Qualitative Methods and Mixed Methods

Statistical determination of service quality gaps in primary health care in Guayas, Ecuador

“…Given the nature of the research focused on perceptions, the criterion of number of people per item (N/p) was applied with proportions of 10:1 and 5:1 to determine the suitability of the sample [30]. In addition, the extension of the instrument was considered, which consists of 22 items to evaluate expectations and another 22 to collect perceptions, according to the recommendations of Valencia-Arias et al [8] and Tang [32]. Consequently, when applying the N/p criterion, it was stipulated that the sample had to be substantial (n � 440), thus guaranteeing the reliability, power and statistical significance necessary for the gap analysis, in accordance with the guidelines of Jua ´rez et al [33].…”

“…The execution of the field work involved formal coordination with the authorities of each health care center through a written communication addressed to the directors. In this correspondence, the relevant information was provided and the essential documentation of the project was delivered along with its objectives, following the guidelines established by [32].…”

“…Based on the minimum sample criterion that was determined ex-ante following the proportion (N/p), it reached 440 cases, however, for the development of the research it was decided to exceed this minimum by obtaining 582 questionnaires, which were reviewed. to check for inconsistencies and completeness of records by using the frequency function in SPSS [32,38]. In this way, the sample was refined, confirming 533 valid cases, which allow us to exceed the estimated minimum sample.…”