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.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that quality of care varied significantly among eight commercial virtual visit companies, with differences in diagnosis accuracy and adherence to guidelines. The variation was greater for certain conditions, such as viral pharyngitis and acute rhinosinusitis.
A new genetic urine test has been developed to predict high-grade prostate cancer, identifying 92 percent of men with elevated PSA levels who had high-grade cancers. The test could spare hundreds of thousands of men from unnecessary biopsies and reduce the risks associated with the procedure.
Researchers found that charges are inflated by a factor of three to one, disproportionately affecting the underinsured and uninsured. The study suggests targeting office-based events and procedures rather than operating room interventions for improved value within surgical care.
A University of Michigan team proposes customer loyalty programs in healthcare to enhance both health and financial benefits. They suggest perks for patients based on how long they've stayed with the same doctors or received care from network sites.
Paul Lee examines the USPSTF's latest report on vision screening for asymptomatic older adults. The study highlights strengths and challenges in the current recommendation process, emphasizing the need for more rigorous clinical trials to inform treatment decisions.
A University of Leicester study finds that GPs and hypertension detection are associated with lower premature mortality in England. In less deprived practices, continuity of care was also linked to lower mortality rates.
Researchers found that uninsured children have the lowest and most unstable medical home experiences, despite being in greatest need of constant, quality care. The study emphasizes the need for extra efforts to ensure all children have access to quality healthcare, even with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act.
A Kaiser Permanente study shows that patients who accessed their online health information and received timely alerts about potential gaps in care were more likely to receive preventive tests and screenings. The online tool enhanced the rate of preventive care by 9% for mammograms, 6% for Pap smears, and 12% for diabetes testing.
Demand for VA services is expected to increase until the end of the decade, driven by an aging veteran population and higher reliance on VA health services. The system faces challenges in providing care to veterans outside its facilities, with long waits and limited access to specialty care in rural areas.
A multicenter trial found that corticosteroids significantly reduced severe respiratory complications and hospital stays in late preterm babies. The study's lead investigator believes this will transform the way healthcare is delivered to mothers at risk of late preterm delivery.
A survey of 276 chief nurse executives found that many hospitals struggle with implementing evidence-based practice, leading to poor scores on key performance measures. The researchers emphasize the need for leadership support and education to create a culture of evidence-based care.
Researchers found that blacks, Latinos and Asians had lower risk of coronary heart disease compared to whites without diabetes or prior history of heart disease. The study suggests systematic efforts by Kaiser Permanente may help reduce racial disparities in health care.
The American Geriatrics Society has established a coordinating center to provide strategic resources for 44 HRSA awardees working on projects to increase geriatric training in primary care. The program aims to develop a healthcare workforce that improves health outcomes for older adults by integrating geriatrics into primary care.
The Association for Cancer Physicians has released a new strategy to improve cancer patient services and outcomes in the UK. The comprehensive plan focuses on delivering excellent and safe medical oncology care, contributing to NHS development, and providing innovative approaches to cancer care.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has awarded a grant to Stevens Institute and Penn Nursing to use policy flight simulators to determine the usability and effectiveness of the Transitional Care Model. The goal is to accelerate decisions to implement the TCM, which addresses negative effects associated with common breakdowns in care.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that exchanging secure emails with doctors improved overall health for 32% of patients with chronic conditions. Patients who used email as their first method of contact reported reduced phone contacts and in-person visits.
A new paper calls for a radical shift in India's healthcare delivery system, prioritizing primary care and strengthening the public sector. The authors identify structural problems with the current system, including high healthcare costs driving millions into poverty, poor quality of care, and inadequate human resources.
Researchers discovered a single genetic mutation responsible for 20% of severe congenital heart disease cases accompanied by neurodevelopmental disorders. The study used genomic sequencing to analyze 1,213 children with congenital heart disease and identified a subset of genes that act as conductors in organ formation.
A multidisciplinary accountable care team model has been shown to decrease hospital stays and lower costs by $649 per stay. The ACT model, implemented across an urban hospital, has also improved communication with patients and families, as well as employee engagement and job satisfaction.
