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Patient Educational Needs and Communication Barriers in Dermatology Clinics in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Fawwaz Freih Alshammarie1, Aala Alhobera2, Maryam Alshammari3
1Dermatology Department, University of Hail, Ministry of Education, Hail, Saudi Arabia.
Purpose:
Understanding patient perspectives is essential to improving quality and satisfaction of care in dermatology clinics. In Saudi Arabia, limited national data exist on patients' educational needs and communication barriers. This study aimed to assess patient satisfaction, identify educational gaps, and explore communication challenges in dermatology clinics across Saudi Arabia.
Patients And Methods:
A national cross-sectional survey was conducted among 976 dermatology patients. A structured questionnaire evaluated demographics, perceived knowledge, satisfaction with information provided, communication barriers, and preferred educational methods. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for analysis.
Results:
Among participants who had attended dermatology clinics (n = 795), 61.6% reported frequent or occasional confusion about their condition, and only 45.4% demonstrated high self-reported knowledge. Overall satisfaction was moderate, with 58.3% satisfied or very satisfied, while 9.9% reported dissatisfaction. The most reported communication barriers were limited consultation time (25.2%) and patient anxiety about asking questions (15.3%). Patients felt least informed about treatment options (22.6%), diagnosis (20.3%), and potential side effects (19.3%). Most participants (70.6%) preferred language communication to be in Arabic, and 78% favored face-to-face education consultation. Patient knowledge, barriers and preferences significantly differed with age, gender, and condition complexity (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:
Dermatology patients in Saudi Arabia report moderate satisfaction with substantial educational needs and communication barriers. Addressing consultation time constraints, fostering supportive communication environments, and providing patient-centered, language-appropriate education; particularly through face-to-face interactions will aid to enhance understanding, satisfaction, and engagement in for overall better provider-patient dermatologic care.
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