Problems and pitfalls in community-based outcomes research.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the feasibility of multisite community-based outcomes research.


METHODS
Prospective observational study of variations in treating acute external otitis by otolaryngologists and primary care practitioners.


METHODS
Community-based independent otolaryngology practices.


METHODS
Patients with external otitis treated by otolaryngologists in Project Solo, a nonprofit, grassroots organization of independent physicians united for quality, patient advocacy, and cost containment.


METHODS
Confidential (bar-coded), disease-specific outcomes questionnaires completed by patients (12 items) and by participating physicians (15 items). Response to treatment was measured with a follow-up patient questionnaire (3 items).


RESULTS
Nine patients were recruited from 5 of 29 enrolled otolaryngologists. Primary care practitioners were more likely to prescribe oral antimicrobials than otolaryngologists (100% vs. 44%, p = 0.03), but less likely to insert a wick in the external auditory canal (11% vs. 78%, p = 0.02). Poor recruitment was caused by an overly long and complex survey, data collection at multiple time points, lack of time during office hours, cumbersome data collection requirements, inadequate ongoing communication, and a lack of enthusiasm for the project.


CONCLUSIONS
Future efforts at implementing a multisite outcomes study will require shorter questionnaires, smoother integration of the survey process with regular office flow, simplified procedures for data exchange, frequent communication with data collection sites, and motivational programs for participating physicians and their office staff.
Isenberg
S F
SF
St. Vincent Community Health Network, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
Rosenfeld
R M
RM
D004812:Epidemiologic Methods; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D010032:Otitis Externa / Q000188:drug therapy; D010036:Otolaryngology; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011331:Private Practice; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires