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Pfaff H, Schmitt J. Shifting from Theoretical Best Evidence to Practical Best Evidence: an Approach to Overcome Structural Conservatism of Evidence-Based Medicine and Health Policy. DAS GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2024. [PMID: 39146964 DOI: 10.1055/a-2350-6435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
There is disparity in the healthcare sector between the extent of innovation in medical products (e. g., drugs) and healthcare structures. The reason is not a lack of ideas, concepts, or (quasi-) experimental studies on structural innovations. Instead, we argue that the slow implementation of structural innovations has created this disparity partly because evidence-based medicine (EBM) instruments are well suited to evaluate product innovations but less suited to evaluate structural innovations. This article argues that the unintentional interplay between EBM, which has changed significantly over time to become primarily theoretical, on the one hand, and caution and inertia in health policy, on the other, has resulted in structural conservatism. Structural conservatism is present when healthcare structures persistently and essentially resist innovation. We interpret this phenomenon as an unintended consequence of deliberate EBM action. Therefore, we propose a new assessment framework to respond to structural innovations in healthcare, centered on the differentiation between the theoretical best (possible) evidence, the practical best (possible) evidence, and the best available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holger Pfaff
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Human Sciences & Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Institute of Medical Sociology, Health Services Research and Rehabilitation Science, Chair of Quality Development and Evaluation in Rehabilitation; Cologne, Germany
| | - Jochen Schmitt
- Zentrum für Evidenzbasierte Gesundheitsversorgung, Med. Fakultät der TU Dresden, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Thille P, Tobin A, Evans JM, Katz A, Russell GM. Evolving through multiple, co-existing pressures to change: a case study of self-organization in primary care during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:285. [PMID: 39103760 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02520-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary care is often described as slow to change. But conceptualized through complexity theory, primary care is continually changing in unpredictable, non-linear ways through self-organization processes. Self-organization has proven hard to study directly. We aimed to develop a methodology to study self-organization and describe how a primary care clinic self-organizes over time. METHODOLOGY We completed a virtual case study of an urban primary care clinic from May-Nov 2021, applying methodological insights from actor-network theory to examine the complexity theory concept of self-organization. We chose to focus our attention on self-organization activities that alter organizational routines. Data included fieldnotes of observed team meetings, document collection, interviews with clinic members, and notes from brief weekly discussions to detect actions to change clinical and administrative routines. Adapting schema analysis, we described changes to different organizational routines chronologically, then explored intersecting changes. We sought feedback on results from the participating clinic. FINDINGS Re-establishing equilibrium remained challenging well into the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary care clinic continued to self-organize in response to changing health policies, unintended consequences of earlier adaptations, staff changes, and clinical care initiatives. Physical space, technologies, external and internal policies, guidelines, and clinic members all influenced self-organization. Changing one created ripple effects, sometimes generating new, unanticipated problems. Member checking confirmed we captured most of the changes to organizational routines during the case study period. CONCLUSIONS Through insights from actor-network theory, applied to studying actions taken that alter organizational routines, it is possible to operationalize the theoretical construct of self-organization. Our methodology illuminates the primary care clinic as a continually changing entity with co-existing and intersecting processes of self-organization in response to varied change pressures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Thille
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Manitoba, R106-771 McDermot Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0T6, Canada.
| | - Anastasia Tobin
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Manitoba, R106-771 McDermot Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0T6, Canada
| | - Jenna M Evans
- DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, L8S 4L8, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Alan Katz
- Manitoba Centre for Health Policy & Departments of Community Health Sciences and Family Medicine, University of Manitoba, 408-727 McDermot Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 3P5, Canada
| | - Grant M Russell
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
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Ventres WB, Stone LA, Shah R, Carter T, Gusoff GM, Liaw W, Nguyen BM, Rachelson JV, Scott MA, Schiff-Elfalan TL, Yamada S, Like RC, Zoppi K, Catinella AP, Frankel RM, Prasad S. Storylines of family medicine II: foundational building blocks-context, community and health. Fam Med Community Health 2024; 12:e002789. [PMID: 38609084 PMCID: PMC11029393 DOI: 10.1136/fmch-2024-002789] [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: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Storylines of Family Medicine is a 12-part series of thematically linked mini-essays with accompanying illustrations that explore the many dimensions of family medicine, as interpreted by individual family physicians and medical educators in the USA and elsewhere around the world. In 'II: foundational building blocks-context, community and health', authors address the following themes: 'Context-grounding family medicine in time, place and being', 'Recentring community', 'Community-oriented primary care', 'Embeddedness in practice', 'The meaning of health', 'Disease, illness and sickness-core concepts', 'The biopsychosocial model', 'The biopsychosocial approach' and 'Family medicine as social medicine.' May readers grasp new implications for medical education and practice in these essays.
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Affiliation(s)
- William B Ventres
- Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Leslie A Stone
- Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | | | - Tamala Carter
- Penn Center for Community Health Workers, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Geoffrey M Gusoff
- National Clinician Scholars Program, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Winston Liaw
- Health Systems and Population Health Sciences, University of Houston Tilman J Fertitta Family College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Bich-May Nguyen
- Health Systems and Population Health Sciences, University of Houston Tilman J Fertitta Family College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Joanna V Rachelson
- Southern New Mexico Family Medicine Residency Program, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
| | - Mary Alice Scott
- New Mexico Primary Care Training Program, Silver City, New Mexico, USA
- Anthropology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
| | - Teresa L Schiff-Elfalan
- Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Hawai'i at Manoa John A Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Seiji Yamada
- Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Hawai'i at Manoa John A Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Robert C Like
- Family Medicine and Community Health, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Kathleen Zoppi
- Family Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - A Peter Catinella
- Family Medicine - Transmountain, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, Texas, USA
| | - Richard M Frankel
- Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Shailendra Prasad
- Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities Campus, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Pfaff H, Schmitt J. Reducing uncertainty in evidence-based health policy by integrating empirical and theoretical evidence: An EbM+theory approach. J Eval Clin Pract 2023; 29:1279-1293. [PMID: 37427556 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13890] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To reduce their decisional uncertainty, health policy decision-makers rely more often on experts or their intuition than on evidence-based knowledge, especially in times of urgency. However, this practice is unacceptable from an evidence-based medicine (EbM) perspective. Therefore, in fast-changing and complex situations, we need an approach that delivers recommendations that serve decision-makers' needs for urgent, sound and uncertainty-reducing decisions based on the principles of EbM. AIMS The aim of this paper is to propose an approach that serves this need by enriching EbM with theory. MATERIALS AND METHODS We call this the EbM+theory approach, which integrates empirical and theoretical evidence in a context-sensitive way to reduce intervention and implementation uncertainty. RESULTS Within this framework, we propose two distinct roadmaps to decrease intervention and implementation uncertainty: one for simple and the other for complex interventions. As part of the roadmap, we present a three-step approach: applying theory (step 1), conducting mechanistic studies (EbM+; step 2) and conducting experiments (EbM; step 3). DISCUSSION This paper is a plea for integrating empirical and theoretical knowledge by combining EbM, EbM+ and theoretical knowledge in a common procedural framework that allows flexibility even in dynamic times. A further aim is to stimulate a discussion on using theories in health sciences, health policy, and implementation. CONCLUSION The main implications are that scientists and health politicians - the two main target groups of this paper-should receive more training in theoretical thinking; moreover, regulatory agencies like NICE may think about the usefulness of integrating elements of the EbM+theory approach into their considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holger Pfaff
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education, Institute of Medical Sociology, Health Services Research and Rehabilitation Science, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Health Services Research Cologne (CHSRC), Interfaculty Institution of the University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jochen Schmitt
- Center for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Piotrowski A, Coenen J, Rupietta C, Basten J, Muth C, Söling S, Zimmer V, Karbach U, Kellermann-Mühlhoff P, Köberlein-Neu J. Factors facilitating the implementation of a clinical decision support system in primary care practices: a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1161. [PMID: 37884934 PMCID: PMC10605331 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10156-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding how to implement innovations in primary care practices is key to improve primary health care. Aiming to contribute to this understanding, we investigate the implementation of a clinical decision support system (CDSS) as part of the innovation fund project AdAM (01NVF16006). Originating from complexity theory, the practice change and development model (PCD) proposes several interdependent factors that enable organizational-level change and thus accounts for the complex settings of primary care practices. Leveraging the PCD, we seek to answer the following research questions: Which combinations of internal and external factors based on the PCD contribute to successful implementation in primary care practices? Given these results, how can implementation in the primary care setting be improved? METHODS We analyzed the joint contributions of internal and external factors on implementation success using qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). QCA is a set-theoretic approach that allows to identify configurations of multiple factors that lead to one outcome (here: successful implementation of a CDSS in primary care practices). Using survey data, we conducted our analysis based on a sample of 224 primary care practices. RESULTS We identified two configurations of internal and external factors that likewise enable successful implementation. The first configuration enables implementation based on a combination of Strong Inside Motivation, High Capability for Development, and Strong Outside Motivation; the second configuration based on a combination of Strong Inside Motivators, Many Options for Development and the absence of High Capability for Development. CONCLUSION In line with the PCD, our results demonstrate the importance of the combination of internal and external factors for implementation outcomes. Moreover, the two identified configurations show that different ways exist to achieve successful implementation in primary care practices. TRIAL REGISTRATION AdAM was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT03430336 ) on February 6, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Piotrowski
- Center for Health Economics and Health Services Research, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany.
