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Satisfaction levels in orthopaedic out-patients.
Dominic M Nielsen1, Kathryn Gill, David M Ricketts
1Department of Orthopaedics, Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath, Surrey, UK. domnielsen@hotmail.com
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
|April 14, 2005
Summary
Patient satisfaction in outpatient consultations is linked to meeting expectations. Information overload and unmet treatment expectations negatively impact patient satisfaction, highlighting communication
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Patient Experience
Background:
- Patient satisfaction is crucial for treatment adherence and follow-up attendance.
- Understanding factors influencing satisfaction in outpatient settings is essential for improving healthcare delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key factors associated with patient satisfaction during outpatient consultations.
- To explore the relationship between patient expectations and their satisfaction levels.
Main Methods:
- A two-part questionnaire was administered to 106 outpatients.
- The questionnaire assessed patient expectations and subsequent satisfaction with their consultation.
Main Results:
- No significant correlation was found between not seeing the anticipated clinician and reduced satisfaction.
- Increased use of information sources was associated with lower patient satisfaction (P = 0.02).
- Patients reported lower satisfaction when their expectations regarding treatment or outcomes were altered.
Conclusions:
- Aligning consultations with patient expectations is vital for effective communication.
- Managing patient expectations regarding treatment and outcomes is key to enhancing satisfaction.
- Strategies to improve outpatient efficiency, such as utilizing specialist physiotherapists, warrant further investigation.