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Aloshaiby A, Gaber A, Arheiam A. The oral health care system in Libya: a case study. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:888. [PMID: 39097699 PMCID: PMC11297658 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04684-x] [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: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to describe the Libyan oral health care system in terms of its structure, function, workforce, funding, reimbursement and target groups. METHODS A single descriptive case study approach and multiple sources of data collection were used to provide an in-depth understanding of the Libyan oral health care system. A purposeful sample of the key informants (Managers of oral health centers, dentists of various specialties with experience in the field, dentists, nurses, dental technicians, and officials in the affairs of medical insurance) was recruited. The case and its boundaries were guided by the study's aim. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data. Framework analysis, informed by the study objectives, was used to analyze interviews and documents. RESULTS The analysis showed that oral health services are integrated into medical services. The provision of dental care is mainly treatment-based, in the private sector. The oral health services in the public sector are mainly emergency care and exodontia. The dental workforce included in the study were mostly dentists (89% General Dental Practitioners (GDPs), 11% specialists), with a marked deficiency in dental technicians and nurses. Around 40% of dentists work in both the private and public sectors. The government provides the funding for the public sector, but the private sector is self-funded. No specific target group(s) nor clear policies were reported. However, the system is built around primary health care as an overarching policy. Dental caries is the most common oral problem among Libyan preschool children affecting around 70% and is the most common cause of tooth loss among adults. CONCLUSION The oral health care system in Libya is mainly privatized. The public health services are poorly organized and malfunctioning. There is an urgent need to develop policies and plans to improve the oral health care system in Libya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Aloshaiby
- Department of Dental Public Health and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Amal Gaber
- Department of Dental Public Health and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Arheiam Arheiam
- Department of Dental Public Health and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya.
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Ospel JM, Diprose WK, Ganesh A, Martins S, Nguyen T, Psychogios M, Mansour O, Al-Ajlan F, Yang P, Pandian J, Gopinathan A, Sandset EC, Kennedy J, Volders D, Fahed R, Tjoumakaris S, Bhogal P, Kurz M, Yavagal D, Inoa V, Hill MD, Goyal M. Challenges to Widespread Implementation of Stroke Thrombectomy. Stroke 2024; 55:2173-2183. [PMID: 38979609 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.124.045889] [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: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Endovascular treatment (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke is one of the most efficacious and effective treatments in medicine, yet globally, its implementation remains limited. Patterns of EVT underutilization exist in virtually any health care system and range from a complete lack of access to selective undertreatment of certain patient subgroups. In this review, we outline different patterns of EVT underutilization and possible causes. We discuss common challenges and bottlenecks that are encountered by physicians, patients, and other stakeholders when trying to establish and expand EVT services in different scenarios and possible pathways to overcome these challenges. Lastly, we discuss the importance of implementation research studies, strategic partnerships, and advocacy efforts to mitigate EVT underutilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Maria Ospel
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging (J.M.O., M.D.H., M.G.), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences (J.M.O., W.K.D., A. Ganesh, M.D.H., M.G.), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - William K Diprose
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences (J.M.O., W.K.D., A. Ganesh, M.D.H., M.G.), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Aravind Ganesh
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences (J.M.O., W.K.D., A. Ganesh, M.D.H., M.G.), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sheila Martins
- Neurology Department, Hospital Moinhos de Vento, Porto Alegre, Brazil (S.M.)
| | - Thanh Nguyen
- Departments of Radiology and Neurology, Boston Medical Center, MA (T.N.)
| | - Marios Psychogios
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland (M.P.)
| | - Ossama Mansour
- Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Alexandria University, Egypt (O.M.)
| | - Fahad Al-Ajlan
- Neuroscience Center, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (F.A.-A.)
| | - Pengfei Yang
- Department of Neurovascular Center, Naval Medical University Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China (P.Y.)
| | - Jeyaraj Pandian
- Department of Neurology, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, India (J.P.)
| | - Anil Gopinathan
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Imaging, National University Health System, Singapore (A. Gopinathan)
| | | | - James Kennedy
- Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom (J.K.)
| | - David Volders
- Department of Radiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada (D.V.)
| | - Robert Fahed
- Division Neurology, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (R.F.)
| | - Stavropoula Tjoumakaris
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA (S.T.)
| | - Pervinder Bhogal
- Department of Neuroradiology, The Royal London Hospital, Barts NHS Trust, United Kingdom (P.B.)
| | - Martin Kurz
- Department of Neurology, Stavanger University Hospital, Norway (M.K.)
| | - Dileep Yavagal
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL (D.Y.)
| | - Violiza Inoa
- Department of Neurology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis (V.I.)
