Articles tagged with Health Care Delivery
This study reveals regional disparities in home healthcare use for older adults, with higher rates in areas with high population densities. Urban areas tend to have more enhanced clinics, leading to increased home visit rates, while less populated areas rely on conventional clinics and lower home visit rates.
A team of UNC-Chapel Hill researchers will develop an oncology health learning system using AI-ready data to generate real-time identification of new cancer cases and support personalized treatments. The project aims to improve cancer diagnosis, care equity, and quality by creating accessible tools for health providers.
Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, has made significant contributions to the understanding of atherosclerosis through his research on inflammation, thrombosis, and treatment breakthroughs. His work has led to major advances in diagnosis and therapy, including the development of a cardiovascular 'polypill' that reduces cardiovascular mortality.
A new study suggests that using AI-ECG tools to screen patients for low ejection fraction is cost-effective in the long term, especially in outpatient settings. The study found a cost-effectiveness ratio of $1,651 per quality-adjusted life year, indicating that the program can reduce costs over time.
A recent study found that approximately 1 in 3 U.S. retail pharmacies have closed since 2010, primarily driven by chain pharmacy closures and industry consolidation. This decline significantly impacts public health, making it harder for people to access prescriptions and essential health services.
Researchers have developed bio-inspired micro-nanostructured systems for targeted cancer therapy, offering enhanced biocompatibility and precise tumor targeting. The systems' unique characteristics and design inspirations hold potential for improved therapeutic outcomes and reduced adverse effects.
A large-scale clinical trial involving over 9,000 patients reveals that text message reminders failed to improve medication refill adherence over a year. The study included diverse representation from subgroups, including females, Hispanic ethnicity, and Spanish-speaking patients.
Experts from UTHealth Houston and Baylor College of Medicine developed a pragmatic approach to monitor and manage AI systems in healthcare organizations. The guidance emphasizes the need for robust governance systems, testing processes, and transparency with patients to ensure safe AI adoption.
Researchers introduce a new tool called 'persistence images' that uncovers hidden biases in medical imaging data, advancing fairness in healthcare AI. The technology helps detect bias, filter out noise, and improve overall accuracy, leading to more reliable diagnoses and better patient outcomes.
The Hamilton and Amabel James Center for Artificial Intelligence and Human Health solidifies Mount Sinai's leadership in delivering patient care through innovative AI tools and technologies. The interdisciplinary center combines AI, data science, and genomics to revolutionize diagnosis and treatment.
The updated ASTRO guideline recommends personalized treatment approaches for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer, including non-surgical alternatives and intensified treatment regimens. The guideline aims to improve outcomes while preserving quality of life.
A new project at the University of Kansas aims to examine medical ableism and its effects on health outcomes among people with disabilities. The study will gather information directly from individuals with disabilities through the National Survey on Health and Disability.
A new XR simulator has been introduced to equip nursing students with skills needed in caring for children requiring mechanical ventilation and tracheal suctioning. The simulator, Simmar+ESTE-SIM, combines physical equipment with computer programs to provide comprehensive training.
Ochsner Health has been chosen as a site for the Global Parkinson’s Genetics Program, a study aimed at identifying genetic links to Parkinson’s disease in underrepresented populations. The study will genotype over 150,000 individuals from around the world, providing population-specific insights into the basis of PD.
A new study reveals that patients attending first referral hospitals in low- and middle-income countries receive safe and effective surgical care comparable to higher level referral centers. District hospitals manage to deliver safe surgical care despite having fewer full-time surgeons and medically trained anaesthetists.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still label cerebral palsy as a childhood disorder, despite more adults living with the condition. A new definition aims to address these gaps in care by recognizing cerebral palsy as a lifelong physical disability.
The Cornell Health Policy Center aims to develop effective, evidence-based health policies to ensure quality, comprehensive, and affordable care for all patients. The center will connect health policy researchers across Cornell's campuses to inform policymaking processes that improve health outcomes.
Researchers found that podcasts significantly improved health knowledge, increased exercise levels, and boosted healthy eating habits. Engagement with health-related podcasts was generally high, suggesting they could be an effective medium for health information and behavior change interventions.
Dana Bledsoe joins Ochsner Children's as CEO, bringing extensive leadership experience and a commitment to nurturing children's dreams. With her unique approach to creative problem-solving and advocacy for team development, she aims to build a compassionate and innovative environment.
