Patient satisfaction: what works in radiology

In recent years, patient satisfaction in healthcare has been criticized as much as poor customer satisfaction in other industries. Many times, the financial problems that exist are used as an excuse for poor patient satisfaction. This excuse can never justify treating a patient rudely or with disrespect. Patients are the essence of why we exist in radiology. Their increasing scrutiny--over the care they receive and the services we provide--will significantly impact the future of healthcare in the United States. Healthcare employees need to focus on teamwork and respect for patients as well as co-workers as foundations for improving patient satisfaction. True leaders will set the mood of the healthcare facility by "practicing what they preach." Some basic rules to follow to improve customer satisfaction include listening to employees, recognizing exceptional behavior, correcting negative behavior, communicating expectations to employees and listening to patients' needs and concerns. The secret to successful patient satisfaction is not only exceeding the expectations of our patients, but also exceeding the expectations of our employees who take care of patients.