Response to Mail Questionnaires by Health Professionals 1

Abstract

Mail questionnaires are widely used by researchers interested in a variety behavioural and psychological attributes of health professionals. A central concern surrounding this method of data collection is the response rate and its effect on the accuracy of the data obtained. Several studies are reviewed which suggest that low response rates may not necessarily imply biased data. Nevertheless high response rates are desirable and a variety of techniques to stimulate response have been proposed and tested. Those which personalise the invitation to respond and convey the importance of the research project whether through financial inducements or endorsements have been found effective. The most important strategy in most circumstances though is the use of repeat mailings.