I notice more and more I'm being asked to fill out medical forms about how happy I am with the service. I've gotten one from the local hospital, my doctor's clinic, even the physical therapist. What's this all about?

There are two answers to this question. The first has to do with results from studies in
the area of social sciences. Researchers have found that patient satisfaction and
perceived quality of life are valid measures of treatment outcome.

For example, a chronic back pain patient may not have less pain after treatment. But treatment can be deemed "successful" if he or she can cope or function better. The patient who is happier or more contented despite the pain and disability has fewer health
problems. This can mean lower health care costs too.

Along a different line of thinking, healthcare is becoming more competitive. Most places have more than the "town doctor." Patients have many choices as to who is the provider of their healthcare services. A satisfied customer will come back for care in the future. Patient satisfaction translates into dollars. It's a matter of economics in today's medical settings.