Patient Waiting Time at Primary Healthcare Centers in Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Background Patient waiting time can adversely affect health services utilization and continuity of care, impacting patient satisfaction. In Saudi Arabia, there is limited information about the average waiting time at primary healthcare centers. Therefore, this study quantifies patient waiting time for services offered in Ministry of Health primary healthcare centers in Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study utilizing secondary data from the Health Information System at primary healthcare centers in Riyadh was conducted in December 2020. Ten primary healthcare centers were selected. All patients visiting the selected centers during the study period were included, except those who needed emergency care or came for services without seeing the physician. Data regarding patient waiting time in minutes for different stages of primary healthcare services were collected. Results The median total waiting time was 23 min. The median waiting time for pre-consultation and consultation were 6.00 and 6.78 min, respectively. The waiting time for pharmacies in rural primary healthcare centers was 22.1 min, while there was no recorded information regarding pharmacy waiting time in urban primary healthcare centers. The total waiting time at urban primary healthcare centers was longer than at rural primary healthcare centers, with a significant difference between both groups (t =  − 15.5, P < 0.001). Patient age, marital status, educational level, occupation, and weekdays were significant factors influencing waiting time (P < 0.05). Conclusion This study reveals positive outcomes regarding the average waiting time in primary healthcare centers in the Riyadh region. Further primary research is recommended.