Abstract:
Background:
Many patients move from one healthcare provider to another, disturbing the continuity of holistic patient care.
Objectives:
The aim of this study is; to investigate the reasons why patients leave their nearest clinic, and to determine if these patients are able to use the provided care when they need to.
Methods:
A cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted during the winter of 2010. Questionnaires were given to 350 patients attending Karen Park Clinic. Patients completed the questionnaires in the
presence of the researcher, who was able to assist where needed. Variables addressed in the questionnaire included: place where they stay; if they visited their nearest clinic; what services there
are at their nearest clinic; would they go back to their nearest clinic and if not, what would be the
reasons.
Results:
The majority of respondents stayed in Soshanguve, 153 (43.7%), Mabopane 92(26.3%)Garankuwa, 29(8.3%)and Hebron 20(5.7%), Most ofthe respondents were females 271(77.4%), with 177
(50.6%)aged between 26 and45years. Eighty percent of patients indicated that they visited their nearest clinic and 191(54.6%) said that they will not return to that clinic. The reasons for not
returning to the nearest clinic were: - no medication, 39(11.1%); long queues, 59(16.9%); rude staff, 59(16.9%); long waiting time to be helped, 88(25.1%) and other, 63(18.0%).
Conclusion:
The researcher found that many patients, who first attended their nearest clinic, opted not to return. Reducing long waiting times and long queues at a primary health care centre can be
achieved. Satisfied health care providers would provide quality service to patients. Training courses for management committee members could lead to improving the health center's management and
patients could be redirected to their nearest clinic by giving them referrals or transfer letters. Purchasing enough medicine will reduce the problem of no medication and increase the capability of
the health center. Staff should receive training about health care practices, to reduce the rude behaviors that drive patients away.
