AIMS: To describe the perceptions of the New Zealand public as to the role of the doctor in 2010. METHODS: Telephone survey of 502 individuals throughout New Zealand during May 2010. The questions were based on a United Kingdom survey with added questions in respect of culture, equity and resource allocation. The data were weighted by gender and age according to the 2006 population census. RESULTS: Most respondents (82%) wanted to see a doctor first if they had a new concern about their health; 7% a nurse and 5% a pharmacist. Most respondents agreed (88%) that when visiting a doctor, getting an accurate diagnosis was their top priority. In respect of a doctor's personal qualities, integrity was expected (94%), as was compassion (89%). Most respondents (78%) agreed that they expected a doctor to be the leader of the healthcare team. Most agreed (70%) that there is limited money available and doctors must consider how best to use it for all patients and that doctors (82%) need to be involved in decisions about health spending. CONCLUSION: This comprehensive New Zealand survey provides important information about public perceptions of the role of the doctor and is a basis for workforce planning and future comparisons.
AIMS: To describe the perceptions of the New Zealand public as to the role of the doctor in 2010. METHODS: Telephone survey of 502 individuals throughout New Zealand during May 2010. The questions were based on a United Kingdom survey with added questions in respect of culture, equity and resource allocation. The data were weighted by gender and age according to the 2006 population census. RESULTS: Most respondents (82%) wanted to see a doctor first if they had a new concern about their health; 7% a nurse and 5% a pharmacist. Most respondents agreed (88%) that when visiting a doctor, getting an accurate diagnosis was their top priority. In respect of a doctor's personal qualities, integrity was expected (94%), as was compassion (89%). Most respondents (78%) agreed that they expected a doctor to be the leader of the healthcare team. Most agreed (70%) that there is limited money available and doctors must consider how best to use it for all patients and that doctors (82%) need to be involved in decisions about health spending. CONCLUSION: This comprehensive New Zealand survey provides important information about public perceptions of the role of the doctor and is a basis for workforce planning and future comparisons.