American Journal of Economic and Management
Business
p-ISSN: XXXX-XXXX
�e-ISSN: 2835-5199
Vol.
3 No. 11 November 2024
The Influence of
Service Quality, Price, and Hospital Image on Outpatient Satisfaction at the
Internal Medicine Clinic of RSD Wongsonogoro Semarang�
Jhodi Rent Geopal1*, Sarwo Edy Handoyo2
Universitas
Tarumanagara, Jakarta, Indonesia
Email: [email protected],
[email protected]
Abstract
This study aims
to analyze the impact of service quality, price, and hospital image on patient
satisfaction at the outpatient clinic of internal medicine at K.R.M.T.
Wongsonegoro Hospital in Semarang. The research employs a quantitative
approach, collecting data through questionnaires distributed to patients
receiving outpatient services. Respondents were selected using purposive
sampling based on specific criteria, such as having received outpatient
services at the internal medicine clinic during the study period. The analysis
involved multiple linear regression to assess the relationship between the
independent variables (service quality, price, and hospital image) and the
dependent variable (patient satisfaction). Data analysis was conducted using
statistical software to test the hypotheses and measure the impact of each
variable. The findings indicate that service quality has a positive and
significant effect on patient satisfaction. Additionally, a reasonable price
significantly enhances patient satisfaction, while the hospital image fosters
greater trust and satisfaction, though its influence is somewhat less
pronounced than the other two factors.
Keywords: service quality, price, hospital
image, patient satisfaction, outpatient
INTRODUCTION
Hospitals
serve as health service providers that evaluate the overall quality of their
services based on patient perceptions while also identifying key dimensions
requiring improvement
Service
quality includes various dimensions, such as physical appearance, reliability,
responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. These dimensions directly influence
patients' perceptions and satisfaction with the services received
The price
offered should align with the quality of services provided to ensure patients
feel comfortable and perceive value for money. Patients are generally attracted
to services that balance good quality with affordable prices, leading to higher
satisfaction. When the price reflects the service quality, patients tend to be
more satisfied and loyal
The research
phenomenon of "The Effect of Service Quality, Price, and Hospital Image on
Internal Medicine Outpatient Satisfaction at Wongsonegoro Hospital
Semarang" covers various interrelated aspects in the context of health
services. Service quality in hospitals is a major factor influencing patient
experience, where timeliness, medical personnel skills, adequate facilities,
and good communication play a major role in creating satisfaction.
The hospital's
image or reputation significantly impacts patient trust. Positive perceptions
of RSD Wongsonegoro, shaped by others' experiences and favorable reviews, can
attract more patients. Ultimately, patient satisfaction results from the
interaction of these factors. This study aims to examine the extent to which
service quality, pricing, and hospital image influence outpatient satisfaction,
offering valuable insights for hospital management to enhance services,
implement competitive pricing strategies, and build a positive reputation to
improve overall patient satisfactio.
Based on the
data of BPJS patients at Wongsonegoro Semarang Regional Hospital from January
to February 2024, it can be seen that there were more female patients than male
patients in both months. In January, there were 7,728 male patients and 8,907
female patients. This shows that the number of female patients is higher than that
of male patients by about 1,179 cases. Furthermore, in February, the
number of male patients was 6,646, and female patients were 7,670. The number
of female patients was also still higher than male patients this month,
although with a smaller difference of around 1,024 cases
The research
conducted at RSD Wongsonegoro was based on the fact that the image or public
perception of a hospital can determine patient choice and form loyalty. Through
this research, an understanding of what elements form a positive image and how
they affect patient satisfaction can be obtained. There are differences in the
quality of service provided to outpatients at the Internal Medicine Clinic
Understanding
the aspects of service quality, price, and hospital image affecting patient
satisfaction is critical to understanding patients' decisions in choosing
Wongsonegoro Hospital as a healthcare provider. This can assist in designing
policies and practices that improve patient satisfaction and loyalty
Based on the
background above, the research problem in this study is: Does service quality
affect patient satisfaction at Wongsonegoro Hospital Semarang? The study aims
to determine and verify the significant impact of service quality on patient
satisfaction. Furthermore, the findings are expected to benefit the hospital by
identifying factors influencing patient satisfaction, enabling the
implementation of effective strategies to enhance patient satisfaction levels,
ultimately improving the hospital's reputation and financial performance.
