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Zhang K, Zhang W. Post-COVID social engagement and depression among Chinese older adults: exploring rural/urban and gender differences. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02752-9. [PMID: 39192099 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02752-9] [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: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigates the impact of post-COVID social engagement on depression levels among Chinese older adults, with a focus on rural/urban and gender differences. METHODS Using the year 2018 and year 2020 data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), this study analyzed pre- and post-COVID depression levels and social engagement indicators, including going-out, activities and networking among Chinese older adults (N = 8,793). RESULTS Results showed a significant increase in depression levels across all demographic groups post-COVID, with rural females exhibiting the highest levels of depression. Reduced social engagement was associated with increased depression, particularly among rural males and females. Subgroup analyses highlighted nuanced patterns: rural males suffered from decreased intense activities and online contacts, while urban males experienced heightened depression with reduced visiting and light activities. Rural females reported increased depression with decreased moderate activities and dancing outdoors but decreased levels with reduced online contacts. Conversely, urban females experience decreased depression with reduced social engagements, suggesting areevaluation of priorities amidst pandemic challenges. CONCLUSION This study has underscored the importance of considering individual, cultural, and contextual factors in understanding mental health outcomes among Chinese older adults. Findings inform targeted interventions aimed at promoting psychological well-being and resilience among Chinese older adults in the post-COVID era, including community-based programs and mental health screenings, to foster social connection and emotional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keqing Zhang
- School of English and International Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Sociology, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, USA.
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2
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Rafeh MA, Abbasi AZ, Hollebeek LD, Ali MA, Ting DH. The effect of consumer-perceived COVID-19 ad value on health-protective behavior: Mediating role of engagement. Health Mark Q 2024:1-32. [PMID: 38832765 DOI: 10.1080/07359683.2024.2355378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Though the pandemic has passed, social media-based messaging continues to exhibit COVID-19-related cues (e.g., wearing a face mask to stay safe), continuing to foster consumers' health-protective behavior. However, it remains unclear how social media communications (e.g., advertising) affect such behavior, exposing an important literature-based gap. Addressing this gap, we deploy Ducoffe's advertising value model to examine how pandemic-related advertisements (e.g., those urging consumers to stay safe, including post-the pandemic) impact their health-protective behavior. We also examine how consumer engagement (CE) mediates these associations. To explore these issues, we collected data from a sample of 301 Gen Z consumers, which was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). We find that informative, credible, irritating, and obtrusive ads raise consumer engagement and health-protective behavior. Engagement was also found to strengthen these associations, revealing their strategic value. We conclude by outlining important theoretical and practical implications that arise from our analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mir Abdur Rafeh
- Department of Management Science, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Amir Zaib Abbasi
- IRC for Finance and Digital Economy, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Linda D Hollebeek
- Sunway Business School, Sunway University, Malaysia
- Department of Marketing, Vilnius University, Lithuania
- Department of Business Administration, Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia
- Umea School of Business, Economics & Statistics, Umea University, Sweden
- Department of Business Administration, Lund University, Sweden
- Department of Marketing Management, University of Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Muhammad Asghar Ali
- Department of Management, Riphah International University, Sahiwal Campus, Pakistan
| | - Ding Hooi Ting
- Department of Management and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Tronoh, Malaysia
