Journal Description
Healthcare
Healthcare
is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed, open access journal on health care systems, industry, technology, policy, and regulation, and is published semimonthly online by MDPI. Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society (OWNS) is affiliated with Healthcare and its members receive discounts on article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE and SSCI (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Health Policy & Services ) / CiteScore - Q2 (Leadership and Management)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Healthcare include: Trauma Care and European Burn Journal.
Impact Factor:
2.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
Assessing Non-Laboratory Healthcare Professionals’ Attitude towards the Importance of Patient Preparation for Laboratory Tests
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100989 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Various guidelines address patient preparation and its importance for venous blood sampling, such as the GP41 guideline issued by the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and the blood collection guidelines published by the World Health Organisation. Recommendations provided by national societies
[...] Read more.
(1) Background: Various guidelines address patient preparation and its importance for venous blood sampling, such as the GP41 guideline issued by the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and the blood collection guidelines published by the World Health Organisation. Recommendations provided by national societies or international organisations in the field of radiology, such as The Contrast Media Safety Committee of the European Society of Urogenital Radiology, or in the field of laboratory medicine, such as the Working Group for Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE) of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) and the Latin American Working Group for Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE-LATAM) of the Latin American Confederation of Clinical Biochemistry (COLABIOCLI), also guide this practice. There is a notable lack of understanding regarding the viewpoints held by non-laboratory healthcare professionals concerning the significance of patient preparation for laboratory testing and the impact of typical factors associated with patient preparation. This study endeavours to bridge this gap by assessing the attitude of non-laboratory healthcare professionals in Lithuania regarding these pivotal aspects. (2) Methods: A self-designed anonymous questionnaire was disseminated among 141 public healthcare institutions in Lithuania. The internal consistency of the questionnaire was evaluated by computing Cronbach’s alpha. Descriptive statistics were utilised for the variables, while comparisons of attitude among groups were conducted using Mann–Whitney U (for two groups) or Kruskal–Wallis (for more than two groups) for categorical and discrete indicators. The Kruskal–Wallis post-hoc test was employed for pairwise comparisons. A significance level of p-Value < 0.05 was applied to establish statistical significance. (3) Results: A total of 158 respondents constituted two distinct groups of healthcare professionals: nurses and physicians. Most of the participants either agreed or strongly agreed that patient preparation could introduce bias into laboratory test results. Professionals with less than 20 years of work experience or those who attended training in patient preparation for sampling within a 5-year timeframe exhibited stronger agreement regarding different preanalytical factors in patient preparation and their impact on laboratory test results compared to their counterparts. (4) Conclusions: Non-laboratory healthcare professionals who participated in this survey consider proper patient preparation for laboratory testing to be a significant step towards obtaining accurate test results. They also recognize the commonly acknowledged preanalytical factors as important for ensuring reliable test results. However, attitudes towards the importance of several preanalytical factors vary depending on whether non-laboratory healthcare professionals have more or less than 20 years of work experience, as well as whether they have attended any training on this topic within the last five years or have never attended such training.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessCase Report
Prenatal Detection and Conservative Management of Uterine Scar Dehiscence in Patient with Previous Uterine Rupture and Multiple Surgeries—A Case Report
by
Silvia Zermano, Giuseppina Seminara, Nadia Parisi, Valentina Serantoni, Martina Arcieri, Anna Biasioli, Monica Della Martina, Stefano Restaino, Giuseppe Vizzielli and Lorenza Driul
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100988 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Uterine rupture is a rare and life-threatening condition. It usually occurs in patients with uterine scars (most commonly for a previous myomectomy or caesarean section), but it can also affect an unharmed uterus. This complication is more frequent in the third trimester and
[...] Read more.