- Chair of General Practice II and Patient-Centeredness in Primary Care, Institute of General Practice and Primary Care, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany.
| | - Jana Coenen
- Jackstädt Center of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Research, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Christian Rupietta
- Jackstädt Center of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Research, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
- Queen's Business School, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Jale Basten
- Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Christiane Muth
- Department of General Practice and Family Medicine, Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Sara Söling
- Center for Health Economics and Health Services Research, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
- Institute for Medical Sociology, Health Services Research and Rehabilitation Science, Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Viola Zimmer
- Center for Health Economics and Health Services Research, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Ute Karbach
- Institute for Medical Sociology, Health Services Research and Rehabilitation Science, Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Juliane Köberlein-Neu
- Center for Health Economics and Health Services Research, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
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Guo ZY, Zheng J, Li SZ, Zhou XN. Orientation of One Health development: think globally and act locally. SCIENCE IN ONE HEALTH 2023; 2:100042. [PMID: 39077032 PMCID: PMC11262291 DOI: 10.1016/j.soh.2023.100042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
One Health is dedicated to maintaining and fostering a dynamic balance among humans, animals, and the environment. Since 2013, it has seen considerable developments globally. This review aims to encapsulate the history of One Health, as well as chart its future trajectory. Numerous research institutions founded under the principles of One Health have been established, and several pragmatic projects are currently underway. While it is imperative to solidify foundational education, further policy support is required to cultivate the One Health paradigm. Identifying research directions at a political level is necessary to provide the technical support needed for practical application. The future of One Health envisions a comprehensive approach to primary prevention, the utilization of open and shared data sets, as well as real-world surveys and interviews. This integrated approach is encapsulated in the concept of One Health Delivery. At this stage, One Health Delivery needs to build a systematic framework that focuses on integrating and communicating across disciplines and training researchers with complete practical skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Yu Guo
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases at Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinxin Zheng
- School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Department of Nephrology, Institute of Nephrology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi-Zhu Li
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases at Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- One Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University-The University of Edinburgh, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases at Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- One Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University-The University of Edinburgh, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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Hackmann C, Komashie A, Handley M, Murdoch J, Wagner AP, Grünwald LM, Waller S, Kaminskiy E, Zeilig H, Jones J, Bray J, Bagge S, Simpson A, Dalkin SM, Clarkson J, Borghini G, Kipouros T, Rohricht F, Taousi Z, Haighton C, Rae S, Wilson J. Codesigning a systemic discharge intervention for inpatient mental health settings (MINDS): a protocol for integrating realist evaluation and an engineering-based systems approach. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071272. [PMID: 37709323 PMCID: PMC10503342 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transition following discharge from mental health hospital is high risk in terms of relapse, readmission and suicide. Discharge planning supports transition and reduces risk. It is a complex activity involving interacting systemic elements. The codesigning a systemic discharge intervention for inpatient mental health settings (MINDS) study aims to improve the process for people being discharged, their carers/supporters and staff who work in mental health services, by understanding, co-designing and evaluating implementation of a systemic approach to discharge planning. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The MINDS study integrates realist research and an engineering-informed systems approach across three stages. Stage 1 applies realist review and evaluation using a systems approach to develop programme theories of discharge planning. Stage 2 uses an Engineering Better Care framework to codesign a novel systemic discharge intervention, which will be subjected to process and economic evaluation in stage 3. The programme theories and resulting care planning approach will be refined throughout the study ready for a future clinical trial. MINDS is co-led by an expert by experience, with researchers with lived experience co-leading each stage. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION MINDS stage 1 has received ethical approval from Yorkshire & The Humber-Bradford Leeds (Research Ethics Committee (22/YH/0122). Findings from MINDS will be disseminated via high-impact journal publications and conference presentations, including those with service user and mental health professional audiences. We will establish routes to engage with public and service user communities and National Health Service professionals including blogs, podcasts and short videos. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER MINDS is funded by the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR 133013) https://fundingawards.nihr.ac.uk/award/NIHR133013. The realist review protocol is registered on PROSPERO. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021293255.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Hackmann
- Research and Development, Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
- Noriwch Medical School, The University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Alexander Komashie
- Department of Enginering, University of Cambridge School of Technology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Melanie Handley
- Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Jamie Murdoch
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Adam P Wagner
- NIHR Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research & Care (CLAHRC) East of England, Cambridge, UK
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Lisa Marie Grünwald
- Research and Development, Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - Sam Waller
- Engineering Design Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Emma Kaminskiy
- School of Psychology and Sports Science, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Hannah Zeilig
- London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London, London, UK
| | - Julia Jones
- Centre for Research in Primary & Community Care, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | | | - Sophie Bagge
- Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - Alan Simpson
- Health Services and Population Research, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sonia Michelle Dalkin
- Department of Social Work, Education & Community Wellbeing, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - John Clarkson
- Engineering Design Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Frank Rohricht
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Zohra Taousi
- Hertfordshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, St Albans, UK
| | - Catherine Haighton
- Department of Social Work, Education & Community Wellbeing, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Jon Wilson
- Research and Development, Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
- Noriwch Medical School, The University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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Forsgärde ES, Rööst M, Elmqvist C, Fridlund B, Svensson A. Physicians' experiences and actions in making complex level-of-care decisions during acute situations within older patients' homes: a critical incident study. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:323. [PMID: 37226161 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04037-3] [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: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complex level-of-care decisions involve uncertainty in which decisions are beneficial for older patients. Knowledge of physicians' decision-making during acute situations in older patients' homes is limited. Therefore, this study aimed to describe physicians' experiences and actions in making complex level-of-care decisions during the assessment of older patients in acute situations within their own homes. METHODS Individual interviews and analyses were performed according to the critical incident technique (CIT). In total, 14 physicians from Sweden were included. RESULTS In making complex level-of-care decisions, physicians experienced collaborating with and including older patients, significant others and health care professionals to be essential for making individualized decisions regarding the patients' and their significant others' needs. During decision-making, physicians experienced difficulties when doubt or collaborative obstructions occurred. Physicians' actions involved searching for an understanding of older patients' and their significant others' wishes and needs, considering their unique conditions, guiding them, and adjusting care according to their wishes. Actions further involved promoting collaboration and reaching a consensus with all persons involved. CONCLUSION Physicians strive to individualize complex level-of-care decisions based on older patients' and their significant others' wishes and needs. Furthermore, individualized decisions depend on successful collaboration and consensus among older patients, their significant others and other health care professionals. Therefore, to facilitate individualized level-of-care decisions, the health care organizations need to support physicians when they are making individualized decisions, provide sufficient resources and promote 24 - 7 collaboration between organizations and health care professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elin-Sofie Forsgärde
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, PO Box 451, Växjö, 351 95, Sweden.
- Centre of Interprofessional Collaboration within Emergency Care (CICE), Linnaeus University, Region Kronoberg, PO Box 1207, 351 95, 352 54, Växjö, Växjö, Sweden.
| | - Mattias Rööst
- Department for Research and Development, Region Kronoberg, PO Box 1223, 351 12, Växjö, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Family Medicine, Lund University, PO Box 50332, 202 13, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Carina Elmqvist
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, PO Box 451, Växjö, 351 95, Sweden
- Centre of Interprofessional Collaboration within Emergency Care (CICE), Linnaeus University, Region Kronoberg, PO Box 1207, 351 95, 352 54, Växjö, Växjö, Sweden
- Department for Research and Development, Region Kronoberg, PO Box 1223, 351 12, Växjö, Sweden
| | - Bengt Fridlund
- Centre of Interprofessional Collaboration within Emergency Care (CICE), Linnaeus University, Region Kronoberg, PO Box 1207, 351 95, 352 54, Växjö, Växjö, Sweden
| | - Anders Svensson
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, PO Box 451, Växjö, 351 95, Sweden
- Centre of Interprofessional Collaboration within Emergency Care (CICE), Linnaeus University, Region Kronoberg, PO Box 1207, 351 95, 352 54, Växjö, Växjö, Sweden
- Ambulance Service, Region Kronoberg, PO Box 1207, 351 95, 352 54, Växjö, Växjö, Sweden
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9
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Ching LM, Benjamin BA, Stiles EG, Shaw HH. Enabling health potential: exploring nonlinear and complex results of osteopathic manual medicine through complex systems theory. J Osteopath Med 2023; 123:207-213. [PMID: 36628949 DOI: 10.1515/jom-2022-0118] [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: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Osteopathic medicine is a holistic, patient-specific approach. Explaining the impact of osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) has been problematic because many of its effects are nonlinear. Complex systems theory (CST) is explored as a mechanism of understanding the interplay of the body's anatomy and physiology, an illness process, and the effects of OMM. Tensegrity is discussed as an example of an emergent property of the body's systems that affects not only biomechanics but also pathophysiology. Previous explanations of osteopathic philosophy are reviewed. The Host + Disease=Illness paradigm is a way to think through the impact of host and disease factors on an illness state, and how targeted interventions may affect the illness. The Osteopathic 5 Models are another way to view the body's complexity. The area of greatest restriction (AGR) screen can be understood to direct OMM in a way that respects complexity and enables asymmetric and nonlocal results to realize health potential. The impact of this framework is in coherently explaining the impact of osteopathic philosophy and OMM and exploring new approaches to research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie M Ching
- Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Bruce A Benjamin
- Physiology, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Edward G Stiles
- Osteopathic Principles and Practice, University of Pikeville-Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, Pikeville, KY, USA
| | - Harriet H Shaw
- Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
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10
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Hong QN, Bangpan M, Stansfield C, Kneale D, O'Mara-Eves A, van Grootel L, Thomas J. Using systems perspectives in evidence synthesis: A methodological mapping review. Res Synth Methods 2022; 13:667-680. [PMID: 35932206 DOI: 10.1002/jrsm.1595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Reviewing complex interventions is challenging because they include many elements that can interact dynamically in a nonlinear manner. A systems perspective offers a way of thinking to help understand complex issues, but its application in evidence synthesis is not established. The aim of this project was to understand how and why systems perspectives have been applied in evidence synthesis. A methodological mapping review was conducted to identify papers using a systems perspective in evidence synthesis. A search was conducted in seven bibliographic databases and three search engines. A total of 101 papers (representing 98 reviews) met the eligibility criteria. Two categories of reviews were identified: (1) reviews using a "systems lens" to frame the topic, generate hypotheses, select studies, and guide the analysis and interpretation of findings (n = 76) and (2) reviews using systems methods to develop a systems model (n = 22). Several methods (e.g., systems dynamic modeling, soft systems approach) were identified, and they were used to identify, rank and select elements, analyze interactions, develop models, and forecast needs. The main reasons for using a systems perspective were to address complexity, view the problem as a whole, and understand the interrelationships between the elements. Several challenges for capturing the true nature and complexity of a problem were raised when performing these methods. This review is a useful starting point when designing evidence synthesis of complex interventions. It identifies different opportunities for applying a systems perspective in evidence synthesis, and highlights both commonplace and less familiar methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Nha Hong
- EPPI-Centre, UCL Social Research Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mukdarut Bangpan
- EPPI-Centre, UCL Social Research Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Claire Stansfield
