علل انتخاب بیمارستان های خصوصی توسط بیماران

Title

Determinants of the choice of private hospitals by patients

English Abstract

Objective and Background: Today, patients show more sensitivity in selecting healthcare services compared to the past. Different factors, such as quality of service, costs, economic conditions, and social and cultural status, contribute to selecting hospitals. The present study attempts to examine reasons why patients prefer private hospitals for treatment. Methodology: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 2009 on patients in Private Hospital of Tehran University of Medical Science. Random sampling was used (n=120). Data were collected using researcher-made questionnaire whose validity and reliability was then confirmed. Collected data were analyzed through t-test and ANOVA. Findings: In selecting hospitals, patients gave the highest score to experienced and skilful doctors (mean = 3.55) and the lowest score to relatives working at the hospital (mean = 1.16). Mixture of quality factor (mean = 56.07) was the most important and mixture of economic factor (mean=32.59) was the least important factor. Conclusion: Given the interaction between society and hospitals as well as constant need for healthcare services, for a proper objective management in hospitals and attracting customers (patients) consumers’ opinions, needs, and expectations must be taken into account while improving quality and quantity of services and improving processes. Key words: Patient, Private Hospital, Selection.

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