Enhancing Healthcare Accessibility and Patient Satisfaction through Effective Communication Strategies: A Case Study in Bangladesh

Abstract

Effective communication is critical in improving healthcare accessibility and patient satisfaction, especially in diverse and resource-constrained settings like Bangladesh. This study investigates the impact of communication strategies on healthcare delivery using a qualitative case study approach. Focusing on a public healthcare facility that serves both rural and urban populations, the research explores how various communication practices, ranging from face-to-face interaction to digital tools like telemedicine, shape patient experiences and access to care. Semi-structured interviews with patients and healthcare providers revealed that communication strategies significantly influence how patients navigate the healthcare system. Thematic findings show that empathetic provider-patient interaction, language-appropriate communication, and accessible digital technologies enhance both satisfaction and service reach. However, challenges such as low health literacy, infrastructural limitations, and socio-economic disparities continue to hinder effective communication. These barriers highlight the need for context-specific interventions. The study emphasizes that improving healthcare outcomes requires a multifaceted approach to communication, one that combines interpersonal sensitivity, cultural awareness, and technological adaptation. The findings offer practical insights for healthcare practitioners and policymakers, suggesting that the integration of human-centered communication strategies and inclusive digital tools can play a vital role in achieving equitable and patient-centered care in Bangladesh.