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.
The American Geriatrics Society has released a framework for understanding the intersection of structural racism and ageism in healthcare. The framework highlights three fundamental changes: reflecting the population served, changing training and support for health professionals, and examining healthcare from an intersectional perspect...
A cross-sectional study of 291 primary care physicians found a significant positive relationship between EHR time and certain ambulatory quality measures. Increased EHR time was associated with improved panel-wide hemoglobin A1C level control, hypertension control, and breast cancer screening.
The editorial urges wealthy nations to step up support for Africa and vulnerable countries in addressing past, present, and future impacts of climate change. The climate crisis has destroyed a fifth of the GDP of the most vulnerable countries.
A study by the Radiological Society of North America found that health insurance companies often pay more than necessary for radiology services, leading to higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs. The study also suggests that radiologists can play a key role in delivering high-quality, low-cost care to patients.
A study on long COVID found increased rates of healthcare use two months after SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly among women. The largest increase was seen in a small subset of patients, who required an extra week or more in hospital compared to uninfected individuals.
A new study by UCL researchers found that talking therapies on the NHS can improve the mental health of people with dementia, with 63% experiencing a reduction in symptoms. The therapy proved clinically beneficial, even though response rates were lower than those without dementia.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement emphasizes the importance of managing PAD based on a person's experience of symptoms, rather than relying solely on clinical measures. This approach aims to improve patient-centered care and outcomes, particularly for individuals with severe limb ischemia or comorbidities.
The initiative vaccinated a significantly higher rate of young people, non-white populations, and Hispanic people than the average for the state and target communities. The program used a 'double equity' model to engage with local transportation companies and administered over 20,000 COVID-19 vaccination doses.
A new report from a joint task force recommends improved access to interventional radiologists in small and rural areas. The task force focused on strategies for recruitment and retention, including training opportunities, financial models, and community development.
Scientists explore the dynamics of soft materials like toothpaste and hair gel using X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS). The technique reveals microscopic dynamics and helps understand properties like viscosity and elasticity. Insights gained can aid in designing consumer products, nanotechnologies, and drug delivery systems.
The program cuts the average time it took for new patients to get their first treatment from 97 days to just 41 days, while also allowing more than 1,000 new patients to begin treatments. The system has made significant improvements in efficiency and patient satisfaction, with appointment no-shows dropping by 50%.
A new study found that younger women hospitalized with heart attacks had a significantly higher prevalence of cardiac risk factors and comorbidities compared to younger men. This led to higher rehospitalization rates and all-cause readmission rates, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to improve prevention strategies.
Researchers found elevated traumatic brain injury biomarkers in football players in skill positions, including quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive backs. The study suggests that head impact magnitude, not frequency, causes the greatest elevations in TBI biomarkers.
A large Kaiser Permanente study found that most patients with a thoracic aortic aneurysm less than 5.5 cm are not at high risk of experiencing dissection or requiring surgery. The study's findings support the current consensus guidelines recommending surgery for patients with larger aneurysms.
Researchers found significant regional differences in LTC spending, driven by factors such as population demographics and disability classification. Preventive measures may help reduce costs by reducing the need for long-term care.
New research from the University of Kansas found that two common federal survey question sets are missing significant numbers of individuals with psychiatric disabilities and chronic health conditions. The study suggests that these gaps indicate undercounting of disability funds, services, and healthcare resources.
Women with severe preeclampsia treated with extended-release nifedipine during labor and delivery had lower rates of dangerously high blood pressure, reducing the need for IV treatment. This study contributes to optimal management of hypertension during pregnancy and delivery.
A national US kidney disease registry found that 60% of participants were unaware of their kidney function level, hindering clinical trial recruitment. The National Kidney Foundation Patient Network aims to address this issue through real-world data collection and patient-centered research.
A Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study found that hundreds of hospitals on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts are at risk of flooding from Category 1-4 storms, with sea level rise expected to increase this risk by 22% this century. The study highlights the need for coastal hospitals to prepare for greater risks in the future.
A new study from Kaiser Permanente found that pregnant women with gestational diabetes who achieve rapid glucose control have better birth outcomes. The research analyzed data from over 26,000 patients and identified four trajectories of glucose control, with those starting out with optimal levels and maintaining it having the best res...
The Council of Medical Specialty Societies (CMSS) has awarded $100,000 grants to 11 specialty societies to promote diagnostic excellence. The American Thoracic Society is one of the recipients, focusing on safety and equity at ICU discharge.
