Patients' views towards care received from psychiatrists

Background. Measurement of the quality of psychiatric care including assessment of patients' views have become increasingly important as expectations of the standard of care rises. Method. Attitudes and satisfaction of acute psychiatric in-patients were investigated using a questionnaire looking at satisfaction, patients' views on personal ana professional qualities of psychiatrists, empowerment and insight. Results. The response rate was 79.2% (137 out of 173). Patients with a diagnosis of a nonaffective psychotic illness, particularly those lacking insight were significantly less satisfied with their care. Respondents were more satisfied with the personal rather than the professional qualities of the doctors, and less satisfied with their empowerment and doctors' availability. Conclusions. In-patients' attitudes towards their psychiatric care involves a complex relationship between clinical and sociocultural characteristics. Satisfaction studies can serve as an important monitor and reminder of patient dissent.