Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

Article Types

Countries / Regions

Search Results (133)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = reduction in hospital visits

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
13 pages, 824 KB  
Article
Continuous Flumazenil Infusion and Time to Consciousness Recovery in Benzodiazepine Poisoning: A Retrospective Cohort Study
by Jisu Kim, Soo Hyun Kim, Seung Pill Choi, Jong Ho Zhu, Sung Wook Kim, Mi Kyong Kwon and Jae Hun Oh
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(17), 5983; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14175983 - 24 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Benzodiazepine poisoning is a frequent cause of emergency department (ED) visits, often related to suicide attempts. Flumazenil is the only specific antidote, but its continuous infusion protocol remains controversial because of its uncertain outcome benefits and increased risk of adverse events. This [...] Read more.
Background: Benzodiazepine poisoning is a frequent cause of emergency department (ED) visits, often related to suicide attempts. Flumazenil is the only specific antidote, but its continuous infusion protocol remains controversial because of its uncertain outcome benefits and increased risk of adverse events. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of continuous flumazenil infusion on the time to recovery of consciousness and secondary outcomes in patients with benzodiazepine poisoning stratified by hospitalization status. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Seoul, Korea, including adults treated for benzodiazepine poisoning in the ED between April 2019 and March 2024. The primary outcome being the time from arrival at the ED to regaining consciousness. Multivariate regression identified independent predictors of delayed recovery. Results: Among the 370 patients, 52.4% were hospitalized. Flumazenil infusion was administered in 46.8% of the patients, more often in hospitalized patients. In this group, flumazenil infusion significantly reduced the median time to regain consciousness (13.7 vs. 19.4 h, p = 0.006) but did not affect the overall hospital stay. In nonhospitalized patients, flumazenil infusion did not shorten the awakening time or prolong the ED stay. Adverse events, mainly agitation, were more frequent with flumazenil infusion. Conclusions: Continuous infusion of flumazenil accelerates the recovery of consciousness only in hospitalized patients who are severely affected by benzodiazepine poisoning but with increased adverse events and no reduction in hospital stay. Individualized patient selection and evidence-based protocols are needed for optimal and safe antidote use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Emergency Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

34 pages, 1007 KB  
Systematic Review
Fake News in Tourism: A Systematic Literature Review
by Fanni Kaszás, Soňa Chovanová Supeková and Richard Keklak
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080454 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 725
Abstract
In recent years, the number of fake news stories has significantly increased in the world of media, especially with the widespread use of social media. It has impacted several industries, including tourism. From a tourism point of view, the spread of fake news [...] Read more.
In recent years, the number of fake news stories has significantly increased in the world of media, especially with the widespread use of social media. It has impacted several industries, including tourism. From a tourism point of view, the spread of fake news can contribute to the reduction of the popularity of a destination. It may influence travel decisions by discouraging tourists from visiting certain places and thus damage the reputation of the destination, contributing to economic loss. After a literature review on the communication aspect of fake news and a general introduction of fake news in the tourism and hospitality industry, we conducted a systematic literature review (SLR), a research methodology to collect, identify, and analyse available research studies through a systematic procedure. The current SLR is based on the Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases of existing literature on the topic of fake news in the tourism and hospitality industry. The study identifies, lists, and examines existing papers and conference proceedings from a vast array of disciplines, in order to give a well-rounded view on the issue of fake news in the tourism and hospitality industry. After selecting a total of 54 previous studies from more than 20 thousand results for the keywords ‘fake news’ and ‘tourism,’ we have analysed 39 papers in total. The SLR aimed to highlight existing gaps in the literature and areas that may require further exploration in future primary research. We have found that there is relatively limited academic literature available on the subject of fake news affecting tourism destinations, compared to studies focused on hospitality services. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Creating Resilient Societies in a Changing World)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 647 KB  
Article
Medical Cannabis Use and Healthcare Utilization Among Patients with Chronic Pain: A Causal Inference Analysis Using TMLE
by Mitchell L. Doucette, Emily Fisher, Junella Chin and Panagiota Kitsantas
Pharmacy 2025, 13(4), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13040096 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1847
Abstract
Introduction: Chronic pain affects approximately 20% of U.S. adults, imposing significant burdens on individuals and healthcare systems. Medical cannabis has emerged as a potential therapy, yet its impact on healthcare utilization remains unclear. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed administrative data from a [...] Read more.
