Optimizing Patient-Centered Care in Interventional Cytopathology: A Summary of Patient Satisfaction Data

Summary: Introduction: Fine needle aspiration biopsies (FNA-B) are accurate and cost-effective diagnostic tools when conducted by proficient physicians (1). Cytopathologists have, therefore, expanded education into performing FNA-B, resulting in the establishment of interventional cytopathology clinics (ICC). Effective communication between cytopathologists and patients during this biopsy process is crucial, with published recommendations aimed at enhancing patient-provider rapport (2). However, few studies delve into patient experiences within ICCs. This study addresses this gap by summarizing four years of patient feedback at an ICC. Materials and Methods: Between 2020 and 2023, electronic patient experience surveys were gathered from ICC patients undergoing FNA-B. The survey contained 34 quantitative and qualitative questions. Quantitative questions, rated on a 5-point Likert scale, gauged patient satisfaction with registration, facility, biopsy procedure, and personal safety. Qualitative questions sought open-ended feedback in each category. Descriptive statistics measured percentage of respondents satisfied with treatment. Qualitative data analysis employed a thematic, inductive approach to outline what ICCs can do to maximize patient satisfaction. Patient wait times were tracked to understand impact of wait times on patient satisfaction. Results: The study analyzed 682 surveys (12% response rate). The most common respondent was 65-79 years old, Caucasian, female, and privately insured (Table 1). Respondents had high satisfaction levels, with over 92% satisfaction in all questions. Areas with lower satisfaction included comfort of waiting area and waiting time during registration (each 92%). Conversely, staff ensuring patient safety and concerned about privacy had 100% satisfaction (Table 2). Thematic analysis identified 85 comments related to optimizing patient satisfaction in ICCs. Common themes included allowing time for effective communication and validating patient fears (Figure 1). Conclusions: Overall, this study concludes that patient satisfaction in this ICC is high. The qualitative insights offer valuable guidance for current and future interventional cytopathologists, presenting a framework for successful FNA-B procedures that prioritize patient needs.