SLE patient satisfaction with care in Jordan: A single-center study

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Healthcare Systems Research

Background:

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease impacting young females, necessitating healthcare system evaluation.
• Frequent clinic visits and hospital admissions in SLE patients highlight the need for improved patient satisfaction and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Jordanian SLE patients' perspectives on their healthcare experiences.
• To identify areas for healthcare system improvement to better serve chronic autoimmune disease patients.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 79 SLE patients was conducted.
• Data was collected via phone interviews with patients attending rheumatology clinics at the University of Jordan Hospital.

Main Results:

• Most SLE patients expressed high satisfaction with treatment services (4.28/5) and medications (4.19/5).
• A significant association was found between oral corticosteroid use and lower general satisfaction (p=0.050).
• Good physician-patient relationships were strongly linked to higher general (p=0.000) and medication satisfaction (p=0.004).

Conclusions:

• SLE patients generally report high satisfaction levels, primarily attributed to positive physician-patient interactions.
• Despite overall satisfaction, adverse medication effects and fatigue impact patient experience.
• Enhancing physician-patient communication can improve satisfaction in chronic autoimmune disease management.