Patient’s satisfaction regarding food services at Benghazi Medical Center, Benghazi, Libya.

Hospital food service is a crucial aspect of healthcare in hospitals, and providing safe and suitable food is a fundamental right for patients. The quality of food service has a significant impact on overall patient satisfaction. As a result, many hospitals are changing their meal delivery services to prioritize the needs of the patient in order to enhance satisfaction and reduce costs.
Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate patient satisfaction with food services at Benghazi Medical Center (BMC).
Methods: The current study is a cross-sectional study carried out from November 2021 to March 2022 at Benghazi Medical Center in Benghazi, Libya. A total of 141 participants were involved, comprising (83) females and (58) males. The participants were selected from the hospital's wards. Data collection and assessment of participants' satisfaction regarding hospital food services were conducted through interviews using questionnaires
Results: The results of the current study show that most patients were satisfied with the quality of hospital food. There was a significant association (P=0.026) between patients' age and their satisfaction level. Approximately (23.4%) of patients over 40 years old reported being more satisfied. However, (16%) of participants were dissatisfied with the taste of hospital food. Most patients expressed satisfaction with the staff and hospital hygiene. Only (6%) of participants were dissatisfied due to flies or insects that prevented them from enjoying their meals. Every patient reported receiving snacks, fruit, and drinks. (64%) of participants were satisfied with mealtimes. (56%) of participants expressed satisfaction with the nutritionists’ behavior in the hospital, while (44%) expressed no satisfaction regarding the nutritionist's behavior in the hospital.
Conclusion: This study shows that the majority of patients were satisfied with the food services, food quality of the hospital, staff, and hospital hygiene.