Expectations and Outcomes in Cataract Surgery

Abstract

Patient satisfaction is an increasingly important objective for healthservices.^1,2 This trend reflectsthe reality that the choice and success of many treatments are based on subjectivepatient-defined criteria^2-4;that patient satisfaction is an element of health status itself,^5,6 withsatisfied patients reporting greater compliance, well-being, and treatmentoutcomes^7-9; thathealth care is increasingly embracing principles of consumerism and autonomy^1,10; that health care is becoming increasinglyprivatized and economically competitive,^11,12 withsatisfied patients both remaining with and recommending their provider^7,13-15; andthat a satisfied patient is the best defense against malpractice lawsuits.¹¹