| | - Michael D Hill
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging (J.M.O., M.D.H., M.G.), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences (J.M.O., W.K.D., A. Ganesh, M.D.H., M.G.), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mayank Goyal
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging (J.M.O., M.D.H., M.G.), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences (J.M.O., W.K.D., A. Ganesh, M.D.H., M.G.), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Almahmeed WA, Hersi A, Khalife N, Gamaleldin MFS, Kherraf SA, Sobhy MA, Lopes RD, Khoury M. The Atrial FibriLlatiOn (FLOW-AF) Registry in the Middle East and North Africa: Patient Characteristics, Treatment Patterns and Outcomes. Adv Ther 2024; 41:2868-2889. [PMID: 38802637 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-024-02895-w] [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: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Limited data on atrial fibrillation (AF) are available from the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA). The aim of the FLOW-AF registry was to evaluate the characteristics, treatment patterns, and clinical and economic outcomes of patients with newly diagnosed non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) in MENA. METHODS This multi-center, prospective, observational study (the FLOW-AF registry) enrolled patients newly diagnosed with NVAF across Egypt, Lebanon, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates. The data collection occurred at enrollment (baseline) and after 6- and 12-months (follow-up). Baseline data included demographics, AF characteristics, medical history, and anti-thrombotic treatment patterns. Clinical events, healthcare resource utilization, and direct costs were collected at follow-up. RESULTS The study enrolled a total of 1418 patients (52.7% males and 47.3% females). The mean age of the patients was 64.5 years and 90.6% were white. The mean (standard deviation) CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED risk scores were 2.7 (1.6) and 1.6 (1.2), respectively. Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants, antiplatelet therapy, and vitamin K antagonists were prescribed to 65.8%, 16.4%, and 12.9% patients, respectively. During follow-up, the following rates of clinical outcomes were observed: bleeding events (1.7%), transient ischemic attack (1.7%), all-cause mortality (1.7%), stroke (0.6%), myocardial infarction (0.2%), and systemic embolism (0.08%). CONCLUSIONS This MENA patient population was younger and had lower mean baseline CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores. The rates of clinical outcomes over 1-year in this study were low. Longer follow-up is required to comprehensively assess clinical outcomes in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmad Hersi
- Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | - Mohamed A Sobhy
- Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- International Cardiac Center (ICC) Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
- Cardiovascular Research, Education & Prevention Foundation (CVREP) Foundation, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Renato D Lopes
- Duke University School of Medicine, The Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Maurice Khoury
- Cardiology Department, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Gadelkareem RA, Abdelgawad AM, Mohammed N, Zarzour MA, Khalil M, Reda A, Hammouda HM. Challenges to establishing and maintaining kidney transplantation programs in developing countries: What are the coping strategies? World J Methodol 2024; 14:91626. [PMID: 38983660 PMCID: PMC11229866 DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v14.i2.91626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Kidney transplantation (KT) is the optimal form of renal replacement therapy for patients with end-stage renal diseases. However, this health service is not available to all patients, especially in developing countries. The deceased donor KT programs are mostly absent, and the living donor KT centers are scarce. Single-center studies presenting experiences from developing countries usually report a variety of challenges. This review addresses these challenges and the opposing strategies by reviewing the single-center experiences of developing countries. The financial challenges hamper the infrastructural and material availability, coverage of transplant costs, and qualification of medical personnel. The sociocultural challenges influence organ donation, equity of beneficence, and regular follow-up work. Low interests and motives for transplantation may result from high medicolegal responsibilities in KT practice, intense potential psychosocial burdens, complex qualification protocols, and low productivity or compensation for KT practice. Low medical literacy about KT advantages is prevalent among clinicians, patients, and the public. The inefficient organizational and regulatory oversight is translated into inefficient healthcare systems, absent national KT programs and registries, uncoordinated job descriptions and qualification protocols, uncoordinated on-site investigations with regulatory constraints, and the prevalence of commercial KT practices. These challenges resulted in noticeable differences between KT services in developed and developing countries. The coping strategies can be summarized in two main mechanisms: The first mechanism is maximizing the available resources by increasing the rates of living kidney donation, promoting the expertise of medical personnel, reducing material consumption, and supporting the establishment and maintenance of KT programs. The latter warrants the expansion of the public sector and the elimination of non-ethical KT practices. The second mechanism is recruiting external resources, including financial, experience, and training agreements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabea Ahmed Gadelkareem
- Department of Urology, Assiut Urology and Nephrology Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Amr Mostafa Abdelgawad
- Department of Urology, Assiut Urology and Nephrology Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Nasreldin Mohammed
- Department of Urology, Assiut Urology and Nephrology Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Ali Zarzour
- Department of Urology, Assiut Urology and Nephrology Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Khalil
- Department of Urology, Assiut Urology and Nephrology Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Reda
- Department of Urology, Assiut Urology and Nephrology Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Hisham Mokhtar Hammouda
- Department of Urology, Assiut Urology and Nephrology Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