- EPPI-Centre, UCL Social Research Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dylan Kneale
- EPPI-Centre, UCL Social Research Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alison O'Mara-Eves
- EPPI-Centre, UCL Social Research Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - James Thomas
- EPPI-Centre, UCL Social Research Institute, University College London, London, UK
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11
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Graham KD, Steel A, Wardle J. The converging paradigms of holism and complexity: An exploration of naturopathic clinical case management using complexity science principles. J Eval Clin Pract 2022; 29:662-681. [PMID: 35703447 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Traditional whole systems of medicine, such as naturopathy, are founded upon holism; a philosophical paradigm consistent with contemporary complexity science. Naturopathic case management is predicated upon the understanding of an intimately interconnected internal physiological and external context of the human organism-potentially indicating a worldview aligned with a complexity perspective. In this study we investigate naturopathic clinical reasoning using a complexity lens with the aim of ascertaining the extent of correspondence between the two. METHOD Mind maps depicting case presentations were sought from Australian degree qualified naturopaths. A network mapping was undertaken, which was then analysed in accordance with a complexity science framework using exploratory data analysis and network analysis processes and tools. RESULTS Naturopathic case schematics, in the form of mind maps (n = 70), were collected, network mapped, and analysed. A total of 739 unique elements and 2724 links were identified across the network. Integral elements across the network were: stress, fatigue, general anxiety, systemic inflammation, gut dysbiosis, and diet. A modularity algorithm detected 11 communities, the primary ones of these representing the nervous system and mood; the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and nutrition; immune function and the immune system; and diet and nutrients. CONCLUSIONS Naturopathic case management is holistic and based on a perspective of an integrated physiology and external context of the human organism. The traditional concept of holism, when subjected to a complexity lens, leads to the emergence of a contemporary holistic paradigm cognisant of the human organism being a complex system. The application of complexity science to investigate naturopathic case management as employed in this study, demonstrates that it is possible to investigate traditional philosophies and principles in a scientific and critical manner. A complexity science research approach may offer a suitable scientific paradigm to develop our understanding of traditional whole systems of medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim D Graham
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amie Steel
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jon Wardle
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
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Huber C, Montreuil C, Christie D, Forbes A. Integrating Self-Management Education and Support in Routine Care of People With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Conceptional Model Based on Critical Interpretive Synthesis and A Consensus-Building Participatory Consultation. FRONTIERS IN CLINICAL DIABETES AND HEALTHCARE 2022; 3:845547. [PMID: 36992783 PMCID: PMC10012123 DOI: 10.3389/fcdhc.2022.845547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The integration of self-management education and support into the routine diabetes care is essential in preventing complications. Currently, however, there is no consensus on how to conceptualise integration in relation to self-management education and support. Therefore, this synthesis presents a framework conceptualising integration and self-management.MethodsSeven electronic databases (Medline, HMIC, PsycINFO, CINAHL, ERIC, Scopus and Web of Science) were searched. Twenty-one articles met the inclusion criteria. Data were synthesised using principles of critical interpretive synthesis to build the conceptual framework. The framework was presented to 49 diabetes specialist nurses working at different levels of care during a multilingual workshop.ResultsA conceptual framework is proposed in which integration is influenced by five interacting components: the programme ethos of the diabetes self-management education and support intervention (content and delivery), care system organisation (the framework in which such interventions are delivered), adapting to context (the aspects of the people receiving and delivering the interventions), interpersonal relationship (the interactions between the deliverer and receiver of the intervention), and shared learning (what deliverer and receiver gain from the interactions). The critical inputs from the workshop participants related to the different priorities given to the components according to their sociolinguistic and educational experiences, Overall, they agreed with the conceptualisation of the components and their content specific to diabetes self-management education and support.DiscussionIntegration was conceptualised in terms of the relational, ethical, learning, contextual adapting, and systemic organisational aspects of the intervention. It remains uncertain which prioritised interactions of components and to what extent these may moderate the integration of self-management education and support into routine care; in turn, the level of integration observed in each of the components may moderate the impact of these interventions, which may also apply to the impact of the professional training.ConclusionThis synthesis provides a theoretical framework that conceptualises integration in the context of diabetes self-management education and support in routine care. More research is required to evaluate how the components identified in the framework can be addressed in clinical practice to assess whether improvements in self-management education and support can be effectively realised in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Huber
- HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, School of Health Science Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King’s College London, James Clerk Maxwell Building, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Claudia Huber,
| | - Chantal Montreuil
- Institute of Higher Education and Research in Healthcare, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Derek Christie
- HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, School of Health Science Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Angus Forbes
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King’s College London, James Clerk Maxwell Building, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Haruta J, Goto R, Sachiko O, Kimura S, Teruyama J, Hama Y, Maeno T. How do general practitioners handle complexities? A team ethnographic study in Japan. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:133. [PMID: 35624417 PMCID: PMC9137137 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01741-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND General practitioners (GPs) are often faced with complex problems, including patients with socio-economic and medical problems. However, the methods they use to approach these complexities are still not understood. We speculated that elucidating these methods using complex adaptive systems (CAS) methodology to comprehensively assess GPs' daily activities would contribute to improving the professional development of GPs. This study aimed to clarify how expert GPs handle complex problems and adapt to their community context through the ethnography of GPs and other healthcare professionals in terms of CAS. METHODS We adopted the interdisciplinary team-ethnographic research approach. Five hospitals and four clinics in Japan which were considered to employ expert GPs were selected by purposive sampling. 62 individuals of various backgrounds working in these nine facilities were interviewed. Using field notes and interview data, the researchers iteratively discussed the adequacy of our interpretations. The first author (JH) prepared a draft report, which was reviewed by the GPs at the participating facilities. Through critical and iterative consideration of the different insights obtained, the final findings emerged together with representative data. RESULTS We identified four approaches used by GPs to deal with complexities. First, GPs treat patients with complex problems as a whole being and address their problems multi-directionally. Second, GPs build horizontal, trusting relationships with other healthcare professionals and stakeholders, and thereby reduce the degree of complexity of problems. Third, GPs change the learning climate while committing to their own growth based on societal needs and by acting as role models for other professionals through daily interpersonal facilitation. Fourth, GPs share community vision with multi-professionals and thereby act as a driving force for organizational change. These various interactions among GPs, healthcare professionals, organizations and communities resulted in systematization of the healthcare and welfare network in their community. CONCLUSIONS Expert GPs developed interconnected multidimensional systems in their community health and welfare networks to adapt to fluctuating social realities using four approaches. GPs' work environment may be considered as a complex adaptive system (CAS) and the approach of GPs to complexities is CAS-based. Our findings are expected to have practical applications for GPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junji Haruta
- Medical Education Center, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan.
- Department of Primary Care and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.
| | - Ryohei Goto
- Department of Primary Care and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Ozone Sachiko
- Department of Primary Care and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Shuhei Kimura
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Junko Teruyama
- Faculty of Library, Information and Media Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yusuke Hama
- Tokyo Junior College of Transportation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuhiro Maeno
- Department of Primary Care and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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Antao V, Grad R, Thériault G, Dickinson JA, Szafran O, Singh H, Rezkallah R, Waugh E, Bell NR. Going against the status quo in screening: Call to action to improve teaching in preventive health care. CANADIAN FAMILY PHYSICIAN MEDECIN DE FAMILLE CANADIEN 2022; 68:340-344. [PMID: 35552217 PMCID: PMC9097728 DOI: 10.46747/cfp.6805340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Viola Antao
- Associate Professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto in Ontario.
| | - Roland Grad
- Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at McGill University in Montréal, Que
| | - Guylène Thériault
- Academic Lead for the Physicianship Component and Director of Pedagogy at Outaouais Medical Campus in the Faculty of Medicine at McGill University
| | - James A Dickinson
- Professor in the Department of Family Medicine and the Department of Community Health Sciences at the University of Calgary in Alberta
| | - Olga Szafran
- Associate Director of Research in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Alberta in Edmonton
| | - Harminder Singh
- Associate Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine and the Department of Community Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, and in the Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology at CancerCare Manitoba; he is also Adjunct Scientist at the CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute
| | | | - Earle Waugh
- Professor Emeritus and Emeritus Director of the Centre for Health and Culture in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Alberta
| | - Neil R Bell
- Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Alberta
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15
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Antao V, Grad R, Thériault G, Dickinson JA, Szafran O, Singh H, Rezkallah R, Waugh E, Bell NR. À l’encontre du statu quo en matière de dépistage. CANADIAN FAMILY PHYSICIAN MEDECIN DE FAMILLE CANADIEN 2022; 68:e140-e145. [PMID: 35552220 PMCID: PMC9097729 DOI: 10.46747/cfp.6805e140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Viola Antao
- Professeure agrégée au département de médecine familiale et communautaire à l'Université de Toronto (Ontario).
| | - Roland Grad
- Professeur agrégé au département de médecine familiale à l'Université McGill à Montréal (Québec)
| | - Guylène Thériault
- Directrice du volet Rôle du médecin et directrice du centre de pédagogie au Campus Outaouais de la Faculté de médecine de l'Université McGill
| | - James A Dickinson
- Professeur au département de médecine familiale et au département des sciences de santé communautaire à l'Université de Calgary (Alberta)
| | - Olga Szafran
- Directrice adjointe de recherche au Département de médecine familiale de l'Université de l'Alberta à Edmonton
| | - Harminder Singh
- Professeur agrégé au département de médecine interne et au département des sciences de santé communautaire à l'Université du Manitoba à Winnipeg et au département d'hématologie et d'oncologie médicale à ActionCancer Manitoba; il est également scientifique adjoint à l'Institut de recherche d'ActionCancer Manitoba
| | | | - Earle Waugh
- Professeur émérite et directeur émérite du centre de santé et de culture du département de médecine familiale de l'Université de l'Alberta
| | - Neil R Bell
- Professeur au département de médecine familiale à l'Université de l'Alberta
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16
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Graham KD, Steel A, Wardle J. Primary health care case management through the lens of complexity: an exploratory study of naturopathic practice using complexity science principles. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:107. [PMID: 35428262 PMCID: PMC9011958 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03585-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Advances in systems science creates an opportunity to bring a complexity perspective to health care practices and research. While medical knowledge has greatly progressed using a reductionist and mechanistic philosophy, this approach may be limited in its capacity to manage chronic and complex illness. With its holistic foundation, naturopathy is a primary health profession with a purported alignment with a complexity perspective. As such this pilot study aimed to investigate the application of complexity science principles, strategies, and tools to primary health care using naturopathy as a case study. Methods A network mapping and analysis of the naturopathic case management process was conducted. Mind maps were created by naturopathic practitioners to reflect their clinical conceptualisation of a common paper clinical case. These mind maps were inputed into Gephi, a network mapping, exploration, and analysis software. Various layouts of the data were produced, and these were analysed using exploratory data analysis and computational network analysis. Results Seven naturopathic practitioners participated in the study. In the combined network mapping, 133 unique elements and 399 links were identified. Obesity, the presenting issue in the case, was centrally located. Along with obesity, other keystone elements included: systemic inflammation, dysbiosis, diet, the liver, and mood. Each element was connected on average to 3.05 other elements, with a degree variation between one and 36. Six communities within the dataset were identified, comprising: the nervous system and mood, gastroinstetinal and dietary factors, systemic inflammation and obesity, the endocrine system and metabolism. Conclusions This pilot study demonstrates that it is feasible to apply a complexity science perspective to investigating primary health care case management. This supports a shift to viewing the human organism as a complex adaptive system within primary health care settings, with implications for health care practices that are more cognisant with the treatment of chronic and complex conditions and research opportunities to capture the complex clinical reasoning processes of practitioners. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03585-2.
