Unveiling Maternal Satisfaction: Determinants of Health Services in Public and Private Hospitals of Sahiwal District

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal satisfaction plays a critical role in the evaluation of healthcare services, influencing both immediate and long-term health outcomes. This study examines the factors associated with maternal satisfaction in public and private hospitals in Sahiwal district, focusing on the quality of healthcare services, socio-economic influences, and access to prenatal and postnatal care. Objectives: The primary objectives of this study were, to identify the key factors associated with maternal satisfaction in public and private hospitals in Sahiwal district. And 2nd to evaluate the accessibility and equality of prenatal and postnatal healthcare services in these hospitals. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional survey design, with data collected from 267 women who had recently delivered in either a public or private hospital in Sahiwal. Structured questionnaires were used to gather demographic information and maternal satisfaction levels related to various aspects of healthcare. Statistical analyses, including bivariate correlation was conducted to examine the relationships between demographic factors and maternal satisfaction. Results: Results indicate that majority of females 196(73.40%) were satisfied with maternal health care services and 71(26.60%) were unsatisfied. 53.03% females were unsatisfied and only 46.96% were satisfied from public hospitals. 0.74% female were unsatisfied and 99.26% were satisfied with private hospital so these findings revealed that maternal satisfaction was significantly higher in private hospitals compared to public hospitals. In addition to that number of antenatal visits (p= <0.01), timing of first visit (p=0.005), income per month (p=0.002) and distance from home to hospital (0.047) were the most significant factors affecting maternal satisfaction. There was a positive correlation exists between the place of last delivery and satisfaction levels with a correlation coefficient of 0.529 and p value <0.001. Conclusions: The study concluded that majority of females 196(73.40%) were satisfied with maternal health care services and 71(26.60%) were unsatisfied in addition to that the quality of care and frequency of antenatal visits were the most significant factors affecting maternal satisfaction. Private hospitals provided higher satisfaction rates, but there is a need to improve the public healthcare sector to ensure equitable access to quality maternal care. Addressing socio-economic barriers, such as income and education, is crucial in enhancing maternal satisfaction and overall healthcare outcomes.