Satisfaction of Patients and their Relatives with Ambulance Services

The satisfaction levelofservice receiversis recognized as one of the quality indicators of health services.

The present study aimed to determine the satisfaction levelofservice receivers with ambulance services as an important component of health services and the factors affecting this satisfaction.

This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in Kırklareli, Turkey, in January 2021. The data werecollected through a 2-step questionnaire consisting of a demographic information form developed by the researchers and the 112 Emergency Services Patient Satisfaction Scale.The minimum and maximum scoreswere26 and 130.

The mean score of the scale was obtained at 120.62±10.42 (ranging from 60-130). A positive correlation was foundbetween the age groups and the mean of scale score (rs=0.338; P<0.001). The Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of the scale was calculated at 0.957.

As evidenced by the obtained results, respondents’ overall satisfaction with ambulance services was found to be high. Thelevelofsatisfactionwas enhanced with respondents’ age. It was concluded that effective measures should be implemented to improve the quality of services by uncovering the major reasons for service receivers’ dissatisfaction. Moreover, it was found that the 112 Emergency Services Patient Satisfaction Scale is reliable and measurement results should be used to improve the services.