Service quality perceptions and patient satisfaction: a study of hospitals in a developing country

Patients' perceptions about health services seem to have been largely ignored by health care providers in developing countries. That such perceptions, especially about service quality, might shape confidence and subsequent behaviors with regard to choice and usage of the available health care facilities is reflected in the fact that many patients avoid the system or avail it only as a measure of last resort. Those who can afford it seek help in other countries, while preventive care or early detection simply falls by the wayside. Patients' voice must begin to play a greater role in the design of health care service delivery processes in the developing countries. This study is, therefore, patient-centered and identifies the service quality factors that are important to patients; it also examines their links to patient satisfaction in the context of Bangladesh. A field survey was conducted. Evaluations were obtained from patients on several dimensions of perceived service quality including responsiveness, assurance, communication, discipline, and baksheesh. Using factor analysis and multiple regression, significant associations were found between the five dimensions and patient satisfaction. Implications and future research issues are discussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.