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 recent study by Yale University researchers found that US Medicare patients with heart failure have a lower risk of dying within 30 days compared to their Canadian counterparts. However, the difference in long-term survival rates is negligible. The study suggests that the American system may excel at acute care, while the Canadian sy...
The Medical College of Georgia School of Nursing has received a $995,000 grant to support its new doctorate of nursing practice program, the 10th of its kind in the nation. The partnership with Emory University will prepare critical mass of nurse clinicians through increased collaboration.
A study found that resident physicians feel insufficiently prepared to care for patients from different cultures, with significant gaps in cross-cultural education and mentoring. The survey results highlight the need for improved training programs to address racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare.
A study found that hospital report cards using linked administrative databases did not improve acute myocardial infarction (AMI) care quality. The lack of effectiveness may be due to skepticism about the data or the need for more intensive interventions.
A recent study from the University of Pittsburgh highlights the challenges faced by paramedics in performing endotracheal intubation, a critical procedure that requires significant skill and experience. The research found that many paramedics perform intubations less than three times per year, with some not performing any at all.
A recent study found that outpatient care in the US has made modest improvements in some areas, but still lags behind evidence-based recommendations. The research highlights significant disparities in care, particularly for racial and ethnic minority groups.
Research found that primary care physicians have only 3.5 hours per day to provide care for common chronic diseases, increasing to over 10 hours per day when accounting for poorly controlled conditions. The authors suggest collaborative guideline development and team approaches to patient education to address this issue.
A University of Toronto report assesses the overall performance of 11 psychiatric hospitals and 45 acute-care facilities in Ontario, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. The study identifies key areas for improvement, including patient participation, continuity of care, regional variation, and evidence-based care.
ID physicians and expert general medicine physicians outperform non-expert generalists in treating patients with HIV. Key findings include improved viral load control and increased flu vaccination rates among expert groups.
A Penn State study shows that including spending in other service sectors reduces the between-community cost difference from 81% to 18%. The system of care approach also improves youth's chances of finishing high school and making a successful transition to adulthood.
The US healthcare system exhibits both strengths and failings, with private market competition driving inequality, inefficiency, and high costs. Researchers explore the role of corporate interests in shaping health care markets, organizational forces, and clinical practice guidelines.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that increases in managed care market share were not associated with improved quality of care for cancer patients, except for a specific blood test. The authors conclude that expansion of managed care may not improve quality of care for all patients.
A study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that older doctors are less likely to follow current medical standards, with declining performance over time. The findings suggest that quality improvement interventions targeting all physicians, including those who have trained recently, may be necessary to update knowledge and tools.
A new assessment tool provides comprehensive data on home care quality, identifying areas for improvement. The 22 measures cover processes and outcomes, revealing that no single provider excels in all aspects.
VA patients outperformed non-VA patients in delivering recommended care for acute, chronic, and preventive conditions, with significant differences found in areas with established performance measures and electronic medical records.
A randomized trial found that computerized standing orders for influenza and pneumococcal vaccines significantly increased vaccine administration rates compared to physician reminders. Patients with standing orders received vaccinations 12-24% more often, highlighting the effectiveness of this approach in improving preventive care.
Operations research and manufacturing techniques will improve healthcare delivery by reducing costs and enhancing quality. Techniques such as supply chain management and scheduling systems are being adopted in hospitals and blood banks to reduce delays and improve patient care.
A meta-analysis found that cardiac resynchronization therapy improved the quality of life of people with heart failure, while a cost-effectiveness study showed it costs $90,000 per quality-adjusted life-year saved. Guidelines for follow-up colonoscopies were also criticized for being too often performed.
A study found that adults with regular doctors were more likely to receive influenza vaccinations and mammography, as well as advice on smoking cessation. This suggests that trust in a single provider contributes to better adherence to health recommendations.
Research by P.J. Devereaux et al found higher mortality rates and higher costs associated with private for-profit hospitals compared to not-for-profit hospitals. This supports a policy shift towards not-for-profit healthcare delivery, as suggested by S. Woolhandler and D.U. Himmelstein.
A Johns Hopkins-led study found that most physicians reported positive attitudes towards caring for patients with chronic conditions, but felt they had received less training than needed. Chronic problems like diabetes and heart disease account for over 75% of healthcare spending in the US.
