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Zielinski MJ, Jahangir T, Praseuth A, Wilson S, McLaughlan CL. Mental Health, Drug Use, and Programming: Applying a Needs Assessment Framework in Arkansas' Largest Jail. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2024; 30:206-215. [PMID: 38842733 DOI: 10.1089/jchc.23.12.0098] [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: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Jail programming is rarely informed by site-specific health needs, diagnostic-specific screening tools that are validated, or the input of incarcerated individuals. Using the community needs assessment (CNA) framework, we aimed to fill these gaps among people incarcerated in the Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility (PCRDF), Arkansas' largest jail. Participants were 179 adults at the PCRDF who completed surveys and open-ended questions focused on (a) their mental and behavioral health and (b) programming needs at the facility. Using a concurrent transformative mixed-methods design, we descriptively analyzed surveys and conducted content analysis of the open-ended questions. Over half of participants reported clinically significant anxiety (62.6%), post-traumatic stress disorder (53.1%), and/or depression (50.3%) symptoms; positive substance use disorder screening was especially common (91.7%). Nearly all (97%) individuals queried desired more programming, with the most desired being mental health and substance use programs. Other desired programs included physical health, education, community reintegration, family support, recreation, nutrition, religious/spiritual services, and meditation. Our CNA ensured the input of those directly impacted during program-focused decision making and identified strategies to effectively implement and sustain jail-based programs. Such assessments can be a potential mechanism for addressing the burden of mental and behavioral health problems in jail populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Zielinski
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Tasfia Jahangir
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Amanda Praseuth
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Stephanie Wilson
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Cassandra L McLaughlan
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
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Madlool H, Sadoon N, Kamel M, Mohammed A, Hameed A, Haleem M, Karami M. Findings of a Community Health Needs Assessment Survey in Al Najaf Governorate Iraq: A Snapshot of Al Marashda's Health Status. Cureus 2024; 16:e61935. [PMID: 38978954 PMCID: PMC11228896 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community health assessment (CHA) is a well-known method for identifying and analyzing community health needs. This CHA survey aimed to identify and analyze community health needs and assets to prioritize these needs and to plan and act upon significant unmet community health needs. METHODS The CHA was planned based on the suggested standard of the North Carolina Guide including eight phases from July to December 2023. The CHA survey was performed among Al-Marashda region residents in the Al-Manathera district. The sample size of our study was 184 interviews of 12536 population. The primary data, which included demographic information, quality of life statements, and community improvement, were collected from the community using a questionnaire through opinion surveys and focus groups, while the secondary data which included the social, health, and economic status of Al-Marashda region residents were obtained from district and governorate sources. Analysis of whole data sources allowed 10 areas of community concern to be identified. RESULTS Findings from the CHA survey showed that diabetes and high blood pressure, poverty and unemployment, and air pollution were the most common public health problems as priorities. CONCLUSIONS The high-priority problems of Al-Marashda are in common with the noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) priority in Al Najaf. However, poverty and air pollution are specific to the Al-Marashda region. Public health authorities and the city governorate are advised to consider, support, and develop community diagnosis documents to implement appropriate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder Madlool
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IRN
| | - Naseem Sadoon
- Department of Public Health, Najaf Health Directorate, Najaf, IRQ
| | - Mohammed Kamel
- Department of Public Health, Najaf Health Directorate, Najaf, IRQ
| | - Ali Mohammed
- Department of Public Health, Najaf Health Directorate, Najaf, IRQ
| | - Ameer Hameed
- Department of Public Health, Najaf Health Directorate, Najaf, IRQ
| | - Mohammed Haleem
- Department of Public Health, Najaf Health Directorate, Najaf, IRQ
| | - Manoochehr Karami
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IRN
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Burus T, Thompson JR, McAfee CR, Williams LB, Knight JR, Huang B, Kanotra S, Wilhite NP, Russell E, Rogers M, Sorrell CL, Stroebel C, King R, Hull PC. A framework and process for community-engaged, mixed-methods cancer needs assessments. Cancer Causes Control 2024:10.1007/s10552-024-01892-2. [PMID: 38809305 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-024-01892-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Community health needs assessments are required for most state and local public health agencies and non-profit hospitals. Typically based on community health improvement planning models, these assessments encompass overall community health and multiple diseases to inform program planning. National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Cancer Centers and community-based cancer-focused programs share the goal of reducing cancer burden in the catchment areas they serve. However, to date, no published models exist to guide cancer-specific needs assessments for a determined geographic area that can inform both public health and research initiatives. The purpose of this article is to outline