Factors influencing physician assignment decisions under Medicare.

The factors that influence physician assignment decisions under Medicare are of major importance to Medicare patients, physicians, and the federal government. This study used a unique data base gathered in Colorado during 1979 to examine these factors. The data base coupled information from Medicare claims with detailed survey information on beneficiaries who received the services. Multiple regression analysis was applied to a sample of approximately 6,500 services. It showed that a variety of physician, beneficiary, and service characteristics are statistically significant determinants of whether a Medicare service is provided on assignment.