Professional uncertainty and the problem of supplier-induced demand.

摘要: This paper discusses the puzzling problem of large differences in per capita use certain common surgical procedures among neighboring populations, which by all available measures are quite similar need for and access to services. The evidence reviewed here supports hypothesis that variations occur a extent because physicians their evaluation patients (diagnosis) or belief value meeting patient needs (therapy). hypothesis, we call professional uncertainty is germane current controversies concerning nature supplier influence on demand medical It also important its implications health regulatory policy. Our plan (1) review relevance hypotheses supplier-induced controversy; (2) epidemiologic causes variation; (3) examine patterns illustrate importance utilization; (4) consider some public