A comparison of concurrent general and HMO-affiliated medical practice experience

This study was designed to differentiate the general practice perceptions of physicians who affiliate with an HMO and those not affiliated with an HMO as well as the "within physician" comparison of HMO practice experience relative to one's own general practice. A written survey was mailed to 1,000 members of the Florida Medical Association (FMA). A total of 372 physicians responded to the survey; 114 (31%) reported affiliation with an HMO. Based on a 5-point Likert-type scale, the rating of overall satisfaction with the general practice of medicine was good (mean=3.19). Perceptions of general practice did not differ substantially based on HMO-affiliation status. However, physicians reporting concurrent general and HMO-affiliated practice clearly distinguished these experiences. All aspects of medical practice, except paperwork, were rated consistently lower for HMO practice in comparison to general practice.