Pilot study report: obstetrical care by Texas family physicians

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Services Research
• Rural Health

Background:

• A decline in family physicians providing obstetrical care raises concerns about access to maternity services.
• This trend is particularly concerning for rural populations who may have limited healthcare options.
• Previous research suggests rising malpractice insurance costs and litigation fears are key drivers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey Texas family physicians regarding their current and past obstetrical practice patterns.
• To identify the primary reasons for family physicians discontinuing obstetrical care.
• To inform policymakers about trends affecting obstetrical care availability.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study surveyed 205 randomly selected Texas family physicians and general practitioners (4% of the state's total).
• The survey included both Medical Doctors (MDs) and Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs).
• Response rate was 64.9%.

Main Results:

• 28% of respondents currently practice obstetrics.
• 61% of respondents previously practiced obstetrics but have discontinued the service.
• High malpractice premiums and fear of lawsuits were the most common reasons cited for discontinuing obstetrics, with 40% stopping after 1983.

Conclusions:

• A significant number of Texas family physicians have stopped providing obstetrical care.
• The findings highlight a concerning trend of decreasing access to maternity care, particularly in underserved areas.
• Addressing concerns about malpractice and insurance costs may be crucial to retaining family physicians in obstetrical practice.