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Obstetric practice patterns among family practice residency graduates
S E Gaskins1, P E Tietze, C M Cole
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Alabama School of Medicine, College of Community Health Sciences, Tuscaloosa.
Southern Medical Journal
|August 1, 1991
Summary
Family physicians are leaving obstetrics in the southeastern US. This study surveyed graduates to understand why and to inform solutions for maintaining obstetric care access.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Public Health
- Family Medicine
Background:
- Obstetric services are essential in the southeastern US.
- Historically, family physicians provided obstetrics, but significant attrition is occurring.
- This trend impacts healthcare access in underserved regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate attrition from obstetric practice among family physicians.
- To analyze practice patterns and reasons for discontinuation among Tuscaloosa Family Practice Residency graduates.
- To identify implications for residency curricula and policy interventions.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to graduates of the Tuscaloosa Family Practice Residency Program.
- The survey collected data on current practice patterns, including obstetric care provision.
- Respondents reported reasons for discontinuing obstetric practice.
Main Results:
- Significant attrition from obstetric practice was observed among surveyed family physicians.
- Key reasons for discontinuation included liability concerns, work-life balance, and reimbursement issues.
- Practice patterns varied, with many physicians limiting or ceasing obstetric services.
Conclusions:
- The decline in family physician obstetric practice poses a threat to maternal healthcare access.
- Residency curricula may need revision to better support physicians providing obstetrics.
- State and national-level interventions are necessary to address physician attrition and ensure obstetric care availability.