Anemia is common among adults with advanced kidney disease, associated with adverse outcomes and low eGFR levels. Effective iron supplementation is a low-risk intervention to address this issue, emphasizing the need for increased testing and treatment.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that the Emergency Critical Care Center within an emergency department improved patient survival rates without increasing costs. The ED-ICU model reduced total direct cost per encounter by 22.1% for critically ill patients, likely due to early, coordinated critical care.
Tax-exempt hospitals in the US have largely improved their charity care policies since the onset of COVID-19, with clearer eligibility criteria being implemented. However, regulatory attention is needed to address ongoing restrictions and issues with charity care.
A novel study in Virginia uses state all-payer claims data to accurately assess and predict future primary care workforce needs. The approach differentiates physicians with primary care training from those who practice true primary care, providing a more accurate estimate of U.S. primary care capacity.
A quality improvement project implemented by primary care providers increased the use of telehealth consultations among military veterans experiencing homelessness. The proportion of video visits doubled from 4.8% to 10.3% over 16 weeks, continuing to rise during the following month.
Research from the University of Exeter found that farmers and auction operators believed putting health hubs in livestock marts helped break down barriers to seeking support. The study also revealed that stoicism, fear of being judged, and lack of availability were significant deterrents for farmers.
Researchers found that subcutaneous anchor securement systems significantly reduced catheter migration (1.76%) compared to other methods (4.17%, 6.77%, and 9.69%). The study adds to the evidence supporting the use of SecurAcath, which has been shown to reduce bloodstream infections and prolong catheter lifespan.
A collaborative home-based palliative care model has been shown to improve health care outcomes for adults with chronic heart failure. The study found that patients who received this care were less likely to die in the hospital and more likely to die at home compared to those who received usual care.
A study found that building trust with community health workers (promotores) can lead to long-term self-care in type 2 diabetes patients. 32.4% of participants achieved 'self-care generativity,' while 40.5% progressed to 'stabilization.' The model, called Nosotros, could be replicated to improve chronic disease management.
Researchers from NAIST found that searches related to vaccine side effects positively correlated with vaccination rates in Japan. The 'vaccine concern index' captured searches of terms indicating vaccine hesitancy, revealing lower concerns among older people and female users.
A $1 million NIH grant will help MU researchers analyze the effectiveness of a HIPAA-secure text messaging platform in nursing homes. The study aims to improve quality of care and prevent costly hospital transfers by speeding up decision-making.
The US Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade may limit medical treatment options for patients with rheumatic diseases, as abortion bans take effect in more states. Providers will need to balance evidence-based clinical recommendations with personal and professional risks of violating reproductive rights.
Numerous gaps between dietary intake and recommended guidelines are found, particularly among vulnerable families, with race and ethnicity disparities persisting. A unified plan can improve nutritional outcomes by strengthening federal policies and programs.
Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, is honored with the TCT Career Achievement Award for his transformative work in interventional cardiology and patient care. He has made significant global contributions to cardiovascular medicine.
Researchers found that a specific sequence of drugs can reduce overall costs and improve the value of care for patients with metastatic breast cancer, while minimizing side effects. The study's results suggest that treatment sequencing approaches that minimize costs early may improve the value of care.
A study of 2.4 million Medicare beneficiaries found that those enrolled in Medicare Advantage had lower rates of low-value care, including unnecessary tests and treatments. This study highlights the potential benefits of Medicare Advantage plans in reducing waste in healthcare.
A prospective study in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that dedicated women's heart centers can significantly improve clinical and psychological outcomes for women with myocardial ischemia. The study, which followed 154 patients, showed a significant decrease in chest pain frequency and improved quality of life after attending...
A recent study found that nearly 1 in 3 mental health prescriber visits to Medicare patients were provided by PMHNPs, a significant rise from 2011-2019. The growth of PMHNPs helped offset the decline of psychiatrists treating Medicare patients, resulting in a 12% decrease in mental health specialist visits instead of a 30% drop.
A study of nearly 2,400 patients found that video telemedicine consultations matched in-person diagnoses in 87% of cases. The findings suggest a high degree of diagnostic accuracy for video telemedicine visits for most new clinical concerns.