The inaugural issue of Healthcare Transformation features provocative conversations with thought leaders and decision makers, including Aneesh Chopra and Jack and Suzy Welch. The journal aims to reimagine healthcare delivery, education, and technology, predicting a Blockbuster-to-Netflix paradigm shift in the healthcare industry.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals that adults with type 2 diabetes are often tested more frequently than needed, resulting in unnecessary costs and time burden. The researchers found that excessive testing increases the odds of overtreatment with hypoglycemic drugs.
Two studies found that higher cesarean delivery rates were not correlated with maternal or neonatal mortality, but rather inversely correlated with certain health problems in childhood. The researchers suggest that the optimal level of cesarean delivery may be higher than previously recommended.
A new study from NYU Langone found that reducing post-surgery care referrals to facilities did not increase readmission rates, while improving patient recovery and reducing costs. The hospital implemented a program to discharge more patients home for recovery, with significant drops in facility referrals.
A Canadian study found significant disparities in obstetric care between First Nations and non-First Nations women, with First Nations mothers being less likely to undergo labour induction, epidural, or cesarean delivery. These differences may contribute to higher infant mortality rates among First Nations populations.
The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) has released a report outlining current and future challenges to the specialty of nephrology. Key findings include the increasing fragmentation of kidney care, uneven distribution of nephrologists across the US, and declining interest among residents choosing nephrology fellowships.
A team-based, coordinated specialty care approach produces better clinical and functional outcomes than typical community care for people with first episode psychosis. Treatment is most effective when provided soon after psychotic symptoms begin.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has published a position paper supporting the use of telemedicine in sleep medicine practices. The paper outlines recommendations for integrating telemedicine into practice, including clinical care standards and quality assurance processes. Fair reimbursement for telemedicine services is also supp...
A UTMB study found that older diabetic patients receiving primary care from nurse practitioners had lower rates of preventable hospitalization than those with physician care in nonmetropolitan areas. Nurse practitioner care was shown to be comparable to that of physicians in terms of quality and clinical outcomes.
A study found that cardiac patients receiving care from physicians and advanced practice providers have comparable quality of care, despite low compliance with performance measures. Advanced practice providers showed higher rates of screening for smoking and referral to cardiac rehabilitation.
A study found that women who were told their babies might be large had higher odds of perinatal interventions, despite only a fraction actually having excessive birth weights. The association raises questions about how much information clinicians should communicate to women about fetal size.
A new study by Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that 76% of patients accepted online postoperative care as the only form of follow-up, while 68% reported equal effectiveness between online and in-person visits. The researchers believe designing tools for online care is key to determining when in-person care is needed.
A new study by researchers at St. Michael's Hospital found that patients in Ontario who received primary care from a family health team had improved diabetes care, including increased monitoring and management. However, the impact on cancer screening was mixed, with some areas showing improvement while others did not.
A study based on over 10 million patients found that family health teams led to improved diabetes monitoring and screening rates. Patients in these teams were more likely to receive recommended testing and screenings for breast cancer and colorectal cancer.
Professor Michael Frakes will examine the relationship between medical malpractice laws and health care outcomes using a unique data set from the Military Health System. The four-year study aims to identify the impact of liability pressure on practice patterns, medical costs and patient outcomes.
A study by UC San Francisco researchers found that privately insured pregnant women with 24-hour OB coverage and midwife care had lower C-section rates compared to those with traditional care. The study, which tracked data from 2011-2014, showed a significant decrease in C-sections among these patients.
A study of extremely preterm infants found changes in maternal and infant care practices resulting in improved survival rates. Survival without major health problems increased significantly for infants born at 25-28 weeks.
Physicians are dissatisfied with EHRs, citing redundant information and poor utility. The study suggests redesigning EHR documentation tools to prioritize assessment and plan sections.
Studies find HIV-infected women receive inadequate prenatal care, resulting in low viral suppression rates at delivery. Women connected to care soon after delivery are more likely to remain in care and achieve viral suppression.
A new study by Dr. Steven Narod finds that women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) are twice as likely to die from breast cancer compared to the general US population. The study also reveals that black women and those under 35 have a higher risk of mortality.
A new Medicaid health care program in Texas has improved care for disabled adults with chronic conditions like heart attacks and COPD. The program's managed care component led to better adherence to recommended standards of care during acute events, such as heart attacks and worsening of COPD.
The Medicare and Medicaid programs are critical components of the US healthcare system, serving over 111 million people. They face significant challenges in adapting to a changing healthcare landscape while navigating conflicting priorities from beneficiaries, practitioners, and policymakers.
