Patient attitudes and utilization patterns in Army medical treatment facilities.

In Section 733 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993, Congress directed the Department of Defense to study the military medical care system. When the Congressionally directed study findings become available, baseline data will be needed for comparison. From 1989 to 1992, patient satisfaction surveys were conducted of eligible beneficiaries who might seek health care in Army military medical treatment facilities (MMTFs). Regression models were developed to predict overall quality of care. Most of the beneficiaries are generally satisfied with the Army health care system. However, care provided by CHAMPUS, private, or other sources is rated more satisfying than that in MMTFs. Retired personnel were most satisfied, whereas active duty dependents were the least satisfied group.