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The Role of Patient Satisfaction Surveys in Addiction

Prescription drugs are abused by a shocking number of Americans, with 54 million people abusing these medications for nonmedical reasons. While some of these people find drugs through illegal means, others become addicted to prescription drugs that were obtained via medical settings. At Banyan Stuart, we’re helping patients find their sobriety through effective detox and opiate addiction treatment. We recognize the connection between patient satisfaction surveys and worsening prescription drug addiction in the US. There is a stronger connection between addiction and patient satisfaction than many may realize.

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What Is Patient Satisfaction?

Patient satisfaction refers to the evaluation of how content and happy patients are with the healthcare services provided to them. It encompasses several aspects of their healthcare experience, such as the quality of medical care they receive, their interactions and communication with healthcare professionals, the ease of access to services, and the overall atmosphere of the healthcare facility.

The significance of patient satisfaction lies in its direct influence on patient outcomes, treatment compliance, and the likelihood of seeking future medical attention. Satisfied patients are more inclined to follow prescribed treatments, adopt healthier practices, and share positive feedback with others, thus contributing to the positive reputation of healthcare facilities and providers.

Surveys, questionnaires, or other forms of patient feedback are frequently used to collect the opinions and experiences of patients to evaluate their satisfaction. Healthcare businesses make use of this insightful feedback to pinpoint areas that need to be improved and to fine-tune their offerings so that they better meet the expectations and needs of patients.

High levels of patient satisfaction are fostered by a patient-centric strategy in which healthcare professionals actively listen to patient problems, communicate clearly, and give compassionate treatment. Prioritizing patient satisfaction ultimately aims to improve health outcomes, the patient experience, and the development of solid, long-lasting patient-provider relationships.

How Patient Satisfaction Surveys Worsen Prescription Drug Addiction in the U.S.

Patient satisfaction surveys are high-pressure for the physicians and medical facilities providing care. 28 percent of doctors are paid bonuses based on patient satisfaction, which means most doctors aim for high marks on patient satisfaction surveys. These surveys include a wide range of questions, and most ask patients if their doctors and nurses provided pain relief. A “no” on this question can result in a lower satisfaction rating, negatively affecting the doctor, hospital, and entire medical system.

To achieve high marks in these surveys, many medical professionals feel the pressure to treat patients’ pain at all times. This can mean prescribing drugs such as opioids to reduce said symptoms. An opioid prescription does not automatically lead to prescription drug addiction in the U.S., but it can be dangerous for individuals with a predisposition to addiction. This is why there is such a dangerous connection between addiction and patient satisfaction. Doctors prescribing unnecessary drugs in the name of improving patient satisfaction, whether intentional or not, is a dangerous practice that can ultimately result in more problems than it solves.

Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction

An addiction to prescription drugs can be a difficult and dangerous issue that affects people who have been lawfully prescribed medication for medical conditions. Early warning indicators must be identified to act and offer the necessary help.

These signs can include:

  • Increased Tolerance: The drug may need to be taken in larger amounts for people to get the same results they did at lesser doses in the past. The emergence of tolerance can be an indication of physical reliance.
  • Withdrawal Symptoms: The onset of dependence can be seen when the person tries to cut back or stop taking the medicine and experiences withdrawal symptoms including anxiety, irritability, nausea, or physical discomfort.
  • Doctor Shopping: A person who is dependent on prescription medication may attempt to get many prescriptions from various physicians or pharmacies to keep their supply constant.
  • Isolation and Neglect of Responsibilities: As addiction takes hold, people may stop participating in social activities, jobs, or education, neglecting their obligations and interpersonal connections.
  • Loss of Control: One of the telltale signs of addiction is having trouble stopping drug usage, especially when experiencing negative consequences.

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Finding Florida Addiction Treatment in Stuart

Addiction happens, but recovery is possible with the right type of support. The Stuart, Florida Banyan Treatment Center offers excellent services for prescription drug addiction detox. These serve as a precursor to fully immersive addiction treatment opportunities for those who are ready to find their sobriety.

If you or someone you know needs opiate addiction treatment, treatment for prescription drug addiction, or alcoholism treatment, contact our Stuart rehab center today at 888-280-4763.

Sources:

  1. NIH - Misuse of Prescription Drugs
  2. CBS - Are Patient Satisfaction Surveys Fueling America’s Opioid Epidemic?

Related Reading

Common Prescription Opioids & Their Dangers

Facts About Prescription Drugs

Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.