Background of the Study
Patient waiting times are a critical factor influencing the quality of healthcare service delivery, particularly in public hospitals. Long waiting times can affect patient satisfaction, treatment outcomes, and overall healthcare experiences. In Nigeria, the challenge of long waiting times is prevalent due to high patient volumes, insufficient medical staff, and limited healthcare resources (Olufemi et al., 2023).
In Kebbi State, where healthcare facilities are limited and often overcrowded, the impact of patient waiting times on healthcare satisfaction is a significant concern. Delays in receiving medical attention, long queues, and insufficient triage systems contribute to patient frustration and dissatisfaction. Studies have shown that long waiting times in healthcare settings can lead to decreased patient trust, lower treatment adherence, and higher rates of patients abandoning treatment (Bello & Hassan, 2024). This study seeks to investigate the relationship between patient waiting times and healthcare satisfaction in hospitals in Kebbi State.
Statement of the Problem
Despite ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services in Kebbi State, long patient waiting times continue to undermine the quality of care and patient satisfaction. Delays in service delivery have been linked to patient dissatisfaction, poor health outcomes, and reduced trust in healthcare providers.
This study aims to explore the impact of patient waiting times on healthcare satisfaction in hospitals in Kebbi State, highlighting the underlying factors contributing to delays and proposing solutions for improving healthcare delivery.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the relationship between patient waiting times and healthcare satisfaction in hospitals in Kebbi State.
2. To identify the factors contributing to long waiting times in healthcare facilities.
3. To propose strategies for reducing waiting times and improving patient satisfaction.
Research Questions
1. What is the relationship between patient waiting times and healthcare satisfaction in hospitals in Kebbi State?
2. What factors contribute to long waiting times in healthcare facilities in Kebbi State?
3. What strategies can be implemented to reduce patient waiting times and improve satisfaction?
Research Hypotheses
1. H₀: Patient waiting times do not significantly affect healthcare satisfaction in Kebbi State.
2. H₀: The factors contributing to long waiting times do not significantly affect patient satisfaction in Kebbi State.
3. H₀: Strategies to reduce waiting times do not significantly improve healthcare satisfaction in Kebbi State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on hospitals in Kebbi State, examining patient waiting times and their impact on healthcare satisfaction. Limitations include variations in waiting times across different hospitals and potential biases in patient responses.
Definitions of Terms
Patient Waiting Time: The duration between the patient’s arrival at the healthcare facility and the start of their medical consultation or treatment.
Healthcare Satisfaction: The degree to which patients are satisfied with the healthcare services received, including factors like waiting times, staff behavior, and treatment outcomes.
Healthcare Delivery: The process of providing medical services to patients, from initial consultation to treatment and follow-up care.