Improving response rate and quality of survey data with a scratch lottery ticket incentive.
BMC Med Res Methodol
; 12: 52, 2012 Apr 19.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-22515335
BACKGROUND: The quality of data collected in survey research is usually indicated by the response rate; the representativeness of the sample, and; the rate of completed questions (item-response). In attempting to improve a generally declining response rate in surveys considerable efforts are being made through follow-up mailings and various types of incentives. This study examines effects of including a scratch lottery ticket in the invitation letter to a survey. METHOD: Questionnaires concerning oral health were mailed to a random sample of 2,400 adults. A systematically selected half of the sample (1,200 adults) received a questionnaire including a scratch lottery ticket. One reminder without the incentive was sent. RESULTS: The incentive increased the response rate and improved representativeness by reaching more respondents with lower education. Furthermore, it reduced item nonresponse. The initial incentive had no effect on the propensity to respond after the reminder. CONCLUSION: When attempting to improve survey data, three issues become important: response rate, representativeness, and item-response. This study shows that including a scratch lottery ticket in the invitation letter performs well on all the three.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Reward
/
Surveys and Questionnaires
/
Health Surveys
/
Community Participation
/
Motivation
Type of study:
Prognostic_studies
/
Risk_factors_studies
Aspects:
Equity_inequality
Limits:
Adult
/
Female
/
Humans
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Male
/
Middle aged
Country/Region as subject:
Europa
Language:
En
Journal:
BMC Med Res Methodol
Journal subject:
MEDICINA
Year:
2012
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Country of publication: