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Most patients view their test results before their doctor, with some reporting low comprehension

A new study by NYU School of Global Public Health found that most patients view their test results before hearing from their doctor, with those having higher digital literacy and better patient-centered communication having a better understanding of the results. The study suggests that health systems and online patient portals can impr...

SourceNew York University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 18, 2026

Systemic gap in drug subsidies leaves low-income pregnant women with fewer treatment options

A nationwide study in Australia found that financial status impacts access to modern anti-nausea medications, driving off-label prescribing and structural health inequities. The study suggests updating medication funding structures to expand pregnancy-relevant medication approvals and subsidies.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 5, 2026

Breastfeeding rates reduced due to numerous practices recommended in hospital, suggests new review of research to-date

The review challenges common misconceptions about early milk production and breast pumps. It found that colostrum is sufficient for newborn needs and pacifier use does not interfere with breastfeeding. The study's findings suggest 'small changes' to support breastfeeding success in hospitals.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 1, 2026

Why your doctors keep leaving

A study by Texas A&M University finds that generational shifts are reshaping the healthcare workforce, with different needs and perspectives among five distinct generations of clinicians. This is complicated by staffing shortages, burnout and changing expectations about work-life balance and mental health.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalThe Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety·DateJul 31, 2026

Healthcare preferences vary by age and sex in adults over 50, study finds

A new study published in PLOS One found that healthcare preferences differ substantially by age and sex among adults over 50. Women tend to prioritize quality of life over length of life, while men prefer doctors to make treatment decisions. Older adults are more cautious about risks and less willing to try experimental treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeSurvey·DateJul 29, 2026

New study identifies behaviours influencing prescribing decisions for new medicines in neurodegenerative disease

A new pan-European study identified the psychological and contextual factors that shape decision-making among healthcare professionals. The findings provide important insights into how behaviour change frameworks could support the uptake of new treatments, with the strongest lever being to shift intention to prescribe.

SourceAston University·JournalPLOS One·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

Doctor-patient common tongue associated with better long-term survival for Canada’s Francophone, minority populations: University of Ottawa study

A retrospective cohort study found that language-concordant physician care significantly reduces all-cause mortality in both Francophone and Allophone patients. The study suggests prioritizing patient-physician linguistic matching and evidence-based interpretation services to improve long-term survival in Canada's increasingly linguist...

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 21, 2026

AI disagreement may shake patient trust in doctors

A recent study found that patients perceive medical professionals as more credible when AI agrees with their diagnosis. However, disagreement can increase perceptions of medical uncertainty and doctor laziness. The researchers suggest strategies to communicate AI disagreement effectively and reduce patient mistrust.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Studies·DateJul 16, 2026

It’s not just on ‘The Pitt’: Real-life emergency doctors are stressed out—and patient irritation plays a significant role

A UMass Amherst-led study finds physicians with irritable patients experience increased anger, anxiety, and fatigue, leading to decreased engagement and quality of care. Patients' frustration affects doctors' emotional state and clinical assessments, ultimately resulting in poorer patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateJul 12, 2026

Well-timed nudges help care providers to honor the wishes of patients with cancer according to JNCCN study

Researchers developed a two-pronged approach to encourage important conversations between patients with cancer and their oncologists about goals and preferences for care. The study found that combining reminders for both patients and providers at the right moment significantly increased serious illness conversations.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 15, 2026

One in three middle-aged adults struggle with basic, ‘everyday’ health tasks

A new study found that one in three middle-aged American adults can't consistently read prescription instructions correctly or recall details from doctor visits involving chronic conditions. The researchers recommend simplifying health information using plain language to improve patient outcomes and reduce harm.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJun 10, 2026

Alliance digital tool proves effective at keeping patients engaged in trials

A pilot study of the Participant Engagement Portal (PEP) tool shows that 84% of participants had a positive experience, with high usability and satisfaction rates. PEP facilitates two-way communication between patients and clinicians, allowing for self-reporting of social risk factors and future research opportunities.

