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Domnich A, Lapi F, Orsi A, Grattagliano I, Rossi A, Cricelli C, Icardi G. Declining number of general practitioners can impair influenza vaccination uptake among Italian older adults: Results from a panel analysis. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:950. [PMID: 39164724 PMCID: PMC11334494 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11443-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seasonal influenza vaccination coverage in Italian older adults is insufficient and well below the minimum target of 75%. In Italy, most influenza vaccine doses are administered by general practitioners (GPs), whose number has been declining. In parallel, the number of patients per GP and GP workload increased dramatically, which theoretically may impair vaccination counselling. In this ecological study, we aimed to assess whether influenza vaccination coverage in older adults is associated with the density of GPs having high number of patients. METHODS The study outcome was the influenza vaccination coverage rate in adults aged ≥ 65 years and registered in 20 Italian regions over the last 23 years. The independent variable of interest was the proportion of GPs with more than 1,500 adult patients, which is an imposed normative ceiling. This latter variable was considered as a proxy of GP overload. By adopting a panel regression approach, different specifications of fixed- and random-effects models were run to assess the association of interest, when adjusted for several social structural, economic and healthcare-related variables. RESULTS Over the last two decades, most regions showed a negative association between influenza vaccination coverage rates and the density of GPs with a high number of patients. This latter negative association was confirmed (P < 0.05) in different panel model specifications. In particular, in the fully adjusted two-way fixed-effects model, each 10% increase in the number of GPs with more than 1,500 patients was associated with a 1.7% decrease in influenza vaccination coverage. However, this association was present only in region-years where at least 18% of GPs were deemed overloaded. CONCLUSIONS In the upcoming years, the number of Italian GPs is projected to decline further. At the same time, the aging Italian population will determine an even greater workload for GPs. This study demonstrated that increased GP workload may partially explain the spatiotemporal variation in influenza vaccination uptake in the Italian elderly. With the imperative of increasing or at least maintaining influenza vaccination coverage rates, several short- and mid-term initiatives should be implemented in order to optimize GP workload during seasonal immunization campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Domnich
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Francesco Lapi
- Health Search, Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Orsi
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Interuniversity Research Centre On Influenza and Other Transmissible Infections (CIRI-IT), Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Rossi
- Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudio Cricelli
- Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Icardi
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Interuniversity Research Centre On Influenza and Other Transmissible Infections (CIRI-IT), Genoa, Italy
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Lozano-Meca J, Montilla-Herrador J, Gacto-Sánchez M. Gait speed in knee osteoarthritis: A simple 10-meter walk test predicts the distance covered in the 6-minute walk test. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2024; 72:102983. [PMID: 38851178 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2024.102983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a common performance-measure in Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA), but the pain and functional impairment characterizing the condition may interfere its adequate performance. OBJECTIVES The shorter 10-m Walk Test (10mWT) could predict the distance performed on the 6MWT, therefore decreasing the burden on patients, enhancing efficiency, and reducing space- and time-constraints in clinical settings. DESIGN A cross sectional study was conducted. METHODS The scores from the 6MWT and the shorter 10mWT of 58 ambulatory subjects with KOA were compared. Correlation, and a univariate regression analysis to explore the predictive ability of the 10mWT, were calculated. RESULTS Correlation was excellent (r = 0.913, p-value<0.001), and the predictive equation based on the 10mWT scores (R2 = 0.834, p-value<0.001) estimates the distance walked in the 6MWT with a relative error of 7.62%. CONCLUSIONS The 10mWT may be an excellent assessment-tool to predict the distance walked in the 6MWT, due to its low strain on patients and as a means of improving efficiency and reducing time-constraints.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Lozano-Meca
- Faculty of Medicine, CEIR Campus Mare Nostrum (CMN), University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Virgen de La Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
| | - Joaquina Montilla-Herrador
- Faculty of Medicine, CEIR Campus Mare Nostrum (CMN), University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Virgen de La Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), El Palmar, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Mariano Gacto-Sánchez
- Faculty of Medicine, CEIR Campus Mare Nostrum (CMN), University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Virgen de La Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
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Kordon A, Carroll AJ, Fu E, Rosenthal LJ, Rado JT, Jordan N, Brown CH, Smith JD. Multilevel perspectives on the implementation of the collaborative care model for depression and anxiety in primary care. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:519. [PMID: 39039458 PMCID: PMC11265029 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05930-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) is an evidence-based mental health treatment in primary care. A greater understanding of the determinants of successful CoCM implementation, particularly the characteristics of multi-level implementers, is needed. METHODS This study was a process evaluation of the Collaborative Behavioral Health Program (CBHP) study (NCT04321876) in which CoCM was implemented in 11 primary care practices. CBHP implementation included screening for depression and anxiety, referral to CBHP, and treatment with behavioral care managers (BCMs). Interviews were conducted 4- and 15-months post-implementation with BCMs, practice managers, and practice champions (primary care clinicians). We used framework-guided rapid qualitative analysis with the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, Version 2.0, focused on the Individuals domain, to analyze response data. These data represented the roles of Mid-Level Leaders (practice managers), Implementation Team Members (clinicians, support staff), Innovation Deliverers (BCMs), and Innovation Recipients (primary care/CBHP patients) and their characteristics (i.e., Need, Capability, Opportunity, Motivation). RESULTS Mid-level leaders (practice managers) were enthusiastic