Articles tagged with Health Care Delivery
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers at Northwestern University found a significant decrease in screenings for prostate cancer and urinary tract infections after implementing point-of-care alerts. The study showed a 9% reduction in PSA screenings and a 5.5% reduction in urine testing, with minimal changes in overtreatment of blood sugar.
A study of 18,000 women found those diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were 8 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to control group. This increased risk is attributed to higher likelihood of psychiatric conditions such as depressive disorders and anxiety disorders associated with PCOS. Researchers emphasize the ne...
A study of 215 veterans found that nearly half experienced significant depression score drops, while about one quarter saw a halving of their scores. About 15% achieved full remission after six weeks of ketamine infusions, suggesting the treatment can provide substantial relief for those with complex mental health needs.
A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that patients with vitiligo incur significantly higher healthcare costs than those without the condition. The research analyzed direct and indirect healthcare costs associated with vitiligo, revealing an unmet need for cost-effective treatments.
A new RAND report suggests that engaging primary care providers in Alzheimer's disease screening and diagnosis could significantly reduce wait times and increase the number of people treated. Primary care practitioners are technically capable of performing cognitive assessments but often do not due to time constraints, researchers say.
A recent study published in BMC Medicine found that higher maternal body mass index (BMI) is associated with an increased risk of several pregnancy complications, including high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia. However, being overweight also has a lower risk of anaemia during pregnancy and low birthweight babies. The research used mul...
Researchers discovered that cisplatin chemotherapy enhances the immune system's ability to fight bladder cancer by modulating the immune response and damaging DNA in cancer cells. This approach may lead to durable disease control in a subset of patients with metastatic bladder cancer.
A new study funded by NIHR has led to the UK government approving digital pathology for cancer screening samples. This technology enables faster reporting and improved care for patients with bowel, breast, lung, and cervical cancers. The use of digital pathology will help reduce risk of sample loss or damage and allow pathologists to r...
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that liver biopsy was essential to making the correct diagnosis in over a third of cases. Biopsy was particularly valuable in diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis and was also used to diagnose liver fibrosis more than two-thirds of the time.
Researchers found that people with suicidal thoughts use closed peer groups on Danish social media to navigate the healthcare system and receive emotional support. These online communities provide a safe space for individuals to share their struggles and connect with others who understand their experiences.
A new study published in Nature Scientific Reports shows Waymark Signal to be 90% accurate in predicting avoidable emergency room and hospital visits, identifying at-risk patients three times better than traditional models. The study also reversed the Black-White prediction bias observed in most risk models.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm to monitor patient variables and predict sepsis before symptom onset. The tool resulted in a 17% reduction in mortality rates.
This study explores the perspectives of primary care physicians (PCPs) and urologists on active surveillance (AS) care for men with low-risk prostate cancer. Key findings include the importance of patient education and clear communication among care team members to prevent loss to follow-up.
A study found that primary care physicians spent nearly 30 minutes more on EHR tasks between pre-pandemic and final year, with time spent outside of scheduled hours increasing significantly. This growth in EHR workload may contribute to burnout and affect decisions to cut back on clinic time or leave the profession.
The study found that patients had a positive experience obtaining TeleMAB through their primary care health system, citing ease of access, autonomy, and reduced anxiety. This normalizes abortion care within the context of comprehensive primary care, improving access for many people of reproductive age.
A quality improvement intervention linked high-risk prenatal patients with primary care, resulting in a significant increase in postpartum and primary care utilization. Despite challenges, FQHC participation improved patient outcomes, highlighting the need for greater resources to ensure sustainability.
A new study reveals that Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities are more efficient than private sector hospitals and clinics, with significantly lower administrative staff. By adopting the VHA's lean approach to care, nearly 900,000 fewer paperwork-filled jobs could be eliminated.
A new study demonstrates a simple, pre-programmed order in electronic medical records can increase palliative care consultation rates and reduce hospital stay length for patients with COPD, dementia, or kidney failure. This scalable strategy improves quality of life and symptom management for critically ill patients.
A new poll found that only 7.5% of people between 50-80 have used at least one direct-to-consumer health care service, with most receiving prescriptions for a one-time treatment. Many users didn't inform their regular providers about the prescriptions.
A study of nearly 15,000 adults with non–small cell lung cancer found that Medicaid expansion decreased postoperative mortality within 30 and 90 days after hospital discharge. This suggests that expanded Medicaid coverage may improve cancer outcomes and access to care for this population.
