Study: AI surveillance tool successfully helps to predict sepsis, saves lives
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.
Health Care Delivery
Articles tagged with Health Care Delivery
New study published in Nature Scientific Reports shows industry-leading performance for Waymark Signal in predicting avoidable ER and hospital utilization
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.
A quality improvement intervention links high-risk prenatal patients at safety-net health centers with primary care
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.
Primary care physicians and urologists work together to provide optimal care for men with low-risk prostate cancer
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.
Annals of Family Medicine January/February 2024 Tip Sheet
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.
Patients who obtained telemedicine medication abortions (TeleMAB) through primary care have positive feelings about their experience
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.
Who is most efficient in health care? Surprisingly, it’s the VA
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.
Largest-ever study of palliative care demonstrates scalable strategy to increase support for seriously ill patients in the hospital
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.
Few older adults use direct-to-consumer health services; many who do don’t tell their regular provider
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.
Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act and early mortality following lung cancer surgery
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.
Is a commonly used screening tool for cognitive impairment accurate in diverse populations?
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.
Racial and ethnic disparities in receipt of general anesthesia for cesarean delivery
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.
Where do patients choose to undergo breast cancer surgery, and do these choices drive health care inequality?
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.
Study of national data demonstrates the value of acute hospital care at home
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.
Most babies with sickle cell disease face double disadvantage
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.
UC San Diego receives $5 million to launch Center for Learning Health Systems Science
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.
Virtual care works best when patients see their own family doctor, study finds
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.
Quality of care declines after private equity takes over hospitals
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...
The impact of nurse practitioner placement in Japanese nursing homes
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.
Changes in hospital adverse events and patient outcomes associated with private equity acquisition
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.
ACP says barriers to participating in the electoral process must be removed
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 Learning Health System to increase organ donation and equity in populations experiencing health disparities
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.
Delivering the bad news right: report says Parkinson’s disease diagnoses must include a message of hope
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.
Digital training program improves quality of life for care residents with dementia – even during the COVID-19 pandemic
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.
Public benefit programs and differential associations with child maltreatment by race and ethnicity
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.
Where patients live impacts whether they pick up their heart-failure medications
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,...
Senior physicians may care for fewer patients with Medicaid and from racial/ethnic minorities than junior physicians
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.
UTSA establishes new hub to improve management of digital assets
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.
Mammogram rates increase when patients schedule themselves
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.
Milestones in Europe: First results in using new tools to tackle respiratory syncytial virus
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.
New certification applies proven science to tobacco cessation treatment
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.
How a failure to understand race leads to flawed health tech
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.
Do Veterans experiencing housing instability face an elevated risk of developing dementia?
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.
UofL secures $6.5 million to enhance training for nursing professionals
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.
Pharmacy forecast identifies growing societal challenges expected to impact care
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.
EU/EEA: HIV diagnoses rise for the first time in a decade
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.
Structural racism persists in radiotherapy
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.
University of Colorado Department of Medicine cardiologist lands $7 million funding award for nationwide study on improving heart-failure treatment
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.
New framework for using AI in health care considers medical knowledge, practices, procedures, values
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.
Drones enabled the use of defibrillators before ambulance arrival
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.
Segregated patterns of hospital care delivery and health outcomes
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.
Opening the door wider to international medical graduates
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.
Study reveals gaps in fracture risk communication and patients’ preferences for visual representation
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.
C-sections in Mexico increase with obesity level and health care specialization
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.
First human clinical trial for pill-sized device that monitors breathing from the gut
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.
Growing income inequities in the utilization of healthcare resources, Swedish study finds
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.
ASTRO issues patient-centered clinical guideline on partial breast irradiation for early-stage invasive breast cancer and DCIS
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...
$3.37 million NIH grant backs effort to optimize online obesity programs for rural residents
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.
Use it or lose it: New robotic system assesses mobility after stroke
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.
Should a hospital invest toward specializing in an area? Or diversify? The impact of a hospital’s portfolio strategy on patient demand
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.
Improving blood pressure control after pregnancy had long-term cardiovascular benefits
A study found that pregnant women with high blood pressure who received tight blood pressure control immediately after pregnancy had lower blood pressure levels and improved cardiac function compared to those with usual care. This could lead to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
Top 10 steps to improve in-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes and care identified
The International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation has identified 10 steps to improve in-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes, including planning and preparation, prevention, and delivering evidence-based resuscitation care. These steps aim to enhance survival outcomes and quality of care for patients experiencing IHCA.
PhRMA Foundation awards $1 million to researchers for patient-centered value assessment work
The PhRMA Foundation awarded two $500,000 Frontier Awards to researchers William Padula and Surachat Ngorsuraches for their patient-centered value assessment models. Their studies will advance the field of value assessment by applying theoretical models in a real-world context and engaging with patients to ensure their voices are inclu...
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine expand multi-center national study on blood pressure interventions to Advocate Health sites
The study aims to test two interventions to lower blood pressure in stroke survivors, including telehealth and in-person clinic management. Over 1,550 participants will be enrolled, with a focus on under-represented populations at higher risk for recurrent stroke.
Key Medicare payment model fails to improve mental health
A nationwide Medicare program aimed at promoting better healthcare and reducing costs by tying payments to quality and cost outcomes has shown no improvement in mental health care. The study found that patients with depression or anxiety received inadequate treatment, with those in accountable care organizations getting even less care.
Free weekly produce delivery improved blood sugar, food security in low-income adults
A six-month produce prescription program improved hemoglobin A1c levels, indicating better blood sugar control. Participants also showed improved food security and nutrition security.
Abortion bans linked to increase in children entering foster system, researchers find
Researchers found restricted abortion access led to more children entering foster care, with a 15% increase for Black and racial minority children. The study used state-level data to evaluate the link between abortion restrictions and foster care entries.
Study reveals untapped potential to increase eye donations needed for sight-restoring surgeries
Researchers found that a small fraction of eligible patients are being approached to consider eye donation, despite both healthcare professionals and patients having favorable views towards it. The study highlights the need for practice change to offer patients who wish to donate as part of routine end-of-life care.
Physicians advocate to combat physicians' moral injury and lift the stigma associated with it
The Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine addresses the rising stressors causing mental health issues among healthcare professionals, including revenue generation, administrative issues, and patient satisfaction metrics. Physicians advocate for meaningful reforms, including adjustment of healthcare system expectations, cultural ...
Human insulin less temperature-sensitive than previously thought
A new Cochrane review has found that human insulin can be stored at room temperature for up to six months without losing potency. This breakthrough research offers hope to millions of people living with diabetes in low- and middle-income countries, particularly those with limited access to refrigeration or healthcare.