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Alattas M, Gordon S, Sabin LL, El-Jardali F, Wirtz VJ. Equity and unmet need of non-communicable diseases services in Saudi Arabia using a National Household Survey (2019). BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:346. [PMID: 38491481 PMCID: PMC10943914 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10787-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saudi Arabia is implementing a comprehensive health system transformation in health services provision, governance, and financing. Given the high burden of non-communicable diseases (NCD), a key objective of the transformation is to integrate NCD prevention and treatment into primary care. The study objectives were to assess primary care service use for treatment of NCDs, to quantify existing inequities in preventive services utilization, and to identify regional and sociodemographic factors associated with these inequities. METHODS Using the 2019 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia World Health Survey, multivariable logistic regression models were conducted to identify predictors of utilization of primary care services for NCD prevention and treatment, unmet need among those with a diagnosis of diabetes, hypertension, or dyslipidemia, and unmet need in breast and cervical cancer screening. RESULTS Among those with an NCD diagnosis, living in a high-income household was associated with a lower probability of having an unmet need compared to those in low-income households. Furthermore, rural residents were less likely to have an unmet need compared to urban residents (OR 0.58, p=0.029). Individuals without a perceived need for healthcare within the last 12 months had three times the probability of unmet need in comparison to those with such a perceived need (p<0.001). Women in all regions had a lower probability of ever having a mammogram compared to women in the central regions around Riyadh. Women with an education above a secondary level had five times the odds of undergoing cervical cancer screening and three times the likelihood of ever having a mammogram (P=0.012, p=0.02) than other women. Compared to women in low-income households, those in middle (OR 1.99, P=0.026), upper middle (OR 3.47, p<0.001), or high-income households (OR 2.59, p<0.001) had a higher probability of having had cervical cancer screening. CONCLUSIONS Inequities in NCD treatment and prevention services' utilization in Saudi Arabia are strongly associated with region of living, population density, wealth, income, education and perceived need for health care. More research is needed to better understand the extent of unmet primary care needs for NCD and how to address the underlying contributing factors to access inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Alattas
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Community Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sarah Gordon
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lora L Sabin
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Veronika J Wirtz
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Salim NA, Sallam M, Aldweik RH, Sawair FA, Sharaireh AM, Alabed A. Rating communication skills in dental practice: the impact of different sociodemographic factors. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:950. [PMID: 38087317 PMCID: PMC10717947 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04958-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communication abilities are essential for the successful operation of a dental business and significantly influence outcomes, compliance, and patient satisfaction. AIMS AND METHODS The aim of our study was to evaluate the knowledge and practice of doctor-patient communication among Jordanian dentists. This evaluation was conducted through a survey based on the key components of the Calgary Cambridge Observation Guides. Additionally, the impact of several sociodemographic characteristics on communication abilities was investigated. This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2022. The data collection tool was an online questionnaire developed by the researchers, consisting of three sections: self-reported demographic and professional data, the practice of doctor-patient communication, and knowledge of doctor-patient communication. RESULTS The study included 305 dentists, comprising 106 males and 199 females, with a mean age of 32.9 ± 9.0 years. The mean score for communication skills knowledge was 41.5, indicating a moderate level of communication skills knowledge. Female dentists demonstrated significantly higher communication scores compared to their male counterparts, and those working in the private sector scored significantly higher than those in the governmental sector or in both sectors (P ≤ 0.05). In general, older and more experienced dentists exhibited better communication skills. Educational level had a positive impact on certain communication skills items. 58.4% believed that communication skills can always be developed and improved through training sessions, while 48.9% reported never having attended such courses. 95.1% believed that training courses on communication skills are always necessary as part of the educational curriculum. The main obstacles that may deter dentists from considering communication skills courses were limited time (62.3%), course availability (37.7%), cost (28.2%), and perceived lack of importance (8.2%). CONCLUSION Among a sample of Jordanian dentists, there appears to be a discrepancy between knowledge and self-reported practices regarding communication abilities. In certain crucial, evidence-based areas of doctor-patient communication, there are fundamental deficiencies. Considering the significant role dentists play in oral health and prevention, communication skills should be a top educational priority for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesreen A Salim
- Prosthodontic department, School of Dentistry, Consultant in fixed and removable prosthodontics, The University of Jordan, The University of Jordan Hospital, Amman, Jordan.
