Survey: 95% plus NHI beneficiaries satisfied with health care experience

Survey: 95% plus NHI beneficiaries satisfied with health care experience

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A patient satisfaction survey conducted by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has revealed that over 95 per cent of beneficiaries were either very satisfied (57.64 per cent) or satisfied (38.07 per cent) with the health care experience they received from their NHI doctor.

The survey, which was completed by 5,122 beneficiaries between July and November 2018, also received very positive feedback in terms of quality of service received, with 57.96 per cent saying the quality was “very good” and 38 per cent responding “good” respectively.

Other notable results from the patient satisfaction survey included the following:

Over 95 per cent of beneficiaries strongly agreed (62.5 per cent) or agreed (34.08 per cent) with the statement, “My NHI doctor cares about my health”

When asked how long it took to get an appointment with their NHI doctor, over 95 per cent of beneficiaries responded there was “no appointment required” (47.22 per cent) or “1-7 days” (48.59 per cent)

When asked to rate the NHI doctor’s office/facility in which they received care, the majority of beneficiaries responded, “very good” (52.6 per cent) or “good” (43.4 per cent)

“As we take steps to improve NHI Bahamas, it is encouraging to see that so many Bahamians have already had positive experiences with the program so far,” outlined a statement released Thursday from the NHI Authority.

“The positive feedback collected from the patient satisfaction survey is testament to the good work NHI providers are doing to provide quality, affordable care to their patients. With the expansion of primary care services and the implementation of high-cost care treatments for certain prevalent diseases, we expect even more Bahamians will be able to experience the benefits of the NHI program,” said Dr. Robin Roberts, Chairman of the NHIA Board.

On Oct. 23, the NHIA launched a consultation period with stakeholders and members of the public to discuss proposed changes to the program.

Bahamians are encouraged to review the policy paper online and submit their feedback through the online consultation survey.

Based on the feedback collected during the consultation period, the NHIA will then present recommendations to the Government of The Bahamas on the way forward for NHI Bahamas.

For more information on NHI Bahamas, visit www.nhibahamas.gov.bs.