Uterine rupture is a rare and life-threatening condition. It usually occurs in patients with uterine scars (most commonly for a previous myomectomy or caesarean section), but it can also affect an unharmed uterus. This complication is more frequent in the third trimester and during delivery. There is not yet a recognised method of prediction of uterine rupture and the ultrasound features still need a consensus. In this article, we have reported a case of uterine dehiscence diagnosed by a pelvic ultrasound and magnetic resonance (MRI) at 24 weeks of gestation. The finding was confirmed intraoperatively at the caesarean section at 29 weeks of gestation. The 40-year-old patient has had a previous pregnancy complicated by uterine rupture at 22 weeks of gestation, following six previous abdominal surgeries for stage IV endometriosis, diffuse and nodular adenomyosis, and pelvic adhesion syndrome. The early detection of uterine dehiscence allowed us to prolong the pregnancy and perform a subsequent fertility-sparing surgery, reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Our case report proves that women with severe endometriosis/adenomyosis are at a high risk of uterine rupture and scar dehiscence. The antenatal ultrasound can describe a uterine dehiscence (even in asymptomatic patients) and prevent complications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Examination and Treatment of Gynecological Diseases)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Burnout and Satisfaction with Work–Life Balance among General Practitioners in Bulgaria during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by
Kristina Kilova, Rumyana Stoyanova, Stanislava Harizanova and Marin Baltov
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100987 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The objective of the present study is to analyze the link between the degree of professional burnout among general practitioners in Bulgaria during a pandemic and their satisfaction with the balance between their personal lives and professional lives. A cross-sectional study was conducted
[...] Read more.
The objective of the present study is to analyze the link between the degree of professional burnout among general practitioners in Bulgaria during a pandemic and their satisfaction with the balance between their personal lives and professional lives. A cross-sectional study was conducted during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic from December 2021 to January 2022 among 377 general practitioners. We identified the presence and level of burnout syndrome among GPs using V. Boyko’s method for diagnostics of the severity of symptoms and the phases of formation and completion of the ‘occupational burnout’ process. Descriptive statistics and parametric and non-parametric tests were used for the analysis. For the significance level of the null hypothesis, we assumed that p < 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval. A total of 96.3% of the GPs had a high level of burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. They worked more than 8 h a day (74.8%) and more than 5 days a week (69.0%). A total of 86.3% of them were not satisfied with the spare time they had and stated that they could not balance their work and personal lives (67.1%) since the pandemic was announced. A link was found between the level of professional burnout and long working hours (p = 0.022), dissatisfaction with free time (p = 0.028), and the inability to balance work and personal life (p = 0.000), as well as concerns related to safety during the pandemic (p = 0.048). Unrealistically high levels of burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic due to a disturbed work–life balance is a reason to re-evaluate health policies and involve more hospital care doctors at the frontlines to fight against severe infectious diseases. The results of this study could be used to inform policy makers, healthcare managers, and other stakeholders about the factors that have had profound impacts on GPs’ stress levels during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Postpartum Depression among Mothers in Najran City, Saudi Arabia
by
Majed Alshahrani, Nisreen Oudah Tami Alqarni, Sarah Saeed Aldughar, Shuruq Talea Asiri and Ruba Ibrahim Alharbi
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 986; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100986 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant mental health concern affecting mothers globally. However, research on PPD prevalence and risk factors in Najran City, Saudi Arabia, is limited. Study Aim: this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with
[...] Read more.
Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant mental health concern affecting mothers globally. However, research on PPD prevalence and risk factors in Najran City, Saudi Arabia, is limited. Study Aim: this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with PPD among mothers in Najran City. Methodology: A questionnaire-based study was conducted from September 2023 to January 2024, involving 420 mothers aged 16–50 years with newborns (2–10 weeks after delivery). The questionnaire included demographic information and the Arabic version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Statistical analysis utilized SPSS software v. 26, including descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, and logistic regression. Results: The majority of participants were aged 20–35 years (61.4%), Saudi nationals (87.6%), and had university education (51.4%). EPDS scores indicated that 66.7% of mothers screened positive for possible depression. Significant associations were found between higher EPDS scores and factors such as unemployment (p = 0.004), younger age (p = 0.003), caesarean delivery (p = 0.043), mental illness (p = 0.0001), lack of adequate family support (p = 0.0001), and higher stress levels (p = 0.0001). Conclusion: The study revealed a high prevalence of PPD among mothers in Najran City, with sociodemographic, obstetric, and psychosocial factors significantly influencing PPD risk. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions and support systems to address maternal mental health needs effectively.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
The Role of Homogeneous Waiting Group Criteria in Patient Referrals: Views of General Practitioners and Specialists in South Tyrol, Italy
by
Giuliano Piccoliori, Christian J. Wiedermann, Verena Barbieri and Adolf Engl
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100985 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Homogeneous waiting group (HWG) criteria are central to the patient referral process, guiding primary care physicians and hospitalists in directing patient care to specialists. This cross-sectional observational study, conducted in South Tyrol, Italy, in 2023, aimed to assess the implementation and impact of
[...] Read more.