about CBHP (Motivation), appreciated integrating mental health services into primary care (Need), and had time to assist clinicians (Opportunity). Although CBHP lessened the burden for implementation team members (clinicians, staff; Need), some were hesitant to reallocate patient care (Motivation). Innovation deliverers (BCMs) were eager to deliver CBHP (Motivation) and confident in assisting patients (Capability); their opportunity to deliver CBHP could be limited by clinician referrals (Opportunity). Although CBHP alleviated barriers for innovation recipients (patients; Need), it was difficult to secure services for those with severe conditions (Capability) and certain insurance types (Opportunity). CONCLUSIONS Overall, respondents favored sustaining CoCM and highlighted the positive impacts on the practice, health care team, and patients. Participants emphasized the benefits of integrating mental health services into primary care and how CBHP lessened the burden on clinicians while providing patients with comprehensive care. Barriers to CBHP implementation included ensuring appropriate patient referrals, providing treatment for patients with higher-level needs, and incentivizing clinician engagement. Future CoCM implementation should include strategies focused on education and training, encouraging clinician buy-in, and preparing referral paths for patients with more severe conditions or diverse needs. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov(NCT04321876). Registered: March 25,2020. Retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avram Kordon
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Allison J Carroll
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Emily Fu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa J Rosenthal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jeffrey T Rado
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Neil Jordan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare, Hines VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA
| | - C Hendricks Brown
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Justin D Smith
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Kurotschka PK, Hemkeppler J, Gierszewski D, Ghirotto L, Gágyor I. General practitioners' decision making managing uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women: a qualitative study. BJGP Open 2024:BJGPO.2023.0224. [PMID: 38423622 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2023.0224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To be effective, interventions aimed at increasing the appropriateness of antibiotic use in primary care should consider the perspectives of prescribing physicians. AIM To explore the decision making of general practitioners (GPs) when managing uncomplicated urinary tract infections (uUTIs) in women. DESIGN & SETTING A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 22 GPs in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg (southern Germany). METHOD Verbatim transcripts were analysed through inductive qualitative content analysis. RESULTS We generated the following three main themes: factors facilitating the decision making; factors complicating the decision making; and consultation modalities. According to participants, following evidence-based recommendations makes the prescription decision smoother. GPs' and patients' prior experiences and beliefs guides decisions towards certain antibiotics, even if those experiences and beliefs contradict evidence-based recommendations. Patient expectations and demands also condition antibiotic prescribing, favouring it. Organisational constraints, such as time pressure, the day of the week (for example, before weekends), and a lower cost of antibiotics for patients than alternative treatments favour the decision to prescribe antibiotics. Diagnostic and prognostic uncertainty complicates decision making, as does scepticism towards evidence-based recommendations. Discordance within the patient-doctor relationship contributed to this complexity. Regarding consultation modalities, a more in-depth consultation and shared decision making were seen as helpful in this process. CONCLUSION We identified different factors as intervening against or for a straightforward management decision when dealing with women with uUTIs. They reveal the complexity behind the GPs' decision making. Providing GPs with easy-to-apply guidance while removing economic constraints to allocate sufficient consultation time, and supporting shared decision making may help GPs appropriately manage uUTIs in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Kurotschka
- Department of General Practice, University Hospital Wurzburg, Wurzburg, Germany
| | - Juliane Hemkeppler
- Department of General Practice, University Hospital Wurzburg, Wurzburg, Germany
| | - David Gierszewski
- Department of General Practice, University Hospital Wurzburg, Wurzburg, Germany
| | - Luca Ghirotto
- Qualitative Research Unit, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Ildikó Gágyor
- Department of General Practice, University Hospital Wurzburg, Wurzburg, Germany
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Hristova-Atanasova E, Iskrov G, Stefanov R. Family Planning and Preconception Care Service Management: The Key Role of Bulgarian GPs. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1096. [PMID: 38891170 PMCID: PMC11171872 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12111096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Assisting women in attaining their reproductive goals is crucial for improving the well-being of families and children. As the first point of contact for healthcare, general practitioners (GPs) are ideal for family planning (FP) and preconception care (PCC). However, primary care interventions' efficacy is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine GPs' knowledge, attitudes, and perspectives on FP and PCC service management. Most GPs were aware of FP and PCC services and held a firm conviction that they should be primarily accountable together with obstetrician-gynaecologists. However, it is worth noting that less than 50% of respondents reported receiving thorough and comprehensive knowledge of their respective specialities. Those with general medicine qualifications demonstrated a high level of commitment to providing such services. The women's GPs and those with training in general medicine prescribed birth control pills and emergency contraception three times more frequently than the other doctors who suggested condoms or traditional methods or referred patients to another specialist (p < 0.05). In conclusion, PCC is of the utmost importance, and its effective implementation demands the collaboration of policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals. GPs are essential in managing FP and PCC. They must incorporate more in-depth PCC into their clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Hristova-Atanasova
- Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (G.I.); (R.S.)
- Institute for Rare Diseases, 4023 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Georgi Iskrov
- Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (G.I.); (R.S.)
- Institute for Rare Diseases, 4023 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Rumen Stefanov
- Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (G.I.); (R.S.)
