Cancer patient satisfaction survey in a Moroccan university hospital

Objectives: Assessment of patient satisfaction helps to guide hospital strategies concerning optimal patient management. The objective of this study was to evaluate the satisfaction of cancer patients hospitalised at Fez university hospital, to study the various components of satisfaction and to integrate the patient in quality of care improvement policies. Methods: A prospective study was conducted in two voluntary wards of the hospital. An anonymous standardized questionnaire was administered to patients hospitalised for cancer surgery or treatment. Results: 87.1% of patients reported that they were very satisfied with their hospitalisation, while 12.9% rated their stay as acceptable. 98.4% would recommend the hospital to their relatives. In contrast, 67.2% of patients surveyed considered that the cost of their stay was too expensive. Conclusion: The majority of items were declared as "Very satisfactory" by the patients. They represent a challenge to be maintained in the future: ward reception, comfortable accommodation, the behaviour and availability of staff, the doctor-patient relationship, respect for patient, the explanations provided concerning the health problem and treatment, psychological support and pain management. For items reported to be less satisfactory, recommendations should be implemented concerning the admissions office, administrative formalities on admission, the information provided at the time of discharge, quality of meals, development of nursing skills and dietary advice.