ASSESSING PATIENT SATISFACTION WITH DENTAL OPERATION AT BARANGAY 178 HEALTH CENTER: IMPLICATION FOR SERVICE IMPROVEMENT

Abstract

Patient satisfaction is essential to the success and continuous improvement of healthcare services. Satisfied patients are more likely to return for future care and recommend the facility to others. This study evaluates whether the dental services provided at Barangay 178 Health Center effectively meet the expectations and needs of the local community, highlighting areas for improvement and service enhancement. Patient satisfaction is crucial for the success and ongoing improvement of healthcare services. When patients are satisfied, they are more likely to seek future care and recommend the facility to others. This study assesses whether the dental services offered at Barangay 178 Health Center effectively meet the expectations and needs of the local community, focusing on areas for improvement and opportunities for enhancing services. The study used the Quantitative Descriptive Research Design to measure patient satisfaction with dental operation. A total of 40 respondents from Barangay 178 Health Center were selected through purposive sampling as they had direct experience with dental operation provided by the health center, making them highly relevant and suitable for the research. The data collection was done through survey questionnaires designed to gather specific details on patients satisfaction administered through face-to-face interaction. The results indicated that the majority of respondents were aged 24 to 34, female, and single. Most individuals visited the dental clinic once a year, while fewer went every six months or every three months. Respondents strongly agreed on the effectiveness of infection control, although some aspects showed minor room for improvement. Accessibility and availability received high ratings, but certain areas had lower satisfaction levels. Financial management was generally considered effective, with a few recommendations aimed at enhancing patient comfort during treatment. Respondents also agreed on the speed and responsiveness of dental services. The attitude, professionalism, and work ethic of the dental personnel were rated positively, while productivity was viewed as satisfactory but could benefit from slight improvements. The primary challenge affecting patient satisfaction was related to service delivery issues, such as waiting times and limited resources. The researchers recommend that Barangay 178 Health Center continue to actively promote its free dental services, emphasizing the importance of dental health, especially among the elderly, men, and married couples. The center should implement targeted outreach programs to encourage these groups to take advantage of the services offered. Additionally, to attract first-time visitors, the center should create positive experiences that motivate patients to return. Establishing a comfortable environment and offering follow-up appointments or reminders will also help foster long-term relationships between patients and the health center's services.