Preventive care visits with OB/GYNs and generalist physicians among reproductive-ae women with chronic conditions

ObjectiveTo examine services delivered during preventive care visits among reproductive-age women with and without chronic conditions by physician specialty. Data SourcesNational Ambulatory Medical Care Surveys (2011-2018). Study DesignWe examined provision of specific services during preventive care visits by physician specialty among reproductive-age female patients, overall and among women with five common chronic conditions (diabetes, hypertension, depression, hyperlipidemia, and asthma). Data Collection/Extraction MethodsThe sample included preventive visits to OB/GYNs or generalist physicians where the patient was female, age 18-44, and not pregnant. Principal FindingsIn OB/GYN preventive visits, reproductive health services were more likely to be provided, while non-reproductive health services were less likely to be provided, both among reproductive-age female patients overall and among those with chronic conditions. For example, pap tests were provided in 44.5% of OB/GYN preventive visits (95% CI: 40.6-48.4) and in 21.4% of generalist preventive visits (95% CI: 17.2-26.6). Lipid testing was provided in 2.8% of OB/GYN preventive visits (95% CI: 1.7-3.9) and in 30.3% of generalist preventive visits (95% CI: 26.1-34.6). ConclusionsUnderstanding the full range of care received in preventive visits across settings could guide recommendations to optimize where reproductive-age women with chronic conditions seek care.

Automated summary

The study aims to examine the services delivered during preventive care visits among reproductive-age women with and without chronic conditions, considering the physician specialty as well. The findings suggest that reproductive health services are more likely to be provided during preventive visits to OB/GYNs, while non-reproductive health services are less likely to be provided.