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Moyano DL, Agulló-Tomás MS, Zorrilla-Muñoz V. Género, infodemia y desinformación en salud. Revisión de alcance global, vacíos de conocimiento y recomendaciones. Glob Health Promot 2024; 31:70-79. [PMID: 38183208 DOI: 10.1177/17579759231216945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJETIVO explorar el estado de la literatura científica sobre los aspectos de infodemia y desinformación en salud vinculados al género y a la interseccionalidad, detectar vacíos de conocimiento y brindar recomendaciones. MÉTODOS revisión de alcance global, con la detección de vacíos de conocimiento y recomendaciones. Se buscó en ocho bases de datos: MEDLINE (Pubmed), Anthropological Index Online, Studies on Women & Gender Abstracts, LILACS, Scielo, Global Index Medicus, Web of Science, Google académico y se hizo una búsqueda manual en Google de documentos de los últimos 10 años, sin restricciones de idioma y geográficas. Se realizó un análisis de contenido de los estudios incluidos. RESULTADOS 855 registros fueron identificados y 21 cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Predominan los estudios que tuvieron como primer autor/a una mujer (13/21), aunque en la autoría global se destacaron los hombres (10/21). El modelo binario fue el enfoque principal (16/21). La mayoría (18/21) se publicaron a partir del 2020. Se abordaron principalmente temas relacionados con la COVID-19 y la salud sexual y reproductiva (antes de la pandemia), y en menor medida la salud mental. Se identificaron interacciones entre diferencias de sexo/género en la desinformación/infodemia en salud especialmente en mujeres, colectivos de género diverso, personas mayores y población de bajo nivel socioeducativo. CONCLUSIONES existen brechas de conocimiento en el tema explorado, con escaso número de estudios, y limitaciones de alcances y del enfoque de género y/o feminista (más allá del binario). No obstante, los resultados tentativos constatan la presencia de inequidades de género e interseccionalidad en la desinformación en salud. PALABRAS CLAVE infodemia, desinformación, género, COVID-19, revisión sistemática.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Luz Moyano
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de La Matanza, San Justo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto Universitario de Estudios de Género, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Getafe, Madrid, España
| | - María Silveria Agulló-Tomás
- Instituto Universitario de Estudios de Género, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Getafe, Madrid, España
- Departamento de Análisis Social, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Getafe, Madrid, España
| | - Vanessa Zorrilla-Muñoz
- Instituto Universitario de Estudios de Género, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Getafe, Madrid, España
- Instituto de Bioingeniería, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Comunidad Valenciana, España
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Cunningham-Erves J, Davis M, Stewart EC, Alexander L, Moss J, Barre I, Parham I, Mayo-Gamble T, Davis J. COVID-19 risk communication gaps, needs, and strategies related to pandemic preparedness plans among vulnerable, Black American subgroups: A qualitative study. J Natl Med Assoc 2024; 116:45-55. [PMID: 38151424 PMCID: PMC11096824 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnma.2023.12.003] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Improving current and future risk communication plans is critical to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic and begin to prepare for future pandemics. Minority groups, particularly African Americans, have been limited in engagement to prepare these plans which has been demonstrated to be disadvantageous. We report findings from a qualitative study that describes gaps, needs, and strategies to improve communication among vulnerable, Black American subgroups during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Sixty-two Black Americans in uniquely, vulnerable subgroups participated in qualitative, semi-structured interviews from May to September 2020. Thematic analyses were used to identify themes. RESULTS Participants were 16 essential workers, 16 parents, 15 young adults, and 15 individuals with underlying medical conditions. Emerging themes were: (1) Poor communication and miscommunication fueled fear and confusion; (2) Information sources and channels: How do I choose one?; (3) Communication needs were simple yet complex; (4) All information sources are not trusted information sources; (5) Preferred yet trusted channels and types of information; and (6) Dissemination of COVID Research: Why and How. Subgroups varied in information sources and processes for choosing the source, communication needs, and channels and types of information needed. They shared why they did and did not trust certain sources along with the importance of COVID research dissemination to promote informed decision-making throughout the pandemic. DISCUSSION This study found that Black American subgroups had diverse, yet trusted and non-trusted messages, messengers, and strategies for communication and wanted research results disseminated. We describe multi-level stakeholders and strategies to help improve risk communication for pandemics, and potentially preparedness and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Cunningham-Erves
- Department of Internal Medicine, Meharry Medical College 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd, Jr., Blvd Nashville, TN 37208, United States of America; Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2525 West End Ave Suite 700, Nashville, TN 37203. United States of America.