Homogeneous waiting group (HWG) criteria are central to the patient referral process, guiding primary care physicians and hospitalists in directing patient care to specialists. This cross-sectional observational study, conducted in South Tyrol, Italy, in 2023, aimed to assess the implementation and impact of HWG criteria on healthcare from the perspective of general practitioners and hospital physicians. A questionnaire was developed to gain knowledge about referral practices as perceived by general practitioners and specialists. The survey included 313 participants (82 general practitioners and 231 hospital physicians) and was designed to capture a range of factors influencing the application of HWG criteria, including communication and collaboration practices. The results showed moderate levels of familiarity with HWG criteria and opinions about the need for criteria refinement among hospitalists, indicating that further education and refinement of these criteria are warranted. Both general practitioners and hospital physicians expressed dissatisfaction with the current specialist referral system, highlighting the significant gaps in effective communication and collaboration. The survey also demonstrated the influence of patient demands and waiting times on referral practices, and the need for streamlined and accessible specialist care. This study highlights the need for improvement and adaptation of HWG criteria to better meet the needs of healthcare providers and patients in South Tyrol. By addressing the identified gaps in communication, collaboration, and education related to the HWG system, the efficiency, effectiveness, and patient-centeredness of the referral process can be improved, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Professional Education and Primary Health Care)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessBrief Report
Targeted Tick-Borne Disease Recognition: Assessing Risk for Improved Public Health
by
Pyung Kim, Sarah Maxwell, Nabila Parijat, Dohyeong Kim and Connie L. McNeely
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100984 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a rapidly growing threat to public health. The incidence of TBDs is on the rise, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the risk factors beyond demographic considerations. This brief report combines a preliminary review of the literature with geographical case
[...] Read more.
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a rapidly growing threat to public health. The incidence of TBDs is on the rise, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the risk factors beyond demographic considerations. This brief report combines a preliminary review of the literature with geographical case mapping to identify the various factors influencing TBD risk. The report highlights the vulnerability of outdoor workers, the importance of outdoor activities, and the role of education in adopting preventive behaviors. Pet ownership and interactions with animals are also associated with an increased risk. The state of Illinois is used as a case study for this report, revealing regional variations in TBD incidence, and linking them to agricultural practices, forested areas, and park accessibility. These findings inform recommendations for targeted prevention strategies, emphasizing the need for detailed geographical data to enhance public health efforts in curbing TBD incidence and risk.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
A Data-Driven Approach to Defining Risk-Adjusted Coding Specificity Metrics for a Large U.S. Dementia Patient Cohort
by
Kaylla Richardson, Sankari Penumaka, Jaleesa Smoot, Mansi Reddy Panaganti, Indu Radha Chinta, Devi Priya Guduri, Sucharitha Reddy Tiyyagura, John Martin, Michael Korvink and Laura H. Gunn
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 983; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100983 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Medical coding impacts patient care quality, payor reimbursement, and system reliability through the precision of patient information documentation. Inadequate coding specificity can have significant consequences at administrative and patient levels. Models to identify and/or enhance coding specificity practices are needed. Clinical records are
[...] Read more.
Medical coding impacts patient care quality, payor reimbursement, and system reliability through the precision of patient information documentation. Inadequate coding specificity can have significant consequences at administrative and patient levels. Models to identify and/or enhance coding specificity practices are needed. Clinical records are not always available, complete, or homogeneous, and clinically driven metrics to assess medical practices are not logistically feasible at the population level, particularly in non-centralized healthcare delivery systems and/or for those who only have access to claims data. Data-driven approaches that incorporate all available information are needed to explore coding specificity practices. Using N = 487,775 hospitalization records of individuals diagnosed with dementia and discharged in 2022 from a large all-payor administrative claims dataset, we fitted logistic regression models using patient and facility characteristics to explain the coding specificity of principal and secondary diagnoses of dementia. A two-step approach was produced to allow for the flexible clustering of patient-level outcomes. Model outcomes were then used within a Poisson binomial model to identify facilities that over- or under-specify dementia diagnoses against healthcare industry standards across hospitalizations. The results indicate that multiple factors are significantly associated with dementia coding specificity, especially for principal diagnoses of dementia (AUC = 0.727). The practical use of this novel risk-adjusted metric is demonstrated for a sample of facilities and geospatially via a U.S. map. This study’s findings provide healthcare facilities with a benchmark for assessing coding specificity practices and developing quality enhancements to align with healthcare industry standards, ultimately contributing to better patient care and healthcare system reliability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data Driven Insights in Healthcare)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Caregiver Knowledge, Attitude, and Behavior toward Care of Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Saudi Arabian Perspective
by
Abdulaziz Almosallam, Ahmad Zaheer Qureshi, Bashayer Alzahrani, Sultanh AlSultan, Waad Ibrahim Alzubaidi and Alanoud Alsanad
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100982 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
The care of children with cerebral palsy (CP) requires a complex system of care that is not only dependent on health care resources, but is also strongly influenced by social and cultural attributes. Hence, it is important to explore the understanding and practices
[...] Read more.
