Table 3 Main issues raised by PPI representatives
PPI representative suggestions | Comment | Consequence | |
|---|---|---|---|
Survey structure | Case vignette should be the very first part of the survey followed by questionnaire items | The rationale was that respondents may expect that the survey quickly gets to the subject matter and PPI representatives argued that the vignette was the central part of the survey | Case vignette moved to the first section of survey |
Alter the succession of questions following the scenario | For example grouping of vignette related items immediately following the vignette | Changed succession of items | |
Survey contents | General need for brevity of text and items whenever possible | PPI representatives maintained preference for minimum writing | Several adjustments with removal of unneeded text |
Need for a brief but comprehensible introduction to the hypothetical scenario | PPI representatives maintained importance of guidance throughout parts of survey | Insertion of brief prologues | |
‘Reverse’ wording of questions | By way of example, PPI representatives suggested replacing ‘I would not use that doctor again’ with ‘I would use that doctor again’ because the original question may ‘push’ responders towards negative ratings | Rephrasing of items | |