Determinants of low referral rates for ophthalmologic examination in people with type 2 diabetes in Hungary.

GPs' and patients' socio-demographic characteristics were investigated as possible, determinants of ophthalmologic examination referral rates among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. Female GPs were more effective among retinopathy-free patients, while male GPs among patients with retinopathy. It could be explained by the gender related authority-empathy balance, manifested, through communication style.