Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the perceived risk of recourse claims and the extent of personal recourse experience among general practitioners (GPs) and orthopedists in private practice. METHODS: A four-page questionnaire on the effects and consequences of the threat of recourse or recourse actually experienced was sent to a nationwide random sample of 1000 GPs and 1000 orthopedists. RESULTS: The response rate was 41% for GPs and 39% for orthopedists; 47% of the participating GPs and 55% of the orthopedists stated that the risk of recourse was a heavy burden in everyday practice, 37/47% that it had a strong influence on their medical practice. 51/25% stated that they referred to a (different) specialist at least occasionally despite the indication of a prescription. 72% of GPs and 59% of orthopedists had recourse at least once, 36 and 19%, respectively more than 3 times. 18% of GPs and 26% of orthopedists had experienced recourse claims of more than € 5000. The emotional burden caused by the worst regress was perceived by 72 and 78%, respectively of those affected by recourse as severe or very severe. CONCLUSION: The risk of recourse can have a strong impact on the work of GPs and orthopedists in private practice. Recourse is often felt to be emotionally stressful and sometimes seen as inhibiting establishing a practice.