Factors associated with consulting medical or non-medical practitioners for dyspepsia: an australian population-based study.
BACKGROUND
Little is known about how many dyspeptics in the population consult medical and non-medical practitioners, or the factors associated with various consulting patterns.


METHODS
A cross-sectional survey of 748 Australians with dyspepsia investigated their age, sex, dyspepsia symptoms, medical and non-medical consultations, and health status on the SF-12.


RESULTS
Overall, 56% had ever consulted a medical practitioner for dyspepsia. Of these, 54% consulted within 6 months of first symptoms. Non-medical practitioners were consulted by 29%. Compared to dyspeptics in all, or most, other consulting groups, subjects who did not consult (37%, group NO) were characterized by fewer symptoms, better physical health, and younger age. Those who only consulted doctors (34%, group M) were older and had better mental, but poorer physical health. Those who only consulted non-medical practitioners (7%, group N) were younger and had better physical, but poorer mental health. Dyspeptics consulting both medical and non-medical practitioners (22%, group M + N), were older, more dissatisfied with medical care, had more symptoms and poorer physical and mental health. Timing of medical consultations was similar in groups M and M + N. Group M + N dyspeptics consulted similar types, but more non-medical practitioners than group N. No sex differences were found in consulting behaviour.


CONCLUSIONS
Many dyspeptics do not consult; they have fewer symptoms than consulters. Consultation with non-medical practitioners is common and is associated with poor mental health. Dyspeptics seeking advice from both medical and non-medical practitioners are less satisfied with their medical management than those who only consult doctors for their dyspepsia.
Westbrook
J I
JI
School of Health Information Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, Australia. J.Westbrook@cchs.usyd.edu.au
McIntosh
J
J
Talley
N J
NJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001315:Australia; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004415:Dyspepsia / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D012017:Referral and Consultation