Do the experiences of patients of state-employed family physicians and concessionaires in Slovenia differ?

Abstract

Background: Family practice in Slovenia is provided by state-employed family physicians as well as concessionaires . However, both work under a contract with the National Health Insurance Institute . This study focuses on comparing patients’ experiences with Slovenian concessionaires and state- employed physicians . Methods: We performed analyses using survey data from a cross-sectional study on patient experiences, which took place from September 2011 to April 2012 as a part of the international QUALICOPC study. The Slovenian branch of this study included 1,962 patients visiting family practices. Patients were classified into two groups regarding the registered status of their family physician. They completed the questionnaires immediately after visiting their family physicians. Data used in the analyses included 76 variables: 18 socio- economic and 58 variables linked to the patient's experience. Results: The analyses showed few differences between concessionaires and state-employed family physicians. I n comparison to patients of state-employed family physicians, patients of concessionaires were less likely to make an appointment for a visit (19.8% vs. 29.2%), were generally more frequent visitors (43.7% vs. 50.7%), and more often felt that opening hours are too restricted (25.7 % vs. 31.9%). Patients of concessionaires believed more often that in general, doctors can be trusted (40.1% vs.47.1 %). A smaller percentage of patients of concessionaires felt that their physician had the capacity to deal with personal problems as well as provide medical care (61.9% vs. 54.7%). Conclusions: There are few differences in patients’ experiences of state -employed family physicians and concessionaires. Slovenian patients have a generally positive experience with family practice services regardless of the family physicians ’ status. Plans for organizational change of the health sector should include patients’ perceptions of services.