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Implementation and Qualitative Evaluation of a Primary Care Redesign Model with Expanded Scope of Work for Medical Assistants. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:1129-1137. [PMID: 34997393 PMCID: PMC8971214 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-07246-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Implementation of primary care models involving expanded scope of work and redesigned workflows for medical assistants (MAs) as primary care team members can be challenging. Implementation strategies and participatory evaluation informed by implementation science frameworks may inform organizational decisions about model scale-up and sustainment. OBJECTIVE This paper reports implementation strategies and qualitative evaluation of a primary care redesign (PCR) model implementation that included an expanded scope of work for MAs. DESIGN Qualitative evaluation of implementation strategies and clinician and staff experience with implementation of PCR using semi-structured key informant interviews. The evaluation was guided by the RE-AIM framework and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. PARTICIPANTS Sixty-nine clinicians, staff, practice leaders, and administrators from 7 primary care practices (4 general internal medicine, 3 family medicine) implementing PCR. INTERVENTIONS The PCR model included enhanced rooming and documentation support. The health system used multiple strategies to implement PCR, including rapid improvement events, changing clinic space configurations, developing electronic health record templates and performance dashboards, and practice coaching. APPROACH The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research and the RE-AIM evaluation and planning framework guided development of semi-structured interview guides. A deductive, structural coding approach was used for analysis. KEY RESULTS PCR implementation was facilitated by clear communication about the intervention source, mechanisms for feedback about model goals, and physical environments and electronic health record (EHR) systems that supported the added staff and modified clinic workflow. Clinicians and staff benefited from the ability to see the model in action prior to go-live and opportunities for consistent provider-MA pairings. CONCLUSIONS The PCR model can support achieving the Quadruple Aim when fully implemented with paired MAs and clinicians who are well prepared to follow redesigned workflows and function as a team. Implementation can be effectively supported by a participatory evaluation guided by implementation science frameworks.
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18
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Schuttner L, Hockett Sherlock S, Simons C, Ralston JD, Rosland AM, Nelson K, Lee JR, Sayre G. Factors affecting primary care physician decision-making for patients with complex multimorbidity: a qualitative interview study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:25. [PMID: 35123398 PMCID: PMC8817776 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01633-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with multiple chronic conditions (multimorbidity) and additional psychosocial complexity are at higher risk of adverse outcomes. Establishing treatment or care plans for these patients must account for their disease interactions, finite self-management abilities, and even conflicting treatment recommendations from clinical practice guidelines. Despite existing insight into how primary care physicians (PCPs) approach care decisions for their patients in general, less is known about how PCPs make care planning decisions for more complex populations particularly within a medical home setting. We therefore sought to describe factors affecting physician decision-making when care planning for complex patients with multimorbidity within the team-based, patient-centered medical home setting in the integrated healthcare system of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). METHODS This was a qualitative study involving semi-structured telephone interviews with PCPs working > 40% time in VHA clinics. Interviews were conducted from April to July, 2020. Content was analyzed with deductive and inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS 23 physicians participated in interviews; most were MDs (n = 21) and worked in hospital-affiliated clinics (n = 14) across all regions of the VHA's national clinic network. We found internal, external, and relationship-based factors, with developed subthemes describing factors affecting decision-making for complex patients with multimorbidity. Physicians described tailoring decisions to individual patients; making decisions in keeping with an underlying internal style or habit; working towards an overarching goal for care; considering impacts from patient access and resources on care plans; deciding within boundaries provided by organizational structures; collaborating on care plans with their care team; and impacts on decisions from their own emotions and relationship with patient. CONCLUSIONS PCPs described internal, external, and relationship-based factors that affected their care planning for high-risk and complex patients with multimorbidity in the VHA. Findings offer useful strategies employed by physicians to effectively conduct care planning for complex patients in a medical home setting, such as delegation of follow-up within multidisciplinary care teams, optimizing visit time vs frequency, and deliberate investment in patient-centered relationship building to gain buy-in to care plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnaea Schuttner
- Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 S Columbian Way, Seattle, Washington, 98108, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Stacey Hockett Sherlock
- Comprehensive Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE) Center, VA Iowa City Health Care System, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Carol Simons
- Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 S Columbian Way, Seattle, Washington, 98108, USA
| | - James D Ralston
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ann-Marie Rosland
- VA Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Karin Nelson
- Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 S Columbian Way, Seattle, Washington, 98108, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jennifer R Lee
- Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 S Columbian Way, Seattle, Washington, 98108, USA.,Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - George Sayre
- Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 S Columbian Way, Seattle, Washington, 98108, USA.,Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA
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Tesser CD. Duas críticas às normativas dos Núcleos de Apoio à Saúde da Família. TRABALHO, EDUCAÇÃO E SAÚDE 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1981-7746-ojs00118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Estudos empíricos identificaram insuficiências e precariedades na atuação de apoio matricial dos Núcleos de Apoio à Saúde da Família. Este artigo, baseado em experiências assistemáticas diversas e literatura selecionada, defende duas teses interligadas que criticam aspectos das normativas federais originais para atuação desses Núcleos: uma concepção − implícita nas normativas − de atenção primária à saúde como cenário de ações situadas apenas em campos de competência compartilháveis, por um lado; e a opção de inserção desses Núcleos relativamente fora do fluxo assistencial dos usuários, por outro. Argumenta-se que ambas, provavelmente, geraram efeitos adversos envolvidos nos problemas de atuação desses Núcleos: contribuíram para a superestimação dos seus resultados esperados, para o seu subaproveitamento e subdesenvolvimento institucional e para a precarização da sua legitimidade, dificultada com a Política Nacional de Atenção Básica de 2017 e atingida gravemente com o desfinanciamento federal em 2019. Defende-se o aperfeiçoamento dos Núcleos de Apoio à Saúde da Família e sugere-se sua inserção no fluxo assistencial entre a atenção primária à saúde e a atenção secundária, para reduzir o isolamento entre ambas e aperfeiçoar a coordenação personalizada do cuidado, facilitar a legitimidade dos ‘matriciadores’, o apoio matricial e a educação permanente dos profissionais.
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Graham KD, Steel A, Wardle J. Embracing the Complexity of Primary Health Care: System-Based Tools and Strategies for Researching the Case Management Process. J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:2817-2826. [PMID: 34934325 PMCID: PMC8678537 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s327260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The provision of health care is frequently a complex process, and favourable clinical outcomes are dependent on the effective management of this complexity. Contemporary medicine and health care practices that are biomedically aligned have been informed by a reductionist paradigm, potentially creating a misalignment between health care and the human organism as a complex adaptive system. Complexity science is increasingly gaining momentum within the academic literature and is being employed across a wide range of scientific disciplines, although this is less evident in medicine. Limited evidence was found within the literature of a complexity science framework being used to explore and inform individual health care practices; in this paper, this gap will be explored through consideration of the use of strategies and tools (specifically mind maps, computer-generated network mappings, exploratory data analysis, and computer-derived network analysis) which are congruent with a complexity science framework. This information may be useful to researchers investigating health care provision and to clinicians wishing to incorporate a complexity sensibility within their practice. ![]()
Point your SmartPhone at the code above. If you have a QR code reader, the video abstract will appear. Or use: https://youtu.be/8HBU6dBY53s
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim D Graham
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Amie Steel
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Jon Wardle
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
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Sigurdsson JA, Beich A, Stavdal A. A Saga-In-Progress: Challenges and Milestones on Our Way Toward the Nordic Core Values and Principles of Family Medicine/General Practice. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:681612. [PMID: 34901046 PMCID: PMC8662748 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.681612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Summary: Late in 2020, the Nordic Colleges of General Practice published a joint statement specifying what General Practitioners stand for and intend to act upon, our Core Values and Principles. In this article, the authors describe and analyze challenges and milestones encountered on our 50-year journey toward the creation of that document. The shaping of Family Medicine/General Practice as an academic discipline began in the 1960's. During an initial, descriptive phase, the new specialty was defined, its educational curricula formulated, and the core competencies required to earn the title, Specialist in Family Medicine, were identified. Focus was not yet placed directly on the relationship between viable working principles and values, however. Then, the 1978 WHO Alma Ata Declaration affirmed health to be a fundamental human right, with primary health care as the heart of sustainable health care systems, indirectly mandating that the field of Family Medicine deliver value-based health care. A major step in that process was taken in 2001: The Norwegian College of General Practice launched their statement identifying the seven theses, Sju teser, that characterize the principles, purposes—and core values—of General Practice. Later, the Nordic colleges worked together to formulate the 2020 joint statement. We are confident that Family Medicine will continue to provide sustainable, relationship-based care, and to protect the human side of medicine. Sharing core values and principles can help us mobilize as effective advocates for our discipline and for our patients, the citizens whom we serve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johann A Sigurdsson
- Nordic Federation of General Practice, Reykjavik, Iceland.,Grafarvogur Health Care Center, Reykjavik, Iceland.,Department of Public Health and Nursing/General Practice Research Unit, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Anders Beich
- Danish College of General Practice, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Family Doctors Lietmann, Beich and Ehrenreich, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Stavdal
- World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA), Oslo, Norway.,Norwegian Research School in General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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22
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Steinkamp J, Sharma A, Bala W, Kantrowitz JJ. A Fully Collaborative, Noteless Electronic Medical Record Designed to Minimize Information Chaos: Software Design and Feasibility Study. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e23789. [PMID: 34751651 PMCID: PMC8663541 DOI: 10.2196/23789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Clinicians spend large amounts of their workday using electronic medical records (EMRs). Poorly designed documentation systems contribute to the proliferation of out-of-date information, increased time spent on medical records, clinician burnout, and medical errors. Beyond software interfaces, examining the underlying paradigms and organizational structures for clinical information may provide insights into ways to improve documentation systems. In particular, our attachment to the note as the major organizational unit for storing unstructured medical data may be a cause of many of the problems with modern clinical documentation. Notes, as currently understood, systematically incentivize information duplication and information scattering, both within a single clinician’s notes over time and across multiple clinicians’ notes. Therefore, it is worthwhile to explore alternative paradigms for unstructured data organization. Objective The aim of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility of building an EMR that does not use notes as the core organizational unit for unstructured data and which is designed specifically to disincentivize information duplication and information scattering. Methods We used specific design principles to minimize the incentive for users to duplicate and scatter information. By default, the majority of a patient’s medical history remains the same over time, so users should not have to redocument that information. Clinicians on different teams or services mostly share the same medical information, so all data should be collaboratively shared across teams and services (while still allowing for disagreement and nuance). In all cases where a clinician must state that information has remained the same, they should be able to attest to the information without redocumenting it. We designed and built a web-based EMR based on these design principles. Results We built a medical documentation system that does not use notes and instead treats the chart as a single, dynamically updating, and fully collaborative workspace. All information is organized by clinical topic or problem. Version history functionality is used to enable granular tracking of changes over time. Our system is highly customizable to individual workflows and enables each individual user to decide which data should be structured and which should be unstructured, enabling individuals to leverage the advantages of structured templating and clinical decision support as desired without requiring programming knowledge. The system is designed to facilitate real-time, fully collaborative documentation and communication among multiple clinicians. Conclusions We demonstrated the feasibility of building a non–note-based, fully collaborative EMR system. Our attachment to the note as the only possible atomic unit of unstructured medical data should be reevaluated, and alternative models should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson Steinkamp
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Abhinav Sharma
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Wasif Bala
