Patient Satisfaction in a Gynecology- Obstetrics Service at Ibn Al Jazzar University Hospital in Tunisia: A Cross- Sectional Study (2023)

Abstract

Background: Patient satisfaction is a crucial indicator of healthcare quality, particularly in gynecology-obstetrics services where care involves intimate and sensitive aspects of women's health. Understanding patient perspectives is essential for improving service delivery and healthcare outcomes.

Objective: To evaluate patient satisfaction levels in the gynecology-obstetrics service at Ibn Al Jazzar University Hospital in Kairouan, Tunisia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2023 among 276 patients hospitalized in the gynecology-obstetrics service. Data was collected using a validated questionnaire developed by the General Directorate of Public Health Structures (DGSSP) in collaboration with the Observatory on the Performance of Organizations and Health Systems at the University of Montreal (OPOSSUM). The questionnaire assessed overall satisfaction and seven specific domains: accessibility, continuity, comprehensiveness, technical quality, humanization, environment, and conditions of stay. Satisfaction was measured using a 6-point Likert scale (0-5).

Results: The overall satisfaction rate was 37%. Domain-specific satisfaction rates varied considerably: accessibility of care (65.6%), continuity of care (41.7%), comprehensiveness of care (16.3%), technical quality of care (52.9%), humanization (37.0%), environment (41.3%), and conditions of stay (5.1%). Physician competence (80.8%) and staff cleanliness and attire (83.7%) received the highest satisfaction ratings, while visiting areas (0%) and visiting hours (5.1%) received the lowest.

Conclusion: While overall patient satisfaction in the gynecology-obstetrics service was moderate, significant variations existed across different domains. The findings highlight areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. Implementing targeted interventions, including digital solutions like the GynéSatis mobile application, could enhance patient experience and healthcare quality in this setting.

Keywords:

Patient satisfaction, gynecology-obstetrics, healthcare quality, Tunisia, patient experience, hospital care

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