Some co-workers and I were talking about this very topic the other day. The first thing that came up from staff, visitors, family members, and patients was timeliness. Timeliness is so essential because it makes for a positive environment all around. A positive environment is very essential because in the end it will determine satisfaction. In order for this to work there has to be teamwork from all involved. As a patient myself I do not want to wait forever in a line or for someone to come assist me especially when my child is involved, I will get upset and be very unsatisfied and probably will go somewhere else next time. Same thing with dinning, if I am not served in a timely manner I will not return and I will spread the word like wildfire. Word of mouth will either sell your organization or destroy it.
Another component that came up in our discussion was patient centeredness. All needs, wants, and expectations should be met along with timeliness. If all these are met then the patient will be satisfied in the end. A satisfied customer means a returning customer in the future. The patient is our primary customer so it would only make sense to make sure they get what they need or expect. As a patient again I would want all my needs, wants, and expectations met and if they weren't then I would again go somewhere else but I would also fill out a complaint form so they would know why.
One more component that was mentioned was effectiveness. Without effectiveness everything will be in total chaos. Everything should be planned out and followed completely. Effectiveness also makes for a positive environment and helps in ...