- Institute for Rare Diseases, 4023 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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Allen AM, Charlton M, Cusi K, Harrison SA, Kowdley KV, Noureddin M, Shubrook JH. Guideline-based management of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in the primary care setting. Postgrad Med 2024; 136:229-245. [PMID: 38465573 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2024.2325332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasing worldwide. Primary care providers play a critical role in the screening, diagnosis, and management of MASLD and/or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), though they can face challenges in this setting, particularly where healthcare resources are limited and barriers to care exist. To address these challenges, several guidelines have been developed to provide evidence-based recommendations for the clinical assessment and management of patients with MASLD/MASH. AIMS To provide a unified, simple-to-understand, practical guide for MASLD screening, diagnosis, and management based on current guideline recommendations, for use by primary care providers in daily practice. METHODS Evidence-based recommendations from several international guidelines were summarized, focusing on the similarities and differences between them. RESULTS Recommendations are broadly aligned across the guidelines, but several key differences are evident. Practical guidance is provided on screening, identifying target populations for risk stratification, initial evaluation of individuals with suspected MASLD, surveillance, risk stratification and referral, as well as approaches to the management of MASLD and associated comorbidities, with specific considerations for the primary care setting. CONCLUSIONS Primary care providers are ideally placed to identify at-risk individuals, implement evidence-based interventions to prevent the development of fibrosis and cirrhosis, and effectively manage comorbidities. Equipping primary care providers with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively manage MASLD/MASH may help to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina M Allen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Michael Charlton
- Transplantation Institute, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kenneth Cusi
- Division of Endocrinology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | - Kris V Kowdley
- Liver Institute Northwest and Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Mazen Noureddin
- Houston Research Institute and Houston Liver Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jay H Shubrook
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, USA
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Langley J, Urquhart R, Tschupruk C, Christian E, Warner G. Barriers to and facilitators of successful implementation of a palliative approach to care in primary care practices: a mixed methods study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e079234. [PMID: 38296276 PMCID: PMC10831432 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-079234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Integrating a palliative approach to care into primary care is an emerging evidence-based practice. Despite the evidence, this type of care has not been widely adopted into primary care settings. The objective of this study was to examine the barriers to and facilitators of successful implementation of a palliative approach to care in primary care practices by applying an implementation science framework. DESIGN This convergent mixed methods study analysed semistructured interviews and expression of interest forms to evaluate the implementation of a protocol, linked to implementation strategies, for a palliative approach to care called Early Palliation through Integrated Care (EPIC) in three primary care practices. This study assessed barriers to and facilitators of implementation of EPIC and was guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). A framework analysis approach was used during the study to determine the applicability of CFIR constructs and domains. SETTING Primary care practices in Canada. Interviews were conducted between September 2020 and November 2021. PARTICIPANTS 10 individuals were interviewed, who were involved in implementing EPIC. Three individuals from each practice were reinterviewed to clarify emerging themes. RESULTS Overall, there were implementation barriers at multiple levels that caused some practices to struggle. However, barriers were mitigated when practices had the following facilitators: (1) a high level of intra-practice collaboration, (2) established practices with organisational structures that enhanced communications, (3) effective leveraging of EPIC project supports to transition care, (4) perceptions that EPIC was an opportunity to make a long-term change in their approach to care as opposed to a limited term project and (5) strong practice champions. CONCLUSIONS Future implementation work should consider assessing facilitators identified in our results to better gauge primary care pre-implementation readiness. In addition, providing primary care practices with support to help offset the additional work of implementing innovations and networking opportunities where they can share strategies may improve implementation success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi Langley
- Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Robin Urquhart
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Cheryl Tschupruk
- Palliative Health Network, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Erin Christian
- Primary Health Care and Chronic Disease Management Network, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Grace Warner
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Wu L, Tong Y, Yu Y, Yu X, Zhou Y, Xu M, Guo Y, Song Z, Xu Z. General practitioner residents' experiences and perceptions of outpatient training in primary care settings in China: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e076821. [PMID: 37714679 PMCID: PMC10510923 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The implementation of outpatient training in primary care settings is an essential part of residency training for general practitioner (GP) residents. However, limited research exists on their experiences and perceptions of this training. This study aimed to explore the experiences and perceptions of GP residents regarding outpatient training in primary care settings in China and provide insights and recommendations to enhance training quality. DESIGN A qualitative descriptive study employing in-depth interviews. SETTING Two community healthcare centres (CHCs) that implement outpatient training programmes for GP residents in Zhejiang Province, China. PARTICIPANTS In total, 20 GP residents affiliated with 14 CHCs and two hospitals across Zhejiang Province and Guizhou Province who had completed outpatient training in either CHC for over 1 month. RESULTS Of the 20 participants in this study, 11 (55%) were women, and the mean age was 28 years. GP residents completed the process of consultation, physical examination and therapy independently; subsequently, the community preceptors provided feedback based on their clinical performance and modelled their clinical skills. The benefits perceived by GP residents included improved clinical skills and confidence in practice, and they learned approaches to maintaining good relationships with patients. They preferred dealing with complex cases, discussions with peers and the indirect supervision of community preceptors in the training session. Residents recommended that measures be taken to improve the training quality regarding patient selection and recruitment, clinical skills in the training session, and assessment of clinical performance. CONCLUSIONS The outpatient training in primary care settings provides constructive opportunities for GP residents to improve their professional competencies. Although the current training sessions and the abilities of community preceptors largely satisfy the needs of GP residents, further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of training and explore approaches to improve its quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Wu
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuling Tong
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingying Yu
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyan Yu
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yening Zhou
- Xiaoying District Community Healthcare Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meiqun Xu
- Nanxing District Community Healthcare Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhenya Song
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhijie Xu
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Goh SSL, Lai PSM, Ramdzan SN, Tan KM. Weighing the necessities and concerns of deprescribing among older ambulatory patients and primary care trainees: a qualitative study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:136. [PMID: 37391698 PMCID: PMC10311750 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02084-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deprescribing can be a challenging and complex process, particularly for early career doctors such as primary care trainees. To date, there is limited data from patients' and doctors' perspectives regarding the deprescribing of medications in older persons, particularly from developing countries. This study aimed to explore the necessities and concerns of deprescribing in older persons among older ambulatory patients and primary care trainees. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted among patients and primary care trainees (known henceforth as doctors). Patients aged ≥ 60 years, having ≥ 1 chronic disease and prescribed ≥ 5 medications and could communicate in either English or Malay were recruited. Doctors and patients were purposively sampled based on their stage of training as family medicine specialists and ethnicity, respectively. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. A thematic approach was used to analyse data. RESULTS Twenty-four in-depth interviews (IDIs) with patients and four focus group discussions (FGDs) with 23 doctors were conducted. Four themes emerged: understanding the concept of deprescribing, the necessity to perform deprescribing, concerns regarding deprescribing and factors influencing deprescribing. Patients were receptive to the idea of deprescribing when the term was explained to them, whilst doctors had a good understanding of deprescribing. Both patients and doctors would deprescribe when the necessity outweighed their concerns. Factors that influenced deprescribing were doctor-patient rapport, health literacy among patients, external influences from carers and social media, and system challenges. CONCLUSION Deprescribing was deemed necessary by both patients and doctors when there was a reason to do so. However, both doctors and patients were afraid to deprescribe as they 'didn't want to rock the boat'. Early-career doctors were reluctant to deprescribe as they felt compelled to continue medications that were initiated by another specialist. Doctors requested more training on how to deprescribe medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheron Sir Loon Goh
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Pauline Siew Mei Lai
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway City, Selangor, 47500, Malaysia.