RESEARCH METHODS
This study employs
quantitative research methods to assess the impact of service quality, price,
and hospital image on patient satisfaction. This approach was selected to
obtain objective and measurable data, providing an accurate representation of
factors influencing patient satisfaction. As Sugiyono
The research adopts a
non-probability sampling method with a purposive sampling technique. In this
approach, samples are deliberately chosen based on specific criteria set by the
researcher. Respondents who are considered most relevant and capable of
providing data aligned with the research objectives are intentionally selected.
For this study, the target respondents are outpatients at the Internal Medicine
Clinic of Wongsonegoro Hospital Semarang, expected to offer valuable insights
into the impact of service quality, price, and hospital image on patient
satisfaction.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
The Effect of Service Quality on Patient Satisfaction
The
analysis results indicate that service quality (X1) significantly and
positively influences patient satisfaction (Y), with a coefficient value of
0.252. This implies that a one-unit improvement in service quality leads to a
0.252-unit increase in patient satisfaction. The T-Statistics value of 2.602
and a P-value of 0.010 confirm that this relationship is statistically
significant at the 0.05 level. These findings support the hypothesis that
service quality plays a critical role in enhancing patient satisfaction,
emphasizing several key factors that define service quality in the healthcare
sector. For a more comprehensive understanding, future research should explore
additional variables and compare these findings with those of similar studies
in healthcare service management.
1)
Service Theory: SERVQUAL Model
Service
quality is often measured using the SERVQUAL (Service Quality) model, developed
by Parasuraman
a)
Reliability
The
hospital's ability to provide consistent and timely services. In healthcare,
this has a lot to do with the accuracy of diagnosis, consistent treatment
procedures, and the hospital's ability to handle patient needs in a timely
manner. If this reliability is met, patients will feel confident that the
hospital can be trusted, and their satisfaction will increase.
b)
Responsiveness
The
ability of medical and non-medical staff to respond quickly to patient
requests. High responsiveness indicates that the hospital is proactively paying
attention to patient needs and complaints. Speed of service delivery has a huge
impact on satisfaction, especially when it comes to emergency medical
treatment.
c)
Assurance
It refers
to the competence, courtesy, and credibility of medical personnel, as well as
the sense of security felt by patients. This aspect emphasizes the importance
of the ability and expertise of hospital staff in providing services in
accordance with medical standards. Patients will feel more satisfied if they
believe that hospital staff have sufficient expertise in managing their health
conditions.
d)
Empathy
The care
shown by medical personnel towards patients. In healthcare, empathy plays an
important role in forming a good relationship between patients and providers.
When patients feel they are treated with genuine care and are valued, their
satisfaction tends to increase.
e)
Physical Evidence (Tangibles)
The
physical appearance of hospital facilities, medical devices, and the general
environment. A clean and modern physical condition can create a positive first
impression that contributes to patient satisfaction.
This
theory is relevant to research conducted in hospitals, especially outpatient
services, where these aspects play an important role in shaping patients'
perceptions of service quality.
2)
Customer Experience
According
to research by Fatkhiya & Rahmawati
This
experience encompasses various aspects, from initial registration to
post-treatment follow-up
3)
Patient Trust and Loyalty
High
service quality significantly builds patient trust in healthcare providers.
According to Jonathan & Handoyo
In
addition, patients who are satisfied with the service received are more likely
to recommend the hospital to their relatives or friends
4)
Emotional Effects in Healthcare
Good
service quality affects not only the functional, but also the emotional aspects
of the patient experience. As explained by Salis & Jepisah
In
hospitals, the attention given by doctors and nurses in explaining the
patient's condition and treatment procedures can help relieve the patient's
anxiety. This emotional aspect is very important because patients who feel calm
and emotionally supported will be more satisfied with the services received.
5)
Competition in the Healthcare Industry
In an
increasingly competitive healthcare industry, hospitals need to continuously
improve their service quality to compete with other healthcare providers.
Lestari & Sianturi
Patients
today have many options in choosing a healthcare provider, so hospitals must
continue to innovate in delivering high-quality services. This includes not
only providing superior medical care but also ensuring that the entire patient
experience, from check-in to discharge, is well managed.
6)
Technology and Innovation in Healthcare
The
utilization of information technology, such as more efficient hospital
management systems, can also help improve the quality of care. These
technologies can speed up the registration process, provide better access to
medical records, and enable more efficient schedule management. Handoyo &
Darsono
The
results of this study are in line with the findings of previous studies that
emphasize the importance of service quality in improving patient satisfaction.
