Quality of care in a psychiatric out-patient department

Abstract

Patient satisfaction is an important outcome measure of psychiatric care and a correlate of appropriate use of services. We assessed out-patient satisfaction by questionnaire and surveyed environment quality at two clinic sites. Response rate was 53%. High satisfaction was found in most areas of enquiry. Lower satisfaction was expressed with choice of available treatment, medication side effects and availability of information. Rapid turnover of doctors produced dissatisfaction with the consistency of medical care. Many patients wanted greater advocacy support. Facilities for the disabled could be improved. The best predictors of lower satisfaction were wishing for help to put one's views across and wish for more psychological help. Most psychiatric outpatients were satisfied with their care. Dissatisfied patients may avoid outpatient follow up as well as surveys of it. Simple measures such as better provision of information and more explanation about medication side effects could increase satisfaction with services.