A commonly used cognitive screening tool, MoCA, is found to be inaccurately assessing cognitive impairment in ethnically and linguistically diverse older adults. The study's findings underscore the importance of considering cultural factors when evaluating cognitive performance in traditionally underserved communities.
No significant disparities in receipt of general anesthesia were found among laboring patients who had labor epidural catheters in situ across different racial and ethnic groups. The study suggests that prior care disparities may contribute to higher rates of general anesthesia among minority groups.
A study found that patients with breast cancer are more likely to choose distant hospitals for surgery based on factors such as age, ethnicity, and living location. The investigation highlights the potential for healthcare inequalities to worsen if policies do not address these disparities.
A national study by Mass General Brigham researchers found that patients treated at home had a 0.5% mortality rate, compared to those in traditional hospitals. Home hospital care also resulted in fewer readmissions and adverse events, with consistent outcomes across diverse demographic groups.
The UC San Diego Center for Learning Health Systems Science will provide training for clinicians and researchers in the emerging field of learning health systems science. The center aims to improve patient outcomes, enhance healthcare efficiency, and increase diversity in the workforce.
A recent study reveals that two-thirds of babies born with sickle cell disease are born in areas scoring high or very high on the scale of social vulnerability. This highlights the need for targeted efforts to support families affected by this genetic blood disease.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that patients who received virtual care from their own family doctor were less likely to visit the emergency department within seven days. In contrast, those receiving virtual care from an outside physician were 66% more likely to do so.
Private equity acquisition of hospitals was associated with increased hospital-acquired adverse events, suggesting poorer quality of inpatient care. These findings highlight concerns about the implications of private equity on healthcare delivery, particularly among Medicare beneficiaries.
A recent study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that hospitals acquired by private equity firms experience a decline in clinical quality of care. Patient falls and new infections were among the measures of safety that worsened after buyouts. The findings suggest that financial pressures from private equity may overshadow pat...
Researchers found that nurse practitioner placement in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, resulted in reduced emergency visits and optimized care for residents with higher care needs. The study suggests a paradigm shift in elder care, highlighting the pivotal role of NPs in delivering quality healthcare.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) recommends removing barriers to participating in the electoral process to advance health equity. ACP supports policies ensuring safe and equitable access to voting, opposes partisan gerrymandering, and encourages civic participation among healthcare professionals.
A new report by UCLA neurologist Dr. Indu Subramanian recommends that doctors delivering Parkinson's diagnoses use correct terminology and provide guidance on treatment options, lifestyle choices, and coping strategies to give patients hope and agency.
A Learning Health System model is being developed to increase organ donation and reduce disparities in access to transplantation. The project, led by Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute, will use data tools to track progress and improve equity in organ donation across the US.
A digital training program improved the lives of people with dementia in UK care homes, reducing sedative medication and increasing social interactions. The iWHELD programme delivered personalized care and encouraged meaningful connections, even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
A new study examines the impact of public benefit programs on child maltreatment rates across different racial and ethnic groups. The research suggests that these programs may exacerbate existing disparities, with white children facing lower rates of investigation compared to their Black and Hispanic counterparts.
A new study by NYU Langone Health found that patients from lower socioeconomic areas were less likely to fill their heart-failure medications, highlighting the importance of neighborhood-level interventions to improve access to lifesaving drugs. The research team plans to explore additional barriers, such as cost and language barriers,...
A new study found that senior physicians in cognitive and procedural specialties see fewer Medicaid patients and those from racial/ethnic minorities compared to junior physicians. This raises concerns about a two-tiered healthcare system and disparities in patient access.
Researchers found that patients who scheduled their own mammograms through an online patient portal had a 13 percentage point increase in screening completions. This simple intervention doubled the number of mammogram completions, resulting in approximately 4,500 more people getting screened.
The National DigiFoundry aims to establish global standards for digital asset use and exchange through blockchain technologies. The consortium will develop a resilient framework to address cybersecurity challenges in digital asset management.
The European Union has approved vaccines for pregnant women and monoclonal antibodies to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) among young children. New sequencing tools have also been developed to track the genetic diversity of RSV and inform vaccine effectiveness and treatment strategies.
A new study on wearable health monitors reveals that a failure to understand race leads to flawed technology, exacerbating existing racial health inequities. The researchers found significant challenges with 'race correction' in health technologies, which assumes biology over system racism.