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Abd-Rabou M, Ashry M, Elweshahi H. Measuring social responsibility towards employees in healthcare settings in Egypt and its interrelation to their job satisfaction. Health Serv Manage Res 2024; 37:72-79. [PMID: 36708366 DOI: 10.1177/09514848231154754] [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: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Developing a valid tool to measure perceived social responsibility (SR) practices towards employees and examining the impact of employee-centered SR considerations on the employees' job satisfaction. METHODS A cross sectional survey of employees at three private hospitals was conducted. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. It consists of baseline characteristics, structured SR measuring scale, job satisfaction questionnaire and Perception of Empowerment Instrument (PEI). RESULTS The questionnaire developed to measure SR towards employees showed excellent internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's alpha is > 0.7). A considerable number of SR criteria were perceived as partially or fully met by the majority of studied employees except for rewarding, training activities, salary satisfaction and enhancement activities. Significant correlation was found between employees' job satisfaction and all domains of SR as well as employees' empowerment. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that significant predictors of employee's satisfaction are fulfillment of economic and social responsibility criteria as well as the level of perceived empowerment. CONCLUSIONS In healthcare industry in Egypt, fulfillment of the basis for SR is one of the predictors of achieving high job satisfaction. Extra-performance rewarding and career development should be looked at while managing human resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abd-Rabou
- Arab Academy for Science Technology and Maritime Transport, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mona Ashry
- Arab Academy for Science Technology and Maritime Transport, Alexandria, Egypt
- Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Heba Elweshahi
- Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria, Egypt
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Bayked EM, Assfaw AK, Toleha HN, Zewdie S, Biset G, Ibirongbe DO, Kahissay MH. Willingness to pay for National Health Insurance Services and Associated Factors in Africa and Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1390937. [PMID: 38706546 PMCID: PMC11066245 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1390937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Universal health coverage (UHC) is crucial for public health, poverty eradication, and economic growth. However, 97% of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly Africa and Asia, lack it, relying on out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditure. National Health Insurance (NHI) guarantees equity and priorities aligned with medical needs, for which we aimed to determine the pooled willingness to pay (WTP) and its influencing factors from the available literature in Africa and Asia. Methods Database searches were conducted on Scopus, HINARI, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Semantic Scholar from March 31 to April 4, 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI's) tools and the "preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement" were used to evaluate bias and frame the review, respectively. The data were analyzed using Stata 17. To assess heterogeneity, we conducted sensitivity and subgroup analyses, calculated the Luis Furuya-Kanamori (LFK) index, and used a random model to determine the effect estimates (proportions and odds ratios) with a p value less than 0.05 and a 95% CI. Results Nineteen studies were included in the review. The pooled WTP on the continents was 66.0% (95% CI, 54.0-77.0%) before outlier studies were not excluded, but increased to 71.0% (95% CI, 68-75%) after excluding them. The factors influencing the WTP were categorized as socio-demographic factors, income and economic issues, information level and sources, illness and illness expenditure, health service factors, factors related to financing schemes, as well as social capital and solidarity. Age has been found to be consistently and negatively related to the WTP for NHI, while income level was an almost consistent positive predictor of it. Conclusion The WTP for NHI was moderate, while it was slightly higher in Africa than Asia and was found to be affected by various factors, with age being reported to be consistently and negatively related to it, while an increase in income level was almost a positive determinant of it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewunetie Mekashaw Bayked
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS), Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Kibret Assfaw
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Teachers’ Education and Behavioral Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Husien Nurahmed Toleha
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS), Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Segenet Zewdie
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Science, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Gebeyaw Biset
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS), Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mesfin Haile Kahissay
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Khattab SMAK, Sorour MS, Abdelaliem SMF. Nurses Job Crafting: Correlation Between Organizational Identification and Workplace Attachment Among Nurses. J Nurs Adm 2023; 53:641-647. [PMID: 37939170 DOI: 10.1097/nna.0000000000001360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between nurses' job crafting, organizational identification, and work attachment. BACKGROUND Job crafting is a proactive activity in which nurses adapt the physical, cognitive, or social aspects of their jobs to make them more meaningful. Nurses are considered fundamental healthcare stakeholders who are able to transform initiatives implemented by the healthcare organization into valuable work outcomes. Nurses' perceptions of their jobs shape the community's opinion toward an organization. METHODS This is a descriptive correlational study. Two hundred seventy nurses were recruited from 1 governmental hospital in Egypt. Respondents completed the self-administered, printed questionnaires. Measures included job crafting, organizational identification, and work attachment questionnaires. Findings were investigated via descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS Over half of the nurses reported a moderate level of job crafting, whereas none of the nurses reported a high level of organizational identification. More than half of the nurses reported low levels of work attachment. CONCLUSION Job crafting is significantly related to nurses' organizational identification and work attachment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrein Mahmoud Ali Khalifa Khattab
