User satisfaction in the tuberculosis control program in a city in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract

One way to evaluate health services is through the satisfaction of users. This study evaluates the satisfaction of users cared for by the Tuberculosis Control Program (TBCP) in a primary health care unit in Itaboraí, RJ, Brazil. Users satisfied with the services tend to adhere to their treatment, which is of course essential for successful TB treatment. This descriptive and quantitative study was carried out from December 2008 to February 2009; 88 individuals composed a non-probabilistic sample. A questionnaire validated and adapted to measure the satisfaction of individuals with tuberculosis was used. The study obtained high rates of user satisfaction. These positive evaluations can be explained by the fact these patients were included in the TBCP and were cared for by a health team with whom they established bonds and received support for treatment adherence. Studies with a qualitative approach could broaden the understanding of satisfaction and complement this study’s findings.