Abstract Background Patient satisfaction is a critical measure of healthcare quality, particularly in oncology, where treatment outcomes are deeply intertwined with patients’ emotional and psychological experiences. This study assessed satisfaction levels among oncology patients treated in academic and non-academic hospitals in Poland, identifying key determinants of satisfaction and disparities between these settings. Materials and Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of 546 oncology patients using a structured survey that assessed demographic, clinical, and experiential variables. Comparative and regression analyses evaluated the impact of factors such as staff empathy, specialist accessibility, and treatment delays on satisfaction. Subgroup analyses explored demographic differences, including age and gender, and their influence on patient experiences. Results Patients treated in academic hospitals reported significantly higher satisfaction compared to those in non-academic settings (p .05). Key predictors of satisfaction included respect and empathy (coefficient = 0.338, p .001), access to specialists (coefficient = 0.170, p .001), and shorter treatment delays (coefficient = −0.426, p .001). Younger patients and women exhibited greater emotional distress and financial concerns, with the under-30 group reporting the highest financial fears (61.5%). Treatment delays in non-academic hospitals were associated with a 42.6% reduction in the likelihood of satisfaction per additional month (p .001). Conclusions This study highlights the systemic and demographic disparities in oncology care satisfaction in Poland, with academic hospitals demonstrating superior outcomes. Addressing treatment delays, enhancing access to specialists, and prioritizing empathy in patient interactions are critical for improving satisfaction. Targeted support for younger patients and women, including psychological and financial interventions, is urgently needed to mitigate the disproportionate burden they face. These findings provide actionable insights to bridge gaps in oncology care quality and equity.
Sauer et al. (2026) studied this question.