- Author Affiliations: Assistant Professor at Nursing Administration Department (Drs Khattab and Abdelaliem), Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University; Borg Al Arab Technological University, Faculty of Health Sciences Technology (Dr. Khattab); Lecturer of Nursing Administration (Dr Sorour), Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University, Egypt; Faculty of Nursing, New Mansoura University, New Mansoura, Egypt; and Associate Professor at Nursing Management and Education Department (Dr Abdelaliem), College of Nursing, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Hamad A, Alsaqa’aby M, Alruthia Y, Aldallal S, Elsisi GH. Overview of Procurement and Reimbursement of Pharmaceuticals in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Egypt: Challenges and Opportunities. GLOBAL JOURNAL ON QUALITY AND SAFETY IN HEALTHCARE 2023; 6:127-136. [PMID: 38404458 PMCID: PMC10887475 DOI: 10.36401/jqsh-23-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Introduction There is an increased interest in cost consciousness concerning healthcare spending worldwide. In the Arab world, a major transformation is underway in the healthcare sectors to achieve national and government visions to attain better outcomes with optimal value. This article contains expert recommendations on how decision-makers can implement pharmacoeconomic principles at a national level in the Arab world. Methods A multidisciplinary panel of experts was formed of policymakers, clinical pharmacists, health economists, and chronic disease control and public health experts from different countries and healthcare sectors. The panel developed consensus recommendations for different stakeholders using a framework analysis method. Results The experts discussed the limitations and opportunities of implementing the pharmacoeconomics concept in evaluating new technologies in their respective countries. Common limitations recognized in the included countries were a lack of infrastructure to support the adoption of the concept in practice, challenges in obtaining data to support the decision-making process, and the lack of human resources to raise awareness among decision-makers and the public to use health economics in making informed decisions in reimbursing new technologies. Conclusion The expert panel recommendations will guide relevant stakeholders at a national level per country. Adapting these recommendations to each setting is essential to accommodate the situation and needs of each country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anas Hamad
- Pharmacy Department, National Center for Cancer Care & Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mai Alsaqa’aby
- Real-World Evidence, IQVIA Solutions Limited, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yazed Alruthia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Alshamari WK, Aldawwas K, Al Shammari MK, Alshammari YK, Alsuwailem SI, Alkhaldi EH, Almutairi KS, Alotaby S. Compliance of Healthcare Providers With the Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2023; 15:e41530. [PMID: 37551231 PMCID: PMC10404456 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41530] [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: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Though reporting notifiable diseases is obligatory in Saudi Arabia, and the Saudi Ministry of Health establishes guidelines, there are concerns about healthcare providers' compliance, and studies evaluating the notifiable diseases surveillance system (NDSS) are lacking, underlying the urgent need to assess the compliance of healthcare providers with the NDSS in Saudi Arabia. Methods This cross-sectional study involved doctors, nurses, and epidemiologists working in healthcare facilities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The data collection was done using a self-administered questionnaire. SPSS version 27 software (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) was used for statistical analyses. Results We included 420 participants enrolled in our study, and 63.1% were female. Of 51.4% of participants who worked in private healthcare facilities, 75.7% of them were nurses, while the majority of those working in governmental facilities were doctors (69.1%). The age range was 20-62 years, and the dominant age group was 31-40 years (63.8%). Most participants had no training in epidemiology (79.7%) and of those trained, 64% had a certificate training level. Most notifiable diseases worked were detected in governmental health facilities (35.6% vs. 18.8%). Of those who identified notifiable diseases, 84.3% notified them. COVID-19, measles, and hepatitis A, B, and C were the most notified diseases. The lack of knowledge of the notification system was the most common barrier to the notification among 81 nurses, 39 doctors, and one epidemiologist. There was a significant relationship between being a doctor in the governmental institution and notification timeline (p = 0.024). Conclusion This study showed that identifying notifiable diseases was poor despite good compliance among those who identified them. This study showed the lack of proper training of participants, explaining poor knowledge. The findings highlight the differences in notification practices between private and governmental facilities and the need for educational interventions to tackle the knowledge barrier reported.
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Fasseeh AN, Elezbawy B, El-Fass KA, GamaI M, Seyam A, Hayek N, Abdel Rahman N, Abdelhamid S, Fasseeh N, Saad AS, Elagamy A, Mahmoud A, Sedrak AS, Elshazly K, Eldebeiky M, Talaat M, Mohamed NM, Abdelaziz RA, Refaat R, Akeel S, Abaza S, Kaló Z. Maximizing the benefits of using biosimilars in Egypt. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:79. [PMID: 37365620 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00581-w] [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: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biosimilars constitute a pathway for sustainable financing of healthcare systems in the era of expensive biologics. However, such a pathway is not free of challenges. Since the biosimilars market is expanding in Egypt, there is an urgent need for a policy framework to optimize their use and diffusion in the market. We aim to characterize a national framework based on the experiences of other countries and consultation with local experts. METHODS A narrative literature review was conducted to identify biosimilars' policy elements worldwide. A workshop was organized with experts to discuss the narrative review findings and create consensus on recommendations. RESULTS The narrative literature review highlighted the need for biosimilar policy actions in four areas: market authorization, pricing, reimbursement, and uptake. Eighteen experts representing the Egyptian healthcare authorities attended the workshop. The most significant conclusions from the workshop included setting the price of the biosimilar at 30-40% less than its originator's price and establishing financing protocols, in which the more expensive biologics with significant price premiums should be excluded from the formulary. CONCLUSIONS A summarized national framework policy recommendation for biosimilars was created by local experts from the main public healthcare entities in Egypt. These recommendations coincide with the international policies adopted across different countries that aim to improve patient access while sustaining health expenditure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Nader Fasseeh
- Syreon Middle East, Alexandria, Egypt.
