Satisfaction with care and perceptions of quality among injured workers in California's Workers' Compensation system

J Occup Environ Med. 2007 Nov;49(11):1249-56. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0b013e3181566b5e.

Abstract

Objectives: To examine satisfaction and perceptions of quality among injured workers after the 2004 reforms in California's Workers' Compensation system. Also, to investigate the impact of provider occupational medicine orientation and interpersonal behavior, access, and timeliness of care on injured worker satisfaction and quality, and to identify aspects of provider behavior and access with the potential for improving future satisfaction and quality.

Methods: Ordered logistic regression using survey data from a representative sample of workers injured between April 1 and June 30, 2005.

Results: Occupational medicine orientation, interpersonal behaviors, choice of provider, timeliness of care, and ease of access to specialists were associated with higher levels of satisfaction.

Conclusions: Injured workers report high levels of satisfaction and quality. Satisfaction and quality can be further improved by focusing on specific aspects of provider behavior and access.

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Occupational
  • Analysis of Variance
  • California
  • Health Care Surveys
  • Health Services Accessibility / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Occupational Diseases / therapy*
  • Patient Satisfaction*
  • Quality of Health Care*
  • Workers' Compensation*
  • Wounds and Injuries / therapy*