- Emory University Hospital, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Thompson L, Dowell A, Hilder J, Macdonald L, Stubbe M, Alchin J. How do patients and General Practitioners talk about pain and negotiate empathy in consultations? A direct observational study. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:e153-e162. [PMID: 33393707 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this qualitative study in New Zealand was to investigate how general practitioners and patients discuss chronic pain in consultations. Chronic pain is a complex condition that defies many commonsense understandings. It is challenging to manage and patients can come to conclude that there is an empathy deficit. To our knowledge most, if not all, studies on this topic have recruited participants whose main presenting complaint is chronic pain. Forms of chronic pain are relatively common in the population and we thought it likely that at least some discussions may be rendered invisible via these recruiting practices. The study analysed data from the Applied Research on Communication in Health repository of audio transcripts and video-recorded consultations collected from a range of studies on a variety of topics, none of which were about chronic pain specifically. We searched the 256 transcripts looking for key words that might indicate that pain was at least part of the consultation. This yielded a large number of potentially relevant transcripts. These transcripts were assessed and reduced to 18 by excluding those that were about non-physical pain or pain that was expected to resolve relatively quickly. A medical specialist in chronic pain reviewed the resulting 18 and excluded two further transcripts giving us a final sample of 16. We conducted in-depth analysis of these consultations. Rather than confirming an empathy deficit, we found a much more complex deployment of empathy in the space where the two complex systems of chronic pain and general practice meet. These findings highlight the utility of analysing data originally generated for other purposes, with permission, and in a practical sense, highlight the importance of understanding empathy as highly contextual in 'real world' practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Thompson
- Department of Population Health/Te Tari Hauora Taupori, University of Otago/Te Whare Wānanga o Otāgo ki Ōtautahi, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Anthony Dowell
- Department of Primary Health Care and General Practice, Te Tari Hauora Mātāmua me te Mātauranga Rata Whānau, University of Otago, Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jo Hilder
- Department of Primary Health Care and General Practice, Te Tari Hauora Mātāmua me te Mātauranga Rata Whānau, University of Otago, Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Lindsay Macdonald
- Department of Primary Health Care and General Practice, Te Tari Hauora Mātāmua me te Mātauranga Rata Whānau, University of Otago, Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Maria Stubbe
- Department of Primary Health Care and General Practice, Te Tari Hauora Mātāmua me te Mātauranga Rata Whānau, University of Otago, Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - John Alchin
- Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Schimmel M, Aarab G, Baad-Hansen L, Lobbezoo F, Svensson P. A conceptual model of oro-facial health with an emphasis on function. J Oral Rehabil 2021; 48:1283-1294. [PMID: 34462948 PMCID: PMC9292770 DOI: 10.1111/joor.13250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The individual inclination to lead an autonomous life until death is associated with requirements that may be of physiological, psychosocial and environmental nature. We aim to describe a conceptual oro‐facial health model with an emphasis on oro‐facial function, taking the domains of quality of life and patient‐centred values into account. In the context of oro‐facial function, the requirements of life are met when the oro‐facial system is in a fit state. ‘Fitness of the oro‐facial system, that is oro‐facial health, is a state that is characterised by an absence of, or positive coping with physical disease, mental disease, pain and negative environmental and social factors. It will allow natural oro‐facial functions such as sensing, tasting, touching, biting, chewing, swallowing, speaking, yawning, kissing and facial expression’. In the presented conceptual model of oro‐facial health, it is postulated that each individual has present and future potentials related to biological prerequisites and resources that are developed by an individual through the course of life. These potentials form the oro‐facial functional capacity. When the individual potentials together do not meet the requirements of life anymore, dysfunction and disease result. The oro‐facial system is subject to physiological ageing processes, which will inevitably lead to a decrease in the oro‐facial functional capacity. Furthermore, comorbid medical conditions might hamper oro‐facial function and, alongside with the ageing process, may lead to a state of oral hypofunction. Currently, there is a lack of widespread, validated, easy‐to‐use instruments that help to distinguish between states of oro‐facial fitness as opposed to oral hypofunction. Clearly, research is needed to establish adequate, validated instruments alongside with functional rehabilitation procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Schimmel
- Department of Reconstructive Dentistry and Gerodontology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Division of Gerodontology and Removable Prosthodontics, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ghizlane Aarab
- Department of Orofacial Pain and Dysfunction, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lene Baad-Hansen
- Department of Dentistry and Oral Health, Section for Orofacial Pain and Jaw Function, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences (SCON), Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Frank Lobbezoo
- Department of Orofacial Pain and Dysfunction, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Svensson
- Department of Dentistry and Oral Health, Section for Orofacial Pain and Jaw Function, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences (SCON), Aarhus, Denmark.,Faculty of Odontology, Malmø University, Sweden
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Lynch JM, Dowrick C, Meredith P, McGregor SLT, van Driel M. Transdisciplinary Generalism: Naming the epistemology and philosophy of the generalist. J Eval Clin Pract 2021; 27:638-647. [PMID: 32939937 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transdisciplinary research and generalist practice both face the task of integrating and discerning the value of knowledge across disciplinary and sectoral knowledge cultures. Transdisciplinarity and generalism also both offer philosophical and practical insights into the epistemology, ontology, axiology, and logic of seeing the 'whole'. Although generalism is a skill that can be used in many settings from industry to education, the focus of this paper is the literature of the primary care setting (i.e., general practice or family medicine). Generalist philosophy and practice in the family medicine setting highly values whole person care that uses integrative and interpretive wisdom to include both biomedical and biographical forms of knowledge. Generalist researchers are often caught between reductionist (positivist) biomedical measures and social science (post-positivist) constructivist theories of knowing. Neither of these approaches, even when juxtaposed in mixed-methods research, approximate the complexity of the generalist clinical encounter. A theoretically robust research methodology is needed that acknowledges the complexity of interpreting these ways of knowing in research and clinical practice. METHODS A conceptual review of literature to define the alignment between (a) the philosophy and practice of generalism in primary care and (b) both the practical (Zurich) and philosophical or methodological (Nicolescuian) schools of transdisciplinarity. RESULTS The alignment between generalism and transdisciplinarity included their broad scope, relational process, complex knowledge management, humble attitude to knowing, and real-world outcome focus. CONCLUSION The concurrence between these approaches to knowing is offered here as Transdisciplinary Generalism - a coherent epistemology for both primary care researchers and generalist clinicians to understand, enact, and research their own sophisticated craft of managing diverse forms of knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna M Lynch
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Integrate Place, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christopher Dowrick
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Pamela Meredith
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Mieke van Driel
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Liechti FD, Beck T, Ruetsche A, Roumet MC, Limacher A, Tritschler T, Donzé JD. Development and validation of a score to assess complexity of general internal medicine patients at hospital discharge: a prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e041205. [PMID: 33958334 PMCID: PMC8103941 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to develop and validate a score to assess inpatient complexity and compare its performance with two currently used but not validated tools to estimate complexity (ie, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), patient clinical complexity level (PCCL)). METHODS Consecutive patients discharged from the department of medicine of a tertiary care hospital were prospectively included into a derivation cohort from 1 October 2016 to 16 February 2017 (n=1407), and a temporal validation cohort from 17 February 2017 to 31 March 2017 (n=482). The physician in charge assessed complexity. Potential predictors comprised 52 parameters from the electronic health record such as health factors and hospital care usage. We fit a logistic regression model with backward selection to develop a prediction model and derive a score. We assessed and compared performance of model and score in internal and external validation using measures of discrimination and calibration. RESULTS Overall, 447 of 1407 patients (32%) in the derivation cohort, and 116 of 482 patients (24%) in the validation cohort were identified as complex. Eleven variables independently associated with complexity were included in the score. Using a cut-off of ≥24 score points to define high-risk patients, specificity was 81% and sensitivity 57% in the validation cohort. The score's area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve was 0.78 in both the derivation and validation cohort. In comparison, the CCI had an AUROC between 0.58 and 0.61, and the PCCL between 0.64 and 0.69, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We derived and internally and externally validated a score that reflects patient complexity in the hospital setting, performed better than other tools and could help monitoring complex patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian D Liechti
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Beck
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Ruetsche
- Department of Technology and Innovation, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Tobias Tritschler
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jacques D Donzé
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, Neuchâtel Hospital Network, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of General Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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27
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Robelo-Zarza O, Vargas-Huicochea I, Kelsall N, Rodríguez-Machain A. Suffering Depression: Illness Perception of Informal Primary Caregivers of Medical Students With Major Depressive Disorder. J Patient Exp 2021; 7:1577-1588. [PMID: 33457617 PMCID: PMC7786746 DOI: 10.1177/2374373520958514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
When a family member has depression at a level that generates disability in various functional spheres, the informal primary caregiver (IPC) is the individual who provides the majority of emotional and basic needs of the patient. This person is usually a relative and is extremely important in the health-disease-care process. This phenomenological qualitative study aimed to analyze the illness perception, in IPCs of undergraduate medical students previously diagnosed with mild depression. It was found that IPCs generate perceptions about depression based on a lack of knowledge of the disorder, which leads to feelings of sorrow, anger, frustration, and fear, that could interfere with the evolution of patients. Psychiatric disorders, such as depression, strongly impact both patients and people around them. For mental health professionals, in order to provide a more complete clinical approach, it is important to understand the illness perceptions not only of patients but of family IPCs as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Robelo-Zarza
- Division of Social Work, Psychiatry and Mental Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ingrid Vargas-Huicochea
- Research Division, Psychiatry and Mental Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nora Kelsall
- Columbia University/New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ana Rodríguez-Machain
- Research Division, Psychiatry and Mental Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
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28
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Komashie A, Ward J, Bashford T, Dickerson T, Kaya GK, Liu Y, Kuhn I, Günay A, Kohler K, Boddy N, O'Kelly E, Masters J, Dean J, Meads C, Clarkson PJ. Systems approach to health service design, delivery and improvement: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e037667. [PMID: 33468455 PMCID: PMC7817809 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-037667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To systematically review the evidence base for a systems approach to healthcare design, delivery or improvement. DESIGN Systematic review with meta-analyses. METHODS Included were studies in any patients, in any healthcare setting where a systems approach was compared with usual care which reported quantitative results for any outcomes for both groups. We searched Medline, Embase, HMIC, Health Business Elite, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO and CINAHL from inception to 28 May 2019 for relevant studies. These were screened, and data extracted independently and in duplicate. Study outcomes were stratified by study design and whether they reported patient and/or service outcomes. Meta-analysis was conducted with Revman software V.5.3 using ORs-heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics. RESULTS Of 11 405 records 35 studies were included, of which 28 (80%) were before-and-after design only, five were both before-and-after and concurrent design, and two were randomised controlled trials (RCTs). There was heterogeneity of interventions and wide variation in reported outcome types. Almost all results showed health improvement where systems approaches were used. Study quality varied widely. Exploratory meta-analysis of these suggested favourable effects on both patient outcomes (n=14, OR=0.52 (95% CI 0.38 to 0.71) I2=91%), and service outcomes (n=18, OR=0.40 (95% CI 0.31 to 0.52) I2=97%). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that a systems approaches to healthcare design and delivery results in a statistically significant improvement to both patient and service outcomes. However, better quality studies, particularly RCTs are needed.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42017065920.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Komashie
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- The Healthcare Improvement Studies (THIS) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- NIHR Global Health Research Group on Neurotrauma, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - James Ward
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Tom Bashford
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- NIHR Global Health Research Group on Neurotrauma, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Division of Anaesthesia, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Terry Dickerson
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Gulsum Kubra Kaya
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yuanyuan Liu
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Isla Kuhn
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Aslι Günay
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Media and Visual Arts, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Katharina Kohler
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Division of Anaesthesia, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Nicholas Boddy
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eugenia O'Kelly
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Joseph Masters
- Major Trauma Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - John Dean
- Department of Care Quality Improvement, Royal College of Physicians, London, London, UK
| | - Catherine Meads
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Anglia Ruskin University - Cambridge Campus, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - P John Clarkson
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
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Abstract
There is a need for a paradigm shift across mental health in primary care to improve the lives of millions of Europeans. To contribute to this paradigm shift, the European Forum for Primary Care (EFPC-MH) working group for Mental Health, produced a Position Paper for Primary Care Mental Health outlining 14 themes that needed prioritizing. These themes were developed and discussed interactively during the EFPC conferences between 2012 and 2019. The Position Paper on Mental Health gives direction to the necessary improvements over the next ten years. The themes vary from preferable healthcare model to the social determinants highlighting issues such as inequalities. The Statement of Mental Health in Primary Care will be established in cooperation with fellow organizations.
