Date of Award

Fall 12-1-1997

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Michael J. Murphy

Second Advisor

June Sprock

Abstract

This study surveyed licensed psychologists in private practice regarding their perceptions of ethical issues associated with managed care. Surveys addressing ethical issues were mailed to 1,000 members of the American Psychological Association's (APA) Division oflndependent Practice (Division 42). Forty-two percent of the surveys were returned. The responses were summarized using descriptive statistics and analyzed to compare opinions of psychologists as a function of theoretical orientation, geographical location, specialty, population of location area, years in practice, and level of state and national organizational involvement. The results of the study identified a number of ethical concerns including compromised confidentiality, inadequate diagnosis and assessment, inappropriate treatment, and decreased quality of care. The results indicated respondents did not perceive the current AP A Ethics Code as addressing ethical dilemmas arising as a consequence of managed care. In addition, significant differences in opinion were found between psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral practitioners regarding the extent of the negative impact on clinical practice by managed care.

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