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | | | | | - Mary GamaI
- Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, Medical Supply and Technology Management, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Seyam
- Universal Health Insurance Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha Hayek
- Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | | | | | - Nader Fasseeh
- Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed Elagamy
- Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, Medical Supply and Technology Management, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Amal Samir Sedrak
- Universal Health Insurance Authority, Cairo, Egypt
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Mariam Eldebeiky
- Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, Medical Supply and Technology Management, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | | | - Remonda Refaat
- Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, Medical Supply and Technology Management, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Shaimaa Akeel
- Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, Medical Supply and Technology Management, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Zoltán Kaló
- Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary
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Abdel Baky A, Omar TEI, Amer YS. Adapting global evidence-based practice guidelines to the Egyptian healthcare context: the Egyptian Pediatric Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee (EPG) initiative. BULLETIN OF THE NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRE 2023; 47:88. [PMID: 37334162 PMCID: PMC10262930 DOI: 10.1186/s42269-023-01059-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Background In Egypt, academic organizations, professional societies, and research groups develop clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in order to improve patient quality care and safety. Although important improvements have been made over the past years, many of these consensus-based guideline documents still lack the transparency and methodological rigor of international standards and methodologies recommended by reference evidence-based healthcare and guideline organizations like the Guidelines International Network. Main body of the abstract In the Egyptian Pediatric Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee (EPG), we have adopted one of the CPG formal adaptation methodological frameworks named the 'Adapted ADAPTE', relevant CPG resources (e.g., the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation or AGREE II Instrument), and involved key stakeholders including clinical and healthcare topic experts and guideline methodologists in producing 32 trustworthy national evidence-based CPGs and one protocol customized to the healthcare context and services provided for Egyptian children. An EPG online website was launched to make these CPGs available and accessible as CPG summaries for pediatricians and relevant healthcare providers. Short conclusion The lessons learned, enablers, challenges, and solutions relevant to Egyptian National Pediatric CPGs identified in this paper could be used to address and enrich the debate on pediatric high-quality CPGs, especially for countries of similar contexts and systems. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42269-023-01059-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Abdel Baky
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
- Pediatrics Department, MTI University, Cairo, Egypt
- Pediatrics Department, Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Tarek E. I. Omar
- Egyptian Pediatric Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee (EPG), Cairo, Egypt
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Yasser Sami Amer
- Egyptian Pediatric Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee (EPG), Cairo, Egypt
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- Pediatrics Department, Quality Management Department, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Research Chair for Evidence-Based Health Care and Knowledge Translation, Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Adaptation Working Group, Guidelines International Network, Perth, Scotland
| | - the Egyptian Pediatric Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee (EPG)
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
- Pediatrics Department, MTI University, Cairo, Egypt
- Pediatrics Department, Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt
- Egyptian Pediatric Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee (EPG), Cairo, Egypt
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- Pediatrics Department, Quality Management Department, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Research Chair for Evidence-Based Health Care and Knowledge Translation, Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Adaptation Working Group, Guidelines International Network, Perth, Scotland
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Elhady GW, Ibrahim SK, Abbas ES, Tawfik AM, Hussein SE, Salem MR. Barriers to adequate nutrition care for child malnutrition in a low-resource setting: Perspectives of health care providers. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1064837. [PMID: 36969677 PMCID: PMC10034359 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1064837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionSeveral studies in developing countries found that more need-based training is required for health care providers (HCPs) in child malnutrition management.MethodsAn exploratory cross-sectional study was conducted to explore barriers to providing adequate nutrition care as perceived by the healthcare providers (HCPs) in the child malnutrition clinic at a Children's University Hospital in Egypt. Participants were selected using the purposive sampling technique. Five out of seven HCPs in the clinic were included (two male physicians, one female physician, and two female nurses). Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews. The interview guide consisted of semi-structured open-ended questions. Quantitative data were the resulting scores from the scoring system used to assess the understandability and actionability of the patient education materials (PEMs) that are available in the clinic. The Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Printable Materials (PEMAT-P) for the scoring. Statistical analysis: The thematic content analysis technique was employed for qualitative data. The percent score was generated for the PEM actionability and understandability for quantitative data.ResultsMost common child malnutrition conditions encountered by HCPs were nutritional deficiencies. Barriers to the delivery of adequate nutrition care to children were physician-centered: limited nutrition education in the medical school, health system-centered: an insufficient number of HCPs, lack of nutritional supplements, lack of patient education materials (PEMs) that suit the characteristics of the served community, lack of updated standard of practice (SOP) and guidelines, inadequate nutrition training of HCPs, and insufficient time for each patient, and caregivers-centered: the low socioeconomic status and false cultural, nutritional beliefs.ConclusionThere are different barriers to adequate nutrition care for child malnutrition in low-resource healthcare settings. Mainly nutritional deficiencies. Most of the barriers were health system-related in the form of insufficient resources (shortage of workforce; concerning the high caseload, nutritional supplements, and PEMs) and inadequate management of resources (lack of skill-based training, lack of updated SOP and guidelines, and lack of properly designed PEMs that facilitate communication with the target caregivers).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada Wahby Elhady
- Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Manial, Cairo, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Ghada Wahby Elhady
| | - Sally kamal Ibrahim
- Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Manial, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Enas S. Abbas
- Pediatric Clinical Nutrition Department, National Nutrition Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ayat Mahmoud Tawfik
- Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
| | - Shereen Esmat Hussein
- Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Manial, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa Rashad Salem
- Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Manial, Cairo, Egypt
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El-Mazahy H, Mekky J, Elshaer N. Medical professionals' job satisfaction and telemedicine readiness during the COVID-19 pandemic: solutions to improve medical practice in Egypt. J Egypt Public Health Assoc 2023; 98:5. [PMID: 36878998 PMCID: PMC9988361 DOI: 10.1186/s42506-023-00127-7] [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: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted medical professionals' job satisfaction and was a call to adopt telemedicine. Finding out how far medical professionals are satisfied and ready to use telemedicine would be important to improve medical practice. METHODS Data was collected from 959 medical professionals from both the governmental and private health sectors in Egypt in 2021 using a specifically designed online questionnaire, to evaluate job satisfaction, perception of telemedicine, and propose solutions to improve medical practice. RESULTS The study revealed low to moderate job satisfaction at governmental (27.2%) and private (58.7%) sectors. Underpayment was the most reported challenge at both sectors (37.8% and 28.3%, respectively). Dissatisfaction with government salary was independently predicted by working at the Ministry of Health and Population (OR = 5.54, 95%CI = 2.39,12.8; p < 0.001). Wage increase (46.10%), medical training of professionals (18.1%), and management of non-human resources (14.4%) were the most proposed solutions to improve medical practice in Egypt. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 90.7% of medical professionals had practiced telemedicine with moderate level of perception of its benefits (56%). CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic, medical professionals reported low to moderate job satisfaction and a moderate level of perception of telemedicine. It is recommended to analyze the healthcare financing system and provide continuous training of medical professionals to improve medical practice in Egypt.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jaidaa Mekky
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Noha Elshaer
- Industrial Medicine and Occupational Health, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
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El-Ghitany EM, Ashour A, Elmorshedy H, Farghaly AG, Hashish MH, Omran EA. Adherence of healthcare workers to COVID-19 infection prevention practices and its relationship with SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity. J Infect Prev 2023; 24:119-131. [PMID: 37051305 PMCID: PMC9988594 DOI: 10.1177/17571774231158782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Infection prevention and control (IPC) practices against COVID-19 should be adopted by healthcare workers (HCWs) at their workplaces to protect themselves, their patients, and their families from infection. Purpose This study aimed to describe the relationship between the healthcare-related COVID-19 infection prevention measures adopted by HCWs and their SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity. Research Design This cross-sectional study was conducted during the second and third COVID-19 waves in Egypt. Study Sample The study included 416 unvaccinated HCWs from 39 hospitals in Egypt. Data Collection Sociodemographic data, as well as COVID-19 IPC measures done at work, and protective measures performed by their healthcare facilities were collected. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibodies were measured by ELISA. Results 58.2% of participants were seropositive for SARS-CoV-2. Among the previously undiagnosed HCWs, 125/271 (46.1%) were seropositive. Predictors of seropositivity were rural residence (aOR = 5.096; 95% CI: 1.583–16.403, p = 0.006), previous COVID-19 infection (aOR = 4.848, 95% CI: 2.933–8.015, p = 0.000), and examining 10–20 suspected COVID-19 patients daily (aOR = 2.329; 95% CI: 1.331–4.077, p = 0.003. Reporting low satisfaction (25–50%) with infection control implementation, working more than 40 h per week, reporting to “sometimes abiding by hand hygiene” compared to those who reported to “always” adhere to hand hygiene and shorter duration of hand washing (<20 s) were associated with significantly higher odds of seropositivity. Conclusions Poor infection control measures and the high workload of HCWs (longer working hours and examining more patients) were modifiable risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity among HCWs. Hand hygiene was better among HCWs working in urban versus rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Engy Mohamed El-Ghitany
- Department of Tropical Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ayat Ashour
- Department of Family Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Hala Elmorshedy
- Department of Tropical Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Azza Galal Farghaly
- Department of Tropical Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mona H. Hashish
- Department of Microbiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Eman A. Omran
- Department of Microbiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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El Miedany Y, Hasab El Naby MM, Abu-Zaid MH, Mahran S, Eissa M, Saber HG, Tabra SA, Ibrahim RA, Galal S, Elwakil W. Post-fracture care program in Egypt: merging subsequent fracture prevention and improving patients’ outcomes—an initiative by the Egyptian Academy of Bone Health. EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGY AND REHABILITATION 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s43166-023-00173-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Despite the associated high prevalence of morbidity and mortality, osteoporotic fragility fractures remain underdiagnosed and undertreated. Furthermore, those who sustain a fragility fracture are at imminent risk of sustaining subsequent fractures. Post-fracture care (PFC) programs are systematic, coordinated care programs that recognize, evaluate, and manage older adults who sustained a fragility fracture with the goal of managing all the risk factors and preventing succeeding fractures.