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Aysola J, Xu C, Huo H, Werner RM. The Relationships Between Patient Experience and Quality and Utilization of Primary Care Services. J Patient Exp 2020; 7:1678-1684. [PMID: 33457630 PMCID: PMC7786755 DOI: 10.1177/2374373520924190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We lack knowledge on how patient-reported experience relates to both quality of care services and visit attendance in the primary care setting. Therefore, in a cross-sectional analysis of 8355 primary care patients from 22 primary care practices, we examined the associations between visit-triggered patient-reported experience measures and both (1) quality of care measures and (2) number of missed primary care appointment (no shows). Our independent variables included both overall patient experience and its subdomains. Our outcomes included the following measures: smoking cessation discussion, diabetes eye examination referral, mammography, colonoscopy screening, current smoking status (nonsmoker vs smoker), diabetes control Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c [<8]), blood pressure control, cholesterol control Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) among patients with diabetes (LDL < 100), and visit no shows 2 and 5 years after the index visit that triggered the completed patient-experience survey. We found that patient experience, while an important stand-alone metric of care quality, may not relate to clinical outcomes or process measures in the outpatient setting. However, patient-reported experiences with their primary care provider appear to influence their future visit attendance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Aysola
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA
| | - Chang Xu
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA
| | - Hairong Huo
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA
| | - Rachel M Werner
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA
- Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Abstract
Systems thinking (ST) is an interdisciplinary domain that offers different ways to better understand the behavior and structure of a complex system. Over the past decades, several publications can be identified in academic literature, focusing on different aspects of systems thinking. However, two critical questions are not properly addressed in the extant body of ST literature: (i) How to conduct the content analysis exclusively to derive the prominent statistics (i.e., influential journals, authors, affiliated organizations and countries) pertaining to the domain of ST? (ii) How to get better insights regarding the current and emerging trends that may evolve over time based on the existing body of ST literature? To address these gaps, the aim of this research study is to provide a comprehensive insight into the domain of systems thinking through bibliometric and network analysis. Beginning with over 6000 accumulated publications, the analysis narrowed down to 626 prominent articles with proven influence published over the past three decades. Leveraging rigorous bibliometric tools analysis, this research unveils the influential authors, leading journals and top contributing organizations and countries germane to the domain of systems thinking. In addition, citation, co-citation and page rank analysis used to rank top influential articles in the area of systems thinking. Finally, with the aid of the network analysis, key clusters in the existing literature are identified based on the research areas of systems thinking. The findings of this research will serve as a bluebook for practitioners and scholars to conduct future research within systems thinking context.
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Poulin LIL, Skinner MW, Hanlon N. Rural gerontological health: Emergent questions for research, policy and practice. Soc Sci Med 2020; 258:113065. [PMID: 32480186 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This article explores what can be learned from the evolution of rural gerontology as a field of study to inform a more critical approach to the health of rural older adults. To counter the prevailing essentialism of highlighting the rural health disparities faced by older adults, there is a need to expand rural gerontological health research beyond deficit and medicalized understandings of health in rural communities. We argue that appreciating the interplay between unique health experiences, the complexity of the rural context and the continuum of older adult care is an important next step to foster advances in the field. Emergent questions for research, policy and practice are discussed and new directions for rural gerontological health are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura I L Poulin
- Trent University, 1600 West Bank Dr., Peterborough, Ontario, K9L 0G2, Canada.
| | - Mark W Skinner
- Trent University, 1600 West Bank Dr., Peterborough, Ontario, K9L 0G2, Canada.
| | - Neil Hanlon
- University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way., Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 4Z9, Canada.
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Criteria-Based Return to Sport Decision-Making Following Lateral Ankle Sprain Injury: a Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis. Sports Med 2020; 49:601-619. [PMID: 30747379 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-019-01071-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review was to identify prospective studies that used a criteria-based return to sport (RTS) decision-making process for patients with lateral ankle sprain (LAS) injury. DESIGN Systematic review and narrative synthesis. DATA SOURCES The PubMed (MEDLINE), Web of Science, PEDro, Cochrane Library, SPORTDiscus (EBSCO), ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases were searched to 23 November 2018. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES Studies were included if they prospectively applied a criteria-based RTS decision-making process for patients with LAS injury, but were excluded if they merely gathered outcome measures at the RTS time point. Studies were also excluded if patients were recovering from ankle fracture, high ankle sprain, medial ankle sprain, chronic ankle instability or complex ankle injury. RESULTS No studies were identified that used a criteria-based RTS decision-making process for patients with LAS injury. We were unable to conduct a quantitative synthesis or meta-analysis, therefore we provide a narrative synthesis of relevant questionnaires, as well as clinical and functional assessments commonly used in studies retrieved in the search. CONCLUSION There are currently no published evidence-based criteria to inform RTS decisions for patients with an LAS injury. Based on our narrative synthesis, we propose a number of variables that could be used to develop a criteria-based RTS decision paradigm. Future research should aim to reach consensus on these variables and apply them to actual RTS decisions within prospective study designs. Furthermore, we suggest that complex systems theory and the RTS continuum could be used to inform the development of an RTS decision-making paradigm for athletes with LAS injury.
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Olsson A, Thunborg C, Björkman A, Blom A, Sjöberg F, Salzmann-Erikson M. A scoping review of complexity science in nursing. J Adv Nurs 2020. [PMID: 32281684 DOI: 10.1111/jan.14382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM To describe how complexity science has been integrated into nursing. DESIGN A scoping review. DATA SOURCE/REVIEW METHOD Academic Search Elite, Scopus, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PubMed and Web of Science were searched November 2016, updated in October 2017 and January 2020. The working process included: problem identification, literature search, data evaluation, synthesizing and presentation. RESULTS Four categories were found in the included 89 articles: (a) how complexity science is integrated into the nursing literature in relation to nursing education and teaching; (b) patients' symptoms, illness outcome and safety as characteristics of complexity science in nursing; (c) that leaders and managers should see organizations as complex and adaptive systems, rather than as linear machines; and (d) the need for a novel approach to studying complex phenomena such as healthcare organizations. Lastly, the literature explains how complexity science has been incorporated into the discourse in nursing and its development. CONCLUSION The review provided strong support for use in complexity science in the contemporary nursing literature. Complexity science is also highly applicable and relevant to clinical nursing practice and nursing management from an organizational perspective. The application of complexity science as a tool in the analysis of complex nursing systems could improve our understanding of effective interactions among patients, families, physicians and hospital and skilled nursing facility staff as well as of education. IMPACT Understanding complexity science in relation to the key role of nurses in the healthcare environment can improve nursing work and nursing theory development. The use of complexity science provides nurses with a language that liberates them from the reductionist view on nursing education, practice and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annakarin Olsson
- Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, Department of Caring Science, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Charlotta Thunborg
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Clinical geriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,School of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Mälardalen University, Västerås, Sweden
| | - Annica Björkman
- Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, Department of Caring Science, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden.,Health Services Research, Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anneli Blom
- Centre for Clinical Research, Västmanland County Hospital, Västerås, Sweden
| | - Fredric Sjöberg
- Unit of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Salzmann-Erikson
- Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, Department of Caring Science, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
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Barbosa FES, Guimarães MBL, Santos CRD, Bezerra AFB, Tesser CD, Sousa IMCD. [Supply of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices in the Family Health Strategy in Brazil]. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2019; 36:e00208818. [PMID: 31939549 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00208818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The article analyzes the supply of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices in the Family Health Strategy (FHS), based on the agreement between answers by administrators and health professionals. This was a quantitative descriptive-exploratory study using two databases, the National Survey on Integrative and Complementary Practices in Health in the Unified National Health System (SUS) and the National Program for Improvement of Access and Quality of Basic Care (PMAQ). According to the administrators, the supply of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices was present in the FHS in 26.7% of the municipalities participating in the National Survey, compared to 25.5% of the municipalities according to the health professionals in the PMAQ. Of the 1,478 municipalities that participated in both surveys, in 8.6% there was an agreement of answers on the supply of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices in the FHS. The municipalities with the greatest agreement in the supply were those with small populations and greater coverage of basic care. The small proportion of municipalities with this supply according to both administrators and health professionals supports the hypothesis that the health professionals are the main force responsible for the expansion of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices in the SUS, as compared to initiatives by administrators. This scenario reflects the need for administrators to take greater stock of what is developed in the FHS to strengthen Integrative and Complementary Health Practices and to mobilize the institutional resources for their maintenance and expansion.