Introduction: Chronic pain affects approximately 20% of U.S. adults, imposing significant burdens on individuals and healthcare systems. Medical cannabis has emerged as a potential therapy, yet its impact on healthcare utilization remains unclear. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed administrative data from a telehealth platform providing medical cannabis certifications across 36 U.S. states. Patients were classified as cannabis-exposed if they had used cannabis in the past year, while unexposed patients had no prior cannabis use. Outcomes included self-reported urgent care visits, emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, and quality of life (QoL), measured using the CDC’s Healthy Days measure. Targeted Maximum Likelihood Estimation with SuperLearner estimated causal effects, adjusting for numerous covariates. Results: Medical cannabis users exhibited significantly lower healthcare utilization. Specifically, exposure was associated with a 2.0 percentage point reduction in urgent care visits (95% CI: −0.036, −0.004), a 3.2 percentage point reduction in ED visits (95% CI: −0.051, −0.012) and fewer unhealthy days per month (−3.52 days, 95% CI: −4.28, −2.76). Hospitalization rates trended lower but were not statistically significant. Covariate balance and propensity score overlap indicated well-fitting models. Conclusions: Medical cannabis use was associated with reduced healthcare utilization and improved self-reported QoL among chronic pain patients. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 951 KB  
Article
Food Tolerance and Quality of Eating After Bariatric Surgery—An Observational Study of a German Obesity Center
by Alexandra Jungert, Alida Finze, Alexander Betzler, Christoph Reißfelder, Susanne Blank, Mirko Otto, Georgi Vassilev and Johanna Betzler
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 4961; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14144961 - 13 Jul 2025
Viewed by 542
Abstract
Background: Bariatric surgeries, specifically laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), are a common intervention for morbid obesity, significantly affecting food tolerance and quality of eating. Understanding these changes is crucial for improving postoperative care and long-term success. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: Bariatric surgeries, specifically laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), are a common intervention for morbid obesity, significantly affecting food tolerance and quality of eating. Understanding these changes is crucial for improving postoperative care and long-term success. Methods: This observational study at University Hospital Mannheim involved 91 patients, aged between 18 and 65 year, who underwent SG or RYGB between 2009 and 2019. Food tolerance was assessed between 25 days and 117 months after surgery using the validated score by Suter et al. (Food Tolerance Score, FTS) and an additional score evaluating tolerance to specific food groups and quality of life. Data on body composition were collected through Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) at follow-up visits. Statistical analyses included linear mixed models to analyze the association of food tolerance with body composition changes. Results: The FTS indicated moderate or poor food tolerance in 62.6% of patients, with no significant differences between SG and RYGB. Considering the results of the additional score, food groups such as red meat, wheat products, raw vegetables, carbon dioxide, fatty foods, convenience food, and sweets were the most poorly tolerated food groups. A total of 57 of the participants had a baseline and follow-up BIA measurement. Postoperatively, a significant reduction in body weight and BMI as well as in BIA parameters (fat mass, lean mass, body cell mass, and phase angle) was found. Quality of life improved after bariatric surgery and 76.9% rated their nutritional status as good or excellent, despite possible food intolerances. Conclusions: Bariatric surgery significantly reduces weight and alters food tolerance. Despite moderate or poor food tolerance, patients reported high satisfaction with their nutritional status and quality of life. Detailed food tolerance assessments and personalized dietary follow-ups are essential for the early detection and management of postoperative malnutrition, ensuring sustained weight loss and improved health outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology & Metabolism)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 403 KB  
Article
Long-Term Evolution of Chronic Neuropathic Ocular Pain and Dry Eye Following Corneal Refractive Surgery
by Cristina Valencia-Sandonís, Amanda Vázquez, Laura Valencia-Nieto, Elena Martínez-Plaza, Marta Blanco-Vázquez, Eva M. Sobas, Margarita Calonge, Enrique Ortega, Amalia Enríquez-de-Salamanca and María J. González-García
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(13), 4406; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14134406 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 910
