Proximity and waiting times in choice models for outpatient cardiological visits in Italy

PLoS One. 2018 Aug 30;13(8):e0203018. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203018. eCollection 2018.

Abstract

We apply mixed logit regression to investigate patients' choice of non-emergency outpatient cardiovascular specialists in Tuscany, Italy. We focused on the effects of travel time and waiting time. Results reveal that patients prefer clinics nearby and with shorter waiting times. Differences in patient choice depend on age and socioeconomic conditions, thus confirming equity concerns in the access of non-acute services. Our results could be used to optimize the allocation of resources, reduce inequities and increase the efficiency and responsiveness of outpatient systems considering patient preferences.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Ambulatory Care Facilities*
  • Ambulatory Care*
  • Appointments and Schedules
  • Cardiology*
  • Female
  • Geography, Medical
  • Health Services Accessibility*
  • Humans
  • Italy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Preference
  • Time Factors
  • Travel
  • Young Adult

Grants and funding

The authors received no specific funding for this work. This contribution was developed as part of the PhD work of one of the authors.