| | - Megan Davis
- School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center 1211 Medical Center Drive Nashville, TN, 37232, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth C Stewart
- Department of Internal Medicine, Meharry Medical College 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd, Jr., Blvd Nashville, TN 37208, United States of America
| | - Leah Alexander
- Division of Public Health Practice, Meharry Medical College 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd, Jr., Blvd Nashville, TN 37208, United States of America
| | - Jamal Moss
- School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd, Jr., Blvd Nashville, TN 37208, United States of America
| | - Iman Barre
- School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd, Jr., Blvd Nashville, TN 37208, United States of America
| | - Imari Parham
- School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd, Jr., Blvd Nashville, TN 37208, United States of America
| | - Tilicia Mayo-Gamble
- Jiann-Ping. Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University 1332 Southern Drive Statesboro, GA, 30458, United States of America
| | - Jamaine Davis
- Department of Biochemistry and Cancer Biology, Meharry Medical College 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd, Jr., Blvd Nashville, TN 37208, United States of America
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Lukewich J, Bulman D, Mathews M, Hedden L, Marshall E, Vaughan C, Ryan D, Dufour E, Meredith L, Spencer S, Renaud LR, Asghari S, Cusack C, Elliott Rose A, Marchuk S, Young G, Wong E. Redeployment Among Primary Care Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study. SAGE Open Nurs 2024; 10:23779608241262143. [PMID: 38881679 PMCID: PMC11179460 DOI: 10.1177/23779608241262143] [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] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, primary care nurses were often redeployed to areas outside of primary care to mitigate staffing shortages. Despite this, there is a scarcity of literature describing their perceptions of and experiences with redeployment during the pandemic. Objectives: This paper aims to: 1) describe the perspectives of primary care nurses with respect to redeployment, 2) discuss the opportunities/challenges associated with redeployment of primary care nurses, and 3) examine the nature (e.g., settings, activities) of redeployment by primary care nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with primary care nurses (i.e., Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses, and Licensed/Registered Practical Nurses), from four regions in Canada. These include the Interior, Island, and Vancouver Coastal Health regions in British Columbia; Ontario Health West region in Ontario; the province of Nova Scotia; and the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Data related to redeployment were analyzed thematically. Results: Three overarching themes related to redeployment during the COVID-19 pandemic were identified: (1) Call to redeployment, (2) Redeployment as an opportunity/challenge, and (3) Scope of practice during redeployment. Primary care nurses across all regulatory designations reported variation in the process of redeployment within their jurisdiction (e.g., communication, policies/legislation), different opportunities and challenges that resulted from redeployment (e.g., scheduling flexibility, workload implications), and scope of practice implications (e.g., perceived threat to nursing license). The majority of nurses discussed experiences with redeployment being voluntary in nature, rather than mandated. Conclusions: Redeployment is a useful workforce strategy during public health emergencies; however, it requires a structured process and a decision-making approach that explicitly involves healthcare providers affected by redeployment. Primary care nurses ought only to be redeployed after other options are considered and arrangements made for the care of patients in their original practice area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Lukewich
- Faculty of Nursing, Memorial University, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Donna Bulman
- Faculty of Nursing, Memorial University, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Maria Mathews
- Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Lindsay Hedden
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Emily Marshall
- Department of Family Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Crystal Vaughan
- Faculty of Nursing, Memorial University, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Dana Ryan
- Faculty of Nursing, Memorial University, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Emilie Dufour
- Department of Family Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Leslie Meredith
- Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Spencer
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Lauren R Renaud
- Department of Family Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Shabnam Asghari
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Cheryl Cusack
- College of Nursing, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | | | - Gillian Young
- Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Eric Wong
- Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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6
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Kassen M. Curbing the COVID-19 digital infodemic: strategies and tools. J Public Health Policy 2023; 44:643-657. [PMID: 37726393 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-023-00437-2] [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] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
A problematic manifestation of the COVID-19 pandemic is a related digital 'infodemic' with widespread dissemination of rumors, conspiracy theories, and other misinformation about the impact of the crisis on aspects of political and socio-economic life. Those spreading the misleading information did so through social media. In response, public, private and non-government stakeholders around the world have proposed a wide range of e-government policy approaches to combat this new digital phenomenon. For this Viewpoint I identified, analyzed, and classified the most interesting strategies, platforms, and tools proposed or already used by public decision-makers to combat the spread of false information related to the pandemic in a digital society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxat Kassen
- Astana IT University, Mangilik El Avenue, 55/11, 010000, Astana, Kazakhstan.