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Torre K, Vergotte G, Viel É, Perrey S, Dupeyron A. Fractal properties in sensorimotor variability unveil internal adaptations of the organism before symptomatic functional decline. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15736. [PMID: 31673034 PMCID: PMC6823488 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52091-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
If health can be defined as adaptability, then measures of adaptability are crucial. Convergent findings across clinical areas established the notion that fractal properties in bio-behavioural variability characterize the healthy condition of the organism, and its adaptive capacities in general. However, ambiguities remain as to the significance of fractal properties: the literature mainly discriminated between healthy vs. pathological states, thereby loosing perspective on the progression in between, and overlooking the distinction between adaptability and effective adaptations of the organism. Here, we design an experimental tapping paradigm involving gradual feedback deprivation in groups of healthy subjects and one deafferented man as a pathological-limit case. We show that distinct types of fractal properties in sensorimotor behaviour characterize, on the one hand impaired functional ability, and on the other hand internal adaptations for maintaining performance despite the imposed constraints. Findings may prove promising for early detection of internal adaptations preceding symptomatic functional decline.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Arnaud Dupeyron
- EuroMov, Univ. Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,CHU Carémeau, Nîmes, France
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Harbitz MB, Brandstorp H, Gaski M. Rural general practice patients' coping with hazards and harm: an interview study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e031343. [PMID: 31630108 PMCID: PMC6803137 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to identify and analyse rural general practice patients' experiences of hazards and harm that comprise adverse events, and their strategies for coping with them. DESIGN Interview study using systematic text condensation and coping strategy theory in an abductive analysis process. SETTING Nine rural general practice clinics in Norway. PARTICIPANTS Twenty participants, aged 21-79 years, all presenting with recent onset of somatic and/or psychiatric complaints. RESULTS Participating rural general practice patients described their experiences of a variety of hazards and harms. Their three most discussed cognitive and behavioural coping strategies were: (1) to accept the events; (2) to confront them and (3) to engage in planful problem-solving. While the participants demonstrated a tendency toward accepting hazards and harm that their regular general practitioner created, they were often willing to confront those that locum (ie, substitute) general practitioners created. Participants used planful problem-solving in situations they deemed hazardous, such as breaches of confidentiality or not being taken seriously, as well as during potential/actual emergencies. CONCLUSIONS Patients at rural general practice clinics actively identify and respond to hazards and harm, applying three coping strategies. Thus, patients themselves may serve as an important safety barrier against hazards and harm; their potential contributions to improving patient safety must be appreciated accordingly and reflected in future research as well as in everyday clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Helen Brandstorp
- Department of Community Medicine, Norwegian Centre for Rural Medicine, University of Tromso, Tromso, Norway
| | - Margrete Gaski
- Department of Community Medicine, Norwegian Centre for Rural Medicine, University of Tromso, Tromso, Norway
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The growing number of patients with terminal and chronic conditions and co-morbidities constitutes a challenge for any healthcare system, to provide effective and efficient patient-centred care at the end of life. Resources are limited, and complexity is rising within patients' situations and healthcare professionals interventions. This review presents the state of art of the role of complexity in specialist palliative care provision. RECENT FINDINGS Although studies related to complexity in palliative care are still limited, interesting reviews on complexity frameworks in co-morbidity conditions and palliative care are growing more present in current literature. They identify multidimensional issues, resource utilisation, and the relationship between them as fundamental aspects of complexity constructs, helping to define and understand complexity, and to therefore design validated tools to support healthcare professionals identifying the most complex patients, such as Hui's criteria, PALCOM, INTERMED, and IDC-Pal which is presented in this review. SUMMARY There is an urgent need to guarantee quality and equity of care for all the patients eligible for palliative care, from those who need a palliative care approach to those needing specialist intensive palliative care. Implementing complexity theory into practice is paramount. In this review, complexity science, complexity frameworks, as well as tools evaluating complexity in palliative care are described.
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Kovacs E, Wang X, Strobl R, Grill E. Economic evaluation of guideline implementation in primary care: a systematic review. Int J Qual Health Care 2019; 32:1-11. [DOI: 10.1093/intqhc/mzz059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
To review the economic evaluation of the guideline implementation in primary care.
Data sources
Medline and Embase.
Study selection
Electronic search was conducted on April 1, 2019, focusing on studies published in the previous ten years in developed countries about guidelines of non-communicable diseases of adult (≥18 years) population, the interventions targeting the primary care provider. Data extraction was performed by two independent researchers using a Microsoft Access based form.
Results of data synthesis
Among the 1338 studies assessed by title or abstract, 212 qualified for full text reading. From the final 39 clinically eligible studies, 14 reported economic evaluation. Cost consequences analysis, presented in four studies, provided limited information. Cost-benefit analysis was reported in five studies. Patient mediated intervention, and outreach visit applied in two studies showed no saving. Audit resulted significant savings in lipid lowering medication. Audit plus financial intervention was estimated to reduce referrals into secondary care. Analysis of incremental cost-effectiveness ratios was applied in four studies. Educational meeting evaluated in a simulated practice was cost-effective. Educational meeting extended with motivational interview showed no improvement; likewise two studies of multifaceted intervention. Cost-utility analysis of educational meeting supported with other educational materials showed unfavourable outcome.
Conclusion
Only a minor proportion of studies reporting clinical effectiveness of guideline implementation interventions included any type of economic evaluation. Rigorous and standardized cost-effectiveness analysis would be required, supporting decision-making between simple and multifaceted interventions through comparability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Kovacs
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometrics and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Marchioninistr. 15, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Marchioninistr. 15, Munich, Germany
| | - Xiaoting Wang
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometrics and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Marchioninistr. 15, Munich, Germany
| | - Ralf Strobl
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometrics and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Marchioninistr. 15, Munich, Germany
| | - Eva Grill
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometrics and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Marchioninistr. 15, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Marchioninistr. 15, Munich, Germany
- Munich Center of Health Sciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Marchioninistr. 15, Munich, Germany
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Walker LS. Commentary: Understanding Somatic Symptoms: From Dualism to Systems, Diagnosis to Dimensions, Clinical Judgement to Clinical Science. J Pediatr Psychol 2019; 44:862-867. [PMID: 31241136 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsz050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lynn S Walker
- Department of Pediatrics, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
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Berezowski J, Rüegg SR, Faverjon C. Complex System Approaches for Animal Health Surveillance. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:153. [PMID: 31157247 PMCID: PMC6532119 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Many new and highly variable data are currently being produced by the many participants in farmed animal productions systems. These data hold the promise of new information with potential value for animal health surveillance. The current analytical paradigm for dealing with these new data is to implement syndromic surveillance systems, which focus mainly on univariate event detection methods applied to individual time series, with the goal of identifying epidemics in the population. This approach is relatively limited in the scope and not well-suited for extracting much of the additional information that is contained within these data. These approaches have value and should not be abandoned. However, an additional, new analytical paradigm will be needed if surveillance and disease control agencies wish to extract additional information from these data. We propose a more holistic analytical approach borrowed from complex system science that considers animal disease to be a product of the complex interactions between the many individuals, organizations and other factors that are involved in, or influence food production systems. We will discuss the characteristics of farmed animal food production systems that make them complex adaptive systems and propose practical applications of methods borrowed from complex system science to help animal health surveillance practitioners extract additional information from these new data.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Berezowski
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Veterinary Public Health Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Simon R. Rüegg
- Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Céline Faverjon
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Veterinary Public Health Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Churruca K, Pomare C, Ellis LA, Long JC, Braithwaite J. The influence of complexity: a bibliometric analysis of complexity science in healthcare. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e027308. [PMID: 30904877 PMCID: PMC6475366 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To analyse trends in the academic literature applying complexity science to healthcare, focusing specifically on bibliometric characteristics and indicators of influence. DESIGN This study reports a bibliometric analysis via a systematic search of the academic literature applying complexity science to healthcare. METHOD A search of four academic databases was performed on 19 April 2018. Article details were downloaded and screened against inclusion criteria (peer-reviewed journal articles applying complexity science to healthcare). Publication and content data were then collected from included articles, with analysis focusing on trends over time in the types and topics of articles, and where they are published. We also analysed the influence of this body of work through citation and network analyses. RESULTS Articles on complexity science in healthcare were published in 268 journals, though a much smaller subset was responsible for a substantial proportion of this literature. USA contributed the largest number of articles, followed by the UK, Canada and Australia. Over time, the number of empirical and review articles increased, relative to non-empirical contributions. However, in general, non-empirical literature was more influential, with a series of introductory conceptual papers being the most influential based on both overall citations and their use as index references within a citation network. The most common topics of focus were health systems and organisations generally, and education, with recent uptake in research, policy, and change and improvement. CONCLUSIONS This study identified changes in the types of articles on complexity science in healthcare published over time, and their content. There was evidence to suggest a shift from conceptual work to the application of concrete improvement strategies and increasingly in-depth examination of complex healthcare systems. We also identified variation in the influence of this literature at article level, and to a lesser extent by topic of focus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Churruca
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Belrhiti Z, Nebot Giralt A, Marchal B. Complex Leadership in Healthcare: A Scoping Review. Int J Health Policy Manag 2018; 7:1073-1084. [PMID: 30709082 PMCID: PMC6358662 DOI: 10.15171/ijhpm.2018.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nowadays, health systems are generally acknowledged to be complex social systems. Consequently, scholars, academics, practitioners, and policy-makers are exploring how to adopt a complexity perspective in health policy and system research. While leadership and complexity has been studied extensively outside health, the implications of complexity theories for the study of leadership in healthcare have received limited attention. We carried out a scoping review of complex leadership (CL) in healthcare to investigate how CL in healthcare has been defined, theorised and conceptualised and to explore how 'CL' has been applied in healthcare settings. METHODS We followed the methodological steps proposed by (Arksey and O'Malley, 2005): (1) specifying the research question, (2) identifying relevant studies, (3) study selection, (4) charting the data, (5) collating and summarizing the findings, and (6) reporting the results. We searched using Medline, Psychinfo, Wiley online library, and Google Scholar. Our inclusion criteria were: publication type (peer reviewed articles, theses, and book chapters); phenomenon of interest: complex leadership; context: healthcare and period of publication: between 2000 and 2016. RESULTS Our search and selection resulted in 37 papers (16 conceptual papers, 14 empirical studies and 7 advocacy papers). We note that empirical studies on CL are few and almost all research reported by these papers was carried out in the North (mainly in USA and UK). We found that there is some variation in definitions of CL. Furthermore, the research papers adopt mostly an explorative or explanatory approach and do not focus on assessing effectiveness of CL approaches. Finally, we found that the majority of researchers seem to adhere to the mathematical complexity perspective. CONCLUSION Complexity concepts derived from natural sciences may not automatically fit management of health services. Further research into how social complexity theories may offer researchers useful grounds to empirically test CL theories in health settings is warranted. Specific attention should be paid to the multi-layered nature of leadership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zakaria Belrhiti
