Hospitals taking it on the chin in patient satisfaction

Uncategorizedon May 26th, 2010

According to a recent press release, the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) noted that while overall customer satisfaction is on the rise, hospital patient satisfaction is declining.

The ACSI, updated quarterly,  is a national  indicator of customer evaluations of products’ and services’ quality.  “Hospitals are taking it on the chin as the quality of inpatient healthcare and emergency room services declines,” states the release. “The hospital industry plunges 5 percent to 73, its lowest level in five years. Outpatient care at hospitals remains steady, but sharp drops for inpatient and ER services has taken a big toll. By contrast, patient satisfaction with office visits to healthcare professionals such as doctors, dentists, and optometrists is steady and scores much higher at 81.”

HMC has initiated a call series about hospital patient satisfaction. The first discussion was held on May 25 and focused on patient satisfaction in the ED. Clients interested in learning more can log on here.