Rheumatology: a study of patient satisfaction with follow-up monitoring care.
BACKGROUND
This paper reports the findings of a quantitative study to determine the satisfaction of rheumatology patients receiving follow-up monitoring care within primary and secondary locations.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study was to compare and contrast the satisfaction of patients with rheumatoid arthritis following two different routes of care. The objective was to explore the dimensions of care identified in an earlier qualitative study.


METHODS
A convenience sample of 80 participants was used; 40 from each care location.


METHODS
Data were collected using the Leeds Satisfaction Questionnaire, which explores the dimensions of satisfaction previously identified as being important to this group of patients.


RESULTS
The secondary care group showed significantly higher levels of satisfaction in respect of general satisfaction, provision of information and continuity of care and a significant difference in relation to empathy, technical ability and attitude to the patient.


CONCLUSIONS
While patients from both locations were satisfied with the care they received, those receiving specialist nursing care in the secondary location were more satisfied.


CONCLUSIONS
Increased emphasis on care in the community and the evolution of nurse specialist roles indicate the need for further qualitative work to inform the future planning of care provision for rheumatology patients in this area.
Rheumatology Department, Selly Oak Hospital, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK. valerierichards@dial.pipex.com
Valerie
V
Arthur
Collette
C
Clifford
D000359:Aftercare / Q000592:standards*; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care / Q000592:standards; D016903:Drug Monitoring / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology / Q000592:standards*; D004645:Empathy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000592:standards; D012216:Rheumatic Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D012219:Rheumatology / Q000592:standards*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires