A Critical Literature Review on the Impact of Waiting Time on Patient Satisfaction in Saudi Arabian Hospitals

Abstract

This critical literature review examines the influence of waiting time on patient satisfaction within hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Informed by long waiting times witnessed in Saudi Arabian hospitals, the review systematically analyses a selection of studies investigating the relationship between waiting times and patient satisfaction in the healthcare facilities for good healthcare experience. Articles were collected through a rigorous search and selection of relevant scholarly literature. It involved predefining keywords and search terms relating to waiting time, patient satisfaction, and Saudi Arabian hospitals. These were then used to search for relevant articles in popular academic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and JSTOR. Appropriate inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to the process using the PRISMA flowchart to helps reports the searches and guarantee the selection of high-quality and pertinent studies. The synthesis and interpretation of findings across multiple contexts, study designs, and methodologies were made using thematic analysis, which enabled a thorough assessment of the evidence. A summary of the included papers regarding the type of research evidence found was presented, showing the author, year, research topic, and design. Additionally, studies focusing on longitudinal studies or experimental designs were emphasised. The social and cultural characteristics unique to Saudi Arabian society were also considered in analysing the results. The review identifies critical factors that contribute to patient satisfaction concerning waiting times. These factors include the waiting time for registration, consultation, medication dispensing, vital sign assessment, specialist appointments, and patient demographics. The study emphasises the importance of patient-centred care, effective communication, nursing competence, and accessibility to healthcare recipients as key elements influencing patients' satisfaction levels. The analysis highlights the need for hospitals to address waiting time-related difficulties through effective tactics, such as managing patient flow, enhancing communication, and leveraging technology. Further research is needed to examine particular aspects that can reduce wait times and improve patient satisfaction in Saudi Arabian healthcare facilities, especially concerning culture. Key words: Saudi Arabian hospitals, reduction of waiting time, management of waiting time, patient satisfaction, client contentment, healthcare service experience, healthcare recipients.