The care of children with cerebral palsy (CP) requires a complex system of care that is not only dependent on health care resources, but is also strongly influenced by social and cultural attributes. Hence, it is important to explore the understanding and practices of caregivers within a regional perspective. This study was conducted to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and behavior (KAB) of parents with children diagnosed with CP in Saudi Arabia. A cross sectional survey was conducted on the caregivers of children with CP admitted for inpatient rehabilitation between October 2023 to January 2024. A total of 216 caregivers participated in this survey. About 82.9% of caregivers were the mothers of CP children, half (50.5%) were ≤36 years old, 53.7% were highly educated, and 89.2% lived in urban areas. More than half of the participants (57.7%) owned their homes. Regarding children, spastic quadriplegia was the most common type (46.3% of cases). Overall, the participants recorded good values for all variables for KAB. The mean value for attitude was higher (2.67 ± 0.20) when compared to behavior (2.49 ± 0.36) and knowledge (2.46 ± 0.25). Participants who had children with spastic quadriplegia CP reported lower behavior scores than their peers. Strategies with a special emphasis on improving the behaviors of caregivers for children with quadriplegia need to be adapted. Similarly, the living situations of families need to be taken into consideration given its significant association with the attitude of caregivers. A considerable lack of knowledge in handling emergency situations by caregivers signifies a gap in care, which could have potentially life-threatening consequences.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Role of Place Attachment in the Relationship between Attitudes toward Aging and Subjective Well-Being among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Taiwan
by
Jia-Jen Chen, Li-Fan Liu and She-Ming Chen
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 981; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100981 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Subjective well-being presents a societal challenge for vulnerable older adults. This study aims to investigate the mediating role of place attachment in the relationship between attitudes toward aging and subjective well-being among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. Two waves of investigations were conducted
[...] Read more.
Subjective well-being presents a societal challenge for vulnerable older adults. This study aims to investigate the mediating role of place attachment in the relationship between attitudes toward aging and subjective well-being among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. Two waves of investigations were conducted to examine the interplay between attitudes toward aging, subjective well-being, and place attachment among older adults. In Wave I, 1190 participants were enrolled, revealing predominantly younger cohorts with substantial educational levels. The subsequent Wave II involved 483 participants, maintaining continuity in characteristics. Subjective well-being remained moderate across waves, with prevalent positive attitudes toward aging. Place attachment scores indicated moderate to high associations. After controlling for demographics, structural equation modeling (SEM) in both waves revealed significant positive associations: attitudes toward aging influenced well-being, attitudes toward aging were positively associated with place attachment, and place attachment was positively related to well-being. Mediation testing confirmed the mediating role of place attachment in the relationship between attitudes toward aging and well-being. These findings underscore the important role of place attachment. It is evident that improving attitudes toward aging is an effective intervention which can lead to a better sense of well-being by enhancing place attachment to empower civil society.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Aging and Care in the Global Communities: Models & Challenges)
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy on the Tongue Dorsum on Reducing Halitosis and the Duration of the Effect: A Randomized Clinical Trial
by
Takayuki Maruyama, Daisuke Ekuni, Aya Yokoi, Junichiro Nagasaki, Nanami Sawada and Manabu Morita
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100980 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment that is gaining popularity in modern clinical medicine. However, little is known about the effect of PDT alone on reducing oral halitosis and the duration of the effect. This trial examined the effect of PDT on
[...] Read more.
Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment that is gaining popularity in modern clinical medicine. However, little is known about the effect of PDT alone on reducing oral halitosis and the duration of the effect. This trial examined the effect of PDT on the tongue dorsum on reducing oral halitosis and the duration of the effect. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Okayama University Hospital (CRB20-015), and it was registered in the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs061200060). Twenty-two participants were randomly assigned to two groups: an intervention group and control group. PDT was performed in the intervention group using red laser emission and methylene blue gel on the middle and posterior area of the tongue dorsum. The concentration of volatile sulfur compounds, bacterial count on the tongue dorsum, probing pocket depth, bleeding on probing, and simplified oral debris index score were determined before and 1 week after PDT. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to assess the significance of the differences in each parameter between the two groups. We found that the hydrogen sulfide concentration and bacterial count on the tongue dorsum were decreased in the intervention group, but there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. These results indicated that performing only PDT on the tongue dorsum may not contribute to reducing halitosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventive Care in Healthcare—2nd Edition)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessEssay
The Scabbard of Excalibur: An Allegory on the Role of an Efficient and Effective Healthcare System under Universal Health Coverage during the Pandemic Response
by
Hiroyuki Noda
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 979; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100979 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while some countries succeeded in reducing their rate of death after SARS-CoV-2 infection via vaccination by the end of 2021, some of them also faced hospital capacity strain, leading to social anxiety about delays in the diagnosis and treatment
[...] Read more.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while some countries succeeded in reducing their rate of death after SARS-CoV-2 infection via vaccination by the end of 2021, some of them also faced hospital capacity strain, leading to social anxiety about delays in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with other diseases. This essay presents an allegory to explain the situation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through an allegory and Le Morte d’Arthur (Arthur’s Death), this essay indicates that “the scabbard of Excalibur” that we are looking for is an efficient and effective healthcare system that can diagnose patients who might become severely ill due to COVID-19 and to treat them without hospital capacity strain. In Le Morte d’Arthur, the scabbard of Excalibur was lost, and we have not been able to find any alternatives to end the COVID-19 pandemic. We can choose a future in which “the scabbard of Excalibur” exists, providing a different ending for the next pandemic.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Post COVID-19: Latest Advances, Challenges and Methodologies)
Open AccessArticle
Changes in MRI Workflow of Multiple Sclerosis after Introduction of an AI-Software: A Qualitative Study
by
Eiko Rathmann, Pia Hemkemeier, Susan Raths, Matthias Grothe, Fiona Mankertz, Norbert Hosten and Steffen Flessa
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100978 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of the integration of machine learning into daily radiological diagnostics, using the example of the machine learning software mdbrain® (Mediaire GmbH, Germany) in the diagnostic MRI workflow of patients with multiple sclerosis
[...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of the integration of machine learning into daily radiological diagnostics, using the example of the machine learning software mdbrain® (Mediaire GmbH, Germany) in the diagnostic MRI workflow of patients with multiple sclerosis at the University Medicine Greifswald. The data were assessed through expert interviews, a comparison of analysis times with and without the machine learning software, as well as a process analysis of MRI workflows. Our results indicate a reduction in the screen-reading workload, improved decision-making regarding contrast administration, an optimized workflow, reduced examination times, and facilitated report communication with colleagues and patients. Our results call for a broader and quantitative analysis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence Applications in Medicine: Second Edition)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Post-Pandemic Evolution of Suicide Risk in Children and Adolescents Attending a General Hospital Accident and Emergency Department
by
Ana Maciá-Casas, Javier de la Iglesia-Larrad, Llanyra García-Ullán, Belén Refoyo-Matellán, Clara Munaiz-Cossío, Sara Díaz-Trejo, Vanesa Berdión-Marcos, Julia Calama-Martín, Carlos Roncero and Jesús Pérez
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100977 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Lockdowns and other health protective measures, such as social distancing, imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic nurtured unprecedented levels of stress and social isolation around the world. This scenario triggered an increase in suicide thoughts and self-harm behaviours among children and young people.
[...] Read more.
