Healthy Skepticism Library item: 10252

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Publication type: Journal Article

Cutts C, Tett SE.
Influences on doctors' prescribing: is geographical remoteness a factor?
Aust J Rural Health 2003 Jun; 11:(3):124-30
http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1440-1584.2003.00502.x

Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: To identify factors influencing the prescribing of medicines by general practitioners in rural and remote Australia. DESIGN: A qualitative study using a questionnaire to determine attitudes about prescribing, specific prescribing habits and comments on prescribing in ‘rural practice’. SETTING: General practice in rural and remote Queensland. SUBJECTS: General practitioners practising in rural and remote settings in Queensland (n = 258). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The factors perceived to influence the prescribing of medicines by medical practitioners in rural environments. RESULTS: A 58% response rate (n = 142) was achieved. Most respondents agreed that they prescribe differently in rural compared with city practice. The majority of respondents agreed that their prescribing was influenced by practice location, isolation of patient home location, limited diagnostic testing and increased drug monitoring. Location issues and other issues were more likely to be identified as ‘influential’ by the more isolated practitioners. Factors such as access to continuing medical education and specialists were confirmed as having an influence on prescribing. The prescribing of recently marketed drugs was more likely by doctors practising in less remote rural areas. CONCLUSION: Practising in rural and remote locations is perceived to have an effect on prescribing. These influences need to be considered when developing quality use of medicines policies and initiatives for these locations.