Factors that influence provider selection for elective total joint arthroplasty.

Background: The growth of consumer-directed health plans has sparked increased demand for information regarding the cost and quality of healthcare services, including total joint arthroplasty (TJA). However, the factors that influence patients' choice of provider when pursuing elective orthopaedic care, such as TJA, are poorly understood.

Questions/purposes: We evaluated the factors patients consider when selecting an orthopaedic surgeon and hospital for TJA.