Correlates of the perceived quality of patient–provider communication among German adults

Abstract

Abstract Background Since a higher perceived quality of patient–provider communication is known to be associated with improved health outcomes, it is essential to analyze determinants influencing patients’ perceived quality of patient–provider communication. Due to the limited knowledge about patient-related influencing factors of quality perception available so far, the objective of this study is to explore and assess determinants of the perceived quality of patient–provider communication with regards to sociodemographic, health-related, healthcare-specific and information-related factors. Methods Linear regression of cross-sectional data from the first wave of Health Information National Trends Survey Germany (n = 2902) was conducted. Independent variables were sociodemographic, health-, healthcare- and information-related factors; the dependent variable was the perceived quality of patient–provider communication. Results Results show that age, migration background, the perceived quality of healthcare, health-related self-efficacy and trust in health information from health professionals are significantly associated with the perceived quality of patient–provider communication. Conclusions Sociodemographic, healthcare- and health information-related factors influence the perceived quality of patient–provider communication. In particular, patients having a migration background and patients reporting low self-efficacy showed significant lower levels of their perceived patient–provider communication quality. With the aim to improve quality issues, patients of both target groups should be empowered and supported.