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Chronic neuropathic ocular pain (NOP) can manifest concurrently with dry eye (DE) symptoms following ocular surgical procedures. Due to its low prevalence, NOP remains an underrecognized and underdiagnosed postoperative complication, leading to suboptimal management. This study evaluated the long-term evolution of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Chronic neuropathic ocular pain (NOP) can manifest concurrently with dry eye (DE) symptoms following ocular surgical procedures. Due to its low prevalence, NOP remains an underrecognized and underdiagnosed postoperative complication, leading to suboptimal management. This study evaluated the long-term evolution of symptoms, signs, and tear biomarkers in patients with NOP and DE after corneal refractive surgery (RS). Methods: Patients with chronic NOP and persistent DE-related symptoms after corneal RS were assessed in two visits (V1 and V2), at least two years apart. Symptoms (DE, pain, anxiety, and depression) were measured with specific questionnaires. Clinical examination included a slit-lamp ocular surface evaluation, corneal sensitivity measurement, and subbasal corneal nerve plexus evaluation. Basal tear samples were collected, and a 20-plex cytokine panel and Substance P (SP) were assayed. Results: Twenty-three patients (35.57 ± 8.43 years) were included, with a mean time between visits of 4.83 ± 1.10 years. DE symptoms, measured with the Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire, improved at V2 (p < 0.001), along with a reduction in anxiety and depression levels, measured with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (p = 0.027). Corneal staining also decreased (p < 0.001), while subbasal nerve plexus parameters and corneal sensitivity remained unchanged. Tear analysis revealed increased concentrations of fractalkine/CX3CL1 (p = 0.039), interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist (Ra) (p = 0.025), IL-10 (p = 0.002), and SP (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Symptom improvement may result from better control of underlying pathologies or natural disease progression. However, the increased levels of SP and fractalkine/CX3CL1 suggest sustained neurogenic inflammation, while elevated IL-1Ra and IL-10 indicate a potential compensatory anti-inflammatory response. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Dry Eye Disease Treatment: 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 625 KB  
Review
Are There Benefits to Observation Units in the Emergency Departments: A Narrative Review
by Emmeline Leggett, Shirin Haan, Carolina Mendoza, Ali Pourmand, Sarah Sommerkamp, Rose Chasm, Jason Adler, Michael C. Bond and Quincy K. Tran
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(12), 4333; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14124333 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 555
Abstract
Introduction: Visits to Emergency Departments (ED) in the United States are increasing, creating a crowding problem, including longer length of stay in the ED (EDLOS) and worse outcomes. Many ED resort to observational units (EDOU) to help alleviate this crowding issue. This narrative [...] Read more.
Introduction: Visits to Emergency Departments (ED) in the United States are increasing, creating a crowding problem, including longer length of stay in the ED (EDLOS) and worse outcomes. Many ED resort to observational units (EDOU) to help alleviate this crowding issue. This narrative review assessed the current state of literature to investigate the benefits of EDOU while reviewing the barriers to create such units. Methods: This review utilized the Patient Intervention Control Outcome (PICO) format. The searches were performed on PubMed from its inception to 14 November 2024. The outcomes were EDLOS, hospital admission rates, and 7-day ED return rates. Any randomized trials or observational studies (either retrospective or prospective) that reported pre-EDOUs and post-EDOUs, or studies comparing patients in the EDOUs versus control were eligible. We excluded abstracts and non-original studies. Results: Our search identified 904 results, and we included 34 articles in this review. Four studies reported EDLOS with an average of 14–23 h. Two studies performed a comparison analysis and found a decreases in EDLOS between 23 and 28%, while two studies discovered no significant difference. Four studies reported a statistically significant reduction in hospital admission rates, with absolute reductions in rates ranging from 2.7% to 44%. Two studies found no significant difference. Both EDLOS and rates of hospital admission were more impactful when EDOU focused on a single chief complaint or narrowed criteria. Only three studies commented on 7-day ED return rate, reporting ranges from 1.9% of patients returning in 72 h, and 10.8% returning within 14 days. Additionally, they identified that 53.3% of potentially avoidable visits occurred within 48 h of discharge, and the majority of returns were related to original chief complaints. Conclusions: The Observation Units for Emergency Departments offer many benefits such as potential reduction in EDLOS and hospital admissions. However, the implementation of EDOUs usually comes with high initial costs, which hinders the process. Thus, more studies with robust methodology are still needed to assess the intricacies of these benefits of the EDOUs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Trends and Prospects of Critical Emergency Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 865 KB  
Article
Confidential Audit of Perinatal Mortality in the Republic of Kazakhstan: A Pilot Study
by Aizada Marat, Zaituna Khamidullina, Svetlana Muratbekova, Kulyash Jaxalykova, Bekturgan Karin, Nazerke Samatova, Umit Usmanova, Madina Sharipova, Aknur Kobetayeva, Milan Terzic, Yesbolat Sakko and Gulzhanat Aimagambetova
Med. Sci. 2025, 13(2), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci13020077 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 597
Abstract
Introduction: Perinatal mortality is labeled as the loss of fetuses at or beyond 22 weeks of gestation, deaths during labor and delivery, as well as early neonatal deaths. Appropriate medical care provided in the perinatal period is an integral indicator of high-quality medical care. [...] Read more.
