Research on how health care reaches patients. Covers online screening programs, care delays, regional cardiology, and surgical treatment access.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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 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 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 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 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 researcher studied the 'black box' phenomenon in breast cancer survivorship care, revealing communication gaps between women and their providers. She found that black boxing can hide service access complexities, emphasizing the need for improved information pathways to address post-treatment needs.
Researchers argue that using tools to estimate racial and ethnic information can identify algorithmic bias and combat disparities in healthcare. This approach can lead to more equitable pay-for-performance schemes and better clinical decision-making.
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.
A study by UC San Diego researchers reveals health care facilities serving diverse populations were less likely to administer COVID-19 vaccines during the initial rollout. The findings highlight inequities in vaccine distribution, contradicting national policy goals.
Researchers found that individuals staying in hotels received significantly reduced acute care services, including emergency visits and hospitalizations. The study suggests that these programs can have a positive impact beyond just reducing COVID-19 cases among vulnerable populations.
A synthetic control analysis of California's millionaire tax found that additional funding could improve mental health outcomes. The study suggests that investing in mental health programs may have prevented up to 5,500 suicides over a 14-year period.
Despite electronic health records and care coordination efforts, communication gaps between primary care and specialist physicians persist, with 22% of PCPs sending information rarely or never at referral times. This delay can lead to delayed diagnoses, unnecessary testing, and patient dissatisfaction.
The report proposes a health equity framework to address disparities in telehealth services, focusing on strategic priority, patient input, social determinants, and institutional racism. It calls for integrating equity and innovation efforts to ensure access to telemedicine and digitally enabled health tools.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that telehealth can improve clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction for pregnant mothers and their infants. The researchers analyzed 28 randomized controlled trials and 14 observational studies to assess the effect of telehealth-delivered care on maternal health outcomes.
Researchers found similar operational procedures for remote medication abortion services across diverse practice settings, with adaptations made to local laws and regulations. The study highlights the feasibility of offering abortion services through telehealth, demonstrating potential variations in service adaptation.
Patient-centered medical homes can bring meaning to healthcare by focusing on individualized outcomes and personal growth. By incorporating narrative medicine and goal-oriented care, primary care physicians can transform practices into truly person-centered models of care.
Despite electronic health records, gaps in communication between primary care physicians and specialist physicians persist. The study found that 22% of PCPs report sending clinical information to specialists at the time of referral, and less than 35% receive information back after consultation.
A York University-led study reveals individuals detransitioning face sparse clinical care and support, relying on online networks for guidance. Detransitioners experience physical and psychological challenges, including stigma from clinicians and unsupportive environments.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued a position paper on the ethical use of genetic testing and precision medicine in internal medicine. The guidelines address key issues such as incidental findings, education for physicians and patients, and counseling needs. ACP emphasizes the need for ongoing surveillance and anticoag...
A new study published in JAMA Surgery found that surgeons who oversee multiple surgeries simultaneously have a higher risk of complications and death. For surgeries involving one anesthesiologist directing CRNA or resident care, those managing three to four overlapping cases saw complication rates rise by 14%.
A qualitative study highlights the importance of timely and balanced information exchange in shared decision-making for vascular access placement. This collaborative approach involves presenting choices, sharing personalized knowledge, and eliciting patients' values and preferences to strengthen treatment plans.
A quality improvement project at Dartmouth Cancer Center increased serious illness conversations between patients and providers from 0% to 70%, reflecting the importance of early discussions on prognosis and treatment options. The project's success was attributed to standardized work, an engaged interdisciplinary team, and system-level...
A study of 6,335 American adults with a history of cardiovascular disease found that risk factor profiles have not improved over the last two decades. Despite advancements in therapies and guideline recommendations, blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, body mass index, smoking, physical activity, and diet all showed worse...
A study published in CMAJ found that patients who received care from physicians speaking their primary language had shorter hospital stays and fewer falls and infections. Francophones had a 24% lower risk of death, while allophones had a 54% lower risk.
A new Mount Sinai study reveals that young Black adults are twice as likely to have atherosclerosis as their Hispanic counterparts. Researchers used comprehensive questionnaires and 3D vascular ultrasounds to determine cardiovascular risk scores, finding significant discrepancies between the groups.
The article highlights key health considerations for Ukrainian refugees in Canada, including timely access to care and trauma-informed approaches. Key gaps in the Canadian healthcare system include lack of universal access to interpreters and coordinated care across services.
