What some physicians say about caring for patients with disability: Responses to open-ended question to nationwide physician survey.
Lisa I Iezzoni
PMID 38688730WHAT IT FOUND
Physicians who commented on disability care cited cost, space, and time as barriers.
Many viewed paying for sign language interpreters as unfair when reimbursement was lower. Concerns about accessible equipment focused on patients with severe obesity.
Key findings
01Physicians expressed resentment about paying for sign language interpreters, noting costs often exceeded visit reimbursements.
02Open-ended comments focused on space and cost barriers for accessible exam tables, particularly regarding patients with severe obesity.
03Physicians reported inadequate training and time as significant challenges in caring for patients with disabilities.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they found
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What it does not show
Only 15.1% of survey participants provided analyzable open-ended comments. Physicians with negative views about disability care may have been more likely to comment. Theme assignment was subjective and comments could fit multiple themes. No demographic or specialty information was available for the 108 commenters.
Declared interests
None declared.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume these comments represent all physicians. Only 108 of 714 respondents provided usable comments, and those with negative views may have been more motivated to write in.