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Abstract

The aim of this article is to identify attributes related to the quality of the hospitalization process, categorized from absolutely necessary to those whose presence does not significantly impact this quality (according to the Kano methodology). The identified attributes also simultaneously contribute to shaping patient satisfaction. The primary objective of this article is to indicate at what level in the satisfaction assessment factors determine the quality of the hospitalization process and to what extent they align with the expectations of hospitalized patients. Design/methodology/approach: The literature review will focus on identifying factors determining the quality of the hospitalization process. The empirical part of the article will revolve around classifying these attributes according to the Kano methodology through survey research. The next stage of the research process will involve assessing the satisfaction of hospitalized patients in areas corresponding to the Kano attributes -through survey researchand identifying discrepancies between expectations and satisfaction levels. Findings: Among the attributes that particularly determine the attractiveness of a hospital unit are those related to reducing time. Shortening the admission time to the ward, waiting for discharge, and the time it takes to conduct prescribed tests are emphasized. Additionally, the importance of adhering to the treatment stages according to the planned schedule is highlighted. Therefore, it is recommended as a priority to simplify procedures for both admission to the ward and discharge, as well as to strictly adhere to the treatment schedule while optimizing it to reduce the waiting time for prescribed tests during hospitalization.Research limitations/implications: The article presents the results of literature research, which can be complemented in further studies on this topic. One limitation of the research is the relatively narrow group of patients who completed the satisfaction assessment survey, both in terms of the number of patients, geographical area, and the number of hospital facilities. Additionally, the study only presented attributes related to the organization and the quality of the hospitalization process, without delving into broader topics related to personnel or material conditions, which likely also influence the level of patient satisfaction. These limitations point towards directions for future research. Practical implications: The results of the conducted research can have practical applications in the business field. Satisfaction assessment surveys completed by hospitalized patients from various hospitals will identify areas where patient satisfaction is the lowest. Consequently, 10 N. Baskiewicz, M. Daroń, A. Pachura, A. Sanojca they can serve as a basis for developing guidelines for efforts aimed at improving the quality of the hospitalization process. Additionally, the Kano methodology will indicate which attributes that determine the quality of the hospitalization process are most significant to pati...