Satisfaction of Patients and Physicians with Outpatient Consultations at a University Hospital

Abstract

Objective: This study was performed to investigate the factors influencing the correlation between physician satisfaction and patient satisfaction in an outpatient setting.

Methods: New patients attending the General Medicine Outpatient Clinic of Chiba University Hospital and their physicians were enrolled. After the initial consultation, both the patients and the physicians completed an anonymous questionnaire.

Results: There were 875 patients (381 men and 494 women; mean age: 54 years) and 10 physicians (4 men and 6 women; mean experience: 6 years). The satisfaction of the patients and the physicians was not correlated (r=0.14, p<0.001). A logistic regression analysis revealed that the factors associated with greater physician satisfaction were "guidance/advice from senior colleagues" [odds ratio (OR)=2.03; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.76-2.34] and "confidence in the diagnosis" (OR=1.52; 95%CI=1.37-1.69), while "a difficult patient" (OR=0.73; 95%CI=0.68-0.78) was associated with reduced satisfaction. The factors associated with greater patient satisfaction were "the doctor listened carefully" (OR=1.98; 95%CI=1.62-2.42) and "my diagnosis is correct" (OR=1.57; 95%CI=1.41-1.74). One item in the questionnaire for the physicians, "I diagnosed psychogenic illness" (OR=0.87; 95%CI=0.81-0.94), was associated with lower patient satisfaction.

Conclusion: The satisfaction of the patients and the physicians was not correlated. If only the factors promoting the satisfaction of one party are targeted, the satisfaction of the other party will not increase. The satisfaction of the physicians may be increased by receiving advice from mentors and an improved diagnostic ability, while the patients wants a physician who listens carefully and makes the correct diagnosis.