Background of the Study
Healthcare service quality is a crucial indicator of overall health system performance, impacting patient outcomes and satisfaction. In Edo State, public hospitals are the backbone of the healthcare system, serving a broad segment of the population. However, concerns persist regarding the quality of care provided in these facilities. Issues such as inadequate staffing, outdated equipment, and inefficient management practices often compromise the delivery of healthcare services (Oladipo, 2023; Eze, 2024). The quality of care in public hospitals directly affects patient safety, treatment effectiveness, and overall trust in the healthcare system. In the context of Edo State, improving service quality is essential to ensuring that healthcare is both accessible and effective for all residents. Evaluating service quality involves assessing various dimensions, including responsiveness, reliability, and patient satisfaction. Despite ongoing efforts by the government to improve healthcare infrastructure and personnel training, gaps remain that hinder optimal service delivery. This study aims to evaluate the quality of healthcare services in public hospitals in Edo State and to identify factors that can be improved to enhance patient care and outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
In Edo State, public hospitals continue to face significant challenges in delivering high-quality healthcare services. Many patients report long waiting times, insufficient attention from healthcare providers, and substandard facility conditions, which undermine the overall quality of care (Okafor, 2023). Inadequate funding, poor management practices, and limited access to modern medical technology contribute to these issues. Consequently, patient outcomes are compromised, and public confidence in the healthcare system is diminished. Additionally, the variability in service quality across different hospitals creates disparities in healthcare access, with some patients receiving significantly better care than others. These challenges not only affect individual patient health but also strain the broader public health system by increasing the burden of untreated or poorly managed conditions. Without targeted interventions to address service quality issues, the performance of public hospitals in Edo State will likely continue to fall short of national and international standards.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the overall quality of healthcare services in public hospitals in Edo State.
2. To identify key factors that contribute to variations in service quality.
3. To recommend strategies for improving service delivery and patient satisfaction.
Research Questions
1. What is the current level of healthcare service quality in public hospitals in Edo State?
2. Which factors most significantly affect the quality of care provided?
3. How can improvements in service quality be achieved in these hospitals?
Research Hypotheses
1. Inadequate funding is significantly associated with lower healthcare service quality.
2. Poor management practices correlate with reduced patient satisfaction.
3. Implementing targeted quality improvement initiatives will significantly enhance healthcare outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on selected public hospitals in both urban and rural areas of Edo State. Data will be collected from patient surveys, staff interviews, and hospital performance records. Limitations include potential response bias and differences in hospital management practices.
Definitions of Terms
• Healthcare Service Quality: The standard of care provided by health facilities, encompassing efficiency, effectiveness, and patient satisfaction.
• Public Hospitals: Government-funded healthcare institutions providing services to the general population.
• Patient Satisfaction: The level of contentment expressed by patients regarding their healthcare experience.
• Quality Improvement Initiatives: Programs aimed at enhancing the standard of care in healthcare facilities.
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