Enhancing Patient Knowledge and Attitudes through Health Education Services at King Saud University Medical City

Abstract

Background: The study aimed to evaluate the attitudes and perceptions of health educators and identify challenges they face when providing services to patients at the Medical City Center, King Khalid Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It also sought to assess patient satisfaction with health education services and identify areas for improvement. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among patients and health educators. The questionnaire included nine items on attitudes and perceptions and seven items on challenges faced by health educators. Demographic data such as age, gender, nationality, and educational level were also collected. Data analysis focused on determining the influence of demographic variables on attitudes, perceptions, and challenges. Results: Respondents' ages ranged from 15 to over 41 years, with 40.2% aged above 41. Male patients constituted 61.2% of the sample, while 83.6% had a university-level education. Saudi nationals made up 91.1% of respondents. Most patients (81.8%) reported receiving health education services during visits, and 67% found the methods suitable for their treatment. However, 42% were unaware of the national care plan, and 64.3% expressed a desire for improvements in the health education program. Patient feedback highlighted deficiencies in health educators' preparedness, workload management, and communication skills, with 75.4% indicating gaps in knowledge during interactions. Educational level significantly impacted health educators' attitudes and perceptions, while other demographic factors did not. Conclusion: The study highlights high patient satisfaction with health education services but also identifies critical areas for improvement, including health educators' knowledge, workload organization, and program enhancement. Addressing these gaps can improve the quality and effectiveness of health education services at the Medical City Center.