Introduction: Perinatal mortality is labeled as the loss of fetuses at or beyond 22 weeks of gestation, deaths during labor and delivery, as well as early neonatal deaths. Appropriate medical care provided in the perinatal period is an integral indicator of high-quality medical care. Although developed countries managed to decrease perinatal mortality, it remains high in the developing world. This study aims to perform a confidential audit of perinatal mortality (CAPM) across Kazakhstani maternity hospitals. Methods: A descriptive, observational cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2024 to December 2024. The structure of the underlying causes of mortality in the antenatal, intranatal, and early neonatal periods among different maternity hospitals of the Republic of Kazakhstan was analyzed. Results: A total of 116 cases were assessed: 34 antenatal deaths, 6 intranatal, and 76 early neonatal. Most deaths occurred on the second day post-delivery. The analysis revealed that 93% of cases fell into categories indicating substandard or potentially inadequate care (categories 2 and 3). Intraventricular hemorrhage and sepsis emerged as leading causes of neonatal death. Among antenatal and intranatal deaths, significant proportions were associated with comorbid maternal conditions, insufficient antenatal visits, and inadequate perinatal support. Conclusions: CAPM proves to be a critical tool for identifying systemic gaps and guiding improvements in maternity services without attributing blame to health professionals. Findings underscore that many perinatal deaths could have been avoided with timely, evidence-based interventions across antenatal and neonatal care. Broader implementation and institutionalization of CAPM in Kazakhstan could lead to measurable reductions in perinatal mortality and improvements in maternal/newborn care outcomes. Factors such as preconception planning, improving the health of reproductive-age women, administration of folic acid, and reducing primary cesarean sections could assist in achieving the reduction in the perinatal mortality rate. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 943 KB  
Article
Prevalence, Evolution and Prognostic Factors of PASC in a Cohort of Patients Discharged from a COVID Unit
by Mariantonietta Pisaturo, Antonio Russo, Pierantonio Grimaldi, Caterina Monari, Simona Imbriani, Klodian Gjeloshi, Carmen Ricozzi, Roberta Astorri, Caterina Curatolo, Roberta Palladino, Francesco Caruso, Francesca Ambrisi, Lorenzo Onorato and Nicola Coppola
Biomedicines 2025, 13(6), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13061414 - 9 Jun 2025
Viewed by 605
Abstract
Background and Aim: PASC is a potentially debilitating clinical condition consisting of different general symptoms experienced by about 10% of patients with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study analyses a cohort of patients with a history of hospitalization for COVID-19 and aims to [...] Read more.
Background and Aim: PASC is a potentially debilitating clinical condition consisting of different general symptoms experienced by about 10% of patients with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study analyses a cohort of patients with a history of hospitalization for COVID-19 and aims to evaluate prognostic factors for experiencing PASC and to investigate the characteristics of patients experiencing PASC symptoms. Methods: This is an observational, monocentric retrospective study including all adult patients admitted to our COVID unit from 28 February 2020 to 30 April 2022, discharged alive, and having performed at least one follow-up visit at our post-COVID outpatient clinic after a minimum of three months from discharge. Patients who experienced persistent clinical manifestations or the development of new symptoms three months after the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection, with these symptoms lasting for at least two months with no other explanation, were defined as having PASC. Results: A total of 429 patients were discharged alive from our COVID Unit and 244 patients performed at least one follow-up visit in our outpatient clinic. Of these, 134 patients did not experience PASC, while 110 patients experienced PASC. Long-COVID patients were more frequently female (43.6% vs. 31.3%, p = 0.048), more frequently presented throat pain and headache at hospital admission (respectively 8.9% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.041 and 15.8% vs. 5%, p = 0.007), and were more likely to have a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (25.5% vs. 13%, p =0.013). At the multivariable analysis, female gender, type 2 diabetes, and headache at admission were factors associated with PASC. All 46 patients who performed at least two different