Background: Lockdowns and other health protective measures, such as social distancing, imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic nurtured unprecedented levels of stress and social isolation around the world. This scenario triggered an increase in suicide thoughts and self-harm behaviours among children and young people. However, the longer-term impact of the pandemic on children’s and adolescents’ mental health, especially with regard to self-harm, is still to be fully discovered. Methods: We carried out a retrospective study where we collected data related to suicide ideation and self-harm behaviours in all patients aged under 18 that required on-call psychiatric services at the General Hospital Accident and Emergency (A&E) department in Salamanca, Spain, during 2019 (pre-pandemic) and in both 2021 and 2022 to capture possible variation at different time points during the post-pandemic period. Results: A total of 316 patients aged under 18 were seen by on-call psychiatric services at the A&E department during the three time periods: 78 in 2019, 98 in 2021 and 140 in 2022. The mean age was 15.12 (SD 2.25) and females represented more than twice the number of males each year. More than half of all patients assessed during 2022 disclosed suicide thoughts, whilst in 2019, it was near 25%. This increase in suicide ideation rates was more marked among females (X2 = 15.127; p = 0.001), those aged over 15 (X2 = 16.437; p < 0.001) and/or those with a previous history of mental health problems (X2 = 17.823; p < 0.001). We identified an increase in the proportion of males with suicide ideas, especially between 2021 and 2022 (X2 = 8.396; p = 0.015). Conclusions: Our study suggests that children’s and adolescents’ demand for urgent mental healthcare and their clinical presentations in A&E departments with suicide thoughts and/or self-injuries do not seem to be declining after the pandemic but increasing over time. More research is warranted to understand possible factors involved in this sustained upward trend.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Comparing Conventional Physician-Led Education with VR Education for Pacemaker Implantation: A Randomized Study
by
Adela Drozdova, Karin Polokova, Otakar Jiravsky, Bogna Jiravska Godula, Jan Chovancik, Ivan Ranic, Filip Jiravsky, Jan Hecko and Libor Sknouril
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100976 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Education of patients prior to an invasive procedure is pivotal for good cooperation and knowledge retention. Virtual reality (VR) is a fast-developing technology that helps educate both medical professionals and patients. Objective: To prove non-inferiority of VR education compared to conventional education
[...] Read more.
Introduction: Education of patients prior to an invasive procedure is pivotal for good cooperation and knowledge retention. Virtual reality (VR) is a fast-developing technology that helps educate both medical professionals and patients. Objective: To prove non-inferiority of VR education compared to conventional education in patients prior to the implantation of a permanent pacemaker (PPM). Methods: 150 participants scheduled for an elective implantation of a PPM were enrolled in this prospective study and randomized into two groups: the VR group (n = 75) watched a 360° video about the procedure using the VR headset Oculus Meta Quest 2, while the conventional group (n = 75) was educated by a physician. Both groups filled out a questionnaire to assess the quality of education pre- and in-hospital, their knowledge of the procedure, and their subjective satisfaction. Results: There was no significant difference in the quality of education. There was a non-significant trend towards higher educational scores in the VR group. The subgroup with worse scores was older than the groups with higher scores (82 vs. 76 years, p = 0.025). Anxiety was reduced in 92% of participants. Conclusion: VR proved to be non-inferior to conventional education. It helped to reduce anxiety and showed no adverse effects.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare in Digital Environments: An Interdisciplinary Perspective)
Open AccessArticle
Role of a National Health Service Electronic Prescriptions Database in the Detection of Prescribing and Dispensing Issues and Adherence Evaluation of Direct Oral Anticoagulants
by
Anna Gavrilova, Maksims Zolovs, Dins Šmits, Anastasija Ņikitina, Gustavs Latkovskis and Inga Urtāne
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 975; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100975 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Background: Anticoagulation therapy plays a crucial role in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF) by significantly reducing the risk of stroke. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) became preferred over warfarin due to their superior safety and efficacy profile. Assessing adherence to anticoagulation therapy is
[...] Read more.