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·JournalJNCI Cancer Spectrum·TypeSurvey·DateJun 8, 2026

JMIR Analysis: Consumer Wearables Emerge as the New Health Care Gatekeepers

The emergence of consumer wearable platforms in the clinical healthcare space is transforming patient care. With AI-driven interpretation of physiological data, these platforms can detect health changes before users do, influencing treatment decisions and specialist referrals. However, this shift raises significant regulatory risks due...

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 29, 2026

American College of Cardiology issues decision pathway for postpartum cardiovascular care

The American College of Cardiology has issued a new Expert Consensus Decision Pathway to guide postpartum cardiovascular care, emphasizing comprehensive visits and effective management of CV emergencies. The guideline aims to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality by optimizing cardiometabolic outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 22, 2026

Images and risk communication boost motivation for better heart health

A study from Umeå University found that visualizing ultrasound images of atherosclerosis, combined with a motivational dialogue, increases motivation to improve lifestyle habits and take preventive medication. This results in lower estimated risk of cardiovascular disease and better development of risk factors over time.

SourceUmea University·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 15, 2026

New study reveals why some Chinese immigrants in the US may turn to China-based telehealth apps

A recent study found that 15% of Chinese immigrants use China-based telehealth apps for medical advice while living in the US. These apps are preferred due to lower costs, ease of access, and language support. However, reliance on foreign-based services raises concerns about patient safety, continuity of care, and regulatory oversight.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalDigital Health·DateApr 13, 2026

AstraZeneca joins Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program as Funding Partner

The Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program has partnered with AstraZeneca to support five medical students participating in the Winn Clinical Investigator Pathway Program (Winn CIPP). The program provides immersive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience to prepare students for careers in clinical research.

ESE and ESPE launch joint transition of care guidance to improve outcomes for young people moving from child to adult endocrine care

The ESE and ESPE have launched a landmark Joint Clinical Practice Guidance to support structured and effective transition of young people with endocrine conditions. The Guidance provides practical, evidence-based recommendations to ensure continuity, safety and quality of care during this critical phase in a patient's life.

Telehealth in cardiovascular care

A new position statement from CSANZ and ACRA highlights telehealth as a critical tool for increasing access to quality cardiovascular care. The guidance provides best practice guidance for safe use by clinicians while emphasizing patient-centered, culturally inclusive multidisciplinary care.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalHeart Lung and Circulation·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 16, 2026

Nurses can deliver hospital care just as well as doctors

A new Cochrane review found that nurse-led hospital care matches doctor-led care for safety and effectiveness, but may achieve better outcomes in some areas. Nurse substitution is not a one-size-fits-all approach, requiring the right training and support to work well.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 11, 2026

Japanese version of rPATD validated to assess attitudes toward medication reductions among patients and caregivers

The Japanese version of the rPATD questionnaire has been validated to assess attitudes towards medication reductions among older adults and their caregivers in Japan. The tool is reliable, valid, and easily understood, facilitating shared decision-making between healthcare providers and patients.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalExploratory Research in Clinical and Social Pharmacy·DateJan 26, 2026

How do health care professionals determine eligibility for MAiD?

Healthcare professionals in Canada assess applicants for medical assistance in dying (MAiD) using a careful and individualized approach. They consider the patient's life circumstances, support networks, and personal preferences when determining eligibility. The assessment process is often legally and morally complex, requiring provider...

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeSurvey·DateJan 12, 2026

Hybrid health care key to alleviating dwindling primary services in Ontario’s underserved communities

A new University of Ottawa study highlights the positive impact of a hybrid approach combining virtual and in-person care, improving access to primary care in rural regions. The hybrid model has been found to be effective in recruiting providers in underserved areas and providing equitable care access for patients.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalBMC Health Services Research·TypeSurvey·DateDec 18, 2025