ABSTRACT
There is an increased recognition within the health care industry that consumer opinions
must be considered in order to satisfy patient’s expectations and needs (Ryan, Collins,
Dowd, & Pierce, 1995). By identifying the major elements of service delivery that
underlie patient expectations and opinions, we can learn what is desired from the health
care system. This information, in turn, can help direct decisions that make health services
more effective and efficient (Krahn, Eisert, & Fifield, 1990). This is especially important
when making decisions for children with special health needs. Such children will require
services throughout their life span that address overall well-being as well as the impact of
their condition on family functioning (King, King, & Rosenbaum, 1996).
