Factors that influence obstetrical care by Mississippi family physicians.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to investigate factors associated with cause for attrition from obstetrics among family physicians in Mississippi and to identify enhancing factors for those practicing obstetrics.


METHODS
A twenty-two item self-addressed survey was utilized.


METHODS
All identifiable allopathic and osteopathic family physicians currently practicing in Mississippi.


METHODS
Factors that contribute to decisions by family physicians to practice or not practice obstetrics.


RESULTS
Of the 652 surveys mailed, 235 (36%) were returned. Twenty-seven respondents indicated that they provide prenatal care. Fifteen of these performed non-emergent vaginal deliveries; ten provided the full spectrum of obstetrical care. There was a significant difference in the number of months of OB training between respondents who do non-emergent vaginal deliveries and those who did not. Personal interest and training ranked highest as influences for physicians practicing obstetrics. Factors associated with the decision not to practice included high malpractice premiums and the perception that other local physicians provide obstetrics.


CONCLUSIONS
According to study results, most Mississippi family physicians are not practicing obstetrics. The influence of high malpractice premiums and the influence of the length of OB training on the physicians' choice to practice OB require additional investigation.
Hart-Hester
Susan
S
Department of Family Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State Street, Jackson, MS 39216-4505, USA. shart-hester@familymed.umsmed.edu
Arthur
Chris Rodgers
CR
Olutade
Joyce
J
Beebe
Diane
D
Replogle
William
W
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008922:Mississippi; D009774:Obstetrics; D010821:Physicians, Family; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'