Selected Characteristics of Black Physicians in the United States, 1972

The profile of black physicians in the United States has not changed appreciably since 1967. A sample of 3,405 black physicians (91% male, 9% female) who responded to a mailed questionnaire survey shows that black physicians are more likely to concentrate in the fields of general practice, medical and surgical specialties, and solo practice as opposed to group practice than the universe of US physicians. Black male physicians are twice as likely to be in solo practice or self-employed than are black female physicians. Fee-for-service is reported as the primary source of income. (JAMA229:1758-1761, 1974)