However, the surveys were returned by 536 physicians representing a broad spectrum of urban and rural practices. It also included physicians in hospital-based practices, solo practices, partnerships, and multispecialty groups. Given the diversity of the respondents, we believe the results are representative of the physician population at large. We acknowledge that legal climates vary geographically and repeating this study in other areas may be worthwhile. A questionnaire format can be problematic as a study tool.
Questions are open to interpretation by the responding physicians.
We believe, however, that as initial data concerning nonmedical practice styles, this is an important contribution to the literature. In summary, we 4 and others have shown differences in practice patterns between OBs and FPs for areas in which medical guidelines have been established. Thus, it is not surprising to find differences in practice style, attitudes, or beliefs in relation to nonmedical areas such as videotaping by patients or their families. Our study shows OBs have a more adverse reaction to the videotaping of obstetric procedures than FPs. Legal concerns contribute to this response by OBs and FPs.