A study found that expanded telehealth services for opioid use disorder care during the COVID-19 pandemic led to individuals staying in treatment longer and reducing their risk of medically treated overdose. The expansion also showed improved receipt and retention of medication-assisted treatment, suggesting a valuable approach to addr...
A new clinical practice guideline provides guidance on delivering women-focused cardiac rehabilitation programs to increase participation and improve outcomes. The guideline presents 15 recommendations to address inequities in cardiovascular disease care for women.
Physician-scientists at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that despite FDA deauthorization, a large number of doses of ineffective COVID-19 treatments were administered to patients in 2022, with wide variability by state. The study highlights the need for improved transparency and regulation of COVID-19 therapies.
A new RAND Corporation study found that higher-cost Medicare Advantage plans provided only slightly better care on average compared to lower-cost plans. However, quality varied substantially within each premium cost tier, and some high-quality care was observed among many plans in each tier.
The TCT MedTech Innovation Forum is an intensive summit bringing together clinicians, entrepreneurs, investors, and regulators to identify clinical challenges and drive innovation in medtech. The agenda features interdisciplinary perspectives on unmet clinical needs, financing, regulatory policy, and evolving healthcare delivery models.
Researchers at Temple University hospital found that maternal-fetal mortality can be reduced to zero through patient-tailored management of right heart function prior to delivery. Women with pulmonary hypertension who received specialized care had excellent outcomes, with 100% survival for mothers and infants.
The program helped stem labor shortages in respiratory therapy and telehealth services, maintaining non-COVID-related health infrastructure. Researchers found that temporary workers engaged in a range of activities, including COVID-19 care, mental health support, and non-COVID care.
The THRIVE clinical pathway provides intensive case management, care coordination, and continuity of care to support patients transitioning from hospital to home. Early results show reduced 30-day ED visits and readmissions among participants.
A quality improvement program increased pneumococcal vaccination rates from 53% to 70% in adults aged 18-64 years with stage 4 and 5 chronic kidney disease. The intervention, which utilized electronic best practice alerts within the electronic medical record, improved vaccination rates primarily among this high-risk group.
Research finds that patients are most satisfied with publicly regulated and financed healthcare systems. A study of 21 European countries reveals that increased competition has not led to improved patient satisfaction. Instead, Norway's public sector-led system is cited as a model for success.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have found that increasing the blood level at which faecal blood testing triggers a colonoscopy invitation can reduce lives lost from bowel cancer. This approach is more effective than changing the gap between screening invitations.
Researchers found that two new techniques can help reduce needle fear in primary-aged children, including a distraction game and positive memory reframing. The study involved 41 children and showed promising results for broad vaccination programs.
Global health researchers argue that poor and vulnerable populations are already bearing the brunt of climate change and will be disproportionately affected by net zero healthcare targets. The NHS in England faces significant challenges in meeting its ambitious emissions reduction goals without exacerbating existing health inequalities.
A 12-month exercise program improved physical functioning and aerobic exercise capacity in adults with CKD stages G3b-4. The program, which included resistance and aerobic exercise, showed no significant impact on cardiovascular risk factors.
A new study found that rural Americans with early-onset Alzheimer's are less likely to be seen by specialists and receive essential tests, which can impact diagnosis, symptom management, and disease progression. This disparity puts rural patients at a disadvantage and overburdens primary care providers.
Staff turnover affects both residents and their families, compromising the quality of care. Continuity of nursing home staff and leadership is essential for delivering personalized care, as frontline workers deliver 90% of care. Researchers emphasize the need to attract and retain well-trained staff who enjoy working with older adults.
A new study finds that primary care physicians need at least 26.7 hours/day to see an average number of patients, with team-based care reducing the time to 9.3 hours/day. The research highlights the challenges of providing comprehensive care within the constraints of a clinic workday.
A survey study published in JAMA Dermatology found that Asian patients with psoriasis spend significantly less face-to-face time with dermatologists compared to patients of other races and ethnicities. The study highlights the need for improved healthcare access and cultural competence in dermatology care.
A study of 29,000 Israeli healthcare workers found that recipients of a fourth Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine dose had a significantly lower risk of acquiring COVID-19 during the Omicron variant wave. The research suggests that a booster dose may offer enhanced protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
A multisite clinical trial will deliver behavioral interventions to over 1,000 adults aged 50 and older with excess weight and cardiometabolic risk factors. The adaptive treatment model tests an evidence-based video program against a program with problem-solving therapy delivered via videoconferencing.