The aim of the study is to investigate patient perceptions of the cost, quality, and access of health care services in Piura, Peru. Piura has one of the lowest densities of health care workers in the country which greatly impacts the population’s ability to receive medical treatment. Healthcare inequalities result in lack of financial resources and inadequate health literacy, as well as other health disparities.

Modeled after CAHPS® Health Plan Adult Commercial Survey 5.0 and the Patient Satisfaction Survey, a forty-four question English and Spanish survey was created with questions to study healthcare variables as part of a correlational study with convenience sampling. The survey was administered to both patients and medical providers in eight Santísimo Sacramento Parish health centers. Over a period of twelve days, 107 surveys were collected.

The compiled data demonstrates that those who do not live in poverty are more likely to have greater satisfaction with their respective health insurance plan. If one can pay for care in a private clinic or has private health insurance, care will be quicker and of higher quality, and it is more likely to result in greater patient satisfaction. However, with limited financial resources it is very difficult to secure an appointment. Access to care is restricted; there is a limited number of specialists in Piura and the number of hours physicians are regulated. On average, individuals wait about three days to receive urgent medical attention. However, if financially able, one could obtain immediate care in a private clinic. Thus, findings exemplify that the variables of cost, quality, and access of healthcare are closely intertwined with one’s ability to pay for health services in Piura, Peru.

The results of this analysis can be used to educate the Piura community and the Parish Santísimo Sacramento as they continue to improve and expand their health care services.

Julia Griffin would like to thank their faculty sponsor Dr. Elaina Osterbur for support with this project.