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Hernández‐Xumet J, García‐Hernández A, Fernández‐González J, Marrero‐González C. Beyond scientific and technical training: Assessing the relevance of empathy and assertiveness in future physiotherapists: A cross-sectional study. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1600. [PMID: 37799443 PMCID: PMC10547931 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1600] [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] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Empathy and assertiveness are two essential social skills for a health professional such as a physiotherapist and are necessary for developing moral thinking. Previous studies show that the development of empathy and other social skills improves as students progress in their studies. However, other authors show deterioration of empathy as students progress in their studies and acquire clinical experience. Training in soft skills, such as assertiveness, among health science students will have an impact on the quality of patient care. Effective communication, conflict resolution and the ability to work as part of a team are competencies that have been put to one side as a result of the recent COVID-19 pandemic and it is important to resume training students in soft skills. The objective of this study is to investigate to determine the empathic and assertive state of physiotherapy university students. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study of physiotherapy university students was conducted in the 2022/2023 academic year. The Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) scales for empathy and the Rathus test for assertiveness (RAS) were used as study tools. Finally, 127 students participated in the study, 52.91% of the total population of physiotherapy students. The questionnaire was available for 4 weeks in November and December 2022. Results The empathetic and assertive development of the students was found to be acceptable. Significant differences were also observed according to the gender variable in the students, with female students presenting better results (p = 0.01). Students who are working or have clinical experience in other professions score lower on the empathy personal distress subscale (p < 0.001). Conclusion Future research should be considered to help improve clinical and professional expertise in physiotherapy students about empathic and assertive development. The findings provide new evidence on the levels of empathy and assertiveness in physiotherapy students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan‐Elicio Hernández‐Xumet
- Movement and Health Research Group, Departamento de Medicina Física y Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias de la SaludUniversidad de La Laguna (ULL)La LagunaSpain
| | | | - Jerónimo‐Pedro Fernández‐González
- Movement and Health Research Group, Departamento de Medicina Física y Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias de la SaludUniversidad de La Laguna (ULL)La LagunaSpain
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Nadareishvili I, Bazas T, Petrosillo N, Berce V, Firth J, Mansilha A, Leventer M, Renieri A, Zampolini M, Papalois V. The Medical Community's Role in Communication Strategies during Health Crises-Perspective from European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS). Infect Dis Rep 2023; 15:370-376. [PMID: 37489391 PMCID: PMC10366824 DOI: 10.3390/idr15040037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic was complicated by the spread of false information leading to what became widely called an "infodemic". The present opinion paper was written by an ad hoc international team united under the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS) umbrella and reflects the organizations' effort to contribute to the resolution of these issues, by highlighting and reflecting on them and by suggesting the medical community's necessary activities resulting in the formulation of effective future communication strategies. The importance of physicians' and other health workers' role and mission as educators and leaders in communities in critical situations should be reassessed and upgraded. We need to equip future doctors with strong and sustainable leadership and communication skills through relevant undergraduate and postgraduate education programs, in order that compliance with preventive medical advice is increased. To avoid possible politically and otherwise biased communication in health crises of the future, European nations should establish independent advisory bodies providing evidence-based advice and participate in communication campaigns. Medical and other health professional organizations should build organizational and personal capacities of their members to enable them to reliably inform and adequately educate governments, populations, civic society, employers' and employees' organizations, schools and universities, and other stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia Nadareishvili
- Georgian Association of Medical Specialties, David Tvildiani Medical University, 0159 Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Theodore Bazas
- Panhellenic Medical Association, Committee of Health and Welfare, Municipality of Filothei Psychiko, 15452 Athens, Greece
| | - Nicola Petrosillo
- Fondazione Policlinico, Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Vojko Berce
- Division of Pediatrics, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - John Firth
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Free Hospital London, London NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Armando Mansilha
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mihaela Leventer
- UEMS Section of Dermatology, Dr. Leventer Centre, 011216 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alessandra Renieri
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Mauro Zampolini
- Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Section of UEMS, Department of Rehabilitation, Hospital of Foligno, 06034 Foligno, Italy
| | - Vassilios Papalois
- Imperial College Renal and Transplant Centre, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W12 OHS, UK
- European Union of Medical Specialists, 1040 Brussels, Belgium
