The statement regarding patient satisfaction is valid and critical in facilitating better health outcomes. Medical institutions have long since kept track of the satisfaction ratings of patients. Unfortunately, the ratings do not always bear much significance since most physicians are plagued by the mentality that “a doctor always knows best.” However, over the recent years, attention has been directed to providing exceptional patient experiences. The shift in thought comes with the rise of consumerism, increased interests of customers, and the need for transparency in healthcare. This essay examines the essence of designing medical care according to the satisfaction ratings of patients.
The experience of patients is a vital aspect of patient-centered care as well as the large-scale efforts to enhance healthcare delivery and health. The outcomes obtained from patient satisfaction surveys influence quality improvement and positive changes that are responses to the requirements of the sick. Satisfied patients, for instance, have enhanced treatment and diagnostic adherence which may improve their medical outcomes. The mounting information continues to suggest that the ideology of patient perception and the ability of physicians to connect and communicate with the sick is an important factor of quality results and avoidance of complications and readmissions (Price et.al, 2014).
Price et.al (2014) argues that thinking of healthcare through the lens of the consumer is transformational. Medical practitioners are driven to comprehend the complexities of medicine and science and apply the cognitive and technical mastery in the healing arts. The patients may not easily understand clinical explanations along the same lines as doctors. However, they will sense empathy and kindness which can act as long-term proxies for quality care and ratings. Hence, hospitals should shift their focus to designing patient-centered care to reap the benefits of long-term revenue and survival as well as good public relations and an exceptional reputation (Price et.al, 2014). The environment should be crafted to cater to the needs of the patients so that they can participate in the care. Practitioners should receive adequate training to improve their communication and social skills to connect with the sick.
Reference
Price, R. A., Elliott, M. N., Zaslavsky, A. M., Hays, R. D., Lehrman, W. G., Rybowski, L., & Cleary, P. D. (2014). Examining the role of patient experience surveys in measuring health care quality. Medical Care Research and Review, 71(5), 522-554.
Chicago.
