Table 1 Description of primary care projects

Summary: This study took place in Ontario, Canada between 2004 and 2006. This mixed methods study was designed to compare the quality of primary care services delivered in four predominant service delivery models in Ontario, Canada: Fee for service (FFS); Family Health Networks (FHNs); Health Services Organizations (HSOs); and Community Health Centres (CHCs). (Details about these models of services delivery are available elsewhere) [19]. Type of Research: Cross-sectional mixed methods study. Data collection: tools included provider, patient, and practice surveys, chart audits, and in-depth interviews with select providers, patients, and key informants.

Summary: This study is currently underway in the Champlain district of Ontario, Canada. This program is intended for primary health care providers to improve the delivery of evidence-based prevention and management strategies for diabetes, heart disease, and stroke within their practice. Type of Research: Stepped wedge randomized controlled trial. Data collection: includes chart abstraction, and the program includes monthly customized visits from facilitators.

Summary: This completed project, started in October 2003, involved 30 practices in Southern Ontario and Ottawa, Canada. This was an outreach facilitation program intended to improve the delivery of preventative care, with a chronic disease care management component. Type of Research: Before-and-after trial. Data collection: the program included chart reviews, patient surveys, and meetings with physicians every 3-4 weeks to discuss prevention issues.

Summary: Started in 2001, this was a multi-phase project in 20 communities in Ontario, Canada focused on cardiovascular health awareness of seniors. The program involved engaging physicians to recruit their patients, through various methods, to cardiovascular risk assessment sessions in local pharmacies. Type of Research: Clustered randomized community intervention trial. Data collection: Physicians received data from these sessions that they could then use for patient follow-up. Physicians were also asked to complete a survey following the completion of the project.

Summary: This study took place in Ontario, Canada, examining potential changes (e.g. on incomes, workloads, and work satisfaction) for physicians who entered into primary care reform. Type of Research: mixed method study (cross sectional and cohort study). Data collection: included collecting physician income data from tax records, as well as survey and demographic data.