Masters Degrees (Health Systems and Public Health)

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Browsing Masters Degrees (Health Systems and Public Health) by Author "Chikasema, Blessings"

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    An assessment of user satisfaction with outpatient mental health consultation services from rural and urban areas in southern Malawi
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2018-12) Chikasema, Blessings; Tomlinson, Mark; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dept. of Global Health. Health Systems & Public Health.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY : Background: The assessment of user satisfaction with outpatient mental health services is essential in mental health service. It influences the mental health care that addresses the unmet needs of patients living with mental health problems. In developing countries such as Malawi there is a dearth of mental health studies to assist in evidence based mental health practices. Aim: To evaluate user satisfaction with outpatient mental health consultation services in southern Malawi and to assess social demographic variables that predict user satisfaction. Methods: The study used a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study design. The assessment was conducted in Malawi at (Blantyre) and (Thyolo) outpatient psychiatric clinics. The study included randomly sampled participants who met the inclusion criteria and consented to be recruited. A total of 216 exit interviews were conducted using Charlestone Psychiatric Outpatient Satisfaction Scale (CPOSS). Results: Of the participants, 57.4% were males and 42.6% were females, with 55.1% being 29 years and older. Of all the study participants, 80% were satisfied with the outpatient mental health services. Participants presenting to the rural clinic were less likely to be satisfied than participants presenting at the urban clinic (AOR = 0.31; 95% CI: 0.13-0.76; p<0.05). Any admission due to mental illness significantly predicted user satisfaction at the rural (Thyolo) study site (AOR = 0.11; 95% CI 0.02-0.54; p< 0.05). Conclusion: The study reveals high satisfaction levels with outpatient psychiatric services, and that participants presenting at the rural facility were less likely to be satisfied with outpatient psychiatric services as compared to the urban facility. Any admission due to mental illness significantly predicted user satisfaction at the rural facility. There is need for policy makers to formulate guidelines to strengthen mental health practices and education at all health levels as well as the need for further studies in patient satisfaction with psychiatric services.