Disadvantaged people, medical care studied

PHILADELPHIA, Aug 15, 2005 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- A survey of about 1,000 people in Cincinnati found the more disadvantaged people are, the more they're concerned about their image in seeking medical care.

Researchers Jennifer Malat of the University of Cincinnati and Michelle van Ryn of the University of Minnesota said previous research aimed at eliminating disparities in medical care failed to consider whether patients tried to take action to get quality medical care or alleviate negative perceptions of health care providers.

On every variable, the researchers said, people who were more disadvantaged were more likely to say yes to such questions as "Do you feel it's important to be on time for your appointment?" and "Do you think it's important to let your doctor know you are intelligent?"

Women were more likely to say "yes" to the questions than men, as were African-Americans than Caucasians.

The paper was presented Monday, during the 100th annual meeting of the American Sociological Association in Philadelphia.