Bringing question notes to physicians: A nationwide cross-sectional study in Japan (INFORM study 2020)

Abstract

Objective

To describe the behavior of bringing question notes to physicians in Japan and explore the factors associated with this behavior.

Methods

We used data from a nationwide cross-sectional study conducted in Japan on access to health information (INFORM Study 2020). Data from 3605 respondents, 3572 of whom did not miss the primary endpoint of bringing question notes to physicians, were analyzed. The prevalence of weighted ratios of four-item responses (always, usually, sometimes, never) was described, and multivariable logistic regression was used to explore associated variables with “never bringing question notes.” We also explored the differences in these factors based on the cancer diagnosis experience.

Results

More than 60 % of all respondents and even among those who had a history of cancer diagnosis themselves, more than 50 % had never brought question notes to physicians. Being under 40 years of age, male, employed, and in good health were significantly associated with never bringing question notes.

Conclusion

Those who had never brought question notes to physicians were high both overall and among those who had a cancer diagnosis.

Innovation

Nationwide survey data revealed that Japanese people are less proactive in bringing the notes prepared beforehand to the consultation.