The duration of ambulatory visits to physicians.

摘要: Background The objective of our study was to determine the typical length ambulatory visits a nationally representative sample primary care physicians, and patient, physician, practice, visit characteristics affecting duration visit. Methods We used an analysis cross-sectional survey data associated with it. sources were random 19,192 by adults 686 physicians contained in 1991-1992 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, results Physician Induction Interview conducted Center for Health Statistics. Duration defined as total time spent face-to-face contact physician. Results Mean 16.3 minutes (standard deviation = 9.7). Multivariate allowed calculation independent effect on variety patients, organizational/practice setting, geographic location, content. Certain patient (increasing age presence psychosocial problems) increased Visit content also duration, including ordering or performing 4 more diagnostic tests (71% increase), Papanicolaou smears (34%), surgical procedures admission hospital (32%), 3 preventive screening (25%). Reduced availability non-physician support personnel health maintenance organization Medicaid insurance. Conclusions Multiple factors affect Clinicians, policymakers, system managers should take these considerations into account managing physician resources during daily practice.