Questionnaire Use in Pediatric Practice: Survey of Practice

A sample of members of the American Academy of Pediatrics were surveyed to determine the nature and extent of questionnaire use in pediatric practice and to assess practitioners' attitudes toward questionnaires. Thirty-eight percent of 169 respondents (of 300 contacted) reported that they were using a questionnaire in their clinical practice and an additional 36 percent indicated interest in possible future use. Most (89%) questionnaires were constructed by the practitioners themselves. Questionnaire use was associated with group practice and prepaid fee plans. Effitciency was the most common reason given for questionnaire use and impersonality was the most commonly cited objection. Practitioners' attitudes toward questionnaires are discussed.