Objective: 
Display a comprehensive demographic profile of the institutions in which ASPE members work and compare this with profiles from previous years.  Because no comprehensive data were collected before the current 2004 base year, comparison is attempted with results of previous surveys conducted by individuals where these are available. 

Methods: 
Beginning March, 2004, individuals were asked to complete an on-line survey after receiving confirmation of new or renewed ASPE membership.  Only the individual applying for a group membership was asked to complete the survey to avoid duplication.  Participation was voluntary, although when response lagged a series of e-mail reminders were sent.  Survey items contained objective questions about number of years with a SPP, size and regional location, SP-related educational and administrative environment; sources for SPP budget; extra-institution services; presence and characteristics of a clinical skills testing facility; and location of authority for ASPE membership.  Results were grouped across respondents and presented only in the aggregate. 

Results: 
Results from five months of new and renewing members will be available.  These are expected to represent approximately 40% of total annual members. 

Conclusion: 
No generalizations about ASPE institutions can be drawn until results are tabulated.