The Relationship between Provider-Patient Communication and HCAHPS Composite Measures and Hospital Ratings

30 Pages Posted: 6 Feb 2020

See all articles by Alan T. Belasen

Alan T. Belasen

State University of New York (SUNY), Empire State College

Jane Oppenlander

Clarkson University

Ariel R. Belasen

Southern Illinois University - Department of Economics

Date Written: January 14, 2020

Abstract

We highlight clinical and operational issues as well as gaps associated with providers’ communication and the importance of using metrics such as the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) that allow consumers to discern how hospitals differ on specific characteristics. We also provide evidence about the importance of developing an effective care partnership between physicians and patients in both primary care practices and multi-specialty groups by strengthening doctor-patient communication (DPC). A partial correlation analysis to ascertain those HCAHPS composite measures that most relate to the overall hospital rating with a specific focus on DPC was conducted. Our findings reveal a significantly positive relationship between DPC and various care measures. From a health policy standpoint, it is imperative that hospital administrators stress open and clear communication between doctors and patients to avoid problems ranging from misdiagnosis to incorrect treatment. Altering the patterns of DPC involves adaptation and training for doctors who are expected to adjust their standard “script” when communicating with patients.

Keywords: Provider-Patient Communication, Patient Satisfaction, HCAHPS Composite Measures, Hospital Ratings, Qualitative Research

JEL Classification: I11, M54

Suggested Citation

Belasen, Alan and Oppenlander, Jane and Belasen, Ariel R., The Relationship between Provider-Patient Communication and HCAHPS Composite Measures and Hospital Ratings (January 14, 2020). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3518898 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3518898

Alan Belasen

State University of New York (SUNY), Empire State College ( email )

111 West Ave
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
United States
5185804720 (Phone)
5185804720 (Fax)

Jane Oppenlander

Clarkson University

80 Nott Terr
Schenectady, NY 12308
United States

Ariel R. Belasen (Contact Author)

Southern Illinois University - Department of Economics ( email )

Edwardsville, IL 62026-1102
United States

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