admissions in our outpatient clinic were divided in two groups: the first including the 16 patients who experienced a reduction or a resolution of symptoms related to COVID-19, the second comprising the 30 patients who experienced clinical worsening or persisting symptoms. Smoking habit was more represented among patients with stable or worsening symptoms (42.3% vs. 7.7%, p = 0.042); myalgias at admission were more frequent in the clinical worsening group (27.6% vs. 0%, p= 0.039); and a larger amount of patients who reported neuropsychiatric symptoms and respiratory symptoms were in the stable or worsening PASC symptoms group. Discussion: In conclusion, this study underscores the complexity of PASC, identifying female sex, Type 2 diabetes, and certain acute COVID-19 symptoms as potential predisposing factors for its development. PASC still represents a substantial public health challenge, and ongoing efforts are essential to better understand its underlying mechanisms and improve patient outcomes. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 545 KB  
Article
Translating a Home-Based Breathlessness Service: A Pilot Study of Feasibility, Person-Reported, and Hospital Use Outcomes
by Kylie N. Johnston, Mary Young, Debra Kay and Marie T. Williams
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(11), 3894; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14113894 - 1 Jun 2025
Viewed by 563
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Persistent breathlessness impacts people living with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and carers. Accessible services are limited. This translational pilot study evaluated the feasibility, impacts on patient and carer-reported outcomes, and hospital use of a home-based breathlessness intervention service (BLIS). Methods [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Persistent breathlessness impacts people living with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and carers. Accessible services are limited. This translational pilot study evaluated the feasibility, impacts on patient and carer-reported outcomes, and hospital use of a home-based breathlessness intervention service (BLIS). Methods: People with stable COPD, ≥1 COPD-related hospital admissions in the previous year, and persistent breathlessness participated in a pre–post study. The BLIS program involved home visits/phone contacts by a nurse/physiotherapist (average 8 contacts, 7 weeks). Uptake, retention, and fidelity were recorded prospectively, and participant experience was explored (post-program interviews). Breathing discomfort (Multidimensional Dyspnea Profile A1 scale), threat (Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire), and carer stress/strain (Zarit Burden Interview) were compared pre- and post-program (week 9, 3 and 6 months) using mean difference and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Hospital use for COPD-related causes in 12 months before/after participation was reported. Results: A total of 16/19 eligible people agreed to participate, and 15/16 completed the program. In participants with COPD (73 [9] years, FEV1%pred 42% [15], mean [SD]; a median of 3 COPD-related hospital admissions in the previous year) and carers (n = 6), BLIS was highly (in 95%) acceptable. Compared to pre-program, breathing discomfort was reduced in week 9 and 6 months; breathlessness threat was reduced in week 9 and 3 months; and carer burden was reduced at 6 months. Compared to the 12 months prior, hospital admissions decreased in the 12 months post-program. Conclusions: Translation of this service to the local setting was feasible, with high program uptake and retention. Post-program improvements in key patient- and carer-reported outcomes and a reduction in public hospital admissions support the implementation of the BLIS program for this cohort in this setting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Respiratory Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 3394 KB  
Article
Remote Heart Failure Patients Telemonitoring: Results of the TreC Heart Failure Study
by Massimiliano Maines, Annachiara Benini, Annalisa Vinci, Anna Manica, Elisa Erbogasto, Giancarlo Tomasi, Luisa Poian, Luigi Martinelli, Lorenzo Gios, Stefano Forti, Luigi Patil, William Mantovani and Maurizio Del Greco
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2025, 12(5), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd12050182 - 13 May 2025
Viewed by 491
Abstract
(1) Aims: In our study, we evaluated the effectiveness of a telemonitoring program based on a nursing clinic, supported by a physician who remotely monitors patients via a dedicated application (TreC Cardiology), in reducing visits and hospitalizations for HF in patients affected by [...] Read more.
