Association between Sociodemographic Characteristics and Patient Valuation of Health System Responsiveness Domains in Chronic Care Centers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Tier Three Hospitals in Kenya
Keywords:
Health system responsiveness, socio-demographic characteristics, chronic conditions, Diabetes Mellitus, HypertensionAbstract
This study examined how socio-demographic factors influence rankings of health system responsiveness in diabetic and hypertensive clinics within tier three hospitals in Kenya. Responsiveness, which addresses non-health-improving patient expectations, is essential for a well-functioning health system. While previous research has explored client and system factors, the impact of socio-demographic characteristics on domain rankings remains unclear. A cross-sectional survey collected data from 308 respondents in Kimilili, Uasin Gishu, and Gatundu hospitals using a structured questionnaire. Factors analyzed included facility location, gender, age, medical condition, religion, marital status, education, income, occupation, and insurance enrollment. Responsiveness domains assessed were promptness, respect, communication, involvement, confidentiality, choice, cleanliness, social support access, and trust. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 at a 95% confidence level. Respondents’ ages ranged from 19-95 years (mean: 56.6), with a median monthly income of KES 10,000 (70 USD). Most were Protestants (51.6%), married (69.8%), small-scale farmers (42.5%), had primary education (35.7%), and lacked medical insurance (55.8%). Among them,50.6% had hypertension, 30.8% had diabetes mellitus, and 18.5% had both conditions. Dignity and promptness were the most valued responsiveness domains, while social support and amenities were least valued. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations with facility location (p=0.01) and marital status (p=0.032), while other factors were not significantly associated with ranking of domains (p>0.05). Findings suggest that responsiveness rankings are influenced by specific contextual and personal factors rather than broad demographics. HealthCare facilities should address location-based disparities and consider marital status to enhance patient experience. Further research is needed to explore additional influencing factors and develop targeted strategies to improve healthcare quality
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17947531
Citation: Kibiriti , H., Tenambergen , W., & Mapesa, J. (2025). Association between Sociodemographic Characteristics and Patient Valuation of Health System Responsiveness Domains in Chronic Care Centers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Tier Three Hospitals in Kenya. Academic Journal of Health Systems and Reforms, 2(2), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17947531
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Copyright (c) 2025 Hillary Kibiriti, Wanja Tenambergen, Job Mapesa
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