The Satisfaction of Patients with the Management of Kidney Stones in Malaysia: A Qualitative Study

Background: Kidney stones form by the precipitation or crystallization of minerals and urinary constituents. It is a common problem worldwide manifested with recurrent intermittent pain episodes, surgical interventions, and medication consumption which affect the patients’ quality of life. The current study explored patients’ satisfaction with the management of kidney stones disease, along with their experience with the treatment. Methods: Qualitative face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with kidney stones patients from Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia in January 2018. Interviews were verbatim transcribed and thematic content analysis was carried out to understand the phenomena of patients’ experiences. Results: The fifteen patients who were interviewed judged their health and clinical outcomes based on several aspects. They build perceptions and make opinions based on outcomes including whether the disease is cured or not, relief of symptoms, prevention of disease progression, or absence of symptoms relapse, and whether the diagnostic and follow-up tests became normal. Based on the interviews, most patients were more satisfied with medical treatment than interventional treatment. Conclusion: The satisfaction towards the management of kidney stones was influenced by the treatment option chosen for each patient, expectations and perceptions of the treatment and disease, and healthcare system-related issues. This understanding could improve targeted support and therapy provided by health care providers so patients can better deal with the many disputes they face during suffering from kidney stones.