Abstract:
This qualitative research aimed to study the negotiation and mediation guidelines on patient complaints in 5 state hospitals in Samut Prakarn by conducting interviews with personnel involved in dealing with complaints. The study surveyed and collected information from 2003-2007. In-depth interviews were conducted on the reasons for and methods of complaint, guidelines and approaches for negotiation and mediation, results of mediation and the assistance given to complainants, including the outcomes of complaint management in these state hospitals. The research studied 28 complaints; 22 of these were successfully resolved while 6 cases had to be looked at by a higher level hospital committee which had been
set up for that purpose. The areas of hospital activity that were most complained about were medicine and pediatrics, followed by obstetrics and surgery. Most complaints were
motivated by conflicts in relationships or obscure communication by the service providers, followed by conflicting information that caused misunderstanding by patients
and finally, conflicts in perceived benefits and obligations. The method that complainants used most was contacting the hospital directly (15 cases). Negotiation and mediation were successful as 22 cases were quickly resolved and good relations maintained. The study found that negotiation and mediation to settle patient complaints in the 5 state hospitals were generally in line with the guidelines of the Center for Peace in Health Care but there were some differences. The approaches included: (1) making on appointment to talk with the patient and relatives; (2) providing clear information to them; (3) finding a solution to resolve the complaint and; (4) entering a compromise agreement. The study suggests that hospitals should realize the significance of clear communication with patients. Each hospital should be encouraged to set up a watch out and negotiation team which should undergo training to increase its conflict management skill. A risk prevention network should be set up to prevent complaints. The venue for negotiation and mediation should be the hospital or the patients home depending on the convenience of patients and relatives. Hospitals should have contingency budget to compensate patients in order to end the case rapidly.