Use your browser's BACK button to return to your page of origin.

The effects of variations in mode of delivery and monetary incentive on physicians' responses to a mailed survey assessing STD practice patterns.

Evaluation & the Health Professions 2001;24(1):3-17.

Kasprzyk D, Montaño DE, St. Lawrence JS, Phillips WR.

Abstract
High response rates from physicians are key to obtaining valid and generalizable data regarding their sexually transmitted disease (STD) diagnosis, treatment, and control practices. A factorial (3 + 2) study was designed using varying cash incentives ($0, $15, $25) and delivery modes (Federal Express, U.S. mail). Surveys, with three follow-up mailings, were sent to a national probability sample of 311 physicians in OB-GYN, family practice, internal and emergency medicine, and pediatrics specialties. Overall, 156 physicians returned completed surveys (56% overall response rate). Significant effects for incentive level (F = 28.2, df = 2, p<.01) and delivery mode (F = 4.1, df = 1, p<.05) existed. Highest response was among physicians in the $25-Fed Ex condition (81%). High response rates from busy practicing physicians can be achieved if surveys are relevant to clinical practice, sponsored by a reputable organization (the CDC), include a monetary incentive, and are delivered by courier.