(1) Aims: In our study, we evaluated the effectiveness of a telemonitoring program based on a nursing clinic, supported by a physician who remotely monitors patients via a dedicated application (TreC Cardiology), in reducing visits and hospitalizations for HF in patients affected by HF living in Trentino in Italy. (2) Methods and Results: The TreC Heart Failure (TreC HF) study prospectively enrolled consecutive patients diagnosed with HF who attended our outpatient clinic and who were provided with the TreC Cardiology application. We analyzed primarily the number of visits and hospitalizations, comparing the year before and after the enrollment. From March 2021 to June 2023, we enrolled 211 patients, predominantly male (70.1%) and with a mean age of 71.5 ± 12.6 years. At baseline, 43.6% of patients were diagnosed with HFrEF, 28% with HFmrEF, and 28.4% with HFpEF. The mean left-ventricular ejection fraction (LV-EF) was 43.2 ± 11.9%. Outpatient visits in the year before the enrollment were on average 2.0 ± 1.2 vs. 1.6 ± 1.3 (p = 0.002) in the same following period. The percentage of patients who were hospitalized for heart failure went from 25.6% to 4.7% (p < 0.001). Analyzing HF categories separately, we found that, in the HFrEF population, after the enrollment, hospitalization for HF significantly decreased (32.6% vs. 7.6%, p < 0.001), while the number of outpatient visits did not vary (2.1 ± 1.4 vs. 2.1 ± 1.3, p = 0.795). In HFmrEF patients, both hospitalization for HF and outpatient visits significantly decreased (respectively, 30.5% vs. 1.7%, p < 0.001 and 2.0 ± 1.0 vs. 1.5 ± 1.3, p = 0.025). Finally, in the HFpEF population, only the number of outpatient visits significantly decreased after the enrollment (2.0 ± 1.1 vs. 1.0 ± 0.8, p < 0.001). (3) Conclusions: Our results confirm the enormous potential of telemonitoring, since in a real-world population affected by heart failure, it resulted in a significant reduction in hospitalization for HF and the number of outpatient visits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heart Failure: Focus on Management and Prognosis)
Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 932 KB  
Article
Assessing Blood Pressure Effects of Anti-CGRP Antibody Treatment in Migraine: A Retrospective Real-World Analysis
by Katharina Kaltseis, Michael Thomas Eller, Lena Gufler, Gregor Broessner and Florian Frank
Biomedicines 2025, 13(5), 1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13051027 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 699
Abstract
Background: Anti-CGRP (receptor) antibodies are approved for the preventive treatment of migraines and are increasingly used due to their favorable safety profile and potent efficacy. However, as CGRP is one of the most potent vasodilators, concerns have been raised regarding the possible impact [...] Read more.
Background: Anti-CGRP (receptor) antibodies are approved for the preventive treatment of migraines and are increasingly used due to their favorable safety profile and potent efficacy. However, as CGRP is one of the most potent vasodilators, concerns have been raised regarding the possible impact of these drugs on arterial blood pressure. Methods: We present a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary headache center including a total of 259 patients with episodic and chronic migraine who received anti-CGRP antibody treatment for migraine prevention. Blood pressure was measured in a hospital using a standardized setting at baseline and at least at two follow-up visits. Significant increase in blood pressure was defined as an increase in systolic blood pressure ≥ 20 mmHg and/or an increase in diastolic blood pressure ≥ 10 mmHg from the baseline value. Results: Mean age of our population was 39.9 years (±12.1), and 217 (83.8%) were female. Blood pressure measurements between T0 and T2, incorporating all CGRP-antibody groups, showed a significant reduction in systolic (−3.3 mmHg; p = 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (−2.3 mmHg; p = 0.021), respectively. The repeated-measures generalized linear model analysis revealed no significant variations between the CGRP antibodies relative to blood pressure. The most robust factor predicting systolic hypertensive measurements in the course of anti-CGRP antibody treatment was pre-existing hypertension at baseline (sum of mean squares 7.4; p = 0.019). Conclusions: Our data indicate that treatment with anti-CGRP (receptor) antibodies does not significantly increase blood pressure. However, it seems to be important to monitor patients with pre-existing arterial hypertension. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 602 KB  
Article
Impact of Pharmacist Educational Intervention on Costs of Medication with Improved Clinical Outcomes for Diabetic Patients in Various Tertiary Care Hospitals in Malaysia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Muhammad Zahid Iqbal, Saad S. Alqahtani, Sara Shahid and Khalid M. Orayj
Healthcare 2025, 13(8), 901; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13080901 - 14 Apr 2025
Viewed by 868
Abstract
Background and Objective: A lifestyle-associated disease, diabetes mellitus, mandates compliance with established policies by physicians and patients to achieve optimal glycemic control. Collaborative care from health care providers and patients is essential for effective management, which slows disease progression, improves quality of life, [...] Read more.
