A comparison of patient and staff satisfaction with services after relocating to a new purpose-built mental health facility

Objective: This study measured patient satisfaction levels and staff views regarding their expectations and workplace and other opinions after relocation to a new purpose-built mental health facility within the grounds of a general repatriation hospital. Method: Patients were interviewed face-to-face using a standardized satisfaction survey at least 2 months after the move to the new facility. In addition, surveys were sent by mail to all clinical staff rostered to work the same period that the patient interviews were conducted. Results: One hundred patients were interviewed and 123 staff returned the survey (56% response rate). Patients and staff rated the new ward environment and food services most highly and were least satisfied with patient information and medical services. Less satisfaction was expressed about resource issues such as information technology and dedicated staff facilities. Most staff (70 -80%) rated services provided to patients to be the same or better than their original expectations. Conclusions: The results indicate that the hospital move did not have any measurable negative impact on overall service provision or patient satisfaction. In fact, expectations were met or improved for several clinically relevant areas after relocating the mental health facility. Another survey is planned in 12 months to assess if patient and staff ratings change.