Determinants of the Exercise of Patients’ Healthcare Rights among Outpatients in the Upper East Region of Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Patients’ rights are fundamental to quality healthcare; yet, there is limited evidence on the factors influencing their exercise in Ghana. Understanding these determinants is critical to improving patient-centered care and promoting accountability in health service delivery. This study examined the extent and determinants of patients’ exercise of healthcare rights among outpatients in the Upper East Region. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 230 outpatients aged 18–59 years who were recruited through an online survey using a non-probability convenience sampling strategy. Data was collected using structured questionnaires covering demographics, awareness, information sources, hospital experiences, and challenges in exercising rights. Descriptive statistics summarized respondent characteristics and rights exercise, while chi-square tests assessed associations between independent variables and the exercise of rights. Results: Of the 230 respondents, 64.8% reported having ever exercised their rights, with the right to informed consent (30%) and confidentiality (21.7%) being the most commonly exercised. Significant determinants of exercising rights included educational level (p = 0.045), health insurance coverage (p = 0.015), awareness of rights (p = 0.001), sources of information (p = 0.001), trust in sources (p = 0.016), formal training (p = 0.001), and prior experience of challenges (p = 0.001). Major barriers included lack of knowledge (21.7%), fear of repercussions (17%), and ignorance or disregard by staff (35.6%). Respondents emphasized enhancing public education and improving patient–staff relations as key strategies to promote the exercise of rights. Conclusion: The exercise of patients’ rights in the Upper East Region is influenced by both individual and systemic factors. Interventions targeting awareness, staff training, and supportive hospital systems are essential to empower patients and strengthen healthcare delivery.