Increasing Patient Satisfaction Ratings and Outcomes Using Adaptive Group Therapy

Abstract

PURPOSE: This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to enhance patient satisfaction and engagement in group therapy by integrating patient-suggested topics and activities. Research suggests that adolescent involvement in group therapy is linked to improved outcomes, including reductions in self-injurious behavior, depression, and suicidality. Patient-centered approaches incorporating feedback are vital for enhancing therapeutic engagement and satisfaction METHODS: The project utilized patient surveys to gather feedback on potential group topics, such as coping skills, anger management, and anxiety management, which were then provided to group facilitators for planning purposes. Patient satisfaction scores were collected weekly using anonymous patient surveys. The data was then analyzed to identify trends and compare changes in satisfaction over time. The scores were averaged weekly, and trends were tracked throughout the seven-week implementation period. RESULTS: Results revealed a slight increase in satisfaction with group topics (6.3 to 6.4 on a 10-point scale) and a noticeable improvement in satisfaction with group activities, which increased from 6.4 in week 1 to 6.9 in week 6, before slightly decreasing to 6.2 in week 7. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Based on these findings, similar strategies should be employed in residential treatment settings where data can be tracked across longer periods with more consistent participant groups. Longer-term implementation could facilitate more accurate measurements, qualitative data collection, and the integration of control groups, ultimately enhancing the patient-centered approach in group therapy.