Cross-national differences in patient satisfaction in oncology: A comparative study of Poland and Germany
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12923/cipms-2026-0023Keywords:
cancer, healthcare quality, healthcare system, oncology care, patient satisfactionAbstract
Cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Treatment adherence and clinical outcomes partly depend on patient satisfaction, which is recognized as a key indicator of healthcare quality. This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey assessed differences in satisfaction between Polish and German oncology patients. The study included 153 patients treated within the previous 12 months and examined four domains: access to care, interpersonal interactions, organizational quality, and psychological support. Responses were rated on a five-point Likert scale. Statistical analyses included χ², with significance set at p < 0.05.German patients reported better access to specialist consultations than Polish patients (88% vs. 66%, p = 0.0014) and higher overall care quality (87% vs. 70%, p = 0.012). Organizational issues were more prevalent in Poland than in Germany (50% vs. 33%, p = 0.0321). Empathy and respect from healthcare personnel were rated highly in both countries (>83%). Self-medication without physician consultation was more common in Poland than in Germany (61% vs. 29%, p = 0.001), whereas trust in physicians was higher in Germany than in Poland (88% vs. 76%, p = 0.048). Women more frequently sought online health information and rated access to care more positively, whereas older women reported greater dissatisfaction with staff availability. Psychological support was rated higher in Germany than in Poland (72% vs. 47%, p = 0.018), with physician-initiated support more common in Germany. This study identifies cross-national differences in oncology patient satisfaction, with systemic efficiency, care coordination, and integration of psychological services contributing to higher ratings in Germany. These findings suggest actionable improvements for Poland, including proactive communication about psychological support and measures to reduce self-medication.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Katarzyna Karłowicz-Bodalska, Wiktoria Piotrowska, Monika Gwiazdowska, Andrzej Dryś, Grażyna Bodalska (Autor)
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