SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND AVAILABILITY OF MEDICAL SERVICES IN RURAL AREAS OF KAZAKHSTAN.

Abstract

Background: Measuring the level of patient satisfaction is a useful tool for providing quality medical care that aligns with consumer preferences. We aimed to study the satisfaction with the quality and availability of medical services among the rural population of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Methods and materials: This study is a cross-sectional analysis. It was conducted in the Republic of Kazakhstan using data from an original questionnaire designed to assess patient satisfaction among those living in rural areas. The study involved interviews conducted in medical institutions, with patients recruited randomly. A total of 737 rural and 219 urban respondents participated.

Results: The results of the study indicated that half of the respondents (348 or 47.2%) reported poor health. Regarding changes in health status over the past three years, half of the respondents indicated a significant deterioration (338 or 45.9%). When a disease occurs, 44.1% of the population seeks care at public clinics. A comparison of two regions in terms of satisfaction with the quality and outcomes of medical care revealed statistically significant differences between regions (χ²=4.419; p=0.03553).

Conclusion: The study concludes that, in general, the majority of residents in rural areas are dissatisfied with the quality and outcomes of medical care.