Abstract: Patient satisfaction with a direct access vasectomy service.

Authors:

Menon NK.

Institution:

Alexandra Day Unit, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow, Essex CM20 1QX, UK.

Source:

Br J Fam Plann. 1998 Oct;24(3):105-6.

Abstract:

This study of patient satisfaction with a direct access vasectomy service was carried out by questionnaire offered to 100 patients attending a day surgery unit for vasectomy. Seventy eight patients responded and there was overall satisfaction with the service, with 72 patients (96 per cent of respondents) describing it as excellent or good. The commonest criticism expressed by respondents concerned long waiting times in the unit before surgery on the day of operation. Vasectomy is a straightforward and minor surgical procedure which suits a direct access service. PIP: Findings are presented from a study of patient satisfaction with a direct access vasectomy service. A questionnaire was offered to 100 consecutive patients attending a day surgery unit for vasectomy. Potential respondents were asked to complete the questionnaire a fortnight after the operation and to return it in the self-addressed envelope provided. 78 patients responded, voicing their overall satisfaction with the service. 72 patients described the service as either excellent or good. 6% of the men sought postoperative general practitioner/practice nurse consultation; 3 patients for advice on scrotal contusion and pain and the rest for medical certificates for absence from work.19 patients made 20 criticisms of the service. Respondents' most common criticism was of long waiting times in the unit before surgery on the day of the operation. Vasectomy is a straightforward and minor surgical procedure which suits a direct access service.

Keywords:

Urological Surgery Vasectomy Direct Access