A randomized controlled trial found that a home-based program, PEARLS, significantly improved depressive symptoms and health-related quality of life in medically ill, low-income, mostly homebound older adults. The study showed promising results for non-pharmacological treatments in this vulnerable population.
A University of Pittsburgh study found that over half a million Americans die annually in ICUs after admission, with average lengths of stay ranging from 8.9 days and cost $8,548 for non-ICU hospitalization. The researchers recommend improving prediction models to reduce ICU admissions at end-of-life
The UPMC Community Medicine initiative improved HbA1c levels by 0.83 percent and reduced blood pressure and cholesterol below target ranges in a large proportion of patients. Physician compliance with evidence-based guidelines was significantly increased through data tracking and education.
A prospective observational study found that physician residents worked an average of 69 hours a week, receiving 41 pages of seeking services. Ketonuria was observed in 21% of shifts, highlighting the need for stricter work hour limitations to ensure patient and physician safety.
A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that infants born over the weekend had a slightly elevated risk of stillbirth and neonatal death compared to those born on weekdays. The researchers suggested that selective timing of low-risk elective deliveries may explain this difference.
Researchers found that women with preeclampsia are more likely to have a successful vaginal delivery at tertiary care hospitals compared to primary and secondary care facilities. Tertiary hospitals offer comprehensive maternity and neonatal care services, including transport, education, and research.
A study found that teenagers face challenges in accessing relevant health information online, with common barriers including poorly designed websites, lack of targeted content, and ineffective search strategies. To improve access, researchers suggest teaching better search skills and designing websites more tailored to users' needs.
The CHEST Foundation and Eli Lilly and Company Foundation have expanded the Critical Care Family Assistance Program to five additional hospitals. The program provides critical support to families of critically ill patients, including computerized kiosks, staff services, and local accommodations.
The report compares six Democratic candidates' plans to address the problem of the uninsured, revealing a range of proposals from covering most or all of the uninsured to 1 in 10. Most Democratic candidates would repeal some or all of President Bush's tax cuts to help finance their health plans.
New guidelines improve pregnancy, labour, and delivery care for HIV-positive women. These updated recommendations allow for longer, healthier pregnancies and increased chances of healthy, HIV-free offspring.
The US healthcare system faces a high-performance goal with increasing efficiency and effectiveness. Key steps outlined include public reporting of data on providers, health plans, and demonstrations of new approaches to insurance coverage, technology, and quality standards.
Researchers analyzed variability in demand for hospital services and found that scheduled surgical ICU caseload is a potentially reducible source of stress on ICUs. Smoothing this type of variability can improve patient flow and preserve access to critical services.
Patients with acute depression who received phone-based disease management were six times more likely to reduce their symptoms to a low level compared to those receiving standard care. The program also led to primary care doctors using nationally approved guidelines in treating their patients.
A five-year initiative aims to change primary care practice in Canada by focusing on physical activity, rather than diet. The PROACTIVE study will examine the effectiveness of a behavioral-based program to increase physical activity and reduce obesity.
Competition among Medicare health plans may not be enough to reduce costs and address fiscal concerns. Beneficiaries may absorb savings, and market instability is a concern in structured market-based strategies.
The article highlights the critical state of primary care in the United States, citing organizational and financial pressures that threaten its viability. The UCSF-led report proposes seven principles for reconstructing primary care, focusing on patient-centered care, adequate reimbursement, and improved education.
The study found that physician groups use only 32% of recommended care management processes, leaving many patients without optimal care. External incentives from health plans and large purchasers can encourage the adoption of these processes.
The Harvard Medical School study found that hospital length of stay does not significantly impact newborn health, contradicting popular assumptions. The study also showed that introducing a state law guaranteeing minimum postpartum stays actually led to less frequent follow-up care for newborns.
University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a urinary catheter that can directly measure blood flow and oxygen utilization in the body. This innovation allows for more timely monitoring of trauma patients and could lead to better outcomes by providing insights into mechanisms of organ failure.
A study of Puerto Rican women found that their level of satisfaction with obstetrical care is significantly influenced by institutional settings, medical staff characteristics, and the continuity of care. Latino physicians are culturally sensitive, but their ethnicity does not affect patient satisfaction.