Main text
This work was carried out to outline the PFC program adopted in Egypt and its applicability in standard clinical practice. A review of literature was conducted to identify an evidence-informed PFC strategies and protocols, which outlines the optimal manner to manage older adults living with fragility fractures. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist was used to guide the reporting of this review. Based on this, a PFC integrated model of care based on a patient-centered approach has been developed aiming to optimize the outcomes.
Conclusion
This manuscript described the integrated model of care adopted in Egypt to provide care for older adults presenting with fragility fractures. This will pave the way to standardize patient identification and management. Additionally, to prevent occurrence of subsequent fractures and to enhance equity of care for patients with fragility fracture and osteoporosis, expansion of such service to rural and remote areas is highly recommended.
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Machado BC, Moreira CS, Correia M, Veiga E, Gonçalves S. Coping as a Mediator and Moderator between Psychological Distress and Disordered Eating Behaviors and Weight Changes during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2504. [PMID: 36767871 PMCID: PMC9915561 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032504] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has already shown the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on college students' well-being and mental health. Eating problems and weight gain due to changes in eating habits and physical activity experienced during this period have also been noticed. However, few studies have explored the role of students' resources as used during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as coping strategies. This study aimed to (1) explore the associations among psychological distress, disordered eating, coping strategies, and weight changes; (2) examine the moderating role of coping strategies in the process of weight gain and weight loss; and (3) study the mediating role of coping strategies in the process of weight gain and weight loss. The participants in this study were 772 students at a Portuguese university. The data collected included sociodemographic data and three self-reported questionnaires (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale; Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire; Brief COPE) during the first few months of the pandemic, which included a 72-day full national lockdown. The results showed that depression, anxiety, stress, and disordered eating were related to increased weight. Guilt, denial, self-distraction, use of substances, and behavior disinvestment were also related to increased weight. Behavioral disinvestment had a strong mediating effect on weight gain. Additionally, planning, positive reframing, and acceptance all showed a moderating effect between psychological distress and weight changes. In conclusion, coping strategies allow for a better understanding of the mechanisms by which psychological distress and disordered eating were related to weight changes during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Cesar Machado
- CEDH—Research Centre for Human Development, Faculdade de Educação e Psicologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia S. Moreira
- Centre of Mathematics & Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto (CMUP & FCUP), 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Correia
- Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - Elisa Veiga
- CEDH—Research Centre for Human Development, Faculdade de Educação e Psicologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sónia Gonçalves
- School of Psychology, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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Fasseeh AN, Elezbawy B, Gamal M, Seyam A, Abourawash A, George M, Anwar M, Amin M, Khalifa AY, Elshalakani A, Hatem A, Abdelhamid S, Elsamouly H, Fasseeh N, Adel R, Dawood H, Abaza S, Kaló Z. A roadmap toward implementing health technology assessment in Egypt. Front Public Health 2022; 10:896175. [PMID: 36582366 PMCID: PMC9792961 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.896175] [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: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Egyptian healthcare system is currently in the early phase of health technology assessment (HTA) implementation. The aim of this study is to propose an implementation roadmap based on the national healthcare system status. Methods A survey was conducted among Egyptian healthcare sector decision-makers to assess the current and future (preferred) HTA implementation status in Egypt based on a widely used international scorecard methodology. Subsequently, interviews were conducted with experts representing middle- and top-tier management in the Egyptian healthcare system to interpret the survey results and recommend specific actions. Results Experts recommended more capacity-building programs for HTA and health economics. Additionally, they proposed establishing HTA units in separate healthcare authorities and merging them into a single central HTA unit in the long term. Regarding the scope of implementation, experts recommended commencing with the assessment of innovative pharmaceuticals, and thereafter, expanding the scope to cover all health technologies in the long term. Additionally, they recommended using innovative tools such as "multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA)" for tendering, and "managed entry agreements" for reimbursement decisions. Local burden of diseases and costing studies were also recommended to facilitate the implementation of HTA. Conclusion Experts agreed that several actions are required for successful HTA implementation in Egypt, including coordination between HTA bodies, application of an explicit MCDA framework, and strengthening of local evidence generation. To implement these actions, investment in technical capacity-building is indispensable. Most experts favored using multiple and soft cost-effectiveness thresholds. Efforts should be made to publish HTA submission guidelines and timelines of the processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Nader Fasseeh
- Syreon Middle East, Alexandria, Egypt,Faculty of Social Sciences, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary,*Correspondence: Ahmad Nader Fasseeh
| | | | - Mary Gamal
- Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, Medical Supply and Technology Management, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Seyam
- Universal Health Insurance Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Mohsen George
- Universal Health Insurance Authority, Cairo, Egypt,Health Insurance Organization, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Anwar
- Department of Data Management and Decision Support, General Authority of Healthcare, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Magdy Amin
- Department of Surgery, Military Medical Academy, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Amr Elshalakani
- Health, Nutrition and Population Global Practice, World Bank, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Hatem
