Table 1:

Scripts used by researchers posing as patients with different socioeconomic and health status characteristics

Patient scenario	Script
Initial inquiry (all scenarios)	Hello? Is this Dr. _____’s office? [Omitted if stated explicitly by the person answering the telephone]
High socioeconomic status, no chronic health conditions	Hi. I was just transferred to Toronto with [name of major bank], and I need a family doctor for annual check-ups. Is Dr. _____accepting new patients?
High socioeconomic status, with chronic health conditions	Hi. I was just transferred to Toronto with [name of major bank], and I need a family doctor for my diabetes and back problems. Is Dr. _____accepting new patients?
Low socioeconomic status, no chronic health conditions	Hi. I’m calling ‘cause my welfare worker told me that I need a family doctor for annual check-ups. Is Dr. _____accepting new patients?
Low socioeconomic status, with chronic health conditions	Hi. I’m calling ‘cause my welfare worker told me that I need a family doctor for my diabetes and back problems. Is Dr. _____accepting new patients?