A new journal series aims to educate physicians about individual and systems factors contributing to medical errors. The series analyzes real-life cases, including a study of 17 errors that allowed one patient to receive an invasive procedure intended for another.
A study published in JAMA found that restorative home care significantly improves the likelihood of remaining at home, reduces emergency visits, and enhances self-care and mobility among older patients. The model is based on principles adapted from geriatric medicine, nursing, rehabilitation, and goal attainment.
A study published by Massachusetts General Hospital found that moderate alcohol consumption may lower the risk of developing hypertension in young women. The research, based on data from over 70,000 women aged 25 to 42, shows a J-shaped curve where light drinkers have a decreased risk compared to nondrinkers and heavier drinkers are at...
A study found that women are more likely to get regular cancer screenings if they have a well-organized primary care system. Women in private HMOs were also more likely to receive regular screenings compared to uninsured or underinsured women.
A national survey of 787 physicians found that 40% encourage sicker patients to avoid capitated managed care plans and 23% encourage healthier patients to join them. This practice, known as risk selection, raises legal, ethical, and policy issues.
A comprehensive UK study highlights the risk factor of high staff workload on infant mortality in intensive care units. After adjusting for initial clinical risk and illness severity, patient volume and staffing provision did not influence mortality or cerebral-damage outcomes.
Researchers found a significant decline in meningitis deaths among children, attributed to improvements in intensive care and treatment. The study revealed a 59% reduction in fatality rates over five years, with most cases resulting from septicaemia.
A new bacteria test has shown promise in detecting contaminated platelets before they are used for transfusion, reducing the risk of severe illness and death. The Pall BDS system measures oxygen levels in a sample obtained from a platelet unit, indicating bacterial contamination and allowing for safe disposal.
Parents of children with chronic conditions are less likely to enroll in gatekeeping HMO plans, which are designed to improve care coordination. The study found that after switching to an HMO, kids with chronic illness had fewer visits to specialists and primary care physicians.
A new study by Penn State researchers reveals that managed care plans' use of performance measures can lead to improved quality of care, but significant variations in effectiveness remain. The study found that tightly integrated relationships between healthcare providers and the plan are key factors in delivering high-quality care.
The UCSF program will support senior-level nurses in executive roles with $45,000 over three years to develop key leadership competencies. The focus is on addressing complex issues in healthcare through a comprehensive leadership project and mentorship.
A study by Ashish K. Jha and colleagues found that black patients in VA hospitals had lower mortality rates than white patients for six common medical diagnoses, including pneumonia, angina, and diabetes. The survival advantage was consistent across disease, age, financial status, and hospital-level subgroups.
A new healthcare team model, called Virtual Integrated Practice (VIP), aims to improve the management of chronic diseases in geriatric patients. The study uses team principles from the business world and will link patients and doctors with a team of health professionals using technology such as cellular phones and the Internet.
The NYC Council has awarded $750,000 to the Consortium of New York Geriatric Education Centers and The Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing to train healthcare professionals in caring for older adults. The three-year program will provide geriatric training to all five boroughs and focus on nurse-led care.
A recent study analyzing the data behind an Institute of Medicine report suggests that medical errors had no estimable effect on death rates. The authors argue that the patients studied were already quite ill before entering the hospital, making it difficult to isolate a critical determinant of death.
A new Harvard Medical School study found that only 14% of patients treated for three common mental illnesses received adequate care. African-Americans and those without insurance coverage are less likely to receive satisfactory mental health care.
The symposium will focus on practical information to implement change, improve health care delivery, and reduce errors. Key topics include cultural obstacles, innovations in technology, and strategies for moving beyond blame-based safety policies.
A University of Washington study reveals that women who have Caesarean or assisted vaginal deliveries are at a higher risk of rehospitalization compared to those who have unassisted vaginal deliveries. The study found significant risks for complications such as uterine infection, postpartum hemorrhage, and cardio-pulmonary conditions.
A new study by Yale researchers reveals a significant difference in patient satisfaction between those with chronic illnesses and healthier individuals under managed care. The study, which analyzed data from over 16,000 employees, found that chronically ill patients are twice as likely to report dissatisfaction with their care.