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Changing face of family practice
M J Bass1, I R McWhinney, M Stewart
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Western Ontario (UWO), London.
Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|November 7, 1998
Summary
Family medicine in London, Ontario, saw a significant rise in female practitioners and a decrease in in-hospital care and obstetrics between 1974 and 1994. This shift raises concerns about maintaining clinical skills.
Area of Science:
- Family Medicine
- General Practice
- Medical Trends
Background:
- The landscape of family practice has evolved significantly over recent decades.
- Understanding these changes is crucial for medical education and healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and analyze trends in family practice in London, Ontario, spanning two decades (1974-1994).
Main Methods:
- Utilized interview surveys in 1974 and questionnaire surveys in 1984 and 1994.
- Data collected from family physicians and general practitioners in London, Ontario.
Main Results:
- Increased percentage of female practitioners, those with no in-hospital patients, and those making no home visits.
- Decreased percentage of solo practitioners and those practicing obstetrics.
- Observed changes in patient load, practice hours, and physician satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Fewer physicians provided in-hospital care, made home visits, practiced solo, or delivered babies by 1994 compared to 1974.
- A substantial increase in female family physicians was noted.
- The trend away from in-hospital care raises questions about maintaining essential clinical skills for urban family physicians.