Analysis of the relationship between therapeutic communication and patient satisfaction in dental health services

Patient satisfaction is a crucial indicator of success in dental care services, as satisfied patients are more likely to return for follow-up treatments and recommend services to others. One of the critical elements contributing to patient satisfaction is effective therapeutic communication, which involves the ability of healthcare providers to demonstrate empathy, listen actively, and provide clear and constructive feedback. This type of communication fosters trust and confidence, making patients feel valued and understood, which is essential for quality care. In the context of Semarang, Indonesia, the influence of therapeutic communication on patient satisfaction in dental services has not been extensively studied, highlighting a need for exploration to enhance service quality and patient outcomes. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the therapeutic communication practices of dentists and the level of patient satisfaction in dental health services in Semarang. An observational analytic study with a cross-sectional approach was conducted over four months, surveying 336 patients using accidental sampling. The questionnaire used was validated and reliable, ensuring the data's accuracy. Descriptive data analysis was employed to summarize the findings, followed by Spearman's correlation test to assess the relationship between the variables. The results revealed a significant positive correlation between therapeutic communication and patient satisfaction, with a p value of 0.001 (p < 0.05). The correlation coefficient of 0.644 indicated a strong and positive relationship, suggesting that improved therapeutic communication from dentists led to higher levels of patient satisfaction. The study concludes that fostering better communication strategies in dental health services can lead to more satisfied patients and, consequently, improved care outcomes in Semarang’s dental facilities.