An understanding of the perceptions of physicians who have chosen to affiliate and not affiliate with Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) is crucial in understanding how CAHs are functioning in their communities. We are conducting a survey of physicians designed to assess the impacts of the CAH on health care providers. Data items to be collected include characteristics of the physician and practice; the nature of communications from CAH management to the physician; and physician perceptions of the CAH. Physician characteristics include age, specialty, length of time the physician has practiced in the community and future practice plans, practice size, hours of work, and whether the physician currently admits patients to the CAH. Survey data will be examined using univariate and multivariate statistical methods. This survey will be the first systematic contact with primary care physicians in the CAH communities by the Tracking Project team.

There may be products related to this project; please contact the lead researcher for more information.