Perceived quality of healthcare in a multicenter, community-based population of polypathological patients

Description:
The objective was to determine perceived quality of care (PQC) in patients with multiple chronic conditions, whose care is structured in Andalusia (Spain) under polypathological patients (PP) care process, and identifying aspects for its improvement.

How to cite:

Rincon-Gomez M, Bernabeu-Wittel M, Bohorquez-Colombo P et al. Perceived quality of healthcare in a multicenter, community-based population of polypathological patients. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics. 2011; 52(2): 142-146.? Disponible en: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167494310000786

The study was a community-based cross-sectional survey carried out in 4 primary care centers (which attended a total of 62,702 adults, of them, 662 were actively identified as PP). Finally, 461 PP and their caregivers were interviewed (69% of eligible population) including assessment of PQC following SERVQUAL model, clinical and demographical data. On a five-point Likert scale (from 1, 'much worse than expected'; to 5, 'much better'), PQC rated 3.68 +/- 0.59 (+/- S.D.). Independent PQC predictors were: empathy for family physician, identifying nurses, presence of peripheral artery disease or diabetes mellitus with vascular complications, and not having functional limitations. In this population-based survey, PP attended at primary care have an acceptable PQC. Measures aimed to lessening functional deterioration, supporting dependent patients, and improving relationship between PP and their healthcare professionals could increase PQC. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

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