Rigi10™ Malleable Penile Prosthesis
Also Known As
Patient contentment, healthcare service approval, patient-reported satisfaction, care experience rating.
Definition
Patient satisfaction is a crucial multidimensional healthcare metric that reflects a patient’s subjective evaluation of their experiences and the extent to which their expectations regarding healthcare services were met.1,2 It is widely recognized as an important indicator of the quality of care provided by healthcare professionals and institutions. Patient satisfaction encompasses various aspects of the healthcare journey, including interactions with physicians, nurses, and staff; the accessibility and timeliness of care; the clarity of information provided; the cleanliness of facilities; and the effectiveness of pain management.² Unlike patient experience, which objectively measures whether specific care processes occurred, patient satisfaction is rooted in the patient’s perception and feelings about their care relative to their expectations.³ High patient satisfaction is associated with improved clinical outcomes, better patient adherence to medical advice, increased patient retention, and a reduction in medical malpractice claims.¹ Its purpose extends beyond mere contentment; it serves as a valuable feedback mechanism for healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement and to foster a more patient-centered approach to healthcare delivery.¹
Clinical Context
Patient satisfaction is a relevant measure across virtually all clinical contexts and medical specialties, as it provides insights into the quality of care from the patient’s perspective.¹ It is particularly emphasized in situations requiring long-term patient engagement, management of chronic conditions, elective procedures, and in competitive healthcare markets where patient choice is a factor.¹ For instance, in dermatology, managing patient expectations regarding chronic skin disorders is crucial for satisfaction.¹ Similarly, in surgical specialties, clear communication about procedures and postoperative pain management significantly impacts satisfaction levels.²
Patient selection criteria are not directly applicable to patient satisfaction itself, as it is a measure obtained from patients. However, healthcare providers may focus on specific patient populations (e.g., those undergoing particular treatments or with certain conditions) to assess and improve satisfaction within those groups. Expected outcomes of focusing on and improving patient satisfaction include increased patient loyalty and retention, better adherence to treatment plans, improved health outcomes, enhanced reputation for the healthcare provider or facility, and reduced risk of litigation.¹˒²