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PHYSICIANS' PERCEPTIONS OF THEIR ROLE IN HEALTH PROMOTION.

In 1981, researchers surveyed primary care physicians in Massachusetts regarding their perceptions about their role in health promotion. Now the same team presents the findings of a similar survey conducted in 1994.

Most physicians believed that eliminating smoking, avoiding illicit drugs, using seat belts, and limiting intake of alcohol and saturated fat were "very important" behaviors for patients; compared with 1981, more physicians in 1994 rated each of each of these behaviors as very important. However, fewer physicians in 1994 believed that avoiding excess calories and eating a balanced diet were very important.

From 1981 to 1994, an increasing number of physicians considered educating patients about risk factors and helping patients follow health regimens as part of their role. But ironically, fewer physicians in 1994 considered it their responsibility to provide emotional support for patients, encourage them to discuss personal problems, educate them about community resources, and involve family members in their care.

Comment: Educating and counseling patients about health promotion requires considerable time, effort, and expertise. One can only wonder whether the physicians' perception of less responsibility for certain types of personal counseling in 1994 is a response to time pressures and limited reimbursement under new health care arrangements.

— AS Brett

Published in Journal Watch General Medicine April 23, 1996

Citation(s):

Wechsler H et al. The physician's role in health promotion revisited -- A survey of primary care practitioners. N Engl J Med 1996 Apr 11 334 996-998.

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