| | - Siti Nurkamilla Ramdzan
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Kit Mun Tan
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
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Naumann M, Scharfenberg SR, Seleznova Y, Wein B, Bruder O, Stock S, Simic D, Scheckel B, Müller D. Factors influencing adherence to clinical practice guidelines in patients with suspected chronic coronary syndrome: a qualitative interview study in the ambulatory care sector in Germany. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:655. [PMID: 37340434 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09587-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) is a potentially progressive clinical presentation of coronary artery disease (CAD). Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are available for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Embedded in the "ENLIGHT-KHK" healthcare project, a qualitative study was conducted to identify factors that influence guideline adherence from the perspective of general practitioners (GPs) and cardiologists (CA) in the ambulatory care sector in Germany. METHODS GPs and CAs were surveyed via telephone using an interview guide. The respondents were first asked about their individual approach to caring for patients with suspected CCS. Subsequently, the accordance of their approach with guideline recommendations was addressed. Finally, potential measures for assisting with guideline adherence were discussed. The semi-structured interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a qualitative content analysis in accordance with Kuckartz and Rädiker. Factors influencing adherence to CPGs were categorised by assessing whether they (i) inhibited or facilitated guideline adherence, (ii) played a role in patients at risk of CCS or with suspected or known CCS, (iii) were mentioned in implicit or explicit thematic reference to CPGs, and (iv) were declared a practical problem. RESULTS Based on interviews with ten GPs and five CAs, 35 potential influencing factors were identified. These emerged at four levels: patients, healthcare providers, CPGs, and the healthcare system. The most commonly cited barrier to guideline adherence among the respondents was structural aspects at the system level, including reachability of providers and services, waiting times, reimbursement through statutory health insurance (SHI) providers, and contract offers. There was a strong emphasis on interdependencies between factors acting at different levels. For instance, poor reachability of providers and services at the system level may result in inexpedience of guideline recommendations at the CPG level. Likewise, poor reachability of providers and services at the system level may be aggravated or alleviated by factors such as diagnostic preferences at the patient level or collaborations at the provider level. CONCLUSIONS To assist with adherence to CPGs regarding CCS, promoting measures may be needed that account for interdependencies between barriers and facilitators at various healthcare levels. Respective measures should consider medically justified deviations from guideline recommendations in individual cases. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00015638; Universal Trial Number (UTN): U1111-1227-8055.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Naumann
- Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Straße 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Simon Robin Scharfenberg
- Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Straße 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany
| | - Yana Seleznova
- Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Straße 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bastian Wein
- Cardiology - Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, Stenglinstrasse 2, 86156, Augsburg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Contilia Heart and Vascular Center, Elisabeth-Hospital Essen, Klara-Kopp-Weg 1, 45138, Essen, Germany
| | - Oliver Bruder
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Contilia Heart and Vascular Center, Elisabeth-Hospital Essen, Klara-Kopp-Weg 1, 45138, Essen, Germany
- Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stephanie Stock
- Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Straße 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany
| | - Dusan Simic
- Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Straße 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany
| | - Benjamin Scheckel
- Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Straße 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany
| | - Dirk Müller
- Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Gleueler Straße 176-178, 50935, Cologne, Germany
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11
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Khekade H, Potdukhe A, Taksande AB, Wanjari MB, Yelne S. Preconception Care: A Strategic Intervention for the Prevention of Neonatal and Birth Disorders. Cureus 2023; 15:e41141. [PMID: 37519532 PMCID: PMC10386873 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Preconception care is a strategic intervention to improve neonatal and birth outcomes by addressing modifiable risk factors and optimizing maternal and fetal health before pregnancy. This review article examines the importance of preconception care and its impact on preventing neonatal and birth disorders. The methodology involved a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed articles, research studies, and authoritative reports. Key components of preconception care, evidence-based interventions, and their effectiveness in reducing specific neonatal and birth disorders are discussed. The review also highlights the challenges and barriers in implementing preconception care, such as lack of awareness, socioeconomic factors, health system limitations, and policy considerations. Strategies for promoting preconception care, including integration into healthcare systems, raising awareness, healthcare professional education, and collaborations are presented. The conclusion emphasizes the significance of preconception care as a strategic intervention and calls for action by healthcare providers, policymakers, and individuals to prioritize preconception care for better neonatal and birth outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshal Khekade
- Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Ashwini Potdukhe
- Medical Surgical Nursing, Smt. Radhikabai Meghe Memorial College of Nursing, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Avinash B Taksande
- Physiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Mayur B Wanjari
- Research and Development, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Seema Yelne
- Nursing, Shalinitai Meghe College of Nursing, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
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12
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Hiller TS, Hoffmann S, Teismann T, Lukaschek K, Gensichen J. Psychometric evaluation and Rasch analyses of the German Overall Anxiety Severity and Impairment Scale (OASIS-D). Sci Rep 2023; 13:6840. [PMID: 37100805 PMCID: PMC10133318 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33355-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Overall Anxiety Severity and Impairment Scale (OASIS) is a 5-item self-report measure that captures symptoms of anxiety and associated functional impairments. This study evaluates a German version (OASIS-D) that was administered to a convenience sample of 1398 primary care patients of whom 419 were diagnosed with panic disorder with/without agoraphobia. Psychometric properties were analyzed using classical test theory as well as probabilistic test theory. Factor analyses suggested a unitary (latent) factor structure. The internal consistency was good to excellent. Convergent as well as discriminant validity with other self-report measures was found. A sum score (range 0-20) of ≥ 8 emerged as optimal cut-score for screening purposes. A difference score of ≥ 5 was indicative of reliable individual change. A Rasch analysis of local item independence suggested response dependency between the first two items. Rasch analyses of measurement invariance detected noninvariant subgroups associated with age and gender. Analyses of validity and optimal cut-off score were solely based on self-report measures, which may have introduced method effects. In sum, the findings support the transcultural validity of the OASIS and indicate its applicability to naturalistic primary care settings. Caution is warranted when using the scale to compare groups that differ in age or gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas S Hiller
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Bachstr. 18, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Sabine Hoffmann
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Teismann
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-University Bochum, Massenbergstraße 9-13, 44787, Bochum, Germany
| | - Karoline Lukaschek
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital of LMU Munich, Nußbaumstr. 5, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Jochen Gensichen
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Bachstr. 18, 07743, Jena, Germany.
