Satisfaction with care of patients attending a dedicated dental clinic: comparisons between 1989 and 1994

Abstract

Summary: This investigation aimed to audit patient satisfaction with care at a dedicated dental clinic, using previously developed standards and criteria. A selfcomplete questionnaire was administered to a group of 161 patients assessing the dimensions of care availability, affective behaviour and technical competence. Comparisons with baseline showed a high but slightly decreased level of satisfaction with technical competence, a significantly higher level of satisfaction with the affective behaviour of the clinic staff but a continuing level of dissatisfaction with the availability of care. Respondents with AIDS reported higher levels of satisfaction for all 3 dimensions. Women were less satisfied with the availability of care. The results indicate the inter-related nature of the dimensions of technical competence and care availability. Satisfaction with care availability will only improve if initiatives beyond the clinic are introduced to increase the overall supply of dental services available to this population.