Background: Anticoagulation therapy plays a crucial role in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF) by significantly reducing the risk of stroke. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) became preferred over warfarin due to their superior safety and efficacy profile. Assessing adherence to anticoagulation therapy is necessary in clinical practice for optimising patient outcomes and treatment efficacy, thus emphasising its significance. Methods: A retrospective study utilised the Latvian National Health Service reimbursement prescriptions database, covering prescriptions for AF and flutter from January 2012 to December 2022. The proportion of days covered method was selected for adherence assessment, categorising it into three groups: (1) below 80%, (2) between 80% and 90%, and (3) above 90%. Results: A total of 1,646,648 prescriptions were analysed. Dabigatran prescriptions started declining after 2020, coinciding with a decrease in warfarin prescriptions since 2018. The total adherence levels to DOAC therapy were 69.4%. Only 44.2% of users achieved an adherence level exceeding 80%. The rate of paper prescriptions decreased from 98.5% in 2017 to 1.3% in 2022. Additionally, the utilisation of international non-proprietary names reached 79.7% in 2022. Specifically, 16.7% of patients selected a single pharmacy, whereas 27.7% visited one or two pharmacies. Meanwhile, other patients obtained medicines from multiple pharmacies. Conclusions: The total adherence level to DOAC therapy is evaluated as low and there was no significant difference in age, gender, or “switcher” status among adherence groups. Physicians’ prescribing habits have changed over a decade.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Role of Healthcare Professionals in the Transition Process: A Qualitative Study of Families of Trans Children and Adolescents
by
Lucía González-Mendiondo, Aingeru Mayor and Nieves Moyano
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 974; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100974 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the role that healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians, psychologists, psychiatrists and sexologists, play in supporting trans children and adolescents in their transition processes. To this end, 22 life stories written by parents of trans children
[...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to explore the role that healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians, psychologists, psychiatrists and sexologists, play in supporting trans children and adolescents in their transition processes. To this end, 22 life stories written by parents of trans children and adolescents who had undergone social transition were collected, and a qualitative analysis was carried out using MAXQDA software. For this purpose, three key periods were considered in the stories: before, during and after the transition. Among other aspects, the stories highlight a major lack of understanding on the part of the professionals who should support trans children and adolescents, and their families, in their transition processes. Parents described the attitude of those professionals who actively listened to their children’s needs and were cooperative as positive, even if they do not have the necessary training. The need for specific training in diversity is one of the main conclusions of this study.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sexual Functioning, Sexual Satisfaction and Health)
Open AccessCorrection
Correction: Bogusz, A.; Górnicka, M. Low Diet Quality and Nutritional Knowledge in Women with Endometriosis: A Pilot Study. Healthcare 2024, 12, 673
by
Angelika Bogusz and Magdalena Górnicka
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 973; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100973 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The authors would like to make the following corrections to the publication, dealing with references #25 and #42 [...]
Full article
Open AccessStudy Protocol
Women Acute Myocardial Infarction—Identifying and Understanding the Gender Gap (WAMy-GAP): A Study Protocol
by
Vincenza Giordano, Assunta Guillari, Vincenza Sansone, Maria Catone and Teresa Rea
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100972 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Barriers to accessing care and misinterpretations of ischemic heart disease symptoms due to lack of awareness contribute to women’s delay in seeking care. Women may delay seeking treatment for up to 3 h or even up to 5 days. They often perceive themselves
[...] Read more.
Barriers to accessing care and misinterpretations of ischemic heart disease symptoms due to lack of awareness contribute to women’s delay in seeking care. Women may delay seeking treatment for up to 3 h or even up to 5 days. They often perceive themselves to be at low risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and prioritize family responsibilities or household chores. The causes of this delay are multifactorial and influence the decision-making process, particularly in the pre-hospital phase. The objective of this study protocol is to evaluate prodromal symptoms and identify risk behaviors in women with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This is a protocol for a multicenter study that will be conducted using the mixed-method methodology using the McSweeney Acute and Prodromal Myocardial Infarction Symptom Survey (MAPMISS) to evaluate symptoms and semi-structured interviews to investigate behaviors. This study protocol is intended to fill an important knowledge gap on premonitory and acute symptoms of AMI in women in Italy, as well as to understand the causes and mechanisms underlying delays in accessing healthcare services during an acute event such as AMI. The investigation of this issue will facilitate the removal of gender-related inequalities in the diagnosis and treatment of acute myocardial infarction while also fostering dialogue on the barriers to behavior change.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Women's Health Care)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure A1
Open AccessReview
Telerehabilitation in Children and Adolescents with Cystic Fibrosis: A Scoping Review
by
Ezequiel Pessoa, Mara Ferreira and Cristina Lavareda Baixinho
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100971 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis requires regular monitoring and intervention by healthcare teams; despite that, adherence to therapeutic measures is less than desired. The evolution of technology has allowed much of the care provided in person to be replaced by a telehealth delivery model, but studies
[...] Read more.
