Health Satisfaction in Health Care between Patients of 3rd Tertiary Allergy Center in Kirkuk with Salam Primary Health Care Center Patients in Kirkuk

Abstract

Background: Healthcare capacity in Iraq has deteriorated due to the effects of wars and political instability. The IraqiMinistry of Health expanded the provision of health services, by directing the public sector towards primary health care.This study aimed to assess patients satisfaction with the primary health care services provided in 3rd tertiary allergy centerand Salam primary health care center patients in Kirkuk, and to determine the relationship between patient satisfaction andtheir demographic data.Method: A descriptive study was carried out at the 3rd tertiary allergy center and Salam primary health care center in Kirkukcity, Iraq. Data were collected through the use of the constructed questionnaire from 100 patients who visit those centersfor routine care, through the period of the 1st December 2020 to 31st January 2021. Data were analyzed through (Measuresof central tendency and inferential statistics) using SPSS (V.22). Chi-square test for independence of two variables hasbeen utilized to test the hypothesis, through the use of cross-classification table to examine the nature of the relationshipbetween the variables. Ethical approval and permission to access the samples was obtained from Kirkuk Health Directoratein Iraq.Results: Overall, out of 100 clients responded to our questionnaire, age showed neutral score (Mean = 2.93, SD= 1.47).and the age group (21 -30 years) were the highest represented (n=27; 27%). Mean of score was used for reference aboutthe client satisfaction, if the mean of score up to more than 3 that means positive satisfaction with the available servicesotherwise it means dissatisfaction. Chi-square test for independence of two variables was applied, and the probailityof high level of satisfaction were reported as there were a significat relationship (P <0.005) in items related to (nursingcare services, availability of medical services, quality of prescribed medication, cooperation of pharmacist, availabilityof laboratory services and. laboratory staff cooperation about diagnosis than other items.Also, there were a statisticalsignificant difference (P <0.005) between respondents age more than other demographic characteristics.Conclusion: The study highlighted the sources of patient satisfaction related to primary health care services. The medicaland nursing staff have a crucial role in providing health services, so their job satisfaction can improve the quality of care forpatients, and reduce health care costs. Additionally, these results can provide priorities for developing healthcare services that can improve patient satisfaction. The utilization of telemedicine services, patient-centered medical visits and eHealth applications can be adopted to increase patient satisfaction with primary health care services. The use of remote patient monitoring programs are also effective ways to treat the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 at home and protect health workers.