Patients' views towards care received from psychiatrists.

BACKGROUND

Measurement of the quality of psychiatric care including assessment of patients' views have become increasingly important as expectations of the standard of care rises.

METHODS

Attitudes and satisfaction of acute psychiatric in-patients were investigated using a questionnaire looking at satisfaction, patients' views on personal and professional qualities of psychiatrists, empowerment and insight.

RESULTS

The response rate was 79.2% (137 out of 173). Patients with a diagnosis of a non-affective psychotic illness, particularly those lacking insight were significantly less satisfied with their care. Respondents were more satisfied with the personal rather than the professional qualities of the doctors, and less satisfied with their empowerment and doctors' availability.

CONCLUSIONS

In-patients' attitudes towards their psychiatric care involves a complex relationship between clinical and sociocultural characteristics. Satisfaction studies can serve as an important monitor and reminder of patient dissent.