Researchers investigated radiation exposure among health professionals performing structural heart interventions, revealing higher doses for echocardiographers and cardiologists compared to sonographers. The study highlights the need for safer procedures and protective measures to mitigate radiation risks.
A study of 720 patients with thoracic cancer found increased odds of unsuccessful telemedicine visits among Black and disadvantaged patients. Unsuccessful telemedicine visits were associated with worse clinical outcomes, highlighting the need for improved access to healthcare.
A study in Brazil found that performance-related bonuses for family healthcare workers can significantly enhance the quality of primary health care, particularly in more disadvantaged regions. The analysis showed a notable difference in outcomes between areas with and without bonus incentives.
The TCT MedTech Innovation Forum brings together clinicians, entrepreneurs, investors, payors, and regulators to identify clinical challenges and opportunities for innovation in cardiovascular care. The forum aims to shape the future of patient care through informed discussion and real-world insight.
A new study from Oregon Health & Science University finds almost six out of ten in-network providers listed under Oregon Medicaid provider directories are not actually available to see patients. This 'phantom' networks undermine access to care, leading to delays and interruptions in treatment.
The Brigham and Women's Hospital will implement and evaluate an integrated service delivery model (PEN-Plus) for severe chronic noncommunicable diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and rheumatic heart disease, in eight low- and lower-middle-income countries. The initiative aims to enable one million of the world's poorest children and you...
This qualitative study provides consensus-level guidance to clinicians caring for patients with advanced cancer-related pain and opioid misuse or use disorder. The findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive assessment and multimodal treatment strategies.
A new study suggests that outsourcing NHS services to the private sector is associated with a decline in healthcare quality, leading to increased deaths from treatable causes. The analysis of over 12,700 files revealed a link between increased privatization and higher rates of treatable mortality.
A recent study found that half of patients in East London regularly see the same GP, a crucial factor in better patient outcomes. The researchers highlight the need for policymakers to measure and incentivize continuity of care to improve health outcomes.
A nationwide study found that nearly 8 out of 10 physicians believe the chances of a desired outcome are greater than the probability of individual steps leading to that outcome. This phenomenon, known as conjunction fallacy, can lead to unnecessary delays and harm to patients.
The American College of Radiology has issued risk mitigation guidance to help healthcare institutions conserve contrast media supplies amid a global shortage. Two healthcare systems, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the University of North Carolina, have implemented strategies that reduced their contrast use by at least 50%.
A study of 45,000 women found significant racial and ethnic disparities in the time it takes to receive a biopsy after an abnormal screening mammogram result. Factors such as individual characteristics, neighborhood socioeconomic status, and healthcare access were also associated with delays in biopsies.
A study found that over 60% of parents of children with kidney disease or hypertension are unsure or unwilling to vaccinate their child against COVID-19. Effective vaccines exist to protect children from COVID-19, and the findings highlight the need for clear communication to address parental concerns.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that Medicare could save up to $3.6 billion by purchasing generic drugs at the same prices as the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company. The researchers compared the price of 89 generic drugs sold by MCCPDC to the price Medicare paid in 2020 and estimated potential savings of up to $3....
A new pediatric obesity program, Guided Self-Help (GSH), was developed to provide a less intensive and more accessible way to treat childhood obesity. The study found that GSH was similarly effective as traditional Family-Based Treatment (FBT) in supporting pediatric weight loss, but with higher attendance rates.
A study published in PLOS Global Public Health found that patients in Tanzania faced barriers to accessing rehabilitative care following an injury, including difficulty finding transportation or childcare. The research highlights the need for improved patient education and increased access to outpatient services.
A new study at 21 US children's hospitals found that patients with limited English proficiency are less likely to question their child's hospital care due to language barriers. The researchers called on hospitals to ensure that families who speak languages other than English have an equal opportunity to speak up and potentially interce...
A cluster-randomised trial in Singapore showed a low-cost, multi-pronged intervention improved BP control, reduced cardiovascular risk and increased use of antihypertensive medications. The intervention could cut hypertension-linked morbidity and mortality globally with rapid scalability.
A study by Washington State University researchers found that Native Americans have to travel up to 103 miles farther than non-Hispanic whites to reach the nearest radiation therapy facility. This significant burden can lead to delayed or foregone treatment, resulting in poorer cancer outcomes.
A study of nearly 2 million Medicaid enrollees in 2016 revealed racial disparities in healthcare spending and use. Black enrollees used fewer primary care services and recommended care for acute and chronic conditions, but had higher emergency department use compared to white enrollees.