From Entry Gate to the Consultation Room: Analysing Patient Transit Times at the Selected OPDs in AIIMS Patna

Prompt diagnosis and timely treatment initiation are crucial for optimising patient outcomes, as they significantly enhance survival rates and quality of life. Delays can occur at multiple levels, from initial consultation to treatment initiation, and compromise patient outcomes. This study adopted a quantitative, non-experimental, descriptive survey research design. Participants (N = 120) were selected through convenience sampling. Instrument validity and reliability were established through content validity assessment, yielding acceptable results. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 21.0), employing both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. This study revealed that a significant proportion of respondents experienced waiting times exceeding WHO standards for OPD waiting times. Residency was significantly associated with waiting time (p < 0.05). Conversely, waiting time did not significantly influence patient satisfaction levels. Notably, despite extended waiting times, overall patient satisfaction with OPD services remained high. The majority of patients (86.6%) endured prolonged waiting times, while 11.7 percent experienced moderate waiting times, and 1.7 percent faced minimal waiting times. The mean waiting time was 215.67 minutes (SD = 85.076 min). A significant association was observed between residency and waiting time at the 0.05 significance level (p < 0.05). A significant proportion of respondents experienced waiting times exceeding WHO standards for OPD waiting times. Residency was significantly associated with waiting time (p < 0.05). Conversely, waiting time did not significantly influence patient satisfaction levels. Despite extended waiting times, overall patient satisfaction with OPD services remained high.