Background and Objective: A lifestyle-associated disease, diabetes mellitus, mandates compliance with established policies by physicians and patients to achieve optimal glycemic control. Collaborative care from health care providers and patients is essential for effective management, which slows disease progression, improves quality of life, and reduces medication costs. This study assessed the effectiveness of pharmacist-led educational initiatives provided to patients on clinical outcomes and direct treatment costs for those with diabetes in two public hospitals in Malaysia. Methods: Four hundred type 2 diabetes patients included in this study were randomly allocated to two corresponding groups. The control group, consisting of 200 patients (100 from each hospital), received standard treatment using the Malaysian Clinical Practice Guideline 2015, while the intervention group, also comprising 200 patients (100 from each hospital), received pharmacist-led care through Diabetic Medication Therapy Adherence Clinics (DMTACs), including pharmacist-provided education, alongside conventional treatment. The patients were equally selected from both hospitals based on the sample size calculation. The pharmacists provided educational interventions emphasizing dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, the significance of physical activity, and appropriate medication storage. Among these, 143 control patients and 156 intervention patients completed this one-year study, which comprised an initial and two follow-up visits. Clinical outcomes and treatment expenses were evaluated, and a data analysis was performed utilizing version 24 SPSS. Descriptive statistics were presented as the mean ± standard deviation, including normality assessed using the skewness, kurtosis, and Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Independent t-tests were applied for hypothesis testing when the data showed normal distribution. Paired t-tests were used for cost assessments. Results: After the research, the group receiving intervention had a much higher decrease in HbA1c levels relative to the control group (3.59% versus 2.17%; p < 0.001). The intervention group had considerable decreases in systolic blood pressure (9.29 mmHg) and similarly in diastolic blood pressure (7.58 mmHg; with p < 0.005). Additionally, the levels of cholesterol in the intervention group improved significantly (0.13 mmol/L; p < 0.001). Moreover, treatment expenses for the pharmacist-led intervention group showed a substantial reduction (p < 0.001). By the second follow-up, the additional cost per patient since baseline was MYR 236.07 (Malaysian Ringgit), approximately 53.45 USD, in the control group, compared to only MYR 47.33 per patient, approximately 10.72 USD, in the intervention group with pharmacist involvement. Only medication costs were considered, and all unnecessary medications were discontinued as patient clinical outcomes improved sufficiently with pharmacist intervention, allowing for management through lifestyle changes alone. Counseling costs were not included since the pharmacists providing education were already employed in these hospitals, and no additional pharmacists were appointed for this purpose. Conclusion: Pharmacist-led interventions led to a significant improvement in HbA1c levels. While medication expenses increased in both groups from the initial follow-up, the control group exhibited a significantly greater increase in costs and HbA1c levels than the intervention group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Policy Interventions to Promote Health and Prevent Disease)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 746 KB  
Article
Patient Perspectives on Healthcare Utilization During the COVID-19 Pandemic in People with Multiple Sclerosis—A Longitudinal Analysis
by Heidi Stölzer-Hutsch, Dirk Schriefer, Joachim Kugler and Tjalf Ziemssen
Healthcare 2025, 13(6), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13060646 - 16 Mar 2025
Viewed by 655
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare systems globally, altering the management of chronic conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) and interrupting the regular monitoring and support that people with MS (pwMS) typically need. The aim of this study was to examine changes in the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare systems globally, altering the management of chronic conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) and interrupting the regular monitoring and support that people with MS (pwMS) typically need. The aim of this study was to examine changes in the utilization of MS healthcare resources over various periods during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, and to assess how these changes affected the perceptions of pwMSregarding their care. Methods: A longitudinal survey study was conducted at the MS Center at the University Hospital Dresden, Germany, involving four survey periods from April 2020 to December 2021. The study assessed the use of healthcare resources, including consultations with specialists, the use of rehabilitative therapy facilities, and unmet healthcare needs, across various phases of the pandemic, encompassing both lockdown and less restrictive periods. Results: At the onset of the pandemic in April 2020, during the first lockdown, 750 questionnaires were evaluated. While most pwMS reported consistent medical care compared with pre-pandemic levels, 19.2% had fewer general practitioner visits, and 10.6% fewer neurologist visits. During the follow-up survey periods, the use of medical care generally remained stable, although there were notable reductions reported by a subset of participants. Conclusions: The findings suggest that medical and therapeutic care for pwMS in Germany remained largely accessible during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. However, the study also reveals certain gaps in care that may be addressed by incorporating digital technologies into medical care and rehabilitation, potentially enhancing the management of healthcare during future pandemics or similar situations. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

