ral, the second component included in organization, concerns the process of being directed to another medical source.
In a study that examined, among other things, whether optimal primary care is independently associated with receiving preventive care services, it was found that, in general, women received more preventive care services when their regular place of care provided the highest level of availability, communication and comprehensive care (Bindman, et al, 1996, p. 273). Among four preventive services studied, the impact of optimal primary care was greatest on the receipt of Papanicolaou smears (Bindman, et al, 1996, p. 273).
In analyzing a summary of patients not completely satisfied with their most recent medical visit, one study found that age (over 64 years) was a significant predictor of satisfaction with office waiting time, as older patients tended to be most satisfied (Aday, Fleming & Andersen, 1984, p. 69). Aday, et al (1984) notes that, of all the equitable factors examined to explain satisfaction with this dimension of care, which included an examination of out-of-pocket cost and overall quality of care received during the visit, the actual office waiting time was clearly the most important predictor (p. 69). This information could be relevant in assessing how "organization" affects obtaining preventive services among women in the targeted age range, as it would seem to imply that women aged 40-64 may be less satisfied with this dimension of care.
Characteristics of Population-at-Risk
The characteristics of the population-at-risk are measured by the "predisposing," "enabling" and "need" components (Aday & Andersen, 1975). An addition of "health status" is also included as a component.
In a study conducted by Romeis, Gillespie, Virgo & Thorman (1991), it was found that female Veterans are, on average, slightly younger, less likely to be married, less likely to live alone, and less likely to be w...