| | - Malik Sallam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, 11942, Jordan
| | - Ra'ed Hisham Aldweik
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Resident, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Faleh A Sawair
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral Medicine and Periodontology, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Aseel M Sharaireh
- Conservative department, School of Dentistry, The University Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Aref Alabed
- Health administration and Management consultant, International Medical Training Academy, London, UK
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Almaqhawi A, Alsayil S, Al Qadhib M, Alkhawfi A, Alkhalaf A, Al Khowildi Z. Patient's Perspective on Factors Affecting Health-Seeking Behavior in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2022; 14:e30078. [PMID: 36381745 PMCID: PMC9640208 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There are different determinants of health-seeking behaviors. Studying health-seeking behaviors and their factors help governments use the existing health resources properly for a potent healthcare system. This study aimed to evaluate the factors influencing health-seeking behavior in Al-Ahsa. Methods The study is a questionnaire-based observational cross-sectional study of the factors influencing health-seeking behaviors in the general population of the Al-Ahsa governorate. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was used to acquire the sample. The study followed all ethical considerations and received approval from King Faisal University. Results A total sample of 481 participants completed the study questionnaire. 21.2% of people visited the health centers for medical checkups despite having no symptoms, while 29.1% admitted to avoiding the health centers despite knowing they needed medical attention. Additionally, the majority of patients prefer government-run health facilities (58.6%), while 41.4% prefer the commercial sector. When experiencing any health complaints, precisely 70.7 % of women go to a medical facility, compared to 61.8% of men (P=.038). In addition to that, 68.5% of participants with intermediate economic status visit healthcare centers for any symptoms compared to 50% of others with high financial status (P=.049). Specifically, 73.3% of participants diagnosed with a disease or chronic diseases visited healthcare centers for clinical symptoms compared to 64.3% of others without (P=.049). Conclusion This study identified that most participants with chronic diseases seek medical care for any symptom, and the participants with an intermediate economic status are more likely to go to a governmental primary healthcare center for any symptoms. The findings of this research provide insights for the government and policymakers to create effective strategies and manage the existing resources in Al-Ahsa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Almaqhawi
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU
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Woodman A, Waheed KB, Rasheed M, Ahmad S. Current state of ethical challenges reported in Saudi Arabia: a systematic review & bibliometric analysis from 2010 to 2021. BMC Med Ethics 2022; 23:82. [PMID: 35964019 PMCID: PMC9375198 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-022-00816-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Over the past few years, five domains of importance about the current state of bioethics in Saudi Arabia have shaped the perspective of most research: doctor-patient relationship, informed consent, do-not-resuscitate, organ donation, and transplantation, medical students’ knowledge and attitudes about medical ethics curriculum. This systematic review aimed to systematically identify, compile, describe and discuss ethical arguments and concepts in the best-studied domains of bioethics in Saudi Arabia and to present cultural, social, educational, and humane perspectives.
Methods Six databases were searched using Boolean operators (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, Google Scholar) from December 2020–June 2021. The search and report process followed the statement and flowchart of preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA). Resutls The search resulted in 1651 articles, of which 82 studies were selected for a final review and assessment. There is a gradual increase in research, whereby a substantial increase was observed from 2017. Most of the published articles focused on ‘Organ Donation & Transplantation’ with 33 articles, followed by ‘Doctor-Patient Relations’ with 18 publications. Most of the published articles were from Central Province (33), followed by Western Province (16). The authorship pattern showed a collaborative approach among researchers. The thematic analysis of keywords analysis showed that ‘Saudi Arabia,’ ‘attitude PHC,’ ‘organ donation,’ ‘knowledge and education,’ and ‘donation’ have been used the most commonly. Conclusion This systematic quantitative synthesis is expected to guide researchers, stakeholders, and policymakers about the strengths and gaps in knowledge and attitudes regarding medical ethics in Saudi Arabia, both among the general public and health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Woodman
- Yale Interdisciplinary Center for Bioethics, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Khawaja Bilal Waheed
- Radiodiagnostic and Imaging Department, King Fahad Military Medical Complex, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Rasheed
- Vice Deanship of Postgraduate Studies and Research, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shakil Ahmad
