Date of Award

Spring 4-5-2004

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Chris Bosquez

Second Advisor

Dawn B. Ludwig

Abstract

Background. This research investigated patient satisfaction with physician assistants in a primary health care. The literature reviewed concluded high patient satisfaction ratings resulted because of the clinicians strong interpersonal skills, easy accessibility, adequate time was spent, were good listeners, explained medical issues well, and were courteous and respectful. The study looked at what specific characteristics influenced high patient satisfaction ratings with physician assistants. It also looked at the top three characteristics that were important to the patient and whether the patient would see the PA again. Methods. A patient satisfaction survey was give n to 92 patients at Allina clinic of Hastings, who were scheduled to see a PA that day. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to calculate frequencies, modes, and correlations using statistical package of social sciences on the 42 completed surveys. Results. The most important characteristic of PAs was courtesy at 56.4%, followed by understanding the medical issue, clear explanations and being respectful. Confidence in the PA and overall patient satisfaction were strongly correlated with the amount of time the PA spent with the patient, how courteous the PA was, and how well the PA listened to the patient. patients whom were wilting to see a PA again rated overall patient satisfaction high. Conclusion. The literature reviewed and the research findings supported the hypothesize that when patients experienced a PA with strong interpersonal skills, good communication skills, were competent decision makers, and spent adequate time with patients, the outcome was a positive health care experience.

Identifier

SC 11.PAS.2004.Rogers.CL

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