Cystic fibrosis requires regular monitoring and intervention by healthcare teams; despite that, adherence to therapeutic measures is less than desired. The evolution of technology has allowed much of the care provided in person to be replaced by a telehealth delivery model, but studies on telerehabilitation are scarce and dispersed. This scoping review aimed to identify which domains of rehabilitation intervention are mediated by information and communication technologies and how they are developed in the provision of care to children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis. The data collection was conducted in February and June 2023, following the three steps recommended by the JBI for this type of review: (1) the search was conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, JBI, and Web of Science; (2) the bibliographic references obtained from the included articles were analysed; and (3) the grey literature was checked. The eligibility criteria were children and adolescents and rehabilitation interventions mediated by information and communication technologies. The five studies included in this review were subjected to analysis, and a narrative synthesis of the results was carried out. The interventions identified included physical exercise programs (60%), management of the therapeutic regimen (40%), and symptom control (40%). The information and communication technologies were web-based platforms, video games, and telephones. The use of telerehabilitation included face-to-face meetings to ensure participants performed the exercises correctly, monitor their response to exercise, and teach them how to avoid risky situations during home workouts. In all studies, exercise sessions were supervised by the participants’ parents or caregivers.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Family Care and Mental Health Delivery to Improve Welfare of Children and Parents)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Family Caregivers’ Experiences during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Study
by
Milagros Rico-Blázquez, Raquel Sánchez-Ruano, Cristina Oter-Quintana, Elena Polentinos-Castro, Ángel Martín-García, Pedro Otones-Reyes, Damián González-Beltrán and Mercedes Martínez-Marcos
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100970 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic imposed lockdown measures that affected caregiving. Understanding caregivers’ context provides reveals their adaptive strategies to continue caring in this situation of uncertainty and isolation. Objective: To better understand the caregiving experiences of caregivers looking after dependent individuals living in
[...] Read more.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic imposed lockdown measures that affected caregiving. Understanding caregivers’ context provides reveals their adaptive strategies to continue caring in this situation of uncertainty and isolation. Objective: To better understand the caregiving experiences of caregivers looking after dependent individuals living in the community during the pandemic. Design: Qualitative research, phenomenological approach. Setting: Primary healthcare centers in Madrid region (Spain). Participants: 21 family caregivers. Methods: Purposive and theoretical sampling was used to recruit caregivers across nurses from primary healthcare centers. Participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide to explore the caring experience. Interview transcripts were evaluated using thematic analysis. Results: The findings were categorized into two themes: “Caregivers during lockdown—providing care in a time of adversity” and “Caregiving toward normality”. The sub-themes identified were the re-structuring of before-care services and the introduction of new care approaches, managing the dependent person’s health problems, looking after oneself, and dealing with adversity. To adapt to the new normal, strategies were put in place designed to recover confidence and trust, reincorporate assistance, and reconnect with others. Conclusions: Care intensified during the pandemic. Caregivers took on the task without assistance, focusing on preventing contagion and protecting themselves to be able to continue giving care.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Patient Centred Care: Current Situation and Development)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Healthcare Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Architecture, Buildings, Infrastructures, Land, Smart Cities, Healthcare, Systems
SDGs 2030 in Buildings and Infrastructure
Topic Editors: Tao Wang, Hanliang Fu, Zezhou WuDeadline: 31 May 2024
Topic in
Behavioral Sciences, Children, Healthcare, IJERPH, Nutrients
Economics of Public Health: Assessment of Health Interventions
Topic Editors: Ce Shang, Amanda J. Quisenberry, Yingning WangDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Societies, Sports, Healthcare
Sport and Society
Topic Editors: José Carmelo Adsuar, Mitchell Alberto Alarcón Diaz, Jorge Carlos-Vivas, Roxana Paola Palacios Cartagena, Carmen Galán Arroyo, Ana Fondón-LudeñaDeadline: 31 July 2024
Topic in
Healthcare, IJERPH, JCM, Nutrients, Pharmacy
The Promotion and Development of Community Health for Personal Health: Theories and Applications
Topic Editors: Yang Gao, Lianyong Qi, Chia-Huei Wu, Yu-Hsi Yuan, Datian BiDeadline: 31 August 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Healthcare
New Waves of Sexual and Reproductive Health
Guest Editors: Agnieszka Bień, Magdalena Korżyńska-PiętasDeadline: 24 May 2024
Special Issue in
Healthcare
Non-pharmacological Approaches and Their Impact on Noncommunicable Diseases
Guest Editor: Markel Rico-GonzálezDeadline: 3 June 2024
Special Issue in
Healthcare
Nursing Care for Patients with Diabetes
Guest Editor: Eugenia VlachouDeadline: 15 June 2024
Special Issue in
Healthcare
Advancements in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science for Cardiovascular Health
Guest Editor: Raha PazokiDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Healthcare
E-learning and Digital Training in Healthcare Education: Current Trends and New Challenges
Collection Editors: Luís Proença, José João Mendes, João Botelho, Vanessa Machado
Topical Collection in
Healthcare
Current Nursing Practice and Education
Collection Editor: Florin Oprescu
Topical Collection in
Healthcare
Advances in Integrative Medicine: Complementary Approaches and Therapies in Global Healthcare
Collection Editors: Jorge P. Machado, Maria Begoña Criado