Improving Access for Patients: A Study on Practice Manager Satisfaction
Author Information
Author(s): Meade James G, Brown James S
Primary Institution: Lakeside Medical Practice, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, Northern Ireland
Hypothesis
What effect does implementing access targets have on general practice appointment systems and practice manager satisfaction?
Conclusion
General practices in the WHSSB were able to adapt to the new access targets, although some issues regarding appointment flexibility and staff training were identified.
Supporting Evidence
- 94.9% of practice managers responded to the questionnaire.
- 57.1% of practices modified their appointment systems due to access targets.
- Practices in deprived areas were more likely to change their appointment systems.
Takeaway
This study looked at how doctors' offices in Northern Ireland changed their appointment systems to help patients see doctors faster, and most managers were happy with the changes.
Methodology
A four-part postal questionnaire was administered to practice managers in the WHSSB area.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in reporting flexibility of appointment systems by practice managers.
Limitations
No previous research on appointment systems in the Board area for direct comparison.
Participant Demographics
Practice managers from 59 general practices in Northern Ireland.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.0256
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.01 – 9.80
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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