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Ethnic differences in consultation rates in urban general practice
S J Gillam1, B Jarman, P White
1Department of General Practice, St Mary's Hospital Medical School, Lisson Grove Health Centre, London.
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|October 14, 1989
Summary
Ethnic differences in general practitioner (GP) consultations were observed, with male Asians showing higher rates. Consultation patterns varied significantly across ethnic groups, highlighting potential disparities in healthcare needs.
Area of Science:
- General Practice
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Understanding ethnic variations in healthcare utilization is crucial for equitable service provision.
- Previous research indicates potential differences in how various ethnic groups interact with primary care services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate ethnic patterns in general practitioner (GP) consultations.
- To analyze the outcomes of these consultations across different ethnic groups.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 67,197 consultations from an urban group general practice (1979-1981).
- Data included ethnic state, sex, social class, and diagnoses.
- Consultation frequency analyzed using standardized consultation ratios.
Main Results:
- Male Asians exhibited a substantially increased standardized patient consultation ratio.
- Consultation rates for mental disorders were lower across all immigrant groups.
- Specific conditions like hypertension and asthma were more frequent in West Indians, while upper respiratory tract infections were more common in Asians.
Conclusions:
- Apparent ethnic differences in consultation patterns necessitate further investigation.
- Addressing these disparities is essential to ensure the healthcare needs of minority ethnic groups are met.