- National School of Public Health, Rabat, Morocco
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Bruno Marchal
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
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Reynolds M, Sarriot E, Swanson RC, Rusoja E. Navigating systems ideas for health practice: Towards a common learning device. J Eval Clin Pract 2018; 24:619-628. [PMID: 29314478 DOI: 10.1111/jep.12872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Systems thinking and reference to complexity science have gained currency in health sector practice and research. The extent to which such ideas might represent a mere passing fad or might more usefully be mobilized to tackle wicked problems in health systems is a concern underpinning this paper. Developing the usefulness of the systems idea requires appreciating how systems ideas are used essentially as constructs conceptually bounded by practitioners. Systems are used for purposes of understanding and engaging the reality of health issues, with the intent of transforming the reality into one that is more manageable, equitable, and sustainable. We examine some manifestations of the systems idea in health practice and the traditions of systems practice that variously make use of them. This provides a platform for proposing a systems thinking in (health) practice heuristic: a learning device supporting how different tools and methods can address "wicked problems" in health praxis. The device is built on the use of "conversation" as a metaphor to help practitioners use systems ideas in tandem with existing disciplinary and professional skills and methods. We consider how the application of the heuristic requires, and helps to develop, human characteristics of humility, empathy, and recognition of fallibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Reynolds
- Applied Systems Thinking in Practice Group, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | | | | | - Evan Rusoja
- Emergency Medicine, Highland Hospital, Oakland, CA, USA
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Pype P, Mertens F, Belche J, Duchesnes C, Kohn L, Sercu M, Deveugele M. Experiences of hospital-based multidisciplinary team meetings in oncology: An interview study among participating general practitioners. Eur J Gen Pract 2018; 23:155-163. [PMID: 28554220 PMCID: PMC5774280 DOI: 10.1080/13814788.2017.1323081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer care has become complex, requiring healthcare professionals to collaborate to provide high-quality care. Multidisciplinary oncological team (MDT) meetings in the hospital have been implemented to coordinate individual cancer patients’ care. General practitioners (GPs) are invited to join, but their participation is minimal. Objectives: Aim of this study is to explore participating GPs’ perceptions of their current role and to understand their preferences towards effective role execution during MDT meetings. Methods: In May to June 2014, semi-structured interviews (n = 16) were conducted involving GPs with MDT experience in Belgium. The analysis was done according to qualitative content analysis principles. Results: Attendance of an MDT meeting is perceived as part of the GP’s work, especially for complex patient care situations. Interprofessional collaborative relationships and the GP’s perceived benefit to the MDT meeting discussions are important motivators to participate. Enhanced continuity of information flow and optimized organizational time management were practical aspects triggering the GP’s intention to participate. GPs valued the communication with the patient before and after the meeting as an integral part of the MDT dynamics. Conclusion: GPs perceive attendance of the MDT meeting as an integral part of their job. Suggestions are made to enhance the efficiency of the meetings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Pype
- a Department of Family Medicine and Primary Healthcare , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Fien Mertens
- a Department of Family Medicine and Primary Healthcare , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Jeanluc Belche
- b Département Universitaire de Médecine Générale, Faculté de Médecine , Université de Liège , Liege , Belgium
| | - Christiane Duchesnes
- b Département Universitaire de Médecine Générale, Faculté de Médecine , Université de Liège , Liege , Belgium
| | - Laurence Kohn
- c Belgian Health Care Knowledge Centre (KCE) , Brussels , Belgium
| | - Marij Sercu
- a Department of Family Medicine and Primary Healthcare , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Myriam Deveugele
- a Department of Family Medicine and Primary Healthcare , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
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Adherence to Oral Anticancer Medications: Evolving Interprofessional Roles and Pharmacist Workforce Considerations. PHARMACY 2018. [PMID: 29518017 PMCID: PMC5874562 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy6010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Interprofessional care is exhibited in outpatient oncology practices where practitioners from a myriad of specialties (e.g., oncology, nursing, pharmacy, health informatics and others) work collectively with patients to enhance therapeutic outcomes and minimize adverse effects. Historically, most ambulatory-based anticancer medication therapies have been administrated in infusion clinics or physician offices. Oral anticancer medications (OAMs) have become increasingly prevalent and preferred by patients for use in residential or other non-clinic settings. Self-administration of OAMs represents a significant shift in the management of cancer care and role responsibilities for patients and clinicians. While patients have a greater sense of empowerment and convenience when taking OAMs, adherence is a greater challenge than with intravenous therapies. This paper proposes use of a qualitative systems evaluation, based on theoretical frameworks for interdisciplinary team collaboration and systems science, to examine the social interactionism involved with the use of intravenous anticancer treatments and OAMs (as treatment technologies) by describing patient, organizational, and social systems considerations in communication, care, control, and context (i.e., Kaplan’s 4Cs). This conceptualization can help the healthcare system prepare for substantial workforce changes in cancer management, including increased utilization of oncology pharmacists.
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Bååthe F, Ahlborg G, Edgren L, Lagström A, Nilsson K. Uncovering paradoxes from physicians' experiences of patient-centered ward-round. Leadersh Health Serv (Bradf Engl) 2018; 29:168-84. [PMID: 27198705 DOI: 10.1108/lhs-08-2015-0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to uncover paradoxes emerging from physicians' experiences of a patient-centered and team-based ward round, in an internal medicine department. Design/methodology/approach Abductive reasoning relates empirical material to complex responsive processes theory in a dialectical process to further understandings. Findings This paper found the response from physicians, to a patient-centered and team-based ward round, related to whether the new demands challenged or confirmed individual physician's professional identity. Two empirically divergent perspectives on enacting the role of physician during ward round emerged: We-perspective and I-perspective, based on where the physician's professional identity was centered. Physicians with more of a We-perspective experienced challenges with the new round, while physicians with more of an I-perspective experienced alignment with their professional identity and embraced the new round. When identity is challenged, anxiety is aroused, and if anxiety is not catered to, then resistance is likely to follow and changes are likely to be hampered. Practical implications For change processes affecting physicians' professional identity, it is important for managers and change leaders to acknowledge paradox and find a balance between new knowledge that needs to be learnt and who the physician is becoming in this new procedure. Originality/value This paper provides increased understanding about how physicians' professional identity is interacting with a patient-centered ward round. It adds to the knowledge about developing health care in line with recent societal requests and with sustainable physician engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fredrik Bååthe
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University , Gothenburg, Sweden, Institute of Stress Medicine, Gothenburg, Sweden and Sahlgrenska University Hospital , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Ahlborg
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University , Gothenburg, Sweden and Institute of Stress Medicine , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lars Edgren
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Annica Lagström
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Nilsson
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University , Gothenburg, Sweden
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de Bock BA, Willems DL, Weinstein HC. Complexity perspectives on clinical decision making in an intensive care unit. J Eval Clin Pract 2018; 24:308-313. [PMID: 28762632 DOI: 10.1111/jep.12794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE, AIMS, AND OBJECTIVES How to clarify the implications of complexity thinking for decision making in the intensive care unit (ICU)? METHOD Retrospective qualitative empirical research. Practitioners in an ICU were interviewed on how their decisions were made regarding a particular patient in a difficult, clinical situation. Transcriptions of these interviews were coded and retrieved in Maxqda, a software program. Assisted by complexity thinking, researchers focused on the decision-making process and the shift from analytic approaches to complex approaches. RESULTS Originally, practitioners took their decisions with negligible transdisciplinary interactivity, drawing on analytical knowledge. Later on, they shifted to transdisciplinary practices, paying attention to more participation in their decision-making processes within their complex environment. CONCLUSIONS Complexity thinking demonstrates that this is a better model towards understanding transdisciplinary decision making then most analytical methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben A de Bock
- Academical Medical Centre, Department of General Practice, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dick L Willems
- Section Medical Ethics, Department of General Practice, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henry C Weinstein
- Alzheimer Centrum VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, OLVG Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Fink W, Kamenski G, Konitzer M. Diagnostic protocols-A consultation tool still to be discovered. J Eval Clin Pract 2018; 24:293-300. [PMID: 28370977 PMCID: PMC5900935 DOI: 10.1111/jep.12710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Experienced primary care physicians handle most illnesses to everyone's satisfaction despite limited resources of time and means. However, cases can be multifaceted in that harmless-presenting symptoms may also be warning signals or an indicator of a health disorder that too infrequently presents in family practice to be diagnosed correctly. On the basis of these observations, RN Braun developed 82 diagnostic protocols for a structured recording of various complaints. METHOD All consultations during the years 2001 to 2014, in which 1 author (WF) had used diagnostic protocols in her single-handed practice, were analyzed retrospectively regarding reasons for encounter, diagnostic classification, and long-term outcome. RESULTS During the period, a diagnostic protocol was used 1686 times. It was applied at a rate of approximately 5% of 2500 new complaints annually, most often (1366 times) for febrile conditions. In 320 consultations for other complaints, 43 different diagnostic protocols were applied. Among them, the "tabula diagnostica" for various undifferentiated symptoms was used most frequently (n = 54), followed by diagnostic protocols for headache (n = 45), dizziness (n = 36), precordial pain (n = 20), nonspecific abdominal pain (n = 15), low back pain (n = 14), hypertension (n = 12), diarrhea > 1 week (n = 12), epigastralgia (n = 11), depression (n = 10), polyarthralgia (n = 8), cough, and lower abdominal pain (each n = 7). A final diagnosis was established in less than 20% of cases. CONCLUSIONS This observational study from routine practice gives an insight how diagnostic protocols helped to manage complex patient presentations. A broader use of diagnostic protocols could investigate the potential of this consultation tool to handle the complexity of primary health care. The use of a standardized diagnostic approach could stimulate research, in particular on managing common complaints/undifferentiated illness and their inherent diagnostic uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waltraud Fink
- Straning, Austria.,Karl Landsteiner Institute for Systematics in General Medicine, Angern, Austria
| | - Gustav Kamenski
- Angern, Austria.,Department of General Practice, Center for Public Health, Medical University Vienna, Austria.,Karl Landsteiner Institute for Systematics in General Medicine, Angern, Austria
| | - Martin Konitzer
- Schwarmstedt, Germany.,Academic Teaching Practice Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany.,Karl Landsteiner Institute for Systematics in General Medicine, Angern, Austria
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