PATIENT SATISFACTION WITH PRIMARY HEALTHCARE SERVICES IN HOSPITALS OF DISTRICT SUKKUR, SINDH, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: Patient satisfaction is a central element of the assessment of health systems and it is a reflection that shows the quality and sensitivity of medical services. In outer administrative regions like Sukkur, Pakistan, where the health infrastructures are often financially deprived and already occupied, the indicative attribute of patient satisfaction provides a way forward strategy in bringing about effective changes. Objective: To assess the level of patient satisfaction with primary healthcare services provided in the district hospitals in Sukkur, Sindh in Pakistan, and to outline the main factors that influence the level of satisfaction. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in three publicly sector district hospitals in Sukkur. The calculation of the representative size of sample was done through Cochran formula and the result was 384. Stratified random sampling procedure was used. Data is obtained through a structured questionnaire that was based on the World Health Organization guidelines. Following statistical analyses were done through the SPSS version 26. Results: Only 384 of the respondents were found to be satisfied with the healthcare services, and this represented 67.4%. Such variables that proved to be statistically associated with the satisfaction included staff courtesy, short waiting hours, the skills of physicians in communicating, and access to medicinal supplies. On the other hand, patients rated the levels of cleanliness and the presence of diagnostic services unsatisfactorily. Conclusion: In spite of the fact that general satisfaction is moderate, it is possible to observe obvious gaps in particular aspects of service provision. Specific remedies directed towards the improvement of hygiene levels, reduction of waiting time and strengthening of diagnostic facilities in the district hospitals are necessary.