Assessment of quality primary care in a community health clinic in rural area of Vietnam

Background: The poor and underserved population depends on public healthcare facilities and self-treatment. Studies have shown that good quality primary care leads to better health outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate residents' and providers' perception of quality of care at a community clinic.

Methods: The study was conducted in Tan Thanh commune, Tien Giang province, in which there are about 10,000 people and one community health center. A focus group was conducted, which included sessions for 30 patients (3 sessions) and 8 professional staff (1 session) at the clinic. Focus groups sought to understand the determinants of perception of poor care and to evaluate clinic primary care functions of first contact, coordinated, comprehensive care and continuity of care.

Results: Out of 100 survey respondents, thirty residents were asked to participate in the focus group. The response rate was 100%. Survey data revealed that most participants went to see physician when they are sick (n=76). The majority chose community clinic for care (n=75) although thirty-five patients reported seeking care at a hospital. Most respondents chose the place of care because of proximity (n=52), although quality of care (n=35) and affordability (n=11) were also mentioned. The focus groups revealed that both patients and professional staff agreed that the clinic lacked medical supplies, equipment, services and infrastructure to provide optimal primary care, and that providers' medical knowledge was not as current.

Conclusions: This study suggested that community health clinic is a valuable location for care in a rural area of Vietnam.