Collecting Data From Physicians Via Web-Based Surveys: Recommendations for Improving Response Rates

Advances in technology have increased the utility of online data collection strategies. Although this approach to gathering information is widely utilized, limitations do exist. The authors utilized an online methodology during a recent study designed to assess physician knowledge regarding policy and law related to HIV/AIDS, however a sufficient response rate was never attained. In light of this failure a secondary study was conducted (discussed herein) to examine the underlying mechanics behind this deficiency. Focus groups were conducted to understand why physicians failed to participate. Subjects identified lack of survey notification and perceived relevance of the research question to their profession as important factors. Results also indicate that future online surveys should accompany immediate feedback and guaranteed incentives, target specific clinical areas, be short and user-friendly, and announced using a multi-level approach. Although quite useful as a method of data collection, limitations of online data acquisition are many and should be examined thoroughly prior to test administration