[Patients' experiences with a hospital outpatient clinic. Is lack of continuity in the physician-patient relationship an important quality problem?].

The organization of a haematological out-patient clinic was evaluated. 52 patients completed a problem-oriented questionnaire with structured response alternatives. Patient satisfaction was generally high. The patients defined lack of continuity in the doctor-patient relationship as the main problem. Waiting time, information and poor premises were other areas where the chosen quality standard was not achieved. Possible causes of these deficiencies, and actions to improve the quality of care are discussed.