perception of recent changes, whether currently registered with a doctor in the area, NHS or private, length of time with same doctor/practice, type of practice, attitudes towards health centres, utilisation of G.P. in previous year. Experience of appointment system, whether surgery hours are convenient, experiences with receptionists, details of last appointment, ease of access to surgery, whether ever changed to a different doctor and experience. Most liked/disliked qualities of G.P.s, preference for a highly competent doctor technically or a more caring attitude, attitude to the idea of general health checks, perception of doctor's role as regards health education and social problems and own experience. Experience or referral to specialist, repeat prescriptions, home visits, emergency treatment. Relationship with doctor, expectations of G.P.'s social status, pay and hours worked, and whether appropriate, preferred sex/age/nationality. Experience of and attitude to private health care.<br>
Dental Services<br>
Perception of recent changes, date of and reason for last consultation, length of time with same dentist, number of consultations in last five years. Experience of urgent treatment, length of waiting time for appointments. Experience of private treatment.<br>
Background Variables<br>
Household composition, marital status, age cohort, school leaving age, further education and qualifications, employment status and occupation of respondent and spouse, length of time in area, tenure. Information about practice attended: number of partners, number of surgeries, health centre, surgery times, nationality.