Underuse of screening mammography by family physicians

Although the American College of Radiology, the National Cancer Institute, and the American Cancer Society recommend screening mammography for women more than 40 years old, there is little compliance with these recommendations. Primary-care physicians are often reluctant to refer patients for the procedure, whereas the patients are usually willing to undergo the procedure. This survey documents the underuse of screening mammography by family physicians who are members of the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians. The underuse of mammography by this physician sample was due to two main factors: The physicians perceived far more disadvantages than advantages with mammography and perceived problems (with, e.g., equipment, effectiveness, and patient acceptance) as pervasive. To change the attitudes and referral behavior of family physicians, one must take into account the specific, negative perceptions of the procedure and place an emphasis on the initial referral, since subsequent referrals are easier to implement.