How Perceived Quality of Care Affects Outpatient Satisfaction in China: A Cross-Sectional Study of 136 Tertiary Hospitals

Public hospitals are integral components of China’s health care system, and improving quality of care and patient satisfaction has become of greater concern for these hospitals. The aim of this study was to assess outpatient satisfaction with tertiary hospitals and to explore the roles played by patient perceptions of specific aspects of care in overall satisfaction. We designed a questionnaire to assess patient satisfaction and perceived quality of care using a 5-point Likert scale. The survey was conducted in 136 hospitals across 31 provinces of China, and a total of 28 822 patients were interviewed. For statistical analysis, we conducted descriptive analysis, nonparameter tests, Spearman’s rank correlation, and multivariate logistic regression. Stepwise logistic regression identified 12 variables of patient perception associated with overall satisfaction. Patients’ perception of physicians’ technical skills had the strongest association with satisfaction, followed by inquiries into medical history/current situation and availability of elevators. Other determinants included a feeling of respect, timely guidance when needed, and explanation of treatments and medications. Waiting times and hospital environment factors, such as cleanliness of bathrooms and drinking water supply, were also associated with patient satisfaction in a slightly less powerful way. This study revealed that Chinese outpatient satisfaction with tertiary hospitals was relatively high. As determinants of satisfaction, patients valued professional medical care and respect from the medical staff more than nonmedical aspects of care. This implied that Chinese hospitals should ensure quality of medical care and sufficient communication with patients, as well as pay more attention to humanism in health care. In the meantime, improvements should be made to nonmedical aspects of care, especially waiting times and physical environment. These findings are also useful for the rest of the low- and middle-income world in improving patient satisfaction.