- Deanship of Library Affairs, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Boubshait LA, AlShamlan NA, AlShammari RZ, Alamrah SA, Fallatah BA, Abdel Wahab MM, Alreedy AH. Patient Trust in Primary Care Physicians: A Mixed Methods Study of Persons with Diabetes at University- Based Clinics in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Patient Prefer Adherence 2022; 16:3241-3255. [PMID: 36536670 PMCID: PMC9759089 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s377500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The establishment of patient trust in physicians is becoming increasingly valuable. Trust can be fundamental to successful patient care, favorable patient outcomes and improved financial savings for healthcare organizations. This study aims to explore patients' perceptions of trust in physicians, determine factors that play a role in this relationship, and to identify ways to improve patient trust. METHODS The study was conducted via a mixed-method design using semi-structured in-depth interviews until data saturation was reached (n=24), followed by a cross sectional survey of consecutive sampling until the number of participants (n=256) exceeded the required sample size. Adult patients with diabetes, aged 18-65, attending internal medicine (IM) or family medicine (FM) clinics of King Fahd Hospital of the University, Saudi Arabia were included in the interviews and surveys. Patients' interview transcripts were analyzed into trust dimensions resulting in a 51-item scale. Quality function deployment (QFD) was used to define the highest priority patient requirements. Overall satisfaction was calculated as a satisfaction percent, and factors related to satisfaction were tested using independent samples t-test and ANOVA. RESULTS Significant domains for establishing patient trust in physicians were the perceived physician's competency level, comprehensiveness of care, morals, personal traits, and establishing continuity of care. The trust score ranged from 42.0% to 100% with an average of 90.4%. There was no difference between the FM and IM setting, nor between the sociodemographic factors and the patients' satisfaction level. No statistically significant results were found between diabetes type, years of diagnoses, achieving the target HbA1c with patients' satisfaction level and trust. Patients reporting hypo or hyperglycemic symptoms had lower levels of satisfaction than those who did not. CONCLUSION Persons with diabetes were more trustful of primary care physicians if they displayed satisfactory communication skills, experience, and a caring attitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila A Boubshait
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: Leila A Boubshait, Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam, 34224, Saudi Arabia, Email
| | - Nouf A AlShamlan
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Razan Z AlShammari
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Family Medicine, King Fahd Military Medical Complex, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shadin A Alamrah
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pediatric, King Fahd Military Medical Complex, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bashaer A Fallatah
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Moataza M Abdel Wahab
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah H Alreedy
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Shiraly R, Mahdaviazad H, Pakdin A. Doctor-patient communication skills: a survey on knowledge and practice of Iranian family physicians. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:130. [PMID: 34167464 PMCID: PMC8229738 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01491-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Communication skills are fundamental to successful medical practice and can greatly impact patient satisfaction, compliance and outcomes. This study evaluated knowledge and practice of doctor- patient communication among the urban family physicians based on main items of Calgary Cambridge Observation Guides. Method This cross-sectional study was conducted from July to September, 2019, in a 400 randomly selected sample of family physicians of Shiraz, Fars province. The data collection tool was a self-administered, second-part questionnaire developed by the researchers. Participants were asked about their age, gender, practice setting, and years of work experience and if they received any formal training in doctor- patient communication. Data were analyzed using SPSS (Version 16, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The study participants included 204 male and 196 female family physicians with a mean age of 46.7 ± 7.7 years. The mean communication skills knowledge score was 41.5 (SD: ± 2.8) indicating a high level of knowledge. The mean score for practices was 38.7 (SD: ± 3.4), implying a moderate level of practice. Based on Bloom’s scale, nearly 80% of family physicians had good knowledge about doctor-patient communication skills, however, 55% of participants reported moderate to poor level of practice in this regard. Results of multivariate regression analysis suggest that higher levels of related knowledge, having higher age or longer work experience, and working in the public sector can predict better practice scores (P < 0.005). Conclusion There is a potential gap between knowledge and self-reported practices toward communication skills among a sample of Iranian family physicians. They have fundamental weakness in the most important evidence-based items of doctor- patient communication. Considering significant role of family physicians in prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) as an emerging challenge of our country, the topic of communication skills should be inserted as a top educational priority of family physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Shiraly
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Health Behavior Science Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamideh Mahdaviazad
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 7193634154, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Ali Pakdin
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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