a cancer needs assessment (CNA) framework and community-engaged, mixed-methods process, along with a case study of how we applied it in Kentucky. METHODS We convened a steering committee of key organizational partners to provide input throughout the process. We developed a conceptual framework of multi-level determinants affecting cancer-related outcomes. We incorporated both quantitative and qualitative data gathered through a variety of means, including a novel application of group concept mapping to guide definition of priorities. RESULTS The resulting CNA has helped guide strategic planning and priorities for Kentucky's Cancer Action Plan, Markey Cancer Center, state agencies, and community-based organizations. CONCLUSION This framework and process can be used collaboratively by cancer center Community Outreach and Engagement offices, public health agencies, oncology programs, and community partners to plan impactful cancer control programs and research in their catchment areas. Universities can also use them to inform the planning of community engagement and health equity research efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd Burus
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
- University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center, 760 Press Avenue, Suite 460, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
| | | | - Caree R McAfee
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Lovoria B Williams
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jennifer Redmond Knight
- Kentucky Cancer Consortium, Lexington, KY, USA
- Department of Health Management and Policy, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Bin Huang
- Division of Cancer Biostatistics, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Kentucky Cancer Registry, Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | | | - Elaine Russell
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Kentucky Cancer Consortium, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Melinda Rogers
- Kentucky Cancer Program, Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Connie L Sorrell
- Kentucky Cancer Program, Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | | | - Pamela C Hull
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Department of Behavioral Science, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Agudelo-Hernández F, Rojas-Andrade R, Giraldo Alvarez AB. Building an implementation strategy for community-based rehabilitation for mental health in Colombia. JBI Evid Implement 2024:02205615-990000000-00100. [PMID: 38742444 DOI: 10.1097/xeb.0000000000000431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Scientific evidence indicates that the community-based rehabilitation (CBR) model is recommended for recovery from mental disorders. However, this approach encounters barriers and often lacks implementation strategies. AIM The aim of this study is to create a strategy for the implementation of CBR for mental health in Colombia through the identification of barriers and facilitators, together with the expected outcomes, from the perspective of mental health decision-makers in Colombia. METHODS This study adopts a qualitative descriptive approach, using focus group data collection methods and thematic analysis to code and analyze the data. RESULTS A total of 208 individuals participated in the study, including mental health decision-makers and health care professionals. Intersectoral collaboration, contextualization, financial resources, and community commitment and autonomy were identified as barriers and facilitators. The element that was considered a priority for successful implementation was the contextualization of strategies. CONCLUSIONS CBR needs to be strengthened through implementation science if these strategies are to be successfully developed and implemented in various contexts. SPANISH ABSTRACT http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A210.
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Li S, Gulley J, Booty M, Firchow B, McGladrey ML. Using Photovoice to Improve Engagement in Community Health Assessments Addressing Behavioral Health. J Behav Health Serv Res 2024:10.1007/s11414-024-09885-4. [PMID: 38710979 DOI: 10.1007/s11414-024-09885-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Behavioral health disorders are well-known to have close links with the social determinants of health, yet little is known about how impacted communities perceive these links. Qualitative participatory methods can not only provide insight into how communities conceptualize these relationships but also empower those with lived experience to contextualize their perspectives and formulate calls to action. This study used Photovoice as a participatory method to supplement the Clark County Health Department Community Health Assessment and determine priority facilitators and barriers contributing to the behavioral health of Clark County, KY, residents. A secondary aim was to gain a greater understanding of how the Photovoice methodology impacts community engagement efforts in Community Health Assessments. Twenty-three Clark County residents participated in four Photovoice groups involving five weekly sessions, which included photograph "show and tell," critical group dialogue, participatory analysis, and planning for dissemination. Secondary analysis of Photovoice focus group discussions revealed behavioral health facilitators and barriers were most influenced by (1) public sector unresponsiveness, (2) strong partnerships formed between community and grassroots organizations, and (3) the siloed division of responsibility between agencies and across sectors. The authors also found the Photovoice method successfully enhanced engagement and empowered those with lived experience to frame their perspectives of the behavioral health landscape. This project has implications for enhancing community engagement and empowerment in behavioral health-focused public health assessments and shaping policy to promote multi-sector collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Li
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA.
