Non-response to a life course socioeconomic position indicator in surveillance: comparison of telephone and face-to-face modes

Catherine Chittleborough
Anne Taylor, Government of South Australia, Department of Health
Fran E. Baum
Janet E. Hiller

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This article was published by Biomed Central Pty Ltd

Abstract

Measurement of socioeconomic position (SEP) over the life course in population health surveillance systems is important for examining differences in health and illness between different population groups and for monitoring the impact of policies and interventions aimed at reducing health inequities and intergenerational disadvantage over time. While face-to-face surveys are considered the gold standard of interviewing techniques, computer-assisted telephone interviewing is often preferred for cost and convenience. This study compared recall of parents' highest level of education in telephone and face-to-face surveys.