Patient Engagement Towards Delivery of Quality Care - A Study Amongst Elective Surgical Cases in Two Private Hospitals in India

Abstract

Background Patients and their families may play a major role in the improvement of healthcare outcome. Modern healthcare scenario focuses on enhancing patient well-being with a closer participation between payer and provider. ldquoNothing about me is without merdquo is the true essence of healthcare which requires first-hand knowledge of the ailment treatment options risks and benefits and a host of other information for the patients to be completely involved in the care process.Objectives To assess the level of involvement of patients undergoing elective surgeries during the phases such as surgical decision making written consent and post-surgical recovery.Methodology The present study was conducted at two tertiary care hospitals in India with a sample size of 50 each from the selected surgical specializations. Structured questionnaires were designed to obtain relevant data from the participants admitted under selected surgical specialisations. Data was collected to assess their involvement at three phases viz. pre surgical decision making written consent and post-surgical recovery phases. Data from all three phases were compiled and the involvement of patients was computed in terms of percentage using descriptive statistics. Chi-square test was performed to determine the association between patient involvement and demographic variables. Significance level at 5.Results The study showed good involvement of patients at all the three levels with ge75 score. However association was not found between demographic variables and the level of involvement.Conclusion Many patients felt the need to receive more information regarding post-operative recovery time post-operative diet care for incision site and post-operative movement or exercises.