The EDAI framework is a comprehensive guideline designed to embed equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) principles throughout the artificial intelligence (AI) lifecycle. It addresses a significant gap in current AI development and implementation practices in health and oral healthcare, ensuring AI systems are socially responsible and ...
A new study reveals that patients with Parkinson's disease who exhibit rest tremor have more dopamine preserved in the caudate nucleus, a part of the brain important for movement planning and cognition. This challenges traditional understanding of how dopamine loss relates to PD symptoms.
A recent study found that electronic letter reminders highlighting the cardiovascular benefits of influenza vaccines increased vaccination rates among over 2 million adults in Denmark. The strategy showed a greater impact on those who have had a heart attack, improving flu shot rates by potentially being cardioprotective. The research ...
Ochsner Health hospitals have earned a Fall 2024 “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, reflecting their commitment to excellence and patient wellbeing. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade program assigns grades based on performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries, and infections.
A new study by uOttawa highlights the importance of providing culturally and linguistically concordant care to avoid inappropriate prescribing of antipsychotics. Francophone and Allophone residents are more likely to experience inappropriateness compared to English-language patients.
The Medical University of South Carolina is using a $1.75 million grant to develop and test the effectiveness of telehealth-enabled collaborative care management for primary care patients in rural South Carolina. The goal is to improve behavioral health outcomes while reducing pressure on primary care physicians.
The joint Center for Health AI will focus on making care more personalized and effective while being more efficient and manageable for physicians. AI will be used to streamline workflows and administrative tasks, reducing burnout among healthcare workers and improving patient experience.
Outsourcing adult social care services has led to worse care and increased inequalities. Experts suggest removing the profit motive would improve quality, but acknowledge it's not a standalone solution.
The new hospital will provide patient-centered care with personalized, compassionate treatment and groundbreaking research. Patients will have access to top specialists and pioneering therapies in cancer treatment.
A US study found that adverse events affect 38% of adults undergoing surgery, with major incidents occurring in nearly half of cases. Most adverse events are preventable, emphasizing the need for ongoing improvement in patient safety.
The study evaluated the functionality and acceptability of electronic intake forms in an outpatient Whole Health Center. Patients perceived the forms as relevant to their health concerns and valuable for communicating important information to providers. The forms were deemed easy to navigate, with minor suggestions for improvement.
The Ochsner Accountable Care Network achieved its eighth consecutive year of top-ranking results in clinical performance and healthcare savings. The network saved Medicare $30.9 million for over 58,000 beneficiaries in 2023, improving health outcomes while reducing costs.
A unique COVID-19 and flu vaccine clinic at the UC Davis MIND Institute has shown remarkable success in increasing vaccination rates among individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities. The clinic's innovative approach, which incorporates community partners and tailored care plans, has resulted in a 99.3% success rate over two years.
Researchers developed a new AI-powered diagnostic system, FastGlioma, which reveals invisible cancerous tissue in brain tumor surgery. The technique may delay or prevent recurrence of high-grade tumors and improve patient survival.
According to the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8, primary care clinicians can help patients reduce their risk of heart disease by addressing modifiable risk factors through lifestyle changes and treatment. Despite challenges, research shows that primary care professionals with a higher ratio have lower total costs of ca...
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that brief cognitive behavioral therapy via video telehealth reduces suicide attempts and suicidal ideation, providing critical insight into treatment options for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. The study also shows that this therapy is effective in reducing depressive symptoms.
The editorial highlights how digital tools improve patient outcomes through better monitoring, individualized care, and seamless communication between patients and healthcare providers. Digital health innovations also address key challenges such as data privacy and accessibility.
A preliminary study of over 4,000 pregnant individuals found that socioeconomic status during early pregnancy may explain most of the disparities in cardiovascular health among women from different racial and ethnic groups. The study suggests that addressing social determinants of health can help eliminate these disparities.
A new University of Michigan study analyzed 2022 data from Michigan Medicare participants to assess the impact of virtual care on low-value care. The study found that high-telehealth-use clinics did not see a rise in unnecessary tests and scans, while some saw a faster drop in these procedures.
A Northwestern University-led team developed a new haptic patch that delivers various complex sensations, including vibrations and twisting. The device has potential applications in gaming, virtual reality, healthcare, and sensory substitution, offering more realistic sensory experiences.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation's Capture the Fracture campaign highlights top-performing Fracture Liaison Services that deliver gold-standard care. These services prioritize continuous care, tailored treatment plans, and teamwork to reduce secondary fractures and improve patient outcomes.
