Factors Determining Patient Evasion and its Impact on the Mobilization of Financial Resources at the Kabondo General Reference Hospital in Kisangani, DR Congo

Abstract

Introduction: The study focused on the factors associated with the escape of hospitalized patients and its impact on the mobilization of the hospital's financial resources: the case of Kabondo General Reference Hospital from 15 March to 30 June 2025. The aim is to identify the factors associated with the escape of hospitalized patients at the Kabondo General Reference Hospital; to highlight the impact of the escape of hospitalized patients on the mobilization of the hospital's revenue; and to demonstrate the mechanism put in place by the hospital to prevent the escape of hospitalized patients. Methodology: We used a descriptive cross-sectional approach, including 77 staff members working at Kabondo General Reference Hospital who responded to our questionnaire. Results: The factors associated with patients leaving Kabondo General Reference Hospital are lack of financial resources (75.3%), lack of social support (10.4%), poor quality of care (7.8%) and the hospital environment (3.9%). The loss of income (64.9%) caused by the escape of hospitalized patients has a negative impact on revenue mobilization; 67.5% of respondents suggest organizing hospital security and guard services as a strategy to prevent patient escape. Conclusion: Patient absconding in healthcare facilities is a common phenomenon with negative consequences for revenue generation, which can effectively have a negative impact on the smooth running of the hospital.