The American Heart Association offers a new individual certification for healthcare professionals in tobacco cessation, aiming to standardize training and improve patient outcomes. The certification is based on evidence-based therapies and will help reduce the nation's dependence on tobacco.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that Veterans experiencing housing instability are 53% more likely to receive an Alzheimer's disease or dementia diagnosis. The study included over 44,000 participants and tracked their health outcomes from 2011 to 2019.
The UofL School of Nursing will develop an accelerated LPN-to-BSN pathway and increase nurse practitioner diversity to address Kentucky's healthcare shortage. The grants will support scholarships for up to 83 students and collaborate with health systems across the state.
The ASHP/ASHP Foundation Pharmacy Forecast Report identifies growing societal challenges that will alter healthcare delivery, including the impact of ultra-high-cost drugs on service lines. Pharmacists' engagement is crucial to ensuring safe care for all patients, particularly in addressing mental health and substance use disorders.
Outdated medical tools cause delayed recognition and management of adverse reactions in patients of color, leading to significant distress. A more inclusive approach is urgently needed to address structural racism in radiotherapy treatment and education.
New HIV diagnoses rose by 31% in the EU/EEA in 2022, with migrants accounting for 49% of cases. Ukrainian refugees made up a significant proportion of new diagnoses, with women disproportionately affected. The increase highlights the need for tailored early testing and treatment approaches to address this growing public health threat.
A nationwide study led by University of Colorado cardiologist Larry Allen will examine the effectiveness of electronic tools in improving heart-failure treatment. The five-year study will involve 2,000 patients and aim to address underutilization of treatments for this common chronic disease.
A new framework for using AI in healthcare considers medical knowledge, practices, and procedures to improve patient care. The proposed framework provides practical guidance for designers, funders, and users on how to integrate AI systems with the greatest potential to help patients.
A study of Medicare claims data found that higher segregation of hospital care is associated with poorer health outcomes for both Black and white patients. Policymakers can address this issue through payment reform efforts and expansion of health insurance coverage to reduce racial disparities in healthcare.
A study by Karolinska Institutet found that drones equipped with automated external defibrillators (AED) can arrive at the scene before an ambulance in 67% of cases. This lead time enables people on site to use the AED, increasing the chances of survival for patients with cardiac arrest.
A new study has found that most patients with osteoporosis want to receive information on their fracture risk, but only half of them actually get it. Patients prefer visual representations, such as graphs with a colored traffic-light system, to communicate fracture risk and are more likely to take medication if presented in this way.
A study from the University of Illinois found a correlation between high obesity levels at hospitals and increased C-section rates in Mexico. The researchers analyzed patient data from 226 public hospitals across Mexico, finding that hospitals with higher obesity rates were more likely to perform C-sections.
The new law creates a provisional pathway for International Medical Graduates, reducing barriers to practice and potentially attracting more IMGs. To achieve maximum impact, policymakers must address existing gaps in ensuring IMGs work in physician shortage areas and providing adequate labor protections.
A new pill-sized device has been developed to monitor vital signs like breathing and heart rate from inside humans. The device, known as the VM Pill, was tested in a clinical trial and showed accurate results in detecting breathing stops and monitoring respiration rates with high accuracy.
A Swedish study tracked millions of adults for thirteen years, revealing new trends on how income affects healthcare use. People with the lowest incomes utilized primary and outpatient care similarly to those with the highest incomes, yet had significantly higher mortality rates.
A hospital's portfolio strategy can shape patient preference in important ways, with a focus on depth of expertise leading to increased market share. Hospitals with a high related focus in a department also signal breadth of expertise, positively affecting market share.
A new ASTRO clinical guideline recommends partial breast irradiation as a viable alternative to whole breast radiation for patients with early-stage invasive breast cancer or DCIS, based on evidence from large randomized trials. The guideline provides guidance on patient selection and best practices for delivering effective partial bre...
Researchers aim to optimize digital weight-loss programs for rural populations by adding human components, such as weekly group video sessions and individual coaching calls. The goal is to help residents manage their weight and fight the obesity epidemic in areas with limited access to in-person programs.
A novel robotic system developed by USC researchers can help clinicians accurately assess a patient's rehabilitation progress. The method generates an 'arm nonuse' metric using machine learning and a socially assistive robot to track how much a patient is using their weaker arm spontaneously.