How Organizational Inclusion Shapes Patient Satisfaction in Magnet Hospitals.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Health Services Research
• Patient Experience

Background:

• Magnet hospitals report higher patient satisfaction than non-Magnet hospitals.
• The specific factors driving this difference, particularly related to inclusion efforts, require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between Magnet designation, hospital inclusion efforts for diverse populations, and patient satisfaction.
• To determine if inclusion efforts mediate the association between Magnet status and patient satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study utilizing secondary data from HCAHPS, HEI, AHA Annual Survey, and Magnet recognition lists (N=708 hospitals).
• Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) scores served as a proxy for inclusion efforts for sexual and gender diverse populations.
• Mediation analyses were performed to assess the indirect effect of Magnet status on patient satisfaction via HEI scores.

Main Results:

• Magnet hospitals exhibited significantly higher HEI scores compared to non-Magnet hospitals.
• Magnet designation had direct positive effects on hospital ratings and patient recommendations.
• Inclusion efforts, as measured by HEI scores, partially mediated the relationship between Magnet status and patient satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Hospital inclusion efforts are a significant factor contributing to higher patient satisfaction in Magnet-recognized facilities.
• Policies promoting patient-centeredness and diversity are crucial for enhancing overall patient satisfaction.
• These findings emphasize the value of inclusive practices in achieving superior healthcare outcomes.