Journal of Educational Management Research
Vol. 5 No. 5 (2026)

Bridging Service Quality and Patient Satisfaction in Specialized Healthcare: The Mediating Role of Patient Trust

Indrasto Kurniadi (Universitas Dr. Soetomo Surabaya, Indonesia)
Rizky Aptadhana Fachrizal (Universitas Dr. Soetomo Surabaya, Indonesia)
Fedianty Augustinah (Universitas Dr. Soetomo Surabaya, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
18 Oct 2026

Abstract

Service quality is a critical determinant of patient satisfaction in healthcare services. However, the role of patient trust in mediating the relationship between service quality and satisfaction remains inconclusive, particularly in specialized healthcare settings. Understanding this relationship is essential for developing effective strategies to improve patient experiences and service delivery. This study aims to examine the effect of service quality on patient satisfaction and to investigate the mediating role of patient trust in this relationship. This study employed a quantitative research approach involving 109 patients or visitors selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with AMOS. Service quality was measured using the SERVQUAL dimensions: tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. Patient trust was assessed through benevolence, competence, and integrity, while patient satisfaction was evaluated based on expectation fulfillment, ease of access, and prior experience. The results indicate that service quality significantly affects patient satisfaction (T = 2.124; p = 0.034), but does not significantly affect patient trust (T = 0.327; p = 0.744). Patient trust neither significantly affects satisfaction (T = 1.150; p = 0.251) nor mediates the relationship between service quality and satisfaction (T = 0.224; p = 0.823). Healthcare providers should prioritize improving service quality to enhance patient satisfaction directly, rather than relying solely on patient trust as an intermediary mechanism.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jemr

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Educational Management Research is an international peer-reviewed journal which publishes original and significant contributions to educational management, administration, and leadership, in its broadest sense, from all over the world. This includes primary research projects in schools ...