Researchers found that hospital staff perception of door-to-needle time did not match actual performance. Middle and low-performing hospitals often overestimated their ability to quickly administer anti-clotting medication.
A recent study found that over two-thirds of adolescent and young adult cancer patients utilize aggressive interventions in the last month of life, including intensive care and chemotherapy. The researchers suggest a need for further research into supporting these patients to make informed end-of-life choices.
A statewide collaborative initiative in South Carolina reduced avoidable hospital readmissions by improving healthcare transitions after discharge. The Preventing Avoidable Readmissions Together (PART) initiative engaged over 90% of the state's acute care hospitals, leading to a promising model for care transitions strategies.
A recent article by Michael K. Gusmano and Frank J. Thompson examines the success of Medicaid's Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment Initiatives (DSRIP), finding mixed evidence on its effectiveness. The authors conclude that while DSRIP has potential, its effectiveness is still unclear.
SAGE has strengthened its medical portfolio by partnering with SingHealth to publish the journal Proceedings of Singapore Healthcare. The journal, which publishes quality research on all aspects of healthcare and biomedical sciences, will benefit from SAGE's publishing expertise and global reach.
A new study examines the impact of remoteness on health care access in rural Liberia, highlighting strategies to close disparities. Strategies include shifting care to lowest level providers and training community health workers.
Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death in the US, with elevated cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and smoking contributing to half of heart disease deaths. Despite decades of progress, reducing these modifiable risk factors has not led to significant reductions in cardiovascular mortality.
A new study reveals wide geographic variation in use of clotbuster treatment for stroke, with some regions providing treatment to nearly all patients and others giving none. This disparity can lead to unnecessary disability and higher costs for stroke survivors.
The Independence at Home Medicare demonstration program saved over $25 million in the first year by improving geriatric care and reducing hospital readmissions. The program, which provides home-based medical care through house calls, resulted in improved patient satisfaction and reduced healthcare costs for Medicare beneficiaries.
Research found that individual state stroke legislation plays a crucial role in certifying primary stroke centers and increasing the availability of prompt stroke care. State action, including implementing policies for emergency medical services, has led to a significant increase in certified hospitals nationwide.
Community health workers are expected to play a vital role in healthcare delivery due to the increasing need for CHWs nationwide. A new perspective piece offers guidance on how to maximize effectiveness, including integrating CHWs with formal healthcare providers and addressing upstream issues.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that clinicians are hesitant to prescribe naloxone, a life-saving medication for opioid overdose, due to concerns about its effects and potential risks. Despite its promise as a tool to prevent deaths, logistical challenges and clinician reluctance hinder widespread adoption.
NYU Langone Medical Center has been awarded a $15 million federal grant to help primary care practices use the latest evidence to improve heart health. The grant, part of the EvidenceNOW Initiative, aims to reduce cardiovascular risk factors and study effective practice improvement strategies.
The AHRQ-funded Healthy Hearts Northwest project aims to improve heart health among patients in primary care practices in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. The initiative provides resources, support, and quality improvement strategies to help small- and mid-sized practices build their capacity for delivering high-quality cardiovascular care.
A pilot study using the PINNACLE India Quality Improvement Program registry shows that high-quality outpatient cardiovascular care can be achieved in resource-limited environments like India. The registry collected data from 68,196 patients with coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation, highlighting areas for imp...
The American College of Physicians recommends screening for five common cancers: breast, colorectal, ovarian, prostate, and cervical. High-intensity screening may do more harm than good due to over-diagnosis and overtreatment. ACP advises focusing on tests that improve health and avoid harms.
Researchers at UT Dallas developed a predictive analytics model to identify congestive heart failure patients with high readmission risk. The study found that health IT systems can reduce readmissions, with hospitals implementing cardiology and administrative information systems exhibiting lower readmission rates.
Research highlights physical activity interventions for obese older adults, explorations of muscle decline in influenza infection, and dementia care management strategies. The findings suggest regular physical activity can prevent disability even in extremely obese older adults.
A new study reveals that the perception of quality care for the dying in the US has worsened over the last decade, with loved ones reporting a decrease in satisfaction. Despite efforts to improve end-of-life care, significant gaps remain between patient and provider preferences.