Does the Primary Care Experience Influence the Cancer Diagnostic Process?

Table 9

Composition of indices of experience of care at the usual source of primary care (Appendix B).

Experience of care dimension	Questions/statements	Scale
Accessibility	In this place, if your doctor (the one who looks after your care) is not available, you can see another doctor.	Always, often, sometimes, never
	When you need to see a doctor at this place, in general, how long do you have to wait to see that doctor by appointment?	Less than 2 weeks, 2 to 4 weeks, 1 to 3 months, 4 months or more
	When you need care quickly or urgently, how long does it take for you to be able to see a doctor at this place?	Less than 24 hours, 1 to 2 days, 3 to 4 days, 5 days or more
Continuity	How long have you been going to this place?	Less than 2 years, 2 to 5 years, 6 to 9 years, 10 years or more
	When you go to this place, you see the same physician.	Always, often, sometimes, never
	In this place, …
	they know your medical history	Very much, moderately, somewhat, not at all
	they know all the prescription medicines you are taking
	you can be followed for a chronic condition
Comprehensiveness	In this place, …
	they look after all your health problems, whether; physical or psychological	Very much, moderately, somewhat, not at all
	when you go for a visit, the doctor takes the time to talk; about prevention and asks about your lifestyle habits
	they help you to get all the health services you need
	they take into account your opinion and your wishes; regarding the services they offer
	they help you to evaluate the pros and cons when you; need to take a decision concerning your health