| | | | - Marisa Booty
- University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
| | - Bradley Firchow
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
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Gamble T, Taylor J, O'Hara L, Cole R. Characteristics, enablers, and barriers to the community health and wellbeing assessment component of the health promotion practice cycle: a scoping review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2024:02174543-990000000-00293. [PMID: 38596866 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-23-00299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The proposed review will describe the characteristics, enablers, and barriers to the community health and well-being assessment (CHWA) component of the health promotion practice cycle. INTRODUCTION CHWA guides health promotion action in communities and populations. A "critical" approach to CHWA can be adopted, which addresses the social, political, cultural, economic, commercial, and environmental determinants of health and well-being to enhance health equity for priority communities and populations. Although tools exist to guide such a critical approach, little is known about the extent to which these tools are being used or the barriers and enablers to applying best practice CHWA. Such evidence is needed to inform future health promotion CHWA and research. INCLUSION CRITERIA This review will consider literature that describes CHWA conducted in health promotion practice, focusing on an organizational, social, or geographical community or population. Literature that focuses on clinical practice or a specific health condition will be excluded. METHODS Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL (EBSCOhost) will be searched to identify peer-reviewed articles. Google Scholar and Google, as well as Public Health, Health & Medical, and Nursing and Allied Health (ProQuest) databases will be searched for gray literature. Articles will be screened and data extracted by 2 or more independent reviewers. The data extraction tool will be developed by the reviewers based on the JBI template and a critical health promotion approach to CHWA. Data will be analyzed and presented as frequency tables and narrative summaries of the characteristics, enablers, and barriers to CHWA. DETAILS OF THE PROTOCOL ARE AVAILABLE ON OPEN SCIENCE FRAMEWORK osf.io/jq8th/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Gamble
- School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia
| | - Jane Taylor
- School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia
| | - Lily O'Hara
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rachel Cole
- School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia
- Country to Coast Queensland Primary Health Network, Maroochydore, Qld, Australia
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Clark EC, Baidoobonso S, Phillips KAM, Noonan LL, Bakker J, Burnett T, Stoby K, Dobbins M. Mobilizing community-driven health promotion through community granting programs: a rapid systematic review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:932. [PMID: 38561718 PMCID: PMC10983705 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18443-8] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective health promotion responds to the unique needs of communities. Community granting programs that fund community-driven health promotion initiatives are a potential mechanism to meet those unique needs. While numerous community health-focused programs are available, the various strategies used by granting programs to foster engagement, administer grants and support awardees have not been systematically evaluated. This rapid systematic review explores the administration of community granting programs and how various program components impact process and population health outcomes. METHODS A systematic search was conducted across three databases: Medline, SocINDEX, and Political Science Database. Single reviewers completed screening, consistent with a rapid review protocol. Studies describing or evaluating community granting programs for health or public health initiatives were included. Data regarding program characteristics were extracted and studies were evaluated for quality. A convergent integrated approach was used to analyze quantitative and qualitative findings. RESULTS Thirty-five community granting programs, described in 36 studies, were included. Most were descriptive reports or qualitative studies conducted in the USA. Program support for grant awardees included technical assistance, workshops and training, program websites, and networking facilitation. While most programs reported on process outcomes, few reported on community or health outcomes; such outcomes were positive when reported. Programs reported that many funded projects were likely sustainable beyond program funding, due to the development of awardee skills, new partnerships, and securing additional funding. From the perspectives of program staff and awardees, facilitators included the technical assistance and workshops provided by the programs, networking amongst awardees, and the involvement of community members. Barriers included short timelines to develop proposals and allocate funds. CONCLUSIONS This review provides a comprehensive overview of health-related community granting programs. Grant awardees benefit from technical assistance, workshops, and networking with other awardees. Project sustainability is enhanced by the development of new community partnerships and grant-writing training for awardees. Community granting programs can be a valuable strategy to drive community health, with several key elements that enhance community mobilization. REGISTRATION PROSPERO #CRD42023399364.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C Clark
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Suite 210a, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada
| | - Shamara Baidoobonso
- Department of Health and Wellness, Government of Prince Edward Island, Chief Public Health Office, 16 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 7N8, Canada
| | - Karen A M Phillips
- Department of Health and Wellness, Government of Prince Edward Island, Chief Public Health Office, 16 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 7N8, Canada
| | - Laura Lee Noonan
- Department of Health and Wellness, Government of Prince Edward Island, Chief Public Health Office, 16 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 7N8, Canada
| | - Jiselle Bakker
- Department of Health and Wellness, Government of Prince Edward Island, Chief Public Health Office, 16 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 7N8, Canada
| | - Trish Burnett
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Suite 210a, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada
| | - Karlene Stoby
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Suite 210a, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada
| | - Maureen Dobbins
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Suite 210a, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada.
