Practice satisfaction among young West Virginia family physicians

Young family physicians, those in their first five years of practice, were surveyed to determine their satisfaction regarding various aspects of their practices. A total of 67% of the physicians surveyed responded and the results indicated that most family doctors located in communities where there was a perceived need for their specialty. The survey also showed that two of the most important factors necessary to attract and retain family doctors in rural practice are enhanced third-party reimbursement and the availability of other family physicians to share call. This study underscores the necessity to know and understand the sentiments of West Virginia family physicians in order to attract more newly-trained doctors into rural practice.