Research on how health care reaches patients. Covers online screening programs, care delays, regional cardiology, and surgical treatment access.
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.
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.
Outdated medical tools cause delayed recognition and management of adverse reactions in patients of color, leading to significant distress.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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
A six-month produce prescription program improved hemoglobin A1c levels, indicating better blood sugar control. Participants also showed improved food security and nutrition security.
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.
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.
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 ...
Researchers have successfully tested an MRI-equipped ambulance, enabling faster diagnosis of stroke patients and streamlining care. The device can provide diagnostic-quality images without radiation exposure, improving treatment outcomes.
Dr. Schwamm, a neurologist at Yale School of Medicine, is recognized for his work on stroke systems of care and telestroke initiatives. He has improved patient outcomes and expanded access to care through his advocacy for telemedicine and digital health solutions.
A new study reveals that women with atrial fibrillation (AF) have comparable outcomes to men when undergoing pulsed field ablation (PFA), a safer and more precise procedure. The results show improved AF recurrence rates in women after PFA, making them an eligible candidate for this life-enhancing treatment.
Dr. Zainab Mahmoud received the 2023 Dr. Nanette K. Wenger Research Goes Red Award for her study identifying racial disparities in specific maternal cardiovascular outcomes. The analysis found higher rates of hospitalizations among Black women, highlighting the need for improved access to care and enhanced postpartum monitoring.
Researchers at MIT and MGH have developed a closed-loop system that monitors brain state to tailor propofol dose and achieve exactly the desired level of unconsciousness. This technology enables more than 18 hours of fine-grained consciousness control, reducing postoperative cognitive side effects in vulnerable groups.
The Center for Innovation and Translation of POC Technologies for Equitable Cancer Care will prioritize development of POC tests for oral, cervical and gastrointestinal cancers. CITEC's goal is to identify needed technologies, accelerate their development, evaluate their performance in diverse settings.
The special supplement examines the impacts of EHR transitions on patient care, data integrity, and security. It highlights the need for medical institutions to understand the difficulties of transitioning to new systems to maximize success and inform decisions.
A study published in Annals of Neurology found that receiving clot-busting drug treatment in a mobile stroke unit (MSU) increases the likelihood of averting strokes and complete recovery compared to standard hospital emergency care. Patients treated by an MSU had faster treatment times, with nearly one-third recovering within 24 hours.
A secondary analysis of the Women's Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation (WISE) cohort study found that black and non-black women with obstructive coronary artery disease had similar long-term cardiovascular outcomes. The study suggests that guideline-based treatment, including statins and ACE inhibitors, may reduce racial disparities in cardi...
A new study reveals that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted end-of-life care, with a growing burden on first-time carers and reduced formal care support services. Researchers advocate for improved resources for wider end-of-life care education, health and social care staff, and identification and assessment of carers.
A new study published in the University of East Anglia shows that automated insulin delivery technology can help pregnant women with type 1 diabetes better manage their blood sugars. The technology, known as Hybrid Closed-Loop or Artificial Pancreas, helps to substantially reduce maternal blood sugars throughout pregnancy.
A study of 142,000 live births found that maternal mRNA COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy was associated with reduced risks of severe neonatal morbidity, neonatal death, and intensive care unit admission. No increase in hospital admissions or readmissions up to age six months was observed.
A new neighborhood-based care model has been shown to be effective in treating hepatitis C among injection drug users and those experiencing homelessness. The study found that 92% of participants had undetectable levels of the virus after treatment, with 84% achieving sustained virologic response.
The Center for Advancing Point of Care Technologies (CAPCaT) has received a five-year, $8.9 million award from the NIH to develop innovative point-of-care health technologies. The program aims to address heart, lung, blood and sleep disorders in underserved populations.
Advances in VR display technology have overcome the 'screen door effect' by introducing 2117 PPI LCDs with high partition mini LED backlighting. This enhances contrast, color accuracy, and viewing angles, making VR experiences more immersive.
A study by researchers at Keck School of Medicine of USC found that Black cancer survivors experience slowdowns in diagnosis and delivery of care due to exposure to racial discrimination. Positive interactions, such as ready access to providers and displays of empathy, were identified as key factors in improving care.
The Mental Health GPS service, a data-backed care navigation platform, received 2,384 calls in its one-year pilot. Caller concerns included work/personal, depression, and general anxiety, with the service providing continuous support and resources to callers.
Researchers analyzed 249,000 emergency department visits and found that patients of color received lower acute scores despite similar workups. Clinical decision support systems may help reduce these disparities, but require careful calibration to avoid bias.
A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that birthing people who died during pregnancy or postpartum had received significant amounts of hospital care. The study identified factors such as severe maternal morbidity, opioid use, and prior hospitalization as linked to pregnancy-associated deaths.
A large multi-state study found that mupirocin ointment is highly effective at preventing Staphylococcus aureus infections in critically ill patients, outperforming an antiseptic solution. The study involved over 800,000 ICU patients in 137 hospitals and showed a durable benefit from mupirocin.
The USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center has received a $10 million grant from The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation to launch the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Prevention. This new center aims to address cancer health disparities in L.A. County by increasing access to high-quality screening, prevention services, and timely care thr...
A study found that people with a specific genetic mutation in the CARD9 gene have higher IL-17 protein levels, making them more responsive to IL-17 inhibitor biologics. This discovery may lead to targeted treatment recommendations for ankylosing spondylitis patients.
A new study led by UCL researchers finds that integrated health care for chronic high-burden conditions like diabetes and hypertension is feasible and cost-effective. The study showed that integrated care was associated with high levels of retention in care, no adverse effect on viral suppression among people with HIV, and cost-saving ...
A new NIH grant will survey healthcare workers caring for people with dementia, gathering data to inform better care and policy. The study aims to understand workforce shortages, payment policies, and regulation, with a focus on direct care workers often overlooked.
University of Minnesota researchers identified top-performing primary care practices that deliver high-quality diabetes care through proactive patient outreach. These practices prioritize good communication and engagement with patients, fostering a strong doctor-patient relationship essential for overall health.
Researchers found that relying on existing diagnostic CT scans instead of new ones for simple palliative radiation treatments reduced patient wait times from nearly five hours to under 30 minutes. This novel workflow can improve the patient experience and reduce costs, making it a promising approach for expedited care.
Researchers found that administering precursors of Elovanoids improved neurological deficit in an experimental model of ischemic stroke. The study identified a cascade of gene responses and sheds light on potential new therapeutic avenues for treating ischemic strokes.
A scoping review found that surgical scorecards can lower surgical procedure expenses by providing surgeons with direct feedback on their costs. The study analyzed data from 21 studies and identified key elements such as surgical supplies and operative time, revealing no significant impact on patient outcomes.
Utilization and spending on mental health services for children and youths with commercial insurance significantly increased from January 2019 to August 2022. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorders, and adjustment disorder accounted for most visits and spending across all phases of the study.
Researchers have developed a new approach to treating invasive bladder cancer, combining chemotherapy and immunotherapy, which may preserve quality of life. In a phase 2 clinical trial, approximately 43% of patients achieved complete response without surgical removal of the bladder.