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital of LMU Munich, Nußbaumstr. 5, 80336, Munich, Germany.
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13
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Fino PC, Michielutti PG, Pelo R, Parrington L, Dibble LE, Hoppes CW, Lester ME, Weightman MM, King LA. A Hybrid Assessment of Clinical Mobility Test Items for Evaluating Individuals With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. J Neurol Phys Ther 2023; 47:84-90. [PMID: 36538333 PMCID: PMC10033306 DOI: 10.1097/npt.0000000000000427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The Functional Gait Assessment (FGA) and High Level Mobility Assessment Tool (HiMAT) are clinical batteries used to assess people with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). However, neither assessment was specifically developed for people with mTBI; the FGA was developed to evaluate vestibular deficits, and the HiMAT was developed for individuals with more severe TBI. To maximize the sensitivity and reduce the time burden of these assessments, the purpose of this study was to determine the combination of FGA and HiMAT items that best discriminates persons with persistent symptoms from mTBI from healthy controls. METHODS Fifty-three symptomatic civilians with persistent symptoms from mTBI (21% male, aged 31 (9.5) years, 328 [267] days since concussion) and 57 healthy adults (28% male, aged 32 (9.6) years) participated across 3 sites. The FGA and HiMAT were evaluated sequentially as part of a larger study. To determine the best combination of items, a lasso-based generalized linear model (glm) was fit to all data. RESULTS The area under the curve (AUC) for FGA and HiMAT total scores was 0.68 and 0.66, respectively. Lasso regression selected 4 items, including FGA Gait with Horizontal Head Turns and with Pivot Turn, and HiMAT Fast Forward and Backward Walk, and yielded an AUC (95% confidence interval) of 0.71 (0.61-0.79) using standard scoring. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The results provide initial evidence supporting a reduced, 4-Item Hybrid Assessment of Mobility for mTBI (HAM-4-mTBI) for monitoring individuals with mTBI. Future work should validate the HAM-4-mTBI and investigate its utility for tracking progression throughout rehabilitation.Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A409 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter C Fino
- Departments of Health & Kinesiology (P.C.F.) and Physical Therapy & Athletic Training (R.P., L.E.D.), The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; Courage Kenny Research Center, Allina Health, Minneapolis, Minnesota (P.G.M., M.M.W.); Sport and Exercise Science, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia (L.P.); Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (L.P., L.A.K.); Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy, Fort Sam Houston, Texas (C.W.H., M.E.L.); and Department of Physical Therapy, Texas State University, Round Rock, Texas (M.E.L.)
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14
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Granja M, Correia S, Alves L. Access to General Practitioners during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Portugal: a nationwide survey of doctors. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:46. [PMID: 36782109 PMCID: PMC9924884 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-01994-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Portuguese National Health System (NHS) provides universal coverage and near-free health care, but the population has high out-of-pocket expenses and unmet care needs. This suggests impaired accessibility, a key dimension of primary care. The COVID-19 pandemic has further affected access to health care. Understanding General Practitioners' (GP) experiences during the pandemic is necessary to reconfigure post-pandemic service delivery and to plan for future emergencies. This study aimed to assess accessibility to GPs, from their perspective, evaluating determinants of accessibility during the second pandemic year in Portugal. METHODS All GPs working in NHS Family Practices in continental Portugal were invited to participate in a survey in 2021. A structured online self-administered anonymous questionnaire was used. Accessibility was assessed through waiting times for consultations and remote contacts and provision of remote access. NHS standards were used to assess waiting times. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the study sample. Associations between categorical variables were tested using the χ2 statistic and the Student t-test was used to compare means of continuous variables. RESULTS A total of 420 GPs were included (7% of the target population). Median weekly working hours was 49.0 h (interquartile range 42.0-56.8), although only 14% reported a contracted weekly schedule over 40 h. Access to in-person consultations and remote contacts was reported by most GPs to occur within NHS time standards. Younger GPs more often reported waiting times over these standards. Most GPs considered that they do not have enough time for non-urgent consultations or for remote contacts with patients. CONCLUSIONS Most GPs reported compliance with standards for waiting times for most in-person consultations and remote contacts, but they do so at the expense of work overload. A persistent excess of regular and unpaid working hours by GPs needs confirmation. If unpaid overtime is necessary to meet the regular demands of work, then workload and specific allocated tasks warrant review. Future research should focus on younger GPs, as they seem vulnerable to restricted accessibility. GPs' preferences for more in-person care than was feasible during the pandemic must be considered when planning for the post-pandemic reconfiguration of service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Granja
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, N° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal.
