Abstract
M.Tech. (Radiography)
Satisfied patients are recognized as an important outcome measure for evaluating the quality of medical care provided in a hospital setting. A satisfied patient is more likely to comply with instructions given and cooperate with medical staff during procedures such as special radiographic examinations in the radiography department. In Malawi, studies on patient satisfaction have mostly been confined to doctor – patient interaction and other aspects of the health care service. Very little research has been conducted to explore the experiences of patients undergoing special radiographic examinations.
The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of patients undergoing special radiographic examinations at Kamuzu Central Hospital. A qualitative, contextual, explorative, descriptive approach was used to collect data from patients undergoing special radiographic examinations at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Malawi. Focus group interviews were employed to collect data from the study participants. A total number of 15 patients took part in the study. A content analysis approach was used to analyze the views of the participants. The themes that emerged from the focus group data were: Concerns about delays from reception to receiving radiography results (Radiographs and report); Patients’ experiences with regards to the quality of patient care they received and Concerns about the hospital environment and resources in the radiography department. Guidelines have been proposed to address the themes identified.