Influence of cardiac-surgery performance reports on referral practices and access to care: a survey of cardiovascular specialists

An annual report in Pennsylvania that grades doctors and hospitals by examining hospital mortality rates appears to have little credibility with the state's cardiologists and heart surgeons. Researchers surveyed 279 cardiologists and 58 heart surgeons practicing in Pennsylvania. All of the surgeons and 82% of the cardiologists were aware of the annual report. Most cardiologists ignored the report when it came to referring patients to a surgeon. Many believed mortality rates alone do not completely reflect the quality of care. Many also believed that sicker patients would not be treated because they would be more likely to die.