Adolescents and Young People's Perception of Care in Health Services in El Salvador

Abstract

Introduction: The increase in problems due to risk behaviors in adolescence exposed the need for effective, adequate and quality health services. Methodology: Through a mixed study, the perceptions of young people about the quality and warmth of care in the Friendly Health Services and the establishments they consult were captured through a questionnaire addressed to users of 7 municipalities, which evaluated the quality of care and the user experience. Also, with group and individual interviews that assessed the level of satisfaction. Results: The youth visit the health facilities, in search of medical consultation, although they do not know the exclusive programs for them or the Friendly Health Services. The services most consulted were General Medicine and Dentistry, to a lesser extent preventive (alcohol, drugs and violence). The respect, trust and privacy provided by health professionals were the best evaluated aspects, the signage of services the worst. Most reported a wait time of 30 to 60 minutes, although a minority reported waiting more than 2 hours. To evaluate the services, they prefer a survey at the end of the consultation and the group opinion. Conclusion: Currently, there is a need to improve access to services for adolescents and young people by socializing the offer to encourage their use. Also, to increase attention in sex education, contraceptives, pregnancy and evaluate services with methods different from the current ones.