OBJECTIVES: The SERVQUAL scale is based on gap theory, which suggests the difference between consumers' expectations and the quality of the medical service actually received. However, problems in the implementation of the SERVQUAL scale have been identified by several researchers. Some researchers have proposed a simple performance-based measure (SERVPERF) or an expectation-controlled performance-based measure(Non-Diff) as alternatives to the SERVQUAL scale. On the basis of the theoretical concerns discussed, we examined the capability of each of the three scales(SERVQUAL, Non-Diff, SERVPERF) to explain variations in consumer satisfaction. METHODS: Data was gathered from a self-administered questionnaire in a 430 bed hospital. Questionnaires evaluating medical services were distributed to 180 ambulatory patients. A total of 167 usable questionnaires were gathered. The questionnaire was composed of 10 expectation, performance and expectation-controlled performance items. In addition, overall satisfaction and purchase intention were measured. RESULTS: Compared with the SERVQUAL scale, the Non-Diff and SERVPERF scales better explained the observed variations in consumer satisfaction(SERVQUAL, R2=0.29; Non-Diff, R2=0.51; SERVPERF, R2=0.48) and purchase intention(SERVQUAL, R2=0.22; Non-Diff, R2=0.33; SERVPERF, R2=0.34). CONCLUSION: The major conclusion from our study is that the Non-Diff and SERVPERF scales are more efficient in assessing consumer satisfaction than the SERVQUAL scale. Therefore we suggest that consumer satisfaction be measured by the Non-Diff or SEVPERF scales.
Consumer Satisfaction* ; Delivery of Health Care* ; Humans ; Intention ; Questionnaires ; Weights and Measures