SERVQUAL remains a powerful model in measuring and evaluating service quality,
especially in the healthcare sector. In addition, this study reinforces the
relationship between service quality and other aspects, such as price and
hospital image, which together create a holistic service experience for
patients
The Effect of Price on
Patient Satisfaction
The
analysis results show that Price (X2) has a significant positive effect on
Patient Satisfaction (Y), with a coefficient value of 0.263. This shows that
every one-unit increase in the price variable will increase patient
satisfaction by 0.263 units. The T-statistics value of 2.672 and the P-value of
0.008 confirm that the effect of price on patient satisfaction is significant
at the 0.05 significance level. Thus, this relationship is very strong and
means that changes in pricing in line with patient expectations contribute
directly to increased patient satisfaction.
This
research shows that patients are not only concerned about the quality of
service they receive but also the value or benefit they get for the price paid.
Here are some key factors that explain how price affects patient satisfaction:
1)
Perceived Value
Patients
often evaluate the services they receive based on perceived value or how
commensurate the price they pay is with the quality of service received. When
patients feel that the price paid is in accordance with the service received,
they will feel satisfied. According to Fatkhiya & Rahmawati
When
prices reflect perceived value, whether in terms of facilities, service time,
or quality of medical personnel, patients will feel that their costs are
commensurate with the quality of care received. Conversely, a mismatch between
price and service quality can lead to dissatisfaction. This demonstrates the
importance of appropriate pricing in creating a balance between patient
expectations and the quality of care received.
2)
Affordability
Affordability
plays an important role in healthcare accessibility. Patients who feel that the
services are within their budget tend to be more satisfied with the services
received. Conversely, prices that are too high or out of the patient's
financial reach may lead to dissatisfaction, especially when they feel they are
not getting the benefits commensurate with the fees paid.
In this
case, affordable pricing allows patients from various economic backgrounds to
access the healthcare services they need. This relates to the research findings
by Tarigan & Handiyani
3)
Service Quality and Price
Higher
prices are often associated with better service quality. Patients who pay more
for a service have higher expectations of the quality of care they will
receive. If these expectations are met or even exceeded, patients will feel
satisfied. Conversely, if higher prices are not accompanied by improved service
quality, patients will feel disappointed and less satisfied.
Research
by Lestari & Sianturi
4)
Comparison with Other Providers
Patients
often compare the price of services between one provider and another. If the
price offered by RSD Wongsonegoro is more competitive than other hospitals with
equivalent service quality, patients will be more likely to choose RSD
Wongsonegoro and feel more satisfied. Conversely, if the price is considered
too high compared to other hospitals that provide similar services, patients
may feel dissatisfied and look for alternatives.
Research
by Handoyo & Darsono
5)
Price Transparency
Transparency
in pricing also plays an important role in improving patient satisfaction. When
patients clearly understand the fee structure, and there are no unanticipated
additional costs, they will feel more satisfied with the services received.
Conversely, ambiguity in pricing, such as hidden costs or undisclosed fees, can
lead to dissatisfaction and distrust.
Patients
who have clarity regarding the cost of services will feel more comfortable and
trust the healthcare provider. This transparency also helps patients make
informed decisions regarding their care, increasing their sense of control and
satisfaction.
6)
Emotional Influence
Price
affects not only the economic aspect but also the emotional experience of
patients. Prices that are too high can lead to feelings of pressure or stress,
especially when patients feel that they are paying more than they should. On
the contrary, prices that are reasonable and in line with the quality of
service can provide a sense of security and comfort, which in turn increases
overall satisfaction.
Tarigan
& Handiyani
The
results of this study support previous studies, such as those conducted by
Fatkhiya & Rahmawati
Overall,
good price management is critical to creating a positive patient experience.
Appropriate, transparent, and competitive pricing not only improves patient
satisfaction but also encourages loyalty, recommendations, and a positive image
of the hospital. In RSD Wongsonegoro, a good pricing strategy can significantly
improve patient satisfaction and strengthen the hospital's position in the
healthcare market.
The Effect of Hospital
Image on Patient Satisfaction
The results
of the analysis show that Hospital Image (X3) has a significant positive
effect on Patient Satisfaction (Y). The coefficient of 0.256 indicates that
every one-unit increase in hospital image will contribute to a 0.256-unit
increase in patient satisfaction. Although the T Statistics value of 2.186 and
P Value of 0.029 indicate that this effect is significant at the 0.05 level,
the contribution of hospital image is slightly lower than that of service
quality and price. However, these results still confirm that hospital image
plays an important role in determining patient satisfaction.