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Health Sciences Centre 2J20, 1280 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
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Watanabe-Galloway S, Napit K, McCullough J, Luma LB, Kabayundo J, Carritt NL, Schabloske L, Robinson T, Rohde J, Champion V, LoConte NK, Ratnapradipa KL. Engaging Communities in Cancer Prevention and Control Activity Prioritization through a Statewide Needs Assessment: A Case Study from Nebraska. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2024; 17:97-106. [PMID: 38437585 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-23-0355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Community outreach and engagement (COE) activities are important in identifying catchment area needs, communicating these needs, and facilitating activities relevant to the population. The National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers are required to conduct catchment-wide cancer needs assessments as part of their COE activities. The University of Nebraska Medical Center Buffett Cancer Center undertook a three-year-long process to conduct a needs assessment, identify priorities, and develop workgroups to implement cancer prevention and control activities. Activities were conducted through collaborations with internal and external partners. The needs assessment focused on prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer and involved secondary data analysis and focus groups with identified underrepresented priority populations (rural, African American, Hispanic, Native American, and LGBTQ+ populations). Results were tailored and disseminated to specific audiences via internal and external reports, infographics, and presentations. Several workgroups were developed through meetings with the internal and external partners to address identified priorities. COE-specific initiatives and metrics have been incorporated into University of Nebraska Medical Center and Buffett Cancer Center strategic plans. True community engagement takes a focused effort and significant resources. A systemic and long-term approach is needed to develop trusted relationships between the COE team and its local communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinobu Watanabe-Galloway
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
- Office of Community Outreach and Engagement, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Krishtee Napit
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Jordan McCullough
- Office of Community Outreach and Engagement, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Lady Beverly Luma
- Office of Community Outreach and Engagement, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Josiane Kabayundo
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Nicole L Carritt
- Office of Community Outreach and Engagement, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, Nebraska
- Rural Health Initiatives, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | | | | | - Jolene Rohde
- Comprehensive Cancer Control Program, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Lincoln, Nebraska
| | - Victoria Champion
- Community Outreach and Engagement and Population Science, Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Noelle K LoConte
- Community Outreach and Engagement, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, Wisconsin
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Rein DB, Herring-Nathan ER. Vision Need Profiles for the City of Richmond, Virginia: A Pilot Application of Calibration Methods to Vision Surveillance. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2024; 4:100429. [PMID: 38187127 PMCID: PMC10767496 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2023.100429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Purpose People with vision problems (VPs) have different needs based on their age, economic resources, housing type, neighborhood, and other disabilities. We used calibration methods to create synthetic data to estimate census tract-level community need profiles (CNPs) for the city of Richmond, Virginia. Design Cross-sectional secondary data analysis. Subjects Anonymized respondents to the 2015 to 2019 American Community Survey (ACS). Methods We used calibration methods to transform the ACS 5-year tabular (2015-2019) and Public Use Microdata estimates into a synthetic data set of person-level records in each census tract, and subset the data to persons who answered yes to the question "Are you blind or do you have serious difficulty seeing even when wearing glasses?" To identify individual need profiles (INPs), we applied divisive clustering to 17 variables measuring individual demographics, nonvision disability status, socioeconomic status (SES), housing, and access and independence. We labeled tracts with CNP names based on their predominant INPs and performed sensitivity analyses. We mapped the CNPs and overlayed information on the number of people with VP, the National Walkability Index, and an uncertainty measure based on our sensitivity analysis. Main Outcome Measures Individual need profiles and CNPs. Results Compared with people without VP, people with VP exhibited higher rates of disabilities, having low incomes, living alone, and lacking access to the internet or private home vehicles. Among people with VP, we identified 7 INP clusters which we mapped into 6 CNPs: (1) seniors (≥ age 65); (2) low SES younger; (3) low SES older; (4) mixed SES; (5) higher SES; and (6) adults and children in group quarters. Three CNPs had lower-than-average walkability. Community need profile assignments were somewhat sensitive to calibration variables, with 18 tracts changing assignments in 1 sensitivity analysis, and 4 tracts changing assignments in ≥ 2 sensitivity analyses. Conclusions This pilot project illustrates the feasibility of using ACS data to better understand the support and service needs of people with VP at the census tract level. However, a subset of categorical CNP assignments were sensitive to variable selection leading to uncertainty in CNP assignment in certain tracts. Financial Disclosures The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
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Opeyemi AA, Obeagu EI, Hassan AO. Enhancing quality healthcare in Nigeria through medical laboratory services: A review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e36869. [PMID: 38215137 PMCID: PMC10783370 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036869] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This article explores the pivotal role of medical laboratory services in enhancing the quality of healthcare in Nigeria. Medical laboratory science is a comprehensive field that involves a diverse array of diagnostic and analytical procedures. These procedures are of utmost importance in the provision of patient care, the early diagnosis of diseases, and the promotion of public health. The article elucidates the progression of medical laboratory services in Nigeria, tracing the transformation from the role of laboratory assistants to that of medical laboratory scientists. It underscores the significance of these services in informing healthcare decision-making. The essay also discusses the diverse obstacles encountered by the medical laboratory profession in Nigeria. The issues encompass insufficiencies in infrastructure, obsolescence of equipment, absence of a coherent policy framework, slow workforce expansion, persistent labor strikes, and a scarcity of trained specialists. The aforementioned issues not only impede the effectiveness of laboratory services, but also have extensive ramifications for healthcare provision throughout the nation. In order to address these difficulties and improve the standard of healthcare, the essay presents practical solutions and a thorough strategy. Furthermore, it underscores the significance of augmenting financial resources, mitigating corruption, and tackling wage inequalities in order to effectively retain medical laboratory specialists. The action plan is structured into distinct phases, each delineated by specified dates and delineating the duties of various stakeholders, such as government entities, healthcare establishments, professional associations, and diagnostic enterprises.