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, N° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sofia Correia
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, N° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, N° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Alves
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, N° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, N° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
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15
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Medina-Mirapeix F, Crisóstomo MJ, Gacto-Sánchez M, Escolar-Reina MP, Sánchez-Martínez MP, Martín-SanAgustín R, García-Vidal JA. The 5-STS is a prognostic factor of sub-acute stroke patients who will not become community walkers at discharge from rehabilitation. NeuroRehabilitation 2023; 53:367-375. [PMID: 37927285 DOI: 10.3233/nre-230161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recovery of community ambulation is a common concern among individuals after stroke. OBJECTIVES (1) To develop a potential readily applicable prognostic model able to correctly discriminate stroke patients who will not become independent community walkers at discharge; (2) To investigate the effects of early reassessment during the first month of treatment on the prediction accuracy of this model. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study. A consecutive sample of 80 patients at ≤60 days poststroke were assessed at baseline of outpatient physical rehabilitation and reassessed one month later. Non-functional community ambulation was measured. RESULTS Seventy-four patients were followed until discharge. Of these, 47 patients were non-functional community walkers at discharge. A prediction model based on baseline performance in the five repetition sit-to-stand [5-STS] test was able to discriminate those patients of the sample (Area-under-curve = 0.956), and again with data from reassessment (AUC = 0.952). A time of 21 s at baseline was a highly prognostic cut-off point for discrimination (sensitivity = 87.2% and 85.1%). The combined use of baseline and reassessment data improved sensitivity (98.1%)CONCLUSION:Early findings of the 5-STS among stroke patients is an independent prognostic factor associated with independent community walking at discharge. It could discriminate individuals who will not become community walkers at discharge.
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16
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Li B, de Mestral C, Mamdani M, Al-Omran M. Perceptions of Canadian vascular surgeons toward artificial intelligence and machine learning. J Vasc Surg Cases Innov Tech 2022; 8:466-472. [PMID: 36016703 PMCID: PMC9396444 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvscit.2022.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are rapidly advancing fields with increasing utility in health care. We conducted a survey to determine the perceptions of Canadian vascular surgeons toward AI/ML. Methods An online questionnaire was distributed to 162 members of the Canadian Society for Vascular Surgery. Self-reported knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions with respect to potential applications, limitations, and facilitators of AI/ML were assessed. Results Overall, 50 of the 162 Canadian vascular surgeons (31%) responded to the survey. Most respondents were aged 30 to 59 years (72%), male (80%), and White (67%) and practiced in academic settings (72%). One half of the participants reported that their knowledge of AI/ML was poor or very poor. Most were excited or very excited about AI/ML (66%) and were interested or very interested in learning more about the field (83.7%). The respondents believed that AI/ML would be useful or very useful for diagnosis (62%), prognosis (72%), patient selection (56%), image analysis (64%), intraoperative guidance (52%), research (88%), and education (80%). The limitations that the participants were most concerned about were errors leading to patient harm (42%), bias based on patient demographics (42%), and lack of clinician knowledge and skills in AI/ML (40%). Most were not concerned or were mildly concerned about job replacement (86%). The factors that were most important to encouraging clinicians to use AI/ML models were improvements in efficiency (88%), accurate predictions (84%), and ease of use (84%). The comments from respondents focused on the pressing need for the implementation of AI/ML in vascular surgery owing to the potential to improve care delivery. Conclusions Canadian vascular surgeons have positive views on AI/ML and believe this technology can be applied to multiple aspects of the specialty to improve patient care, research, and education. Current self-reported knowledge is poor, although interest was expressed in learning more about the field. The facilitators and barriers to the effective use of AI/ML identified in the present study can guide future development of these tools in vascular surgery.
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Ramli R, Hanafi NS, Hussein N, Lee PY, Ghazali SS, Cheong AT, Abu Bakar AI, Samad AA, Abdullah S, Pinnock H, Sheikh A, Khoo EM. Hajj health examination for pilgrims with asthma in Malaysia: An ethnographic study. J Glob Health 2022; 12:04023. [PMID: 35356659 PMCID: PMC8939477 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.12.04023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusions
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Affiliation(s)
- Rizawati Ramli
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nik Sherina Hanafi
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norita Hussein
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ping Yein Lee
- UMeHealth Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Ai Theng Cheong
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | | | | | | | - Aziz Sheikh
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ee Ming Khoo
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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18
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Riblet NB, Kenneally L, Stevens S, Watts BV, Gui J, Forehand J, Cornelius S, Rousseau GS, Schwartz JC, Shiner B. A virtual, pilot randomized trial of a brief intervention to prevent suicide in an integrated healthcare setting. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2022; 75:68-74. [PMID: 35202942 PMCID: PMC8955571 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients who die by suicide are often seen in primary care settings in the weeks leading to their death. There has been little study of brief interventions to prevent suicide in these settings. METHOD We conducted a virtual, pilot, randomized controlled trial of a brief suicide prevention strategy called Veterans Affairs Brief Intervention and Contact Program (VA BIC) in patients who presented to a primary care mental health walk-in clinic for a new mental health intake appointment and were at risk for suicide. Our primary aim was to assess feasibility. We measured our ability to recruit 20 patients. We measured the proportion of enrolled patients who completed all study assessments. We assessed adherence among patients assigned to VA BIC. RESULTS Twenty patients were enrolled and 95% (N = 19) completed all study assessments. Among the 10 patients assigned to VA BIC, 90% (N = 9) of patients completed all required intervention visits, and 100% (N = 10) completed ≥70% of the required interventions visits. CONCLUSION It is feasible to conduct a virtual trial of VA BIC in an integrated care setting. Future research should clarify the role of VA BIC as a suicide prevention strategy in integrated care settings using an adequately powered design. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT04054947.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie B Riblet
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry and Dartmouth Institute, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, 1 Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America.
| | - Lauren Kenneally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America
| | - Susan Stevens
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, 1 Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America
| | - Bradley V Watts
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, 1 Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America; Veterans Rural Health Resource Center, White River Junction VA Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America
| | - Jiang Gui
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America; Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Institute, Community and Family Medicine, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, 1 Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America
| | - Jenna Forehand
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America
| | - Sarah Cornelius
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America
| | - Glenna S Rousseau
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, 1 Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America
| | - Jonathan C Schwartz
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, 1 Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America
| | - Brian Shiner
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry and Dartmouth Institute, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, 1 Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America; National Center for PTSD, Mental Health Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009, United States of America
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Ringwald A, Goetz K, Steinhaeuser J, Fleischmann N, Schüssler A, Flaegel K. Measuring care coordination in German primary care - adaptation and psychometric properties of the Medical Home Care Coordination Survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:1134. [PMID: 34674697 PMCID: PMC8532328 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07100-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continuity of care is associated with many benefits for patients and health care systems. Therefore measuring care coordination - the deliberate organization of patient care activities between two or more participants - is especially needed to identify entries for improvement. The aim of this study was the translation and cultural adaptation of the Medical Home Care Coordination Survey (MHCCS) into German, and the examination of the psychometric properties of the resulting German versions of the MHCCS-P (patient version) and MHCCS-H (healthcare team version). METHODS We conducted a paper-based, cross-sectional survey in primary care practices in three German federal states (Schleswig-Holstein, Hamburg, Baden-Württemberg) with patients and health care team members from May 2018 to April 2019. Descriptive item analysis, factor analysis, internal consistency and convergent, discriminant and predictive validity of the German instrument versions were calculated by using SPSS 25.0 (Inc., IBM). RESULTS Response rates were 43% (n = 350) for patients and 34% (n = 141) for healthcare team members. In total, 300 patient questionnaires and 140 team member questionnaires could be included into further analysis. Exploratory factor analyses resulted in three domains in the MHCCS-D-P and seven domains in the MHCCS-D-H: "link to community resources", "communication", "care transitions", and additionally "self-management", "accountability", "information technology for quality assurance", and "information technology supporting patient care" for the MHCCS-D-H. The domains showed acceptable and good internal consistency (α = 0.838 to α = 0.936 for the MHCCS-D-P and α = 0.680 to α = 0.819 for the MHCCS-D-H). As 77% of patients (n = 232) and 63% of health care team members denied to have or make written care plans, items regarding the "plan of care" of the original MHCCS have been removed from the MHCCS-D. CONCLUSIONS The German versions of the Medical Home Care Coordination Survey for patients and healthcare team members are reliable instruments in measuring the care coordination in German primary care practices. Practicability is high since the total number of items is low (9 for patients and 27 for team members).
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleida Ringwald
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Katja Goetz
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jost Steinhaeuser
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Nina Fleischmann
- Division Nursing and Health, Department V - Social Welfare and Health, Hannover University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Blumhardtstraße 2, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Alexandra Schüssler
- Federal Association for Health and Academy for Social Medicine Lower Saxony, Fenskeweg 2, 30165, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kristina Flaegel
- Institute of Family Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany.
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Seebauer CT, Freigang V, Schwan FE, Fischer R, Bohr C, Kühnel TS, Andorfer KEC. Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia: Success of the Osler Calendar for Documentation of Treatment and Course of Disease. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10204720. [PMID: 34682843 PMCID: PMC8541180 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10204720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT; Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome) affects the capillary and larger vessels, leading to arteriovenous shunts. Epistaxis is the main symptom impairing quality of life. The aim of the Osler Calendar is to offer information about the extent of the systemic disease and the current state of treatment. A care plan with information on the rare disease and self-treatment of epistaxis was created. Organ examinations and ongoing treatments were recorded. A questionnaire documents the treatment success, including patient satisfaction, frequency of hemorrhage and hemoglobin levels. The patients using the Osler Calendar for at least one year (n = 54) were surveyed. Eighty-five percent of patients (n = 46) used the calendar to gain information about HHT. Seventy-two percent (n = 39) used the Osler Calendar for instructions on the self-treatment of nosebleeds. The calendar increased patients’ understanding for the need for organ screenings from 48% (n = 26) to 81% (n = 44). Seventy-nine percent (n = 43) of patients confirmed that the Osler Calendar documented their therapeutic process either well or very well. Fifty-two percent (n = 28) saw an improvement in the therapeutic process due to the documentation. The Osler Calendar records the individual intensity of the disease and facilitates the communication between attending physicians. It is a tool for specialists to review treatment strategies. Furthermore, the calendar enhances patients’ comprehension of their condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline T. Seebauer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Regensburg University Medical Center, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (F.E.S.); (R.F.); (C.B.); (T.S.K.); (K.E.C.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Viola Freigang
- Department of Trauma, Regensburg University Medical Center, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany;
| | - Franziska E. Schwan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Regensburg University Medical Center, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (F.E.S.); (R.F.); (C.B.); (T.S.K.); (K.E.C.A.)
| | - René Fischer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Regensburg University Medical Center, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (F.E.S.); (R.F.); (C.B.); (T.S.K.); (K.E.C.A.)
| | - Christopher Bohr
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Regensburg University Medical Center, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (F.E.S.); (R.F.); (C.B.); (T.S.K.); (K.E.C.A.)
| | - Thomas S. Kühnel
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Regensburg University Medical Center, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (F.E.S.); (R.F.); (C.B.); (T.S.K.); (K.E.C.A.)
| | - Kornelia E. C. Andorfer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Regensburg University Medical Center, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (F.E.S.); (R.F.); (C.B.); (T.S.K.); (K.E.C.A.)
