[Consultation Time and Quality of Care in Morocco: Lessons for Developing Countries]

In middle-income countries, the duration of medical consultations is a key determinant of care quality, particularly given the limited health literacy of part of the population. This study analyzes its impact in Morocco by exploring the perceptions of beneficiaries of Compulsory Health Insurance (AMO).

A mixed-methods design combined a literature review with a survey of 240 AMO beneficiaries. Data were collected through a questionnaire focusing on listening, clarity of explanations, consultation length, and patient expectations.

Most patients reported feeling listened to and considered the explanations clear. However, a significant proportion expressed unmet needs, especially regarding consultation time and medical jargon. The average consultation duration (15-20 minutes) was considered sufficient by two-thirds of patients, while one-third desired more time. Overall satisfaction reached 80%.

Consultation length is a major lever for enhancing doctor-patient communication and perceived quality of care. In resource-limited settings, interventions such as simplifying medical language, training healthcare providers in communication skills, and optimizing consultation time management are crucial. These findings, while grounded in the Moroccan context, provide valuable lessons for middle-income countries facing similar challenges.