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Ingram C, MacNamara I, Buggy C, Perrotta C. Priority healthcare needs amongst people experiencing homelessness in Dublin, Ireland: A qualitative evaluation of community expert experiences and opinions. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290599. [PMID: 38096316 PMCID: PMC10720995 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In light of evidence that housing-related disparities in mortality are worsening over time, this study aimed to explore the perspectives of experts working in homeless health and addiction services on priority healthcare needs amongst people experiencing homelessness in Dublin, Ireland, a city facing problematic increases in homelessness. As part of a larger qualitative study, a series of semi-structured interviews were carried out with 19 community experts followed by inductive thematic framework analysis to identify emergent themes and sub-themes relating to priority healthcare needs. At the societal level, community experts identified a need to promote a culture that values health equity. At the policy level, accelerating action in addressing health inequalities was recommended with an emphasis on strategic planning, Housing First, social support options, interagency collaboration, improved data linkage and sharing, and auditing. At the health services level, removing barriers to access will require the provision of more and safer mental health, addiction, women-centred, and general practice services; resolved care pathways in relation to crisis points and multi-morbidity; expanded trauma-informed education and training and hospital-led Inclusion Health programmes; and outreach programmes and peer support for chronic disease management. The voices of people experiencing homelessness, including representatives from specific homeless groups such as migrants, youth, and the elderly, must be thoroughly embedded into health and social service design and delivery to facilitate impactful change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Ingram
- Public Health, School of Public Health, Physiotherapy, and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Isobel MacNamara
- Public Health, School of Public Health, Physiotherapy, and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Conor Buggy
- Public Health, School of Public Health, Physiotherapy, and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Carla Perrotta
- Public Health, School of Public Health, Physiotherapy, and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Paci M, Bianchi L, Buonandi E, Rosiello L, Moretti S. Implementation of community physiotherapy in primary care: one-year results of an on-call physiotherapy service. Arch Physiother 2023; 13:22. [PMID: 38098087 PMCID: PMC10722761 DOI: 10.1186/s40945-023-00176-3] [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: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary health care systems have a key role in meeting health needs of community, including function. The aim of this paper is to describe the population involved in the Community Physiotherapist project and their health outcomes over a one-year period. METHODS The Community Physiotherapist is an on-call service which requires a request by general practitioners or medical specialists. Reason for prescription, waiting time for service delivery, diagnostic categories, provided intervention, number of interventions and outcomes were recorded for everyone included in the project. Possible differences in characteristics between individuals referred by medical specialists and general practitioners were also investigated. RESULTS From January to December 2022, 409 individuals were referred to the Community Physiotherapist pathway. Functional goals were achieved in 79.5% of interventions, without reported adverse events. In most cases physiotherapists provided counselling or caregiver training and 3.3% of individuals needed a full rehabilitation program. The groups of individuals referred by the two types of prescribers showed no significant differences, apart, as expected, from their median age. CONCLUSIONS The introduction of the Community Physiotherapist model within the primary care setting allows to provide appropriate, effective and safe interventions. Sharing the project among all the health professionals helped to support its appropriateness and effectiveness. Results also indicate that a new organizational model, such as the Community Physiotherapist, will take a long time to be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Paci
- Dipartimento delle Professioni Tecnico-Sanitarie, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy.
| | - Lapo Bianchi
- Dipartimento delle Professioni Tecnico-Sanitarie, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisa Buonandi
- Dipartimento delle Professioni Tecnico-Sanitarie, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy
| | - Laura Rosiello
- Dipartimento delle Professioni Tecnico-Sanitarie, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandra Moretti
- Dipartimento delle Professioni Tecnico-Sanitarie, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy
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