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21
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Bohlken J, Riedel-Heller S, Gothe H, Kostev K. [Dementia prevention and primary care: Estimation of the target population]. FORTSCHRITTE DER NEUROLOGIE-PSYCHIATRIE 2020; 89:162-167. [PMID: 32877931 DOI: 10.1055/a-1227-6287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevention of dementia, especially the cardiovascular prevention of cognitive disorders, is increasingly coming into the focus of health services research. The aim of this study is to determine the possible target population for dementia prevention approaches as well as frequency of health examinations (HE) in individual general practitioner offices (GP). METHOD 987 GP practices, which are covered by the nationwide IMS Disease Analyzer database (IQVIA) have been investigated for the prevalence of the following diagnoses, which are considered risk factors for the development of dementia Hypertension, obesity, hearing loss in each age group 45-65 and diabetes and depression in the age group 65 and older. In addition, it was recorded how many of these patients received a HE). RESULTS In a sample of 2,398,405 patients receiving primary care, the target population relevant for dementia prevention measures in 2018 consisted of 191,883 patients with hypertension, 23,308 with obesity, 5,059 with hearing loss, 120,200 with diabetes and 43,233 with depression. More than a quarter of these patients have already had a HE. In 2018, patients with hypertension (N=51), diabetes (N=30.5) and depression (N=11.3) were the most frequently treated patients, less frequently patients with obesity (N=8.2) and hearing loss (N=1.6). CONCLUSION On the basis of defined diagnoses in certain phases of life, a manageable group of patients can be identified who are eligible for specific dementia preventive interventions. The implementation of dementia preventive interventions in practices will be more difficult for the less frequent treatment diagnoses obesity and hearing loss than for the much more frequent treatment diagnoses hypertension, diabetes and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Bohlken
- Institut für Sozialmedizin, Arbeitsmedizin und Public Health (ISAP) der Medizinischen Fakultät der Universität Leipzig, Demenz-Referat im Berufsverband Deutscher Nervenärzte (BVDN)
| | - Steffi Riedel-Heller
- Institut für Sozialmedizin, Arbeitsmedizin und Public Health (ISAP) der Medizinischen Fakultät der Universität Leipzig, Demenz-Referat im Berufsverband Deutscher Nervenärzte (BVDN)
| | - Holger Gothe
- Lehrstuhl Gesundheitswissenschaften/Public Health, Medizinische Fakultät »Carl Gustav Carus«, Technische Universität Dresden.,Department für Public Health, Versorgungsforschung und Health Technology Assessment, UMIT - Private Universität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Medizinische Informatik und Technik
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22
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Brown J, Goodridge D, Harrison A, Kemp J, Thorpe L, Weiler R. Care Considerations in a Patient- and Family-Centered Medical Assistance in Dying Program. J Palliat Care 2020; 37:341-351. [PMID: 32854581 DOI: 10.1177/0825859720951661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) became legal in Canada in June 2016. As part of a project designed to improve end-of-life care for those requesting MAID, qualitative data from patients, families, and providers were used to assess opportunities to enhance patient-and family-centered care (PFCC) in this program. METHODS Thirty interviews were conducted with patients, families, and healthcare providers. Five patients who requested an assessment for MAID, 11 family members, and 14 healthcare providers were interviewed about their experiences in 2017. Comparative coding and thematic analysis were completed with the support of NVivo12. RESULTS Emotional PFCC considerations included: exploring and validating the emotional journey, navigating the uncertain, judgmental experiences, and the emotional impact on families and the care team. Physical PFCC considerations included: sensitivity in eligibility assessments, weaving in interdisciplinary care, provision of anticipatory guidance, and death location. Spiritual PFCC considerations included: honoring choice, listening to life stories, supporting spiritual needs, and acknowledging loss. Relational PFCC considerations included: defining the circle of support, supporting the circle, and relational investments. CONCLUSION Fundamental to a PFCC MAID program, practitioners must be afforded time to provide holistic care. Program-related suggestions include incorporating interdisciplinary care early, and throughout the illness trajectory, consistency in care providers, appropriate anticipatory guidance, and bereavement supports for family, and dedicate space for MAID provisions. Patients and families must be included in the ongoing development and re-evaluation of MAID programs to ensure continued focus on quality end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Brown
- Health Sciences Graduate Program, College of Medicine, 12371University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.,Faculty of Nursing, 6846University of Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Donna Goodridge
- College of Medicine, 7235University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Averi Harrison
- College of Medicine, 7235University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Jordan Kemp
- College of Medicine, 7235University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Lilian Thorpe
- Department of Community Health & Epidemiology, 7235University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, 7235University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Robert Weiler
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine and Pain Management, 7235University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.,Provincial MAID Program, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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23
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Boettcher C, Sommer G, Peitzsch M, Zimmer KP, Eisenhofer G, Wudy SA. Differential Responses of Urinary Epinephrine and Norepinephrine to 24-h Shift-Work Stressor in Physicians. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:572461. [PMID: 33071978 PMCID: PMC7538665 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.572461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple stressors, including 24-h-shifts characterise the working environment of physicians, influencing well-being, health and performance. We aimed to evaluate the effect of the stressor 24-h-shift on the adrenal medullary and sympathoneural system in physicians with the hypothesis that shift work might have different impacts on both systems. Twenty-two physicians collected two 12-h-urine samples ("daytime" and "nighttime") during a 24-h shift ("on-duty") and on a free weekend ("off-duty"), respectively. Urinary excretion rates per m2 body surface area were assessed for the catecholamines epinephrine, norepinephrine and their respective free O-methylated metabolites metanephrine and normetanephrine by LC-MS/MS-analysis. The stressor provoked differential responses of epinephrine and norepinephrine. Epinephrine excretion rates showed significant increases from off to on duty. The largest proportional change (off-duty to on-duty) for epinephrine was observed for nighttime (205%), the increase for daytime was 84%. An increase in norepinephrine from off to on duty was only visible for nighttime collections. For the catecholamine metabolites, normetanephrine paralleled norepinephrine and exhibited an increase in excretion from off to on duty during nighttime collections of 53% whereas there was no change during daytime collections (3%). In conclusion: Whilst the 24-h-shift-work stressor in physicians activates the sympatho-adrenomedullary system, represented by epinephrine, the sympathoneural response through norepinephrine reflects mainly an ambulatory position during working hours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Boettcher
- University Children's Hospital, Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Department of General Paediatrics and Neonatology, Centre of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Claudia Boettcher
| | - Grit Sommer
- University Children's Hospital, Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland
| | - Mirko Peitzsch
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Klaus-Peter Zimmer
- Department of General Paediatrics and Neonatology, Centre of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Graeme Eisenhofer
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefan A. Wudy
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Department of General Paediatrics and Neonatology, Centre of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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