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt,American University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | - Nader Fasseeh
- Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Hatem Dawood
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Zoltán Kaló
- Center for Health Technology Assessment, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary,Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary
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Suzan ÖK, Tabakoglu P, Elmas B, Çınar N. The Effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on emergency service home service calls due to home accidents in children aged 0-6 in Sakarya, Türkiye? Malawi Med J 2022; 34:239-244. [PMID: 38125773 PMCID: PMC10645830 DOI: 10.4314/mmj.v34i4.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim The contribution of global pandemics to the emergence of home accidents is unknown. The study aims to retrospectively examine the effect of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Emergency Service Home Service Calls Due to Home Accidents in Children aged 0-6. Methods Data are reported in two sections. The descriptive part is a retrospective analysis of patients admitted to Sakarya Training and Research Hospital Pediatric Emergency and Adult Emergency Unit between March 16, 2019 and January 31, 2020 (non-COVID-19era) and March 16, 2020 and January 31, 2021 (COVID-19era). The second part of the study, the comparative part, presents mean data for 2019-2020 (non-COVID-19era) and 2020-2021 (COVID-19era) from the same center and the same period. These data will then be compared. Results A total of 9,110 pediatric patients applied to our center during the study period, of which 7,905 patients were in the non-Covid- 19era period and 1,205 patients were in the Covid-19 era. While the rate of hospital admissions decreased by 85% in the Covid-19era compared to the non Covid-19era, when the periods are evaluated within themselves; the forensic report retention rate in the Covid- 19era increased by 180% and the rate of hospitalization increased by 75%, The rate of drug overdose increased by 280% and chemical substance use increased by 325% compared to the non-Covid-19era. However The Covid-19 era, the fall rate decreased by 31% and the burn rate decreased by 17% compared to the non-Covid-19 era. Conclusions During the national lockdown period, our pediatric emergency department experienced significantly reduced volumes of children. Despite the decrease in hospital admission rate during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was still a very high increase in poisoning from home accidents. This study can provide a basis for further research on alternative strategies to address the problem of home accidents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pınar Tabakoglu
- Sakarya University, Institute of Health Sciences, Sakarya, Türkiye
| | - Bahri Elmas
- Sakarya University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Child Health and Diseases, Türkiye
| | - Nursan Çınar
- Sakarya University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, Türkiye
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Abdelzaher H, Tawfik SM, Nour A, Abdelkader S, Elbalkiny ST, Abdelkader M, Abbas WA, Abdelnaser A. Climate change, human health, and the exposome: Utilizing OMIC technologies to navigate an era of uncertainty. Front Public Health 2022; 10:973000. [PMID: 36211706 PMCID: PMC9533016 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.973000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Climate change is an anthropogenic phenomenon that is alarming scientists and non-scientists alike. The emission of greenhouse gases is causing the temperature of the earth to rise and this increase is accompanied by a multitude of climate change-induced environmental exposures with potential health impacts. Tracking human exposure has been a major research interest of scientists worldwide. This has led to the development of exposome studies that examine internal and external individual exposures over their lifetime and correlate them to health. The monitoring of health has also benefited from significant technological advances in the field of "omics" technologies that analyze physiological changes on the nucleic acid, protein, and metabolism levels, among others. In this review, we discuss various climate change-induced environmental exposures and their potential health implications. We also highlight the potential integration of the technological advancements in the fields of exposome tracking, climate monitoring, and omics technologies shedding light on important questions that need to be answered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anwar Abdelnaser
- Institute of Global Health and Human Ecology, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo, Egypt
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Elezbawy B, Fasseeh AN, Sedrak A, Eldessouki R, Gamal M, Eldebeiky M, Amer H, Akeel S, Morsy A, Amin A, Shafik A, Abaza S, Kaló Z. A multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) tool for purchasing off-patent oncology medicines in Egypt. J Pharm Policy Pract 2022; 15:10. [PMID: 35232487 PMCID: PMC8886839 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-022-00414-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Multi- criteria decision analysis (MCDA) can assist policymakers in objectively choosing between alternative therapeutic options based on multiple value attributes. Our aim was to create an MCDA tool for the national tenders of off-patent oncology medicines in Egypt. Methods An initial list of criteria was developed through a literature review complemented by local expert interviews. Price or cost-related criteria were excluded to abide by the national regulations of the tender process. Next, a workshop hosting diversified stakeholders representing different governmental bodies was held. Anonymous voting was used to rank and weigh the criteria as well as assigning scores. Price was added as a separate step to identify best option based on price per point. The tool was then tested on a national tender sample of off-patent oncology medicines to assess its performance, and it was readjusted accordingly in a second workshop. Results Seven non-price criteria were selected, including use in reference countries (23.49% weight), equivalence with the reference product (18.79%), manufacturing quality (15.53%), provision of pharmacovigilance services (12.94%), supply reliability (10.78%), previous use in local settings (9.8%) and macroeconomic benefit (8.67%). A medicine receives a score ranging from 0 to 100% of each criterion’s weight. The aggregated score is calculated on a hundred-point scale. Based on participants’ consensus, an overall score of 65 was set as a cut-off for passing the technical eligibility phase of the tendering process. Any product receiving a lower score would be disqualified from the tender. For qualified products, the lower price per point represents preferential option for the national tender. Conclusions The created MCDA tool is capable of objectively comparing similar off-patent oncology medicines by considering multiple value attributes and providing reliable scoring functions for each.
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