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Giacomazzo M, Cian F, Castagnaro M, Gelain ME, Bonsembiante F. Digital Cytology in Veterinary Education: A Comprehensive Survey of Its Application and Perception among Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1561. [PMID: 38891608 PMCID: PMC11170988 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated technological changes in veterinary education, particularly in clinical pathology and anatomic pathology courses transitioning from traditional methods to digital pathology (DP). This study evaluates the personal effectiveness and satisfaction, as well as the advantages and disadvantages, of DP, in particular digital cytology (DC), as a teaching method among European veterinary students, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate level, who attended digital pathology courses during and before the pandemic. A further aim is to discuss the differences between the two student groups. A Google Form survey consisting of 11 multiple-choice questions was emailed to pathology teachers and distributed to their students. Results indicated that undergraduate students showed greater digital pathology training, favouring DC as the most effective learning modality. In contrast, postgraduate students reported less digital slide training, and their preference for learning cytology was split between DC alone and DC integrated with traditional microscopy. All students experienced whole slide imaging for learning cytology slides prevalently, and they stated that DC enhanced their learning experience. While DC demonstrates personal effectiveness and satisfaction as a teaching method, it is important to not replace pathology training with light microscopy completely, as almost a third of the students indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Giacomazzo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.)
| | | | - Massimo Castagnaro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Maria Elena Gelain
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Federico Bonsembiante
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy;
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Petretto DR, Carrogu GP, Gaviano L, Berti R, Pinna M, Petretto AD, Pili R. Telemedicine, e-Health, and Digital Health Equity: A Scoping Review. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2024; 20:e17450179279732. [PMID: 38660571 PMCID: PMC11041391 DOI: 10.2174/0117450179279732231211110248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Background With the progressive digitization of people's lives and in the specific healthcare context, the issue of equity in the healthcare domain has extended to digital environments or e-environments, assuming the connotation of "Digital Health Equity" (DHE). Telemedicine and e-Health, which represent the two main e-environments in the healthcare context, have shown great potential in the promotion of health outcomes, but there can be unintended consequences related to the risk of inequalities. In this paper, we aimed to review papers that have investigated the topic of Digital Health Equity in Telemedicine and e-Health [definition(s), advantages, barriers and risk factors, interventions]. Methods We conducted a scoping review according to the methodological framework proposed in PRISMA-ScR guidelines on the relationship between Digital Health Equity and Telemedicine and e-Health via Scopus and Pubmed electronic databases. The following inclusion criteria were established: papers on the relationship between Digital Health Equity and Telemedicine and/or e-Health, written in English, and having no time limits. All study designs were eligible, including those that have utilized qualitative and quantitative methods, methodology, or guidelines reports, except for meta-reviews. Results Regarding Digital Health Equity in Telemedicine and e-Health, even if there is no unique definition, there is a general agreement on the idea that it is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon. When promoting Digital Health Equity, some people may incur some risk/s of inequities and/or they may meet some obstacles. Regarding intervention, some authors have proposed a specific field/level of intervention, while other authors have discussed multidimensional interventions based on interdependence among the different levels and the mutually reinforcing effects between all of them. Conclusion In summary, the present paper has discussed Digital Health Equity in Telemedicine and e-Health. Promoting equity of access to healthcare is a significant challenge in contemporary times and in the near future. While on the one hand, the construct "equity" applied to the health context highlights the importance of creating and sustaining the conditions to allow anyone to be able to reach (and develop) their "health potential", it also raises numerous questions on "how this can happen". An overall and integrated picture of all the variables that promote DHE is needed, taking into account the interdependence among the different levels and the mutually reinforcing effects between all of them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Rita Petretto
- Department of Education, Philosophy and Psychology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 09124, Italy
| | - Gian Pietro Carrogu
- Department of Education, Philosophy and Psychology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 09124, Italy
| | - Luca Gaviano
- Department of Education, Philosophy and Psychology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 09124, Italy
| | - Roberta Berti
- Department of Education, Philosophy and Psychology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 09124, Italy
| | - Martina Pinna
- Department of Education, Philosophy and Psychology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 09124, Italy
| | - Andrea Domenico Petretto
- Department of Education, Philosophy and Psychology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 09124, Italy
| | - Roberto Pili
- IERFOP Onlus, Via Platone 1/3, Cagliari 09100, Italy
- Global Community on Longevity, Italy
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Yang Y, Ma C. Sociodemographic factors and health digital divide among urban residents: Evidence from a population-based survey in China. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241271812. [PMID: 39114114 PMCID: PMC11304494 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241271812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The deep integration of digital technology and healthcare services has propelled the healthcare system into the era of digital health. However, vulnerable populations in the field of information technology, they face challenges in benefiting from the digital dividends brought by digital health, leading to the emerging phenomenon of the "health digital divide." Methods This study utilized the sample of 3547 urban from the 2021 Chinese Social Survey data for analysis. Models were constructed with digital access divide, digital usage divide, and digital outcome divide for urban residents, and structural equation modeling was implemented for analysis. Results The impact β coefficients (95% CI) of urban residents' digital access on the frequency of digital use, internet healthcare utilization, and patient experience were (β = 0.737, P < 0.001), (β = 0.047, P < 0.05), and (β = 0.079, P < 0.001), respectively. Urban elderly groups were at a disadvantage in digital access and usage (β = -0.007, β = -0.024, and β = -0.004), as well as those with lower educational levels (β = 0.109, β = 0.162, and β = 0.045). However, these two factors did not have a significant direct impact on the patient experience in urban areas. Conclusions The health digital divide of urban residents exhibits a cascading effect, primarily manifested in the digital access and usage divide. To bridge health digital divide among urban residents, efforts must be made to improve digital access and usage among the elderly and those with lower educational levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanbin Yang