8 pages, 341 KB  
Communication
Impact of Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists on Body Weight in People with HIV and Diabetes Treated with Integrase Inhibitors
by Dario Cattaneo, Anna Lisa Ridolfo, Andrea Giacomelli, Maria Vittoria Cossu, Alberto Dolci, Andrea Gori, Spinello Antinori and Cristina Gervasoni
Diabetology 2025, 6(3), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/diabetology6030020 - 13 Mar 2025
Viewed by 880
Abstract
Background/Objectives: We evaluated the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) on body weight and metabolic parameters in people with HIV and diabetes (PWHD) receiving maintenance therapy with integrase inhibitor, using a real-world study design. Methods: PWHD on integrase inhibitors-based antiretroviral therapies for [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: We evaluated the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) on body weight and metabolic parameters in people with HIV and diabetes (PWHD) receiving maintenance therapy with integrase inhibitor, using a real-world study design. Methods: PWHD on integrase inhibitors-based antiretroviral therapies for at least 6 months, and treated with GLP1-RAs for at least 3 months, were included in this retrospective study. The primary study outcome was the absolute and relative change in body weight, as assessed during routine outpatient visits. Secondary analyses included evaluating the impact of GLP1-RAs on additional metabolic parameters, such as serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and LDL-cholesterol. Results: A total of 25 PWHD (74% males, mean age 65 ± 7 years, with 16% having a body mass index > 30 Kg/m2) receiving GLP1-RAs-based antihyperglycemic therapy were identified from our hospital database. No significant effects of GLP1-RAs on body weight were observed (absolute reduction −1.9 ± 3.0 Kg; relative reduction −2.2 ± 3.7%). Treatment with GLP1-RAs was associated with a progressive and significant reduction in serum glucose and glycated hemoglobin, with no observed impact on LDL cholesterol. Conclusions: Long-term GLP1-RA treatment significantly reduced serum glucose and glycated hemoglobin in overweight PWHD with no effects on body weight. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 8147 KB  
Article
The Potential Public Health Impact of the Adjuvanted Respiratory Syncytial Virus Prefusion F Protein Vaccine Among Older Adults in Italy
by Anna Puggina, Filippo Rumi, Eleftherios Zarkadoulas, Alen Marijam and Giovanna Elisa Calabró
Vaccines 2025, 13(3), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13030212 - 20 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1774
Abstract
Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of acute respiratory infection (ARI). The risk of severe RSV outcomes is higher among older adults (OAs) and individuals with chronic diseases (high risk, HR). AS01E-adjuvanted RSV preFusion protein 3 OA vaccine [...] Read more.
Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of acute respiratory infection (ARI). The risk of severe RSV outcomes is higher among older adults (OAs) and individuals with chronic diseases (high risk, HR). AS01E-adjuvanted RSV preFusion protein 3 OA vaccine (adjuvanted RSVPreF3 OA is approved for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease [LRTD] due to RSV in OAs). The objective of this study was to assess the potential public health impact of an RSV vaccination program using adjuvanted RSVPreF3 OA in adults ≥75 years (y) and HR adults ≥60 y in Italy. Methods: A static multi-cohort Markov model was used to estimate the number of RSV cases and associated health outcomes projected in adults ≥75 y and HR adults ≥60 y with no RSV vaccination or with a single dose of adjuvanted RSVPreF3 OA. Epidemiological, healthcare resource use and cost data were obtained from the scientific literature. Vaccine efficacy and waning inputs were based on results from the AReSVi-006 phase III clinical trial. Several scenarios for vaccine coverage were explored. Results: Assuming the target vaccination rate for influenza vaccination in Italy (75%), the model predicted that vaccinating Italian adults ≥75 y and the HR population ≥ 60 y with adjuvanted RSVPreF3 OA would reduce the number of RSV-LRTD events by 43%, leading to a reduction in associated emergency department visits, hospitalizations, complications, deaths, and direct healthcare costs over a 3-year period. Conclusions: The vaccination of Italians aged ≥ 75 y and HR individuals aged ≥ 60 y using the adjuvanted RSVPreF3 OA vaccine has the potential to offer substantial public health benefits by reducing the burden of RSV disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Estimating Vaccines' Value and Impact)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop