A study in Manual Therapy identified the factors that most affect patient satisfaction in orthopedic outpatient clinics.
Here is what you need to know.
1. Researchers conducted a cross-sectional, qualitative design study with focus groups and interviews. The researchers spoke with 36 participants representing patients, health professionals and clinical support staff.
2. Seven themes emerged from the study and were found to be the most impactful elements on patient satisfaction.
They are:
- Clinical wait time
- Clinical contact time
- Provider trust
- Empathy
- Communication
- Expectation
- Relatedness
3. The researchers concluded that understanding the factors influencing patient satisfaction could directly be affected by reorganizing office and clinical procedures.
4. When clinicians are aware of interpersonal issues, they may improve patient satisfaction and potentially shift patient behavior towards a therapeutic advantage.