An informational versus monetary incentive in increasing physicians' response rates

Abstract

This study examined return rates for a cancer prevention survey by pediatricians in relation to an informational booklet versus a monetary incentive in the first of a three-wave mailing. Of the 300 surveys sent which included an informational booklet incentive, 189 (64%) were returned. Of the 300 surveys sent which included a $1.00 incentive 227 (79%) were returned, indicating the $1.00 incentive was more effective than the informational incentive in increasing return rates in this sample of physicians.