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An informational versus monetary incentive in increasing physicians' response rates
A N Easton1, J H Price, S K Telljohann
1University of Toledo, Department of Health Promotion, Ohio 43606, USA.
Psychological Reports
|December 24, 1997
Summary
A $1.00 monetary incentive significantly increased cancer prevention survey return rates among pediatricians compared to an informational booklet. This finding aids in optimizing physician survey response strategies.
Area of Science:
- Medical research methodology
- Public health surveys
Background:
- Physician participation is crucial for public health research.
- Low survey response rates can bias study findings.
- Effective recruitment strategies are needed to improve pediatrician engagement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of a monetary incentive versus an informational booklet on pediatrician survey return rates.
- To identify optimal strategies for increasing physician participation in cancer prevention research.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted with three waves of mailings.
- Pediatricians were randomly assigned to receive either an informational booklet or a $1.00 monetary incentive with their survey.
- Survey return rates were compared between the two groups.
Main Results:
- The group receiving the $1.00 incentive had a return rate of 79% (227/300).
- The group receiving the informational booklet had a return rate of 64% (189/300).
- The monetary incentive demonstrated a statistically significant increase in survey returns.
Conclusions:
- A $1.00 monetary incentive is more effective than an informational booklet for improving cancer prevention survey return rates among pediatricians.
- Monetary incentives represent a viable strategy to enhance physician participation in health research.
- Future research should explore cost-effectiveness and optimal incentive levels.