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chengyu Ma
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Aleksandrenko HD, Shevchenko MV. Using a chatbot as a digital tool at the primary health care level. WIADOMOSCI LEKARSKIE (WARSAW, POLAND : 1960) 2024; 77:623-628. [PMID: 38865613 DOI: 10.36740/wlek202404101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aim: To analyze the feasibility of utilizing a digital tool such as a chatbot at the primary health care level as part of a health program. PATIENTS AND METHODS Materials and Methods: With the involvement of a general practitioner and the use of a digital tool, a chatbot, a three-month health program was conducted for employees of an IT company. The chatbot was used to collect information, monitor the health status of participants and provide personalized health recommendations. To evaluate the program's effectiveness survey was conducted to compare participants answers before and after using standardized evaluation scales. A questionnaire based on the Evaluation and Management Services Guide was created to collect medical information on the health status of participants before and after the program. RESULTS Results: After the program, the average total score of participants' health complaints and symptoms decreased (from 27.1 to 16.1, p=0.019). The average severity of the chief complaint on a scale of 0 to 10 decreased from 5.08 to 2.27, or by 55.3% (p=0.00676). The frequency of individual complaints such as eye pain, decreased concentration, increased fatigue and irritability also dropped. CONCLUSION Conclusions: The chatbot enabled the primary care physician to respond promptly to participants' health complaints. The results demonstrated the potential of chatbots as innovative and accessible digital tools at the primary health care level for providing recommendations, monitoring health, and contacting a primary care physician in a timely manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hlib D Aleksandrenko
- SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH OF NATIONAL UNIVERSITY «KYIV-MOHYLA ACADEMY», KYIV, UKRAINE
| | - Maryna V Shevchenko
- SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH OF NATIONAL UNIVERSITY «KYIV-MOHYLA ACADEMY», KYIV, UKRAINE
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Campanozzi LL, Gibelli F, Bailo P, Nittari G, Sirignano A, Ricci G. The role of digital literacy in achieving health equity in the third millennium society: A literature review. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1109323. [PMID: 36891330 PMCID: PMC9986277 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1109323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare in the third millennium is largely delivered through systems involving the use of the technological devices and services, foremost among them telemedicine. For the adequate delivery of digital medicine services, however, it is necessary for users to be digitally literate, that is, able to consciously make use of technology. In order to understand how relevant digital literacy is in determining the effectiveness of e-Health services, we performed a traditional literature review on 3 major databases by combining the terms "Digital Literacy" and "Computer Literacy" with the terms "Telemedicine" and "Telehealth". Starting from an initial library of 1,077 papers, we selected 38 articles. At the outcome of the search, we found that digital literacy is a pivotal element in conditioning the effectiveness of telemedicine and digital medicine services in general, however, with some limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Filippo Gibelli
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Paolo Bailo
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Giulio Nittari
- Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Centre, School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Ascanio Sirignano
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Giovanna Ricci
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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Barón-Miras LE, Sisó-Almirall A, Kostov B, Sánchez E, Roura S, Benavent-Àreu J, González-de Paz L. Face-to-Face and Tele-Consults: A Study of the Effects on Diagnostic Activity and Patient Demand in Primary Healthcare. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14119. [PMID: 36360997 PMCID: PMC9656153 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Primary healthcare services have changed from face-to-face to tele-consults during the two COVID-19 years. We examined trends before and during the COVID-19 pandemic years based on groups of professionals, patient ages, and the associations with the diagnostic registry. We analyzed proportions for both periods, and ratios of the type of consults in 2017-2019 and 2020-2021 were calculated. The COVID-19 period was examined using monthly linear time trends. The results showed that consults in 2020-2021 increased by 24%. General practitioners saw significant falls in face-to-face consults compared with 2017-2019 (ratio 0.44; 95% CI: 0.44 to 0.45), but the increase was not proportional across age groups; patients aged 15-44 years had 45.8% more tele-consults, and those aged >74 years had 18.2% more. Trends in linear regression models of face-to-face consults with general practitioners and monthly diagnostic activity were positive, while the tele-consult trend was inverse to the trend of the diagnostic registry and face-to-face consults. Tele-consults did not resolve the increased demand for primary healthcare services caused by COVID-19. General practitioners, nurses and primary healthcare professionals require better-adapted tele-consult tools for an effective diagnostic registry to maintain equity of access and answer older patients' needs and priorities in primary healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lourdes E. Barón-Miras
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antoni Sisó-Almirall
- Consorci d’Atenció Primària de Salut Barcelona Esquerra (CAPSBE), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Primary Healthcare Transversal Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Belchin Kostov
- Department of Statistics and Operations Research, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Encarna Sánchez
- Consorci d’Atenció Primària de Salut Barcelona Esquerra (CAPSBE), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Roura
- Consorci d’Atenció Primària de Salut Barcelona Esquerra (CAPSBE), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Benavent-Àreu
- Consorci d’Atenció Primària de Salut Barcelona Esquerra (CAPSBE), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis González-de Paz
- Consorci d’Atenció Primària de Salut Barcelona Esquerra (CAPSBE), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Primary Healthcare Transversal Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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