Dr. Howard J. Marans
graduated from the Univ of Toronto, Fac of Med, Toronto, and Ont, Canada in
1982. He works in Fountain Valley, CA and specializes in Orthopaedic Surgeryand Sports Medicine. Dr. Marans is affiliated with Fountain Valley Regional
Hospital & Medical Center and Orange Coast Memorial Medical Center.
Patient Satisfaction Matters
Knowing a doctor’s
professional qualifications is critical. But to truly understand what a visit
to that doctor might be like—from the doctor’s “bedside manner” to the
friendliness of the office staff—it’s helpful to learn what others have
experienced under that doctor’s care. Learn about how Health grades patient
satisfaction scores can complement objective clinical information.
1. It’s an Industry Standard
Patient satisfaction surveys
are a standardized way of reporting about a healthcare experience. Public
reporting increases healthcare quality transparency, provides incentives to
providers to improve satisfaction, and allows the public to compare healthcare
providers based on patients’ experiences. In fact, the Centers for Medicare and
Medicaid Services use patient satisfaction as a basis for reimbursing
hospitals. They have recently implemented a similar patient satisfaction survey
for doctors and group practices.
2. Higher Satisfaction Can Mean Better Health
Studies show that when
patients really connect with a doctor—when the doctor satisfies both their
medical and emotional needs—they’re more likely to follow the doctor’s advice
and have a successful healthcare outcome. Look for a doctor that patients’
trust, who takes the time to answer their questions, and that patient would
recommend to their own families.
3. Know More, Worry Less
Knowing what others have
experienced under a doctor’s care can give you a good sense of what you’re
likely to experience. You’ll know, for instance, that the doctor takes the time
to help you understand your healthcare; that the staff is helpful and friendly;
and that you won’t likely sit forever in the waiting room. The more you know
what to expect, the less you’ll worry, and the more you can focus on preparing
for that critical first appointment.
4. The Survey Rates Eight Facets of Care
Health grades patient
satisfaction survey rates eight areas of care, from the doctor’s communication
style to the friendliness of the office staff. Patients also answer the key
question, “Would you recommend this doctor to family and friends?” To ensure
accuracy, we accept surveys only from patients or family members of patients,
and require contact information for verification.
5. The Highest Indicator Is a Recommendation
Our patient satisfaction
surveys can help you learn a lot about the doctors you’re considering, such as
whether they give clear instructions to their patients, and how likely patients
are to trust those instructions. But the highest indicator of patient
satisfaction is a recommendation to friends and family. Knowing patients feel
good enough about a doctor to recommend him or her helps you make a more
informed decision when choosing a doctor.
6. It’s Not Just About the Doctor
Is the doctor’s office clean
and well lit? Is the staff friendly? Do you sit forever in the waiting room?
Our patient satisfaction survey includes questions about the doctor’s office
and staff because these factors actually make a difference: The more pleasant
your experience, the more likely you are to return for follow-up care and
routine visits—which ultimately improves your health and wellness.
7. You Have Options If a Doctor Has Low Scores
What if you’re interested in a
doctor who has low patient satisfaction scores? First, consider the number of
surveys. If the doctor has only a few surveys, the results may not be as
meaningful. If other aspects of the doctor’s background appeal to you, arrange
a consultation, and form your own opinion. The doctor may not be right for
everyone, but might satisfy your particular need.
8. Your Opinion Counts
How satisfied are you? Just as
you benefit from what other patients think about their doctor, your opinion
counts too. Complete a survey to help others choose the right doctor for them.
Your insights can prove valuable to other patients—as well as to the doctor.
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