To examine how different response scales, methods of survey administration, and survey format affect responses to the (Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) Clinician and Group (‐) survey.
A total of 6,500 patients from a university health center were randomly assigned to receive the following: standard 12‐page mail surveys using 4‐category or 6‐category response scales (on ‐ composite items), telephone surveys using 4‐category or 6‐category response scales, or four‐page mail surveys.
A total of 3,538 patients completed surveys. Composite score means and provider‐level reliabilities did not differ between respondents receiving 4‐category or 6‐category response scale surveys or between 12‐page and four‐page mail surveys. Telephone respondents gave more positive responses than mail respondents.
We recommend using 4‐category response scales and the four‐page mail ‐ survey.