Patients
who feel that the hospital has a positive image are more likely to be satisfied
with the services they receive. A positive image is closely related to the
public's perception of the quality of service, reputation, and overall
experience that the hospital offers. Mahfud
1)
Service Quality
The
quality of healthcare services provided by a hospital is the foundation of a
positive image. This includes speed of service, accuracy of diagnosis,
effectiveness of treatment, and staff attention to patient needs. Patients who
are satisfied with the medical services provided will have a more favorable
perception of the hospital's image. In this context, perceived service quality
creates a direct link with the hospital's reputation and image in the eyes of
patients.
2)
Patient Trust
Trust
plays a key role in shaping a hospital's positive image. When a hospital has a
good reputation and is seen as reliable, patients are more likely to trust the
services they receive. This contributes to patients' comfort during the
treatment period, which ultimately affects their level of satisfaction.
According to Mahfud
3)
Staff Professionalism
Hospital
staff, both medical and non-medical, play a role in shaping the image of the hospital.
Their professionalism, expertise, and work ethics create a positive or negative
perception of the hospital. For example, doctors and nurses who show empathy
and good communication will make patients feel more valued, which contributes
to the image of the hospital as a caring institution. Continuous training for
medical and administrative staff is also necessary to maintain and improve high
standards of service, which in turn improves the image of the hospital.
4)
Cleanliness and Comfort
The
physical condition of the hospital environment, including the cleanliness of
patient rooms, waiting areas, and other public facilities, also affects the
hospital's image. Patients and visitors will have a positive impression if the
facilities are well-maintained and comfortable. Salis & Jepisah
5)
Communication
�������� �The relationship established between the
hospital and the patient through communication also contributes to the positive
image of the hospital. Clear and transparent information about procedures,
costs, and treatments helps patients feel more comfortable and at ease.
Jonathan & Handoyo
6)
Effective Image Management
Managing
a hospital's image requires appropriate communication strategies, such as a
good marketing campaign and the use of positive testimonials from patients.
Patients' direct experience greatly influences their perception of the
hospital. Positive feedback from satisfied patients can strengthen the
hospital's good image, while negative experiences can damage the reputation
that has been built. Hospitals should, therefore, be responsive to patient
feedback and make continuous improvements to enhance service quality.
In
addition to increasing satisfaction, a positive image of the hospital can also
encourage patient loyalty. Patients who are satisfied with the services
received are more likely to return to use the hospital's services and recommend
it to others. This creates a positive cycle where a good image reinforces
loyalty, which in turn attracts more new patients through word of mouth and
positive testimonials on various digital platforms and social media.
Thus,
hospital image acts as a determinant factor in patient satisfaction. Patients
who have a positive perception of the hospital's image tend to be more
satisfied with the services they receive. This shows the importance of good
hospital image management, including improving service quality, staff
professionalism, and a comfortable and clean environment. With proper image
management, hospitals can increase patient satisfaction, encourage loyalty, and
strengthen their reputation in an increasingly competitive healthcare industry.
CONCLUSION
Based on the findings of this study, conclusions
can be drawn regarding the influence of service quality, price, and hospital
image on patient satisfaction at Wongsonegoro Hospital Semarang. The research
indicates that service quality has a significant positive impact on patient
satisfaction. This highlights that higher service quality leads to greater
patient satisfaction. Key factors such as the professionalism of medical
personnel, reliability in delivering care, and prompt responsiveness to patient
needs play a critical role in enhancing patient satisfaction. To strengthen
these findings, hospitals should consider implementing targeted strategies that
continuously improve service delivery, ensure competitive pricing, and maintain
a positive hospital image.
Price is also proven to have a positive and
significant effect on patient satisfaction. Price adjustments in accordance
with the quality of services provided will make patients feel that they are
getting value for money. When prices are perceived as reasonable by patients,
this increases feelings of satisfaction with the services received. Hospital
image also plays a role in influencing patient satisfaction. Although its
contribution is slightly lower than that of service quality and price, a
positive hospital image is still significant in increasing patient trust. A
good image includes the hospital's reputation, the positive experiences of
other patients, and the general perception of the community, all of which
contribute to the creation of patient satisfaction.
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Copyright holders:
Jhodi Rent
Geopal, Sarwo Edy Handoyo (2024)
First publication
right:
AJEMB - American
Journal of Economic and Management Business