While not everyone is a fan of the Affordable Care Act, which has also been coined “Obamacare,” some people are noticing a large change in patient satisfaction. More specifically, individuals who have coverage through programs such as Medicare are likely recognizing a difference in everything from hospital room service to menu choices. This is because the new legislation is encouraging hospitals to go above and beyond for their patients, according to Forbes magazine.
Now that the act is in full swing, hospitals can earn financial incentives for providing these small accommodations to their patients. Those who fail to raise the bar and offer the utmost care for their patients are at an increased risk of being penalized by the government for not doing so. In turn, the Affordable Care Act is motivating organizations to think more about the overall patient experience rather than making a dime.
“This is not just one more of those 1990s initiatives around cost containment; this is really a trend around changing the way you deliver care,” Karoline Hilu, a senior director at the Advisory Board, a Washington-based health care consulting firm, told the news source. “This is going to be what hospitals need to do to survive.”
As the legislation continues to shape the way the hospital industry operates, social workers are continuing to gauge exactly what impacts patient satisfaction. For instance, experts are attempting to look into whether it’s specifically hospital food or post-op care that makes them want to come back to a health care provider.
Keeping your patients happy
Changing up your hospital menu is one easy way to boost patient satisfaction, but there are other ways you can increase happiness amongst your visitors as well. Physicians Practice recommended being up front and maintaining honest communication with your patients. This can ensure that you’re always aware of their needs during their stay.
Additionally, make it a point to provide your patients with constant updates on any treatment and surgeries that may be necessary. Offering people this information can give them peace of mind and make them want to refer to you in the future. Making a memorable impression with these tips can help you retain patients and guarantee a positive experience for everyone who comes to stay. In the end, you also maintain the reputation of your establishment and stay competitive in the industry.