Patient experience of primary health care in Malta : a quantitative study

Abstract

Background: Patient experience is an important factor in needs assessment in primary care provision. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess patient experience of the Maltese primary health care (PC) and compare the public with the private sector. Design and Setting: A quantitative, cross-sectional (observational) retrospective study was carried out. 240 participants were randomly selected from all 3 Maltese primary care department catchment areas. Participants were allocated into two equal groups: public and private groups according to their PC provider sector. Method: Data was collected via telephone interviews using the Primary Care Assessment Tool (PCAT). PCAT computes 2 summative scores: the primary care score (PCS) and primary care extended score (PCES). An adjustment model infered predictors of higher quality primary care. Results: Overall (n=240), PCS and PCES registered 72.34% and 69.4%, respectively, with a slight significant intersectoral difference in mean PCS with the public sector scoring the highest score (23.15 vs 22.99, p = 0.045). No overall statistical difference is registered for the overall PCES. Better perceived health and the public care sector were the most significant predictors of better primary care scores. Conclusion: This study showed slight intersectoral differences and that both public and private sectors need to address different shortcomings. Coordinated intersectoral reforms needs to take place in order to ensure effective care which encompasses all aspects of quality care.