The Medical Devices Zone provides a trusted source of knowledge for medical device users, clinicians, and patients. The platform offers a diverse range of eBooks, reports, interviews, and journal articles to streamline clinical implementation of innovative medical devices.
A recent study from the University of Surrey found that remote medical interpreting (RMI) can compromise the quality of communication in healthcare settings. Interpreters reported mixed experiences with technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for careful consideration of interpreting methods based on the nature o...
A new study found that improving pediatric emergency care readiness can prevent up to 2,143 child deaths annually with modest financial investment. The research suggests an annual cost of $3 per child can save approximately 30 lives in Oregon.
Researchers found that expanded screening protocols identified eight cases of Candida auris that would have gone undiagnosed, enabling prompt isolation and disinfection precautions. The new approach promotes early detection and targeted precautions to reduce hospital outbreaks.
International oncology experts have gathered in Accra, Ghana to update cancer treatment recommendations for Sub-Saharan Africa. The NCCN Harmonized Guidelines provide context-appropriate, evidence-based care strategies tailored to the region's unique challenges.
Research by UTHealth Houston found that ownership changes in home health agencies can result in increased Medicare spending and reduced staffing levels. The study also found that quarterly star ratings increased, but this may be due to upcoding of quality measures.
A new study published in JAMA found that reports of drug supply-chain issues were 40% less likely to result in drug shortages in Canada compared to the US. The analysis looked at drugs with reports of supply-chain disruptions between 2017 and 2021 in both countries, and found nearly half resulted in shortages in the US within 12 months.
Researchers tested a model of depression care in Malawi using the country's existing HIV delivery system, involving clinical officers and community personnel. The intervention showed improvements not only in depression but also in other chronic health conditions and household members' wellbeing.
Twelve healthcare innovators have been shortlisted for the Global Healthcare Innovation Competition, with seven candidates selected for the 'Young Innovators' category. The competition aims to nurture transformative health solutions, providing a platform for innovators to develop and scale their ideas.
A study found that using an orbital atherectomy device to remove calcium from blocked coronary arteries before stenting procedures did not improve patient outcomes. The device was used on patients with moderately severe calcification, rather than extreme cases, and did not show significant benefits.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that 84% of adults with congenital heart disease reported good or better health-related quality of life, despite complex CHD. However, participants with complex CHD were less likely to meet physical activity guidelines and reported mood disorders.
Researchers at Terasaki Institute have developed simvastatin-loaded nanoparticles to target adipose tissue inflammation, promoting fat tissue browning and weight loss. The treatment effectively inhibits obesity-related inflammation, controlled white fat production, and demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory effects.
The school aims to implement evidence-based practice and reduce antibiotic misuse in pediatric populations. The PCORI funding will support work with physicians, families, and providers to delay unnecessary antibiotics.
A pilot study by NCCN Cancer Center demonstrates the usability of HERC in advancing equitable cancer care delivery, with all participating sites strongly agreeing on its applicability. The tool features 19 practice evaluation and change recommendations to address disparity and bias in care delivery.
A study by Ohio State University found that ground ambulance providers raised their prices in response to a New York law aimed at preventing surprise, expensive out-of-network emergency ambulance bills. The law increased prices by 13%, which is likely to hit health consumers' bank accounts through elevated insurance premiums.
A new study published in JNCCN found that Medicaid expansion was associated with longer survival rates and reduced treatment delays for patients with HR-negative, HER2-positive breast cancer. The study used data from the National Cancer Database to review results for women diagnosed with this type of breast cancer between 2010 and 2018.
Using Clinical Design Support Systems (CDSS) can help make maternity services safer for pregnant women, with a meta-analysis of 35 studies showing a 1.69 times higher odds of improved outcomes. The findings support the use of AI and related software tools to improve pregnancy care.
A study by Dr. Hernan Bazan at Ochsner Health reveals that higher frailty scores are directly associated with increased rates of stroke, death, and myocardial infarction within 30 days of the carotid procedure. The Hospital Frailty Risk Index provides a systematic tool for assessing frailty risk across large populations.
Researchers say implementing established strategies is critical to addressing the physician well-being crisis, including reducing workload and facilitating timely mental health treatment. The review also highlights the need for policies supporting diverse perspectives to improve well-being among underrepresented groups.
A team of researchers developed a wearable camera system that uses artificial intelligence to detect potential medication delivery errors. The AI achieved high sensitivity and specificity in identifying vial-swap errors, making it a critical safeguard in operating rooms, intensive-care units, and emergency-medicine settings.