Background: Saudi Arabia has made several efforts to promote Patient-Centered Care (PCC); however, its implementation remains inconsistent across healthcare facilities. Previous surveys have repeatedly highlighted patient dissatisfaction, often linked to substandard care and inadequate professional development among healthcare providers. Understanding the factors influencing the adoption of PCC in primary healthcare settings is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Objective: This study analyzed the key factors affecting the adoption of PCC among healthcare professionals in Riyadh, focusing on identifying barriers and facilitators.
Methodology: Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board (IRB). A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with 200 patients and 200 healthcare providers from four primary healthcare centres. All healthcare professionals, regardless of nationality, were included. Two separate questionnaires were developed for patients and providers. Data analysis, including both qualitative and quantitative methods, was performed using SPSS.
Results: The study highlights the importance of an organization-wide approach to successfully implementing PCC. Findings reveal a correlation between previous studies and key facilitators of PCC adoption in primary healthcare settings. Major barriers identified include inadequate nurse-associated healthcare support, an unsupportive institutional culture, and a challenging referral process associated with lower PCC adoption scores.
Conclusion: Implementing PCC in Riyadh's primary care centres is essential for improving healthcare quality. Addressing key barriers will enhance patient satisfaction and professional development among healthcare providers.
Patient-Centered Care; Primary Health Care; Health Personnel; Professional Development; Health Services Accessibility