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Seale H, Harris-Roxas B, Mustafa K, McDermid P. Communication and engagement of community members from ethnic minorities during COVID-19: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069552. [PMID: 37344110 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069552] [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] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This review examined the factors influencing communication and engagement with ethnic and racial minority groups in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic. It aimed to answer two main questions: (1) what communication problems people from these communities typically faced during the pandemic? and (2) what strategies and recommendations were suggested to enhance communication and engagement for ethnic and racial minorities during the current COVID-19 pandemic and any similar events in the future? DESIGN Scoping review. DATA SOURCES PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PsychINFO and CINAHL. Grey literature was searched within organisations' websites and a Google search of key terms. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES We included original research, case studies, reports (including government and charity reports), systematic and scoping articles and literature reviews in English, published from January 2020 to August 2022. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two researchers independently assessed the literature for eligibility and extracted data from the included literature. The selected papers were analysed and summarised into themes relevant to the research questions. The final review included 38 studies combining published academic papers and grey literature. RESULTS Key themes relating to communication and engagement issues included a lack of trust in authority, a lack of access to information and ineffective communication channels and a lack of timely and culturally responsive materials. To reduce the issues, the papers spoke about the key role of community organisations to provide local support and community leaders as trusted spokespersons. Lastly, key recommendations to reduce inequity and strengthen future pandemic responses focused on the need for collaborations and consultations, increasing the number of bilingual workers and supporting community-led communication efforts. CONCLUSIONS The insights gained from the activities and experiences documented in this review during the COVID-19 pandemic should be incorporated into future decision-making and interventions to enhance communication and engagement strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Seale
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ben Harris-Roxas
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kinza Mustafa
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Pippa McDermid
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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10
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Biswas S, Hense S, Kodali PB, Thankappan KR. Quality of COVID-19 information, education and communication materials in India: A content analysis. HEALTH EDUCATION JOURNAL 2023; 82:390-402. [PMID: 38603354 PMCID: PMC9996075 DOI: 10.1177/00178969231160952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Objective This study examined the characteristics and quality of publicly available COVID-19 information education and communication (IEC) materials in India between March and December 2020. Design An explanatory sequential mixed-method design was employed to examine the characteristics and quality of 265 purposefully selected IEC materials. Setting The IEC materials analysed were those published between March and December 2020 on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website, Government of India. Methods A checklist was utilised to examine the quality and characteristics of the materials. Thereafter, qualitative analysis provided insights into the contents of the materials with specific focus on the 'COVID-19 continuum of care'. Results The majority (73.96%, n = 196) of the selected materials were directed towards the general public and had a focus on prevention (67.55 %, n = 179). Despite COVID-19-associated stigma, only 56 (21.13%) of the materials addressed this issue. However, most (95.47%, n = 253) of the materials adhered to quality standards for contents, readability and aesthetics. This qualitative analysis focused on the contents of selected IEC materials using the concept of 'continuum of care'. The analysis identified three important themes: prevention to early diagnosis and treatment; mitigation of stigma and discrimination surrounding COVID-19; and addressing the infodemic caused by COVID-19. Conclusion The quality of materials was mostly satisfactory and appropriate to the emergent requirements. Strengthening audience engagement and attractiveness of the materials might enhance readability and actionability. A bottom-up approach to the development of future IEC materials, involving the community might widen the coverage of vulnerable populations in future crisis events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soniya Biswas
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, India
| | - Sibasis Hense
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, India
| | - Prakash Babu Kodali
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, India
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11
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Hasanzad M, Namazi H, Larijani B. COVID-19 anti-vaccine attitude and hesitancy. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2023; 22:1-4. [PMID: 36373157 PMCID: PMC9638374 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-022-01018-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
High vaccination rates are required around the world to create herd immunity and terminate the current COVID-19 pandemic growth. With the steady rise in COVID-19 vaccine supplies, hesitancy and rejection to be vaccinated has become a problem worldwide for large vaccine coverage. Understanding the causes of vaccine avoidance or hesitancy can help to increase vaccination intentions in the general population. A number of factors contributed to increasing hesitancy. Some causes of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy include anti-vaccine myths and confusing messages about some severe side effects of few vaccines, confusion over protection levels, poor health literacy (lack of accurate knowledge about vaccines and virus), deficient legal liability from the vaccine manufacturers, political and economic intentions, mistrust and suspicion of medical companies, concern of efficacy against to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants, safety concerns (elderly, people with preexisting comorbidities) and some socio-demographic factors. Urgent interventions and policies targeting the corresponding factors are needed. Recognizing obstacles to vaccine uptake helps in the development of effective solutions to solve them. Evidence-based and behaviorally guided approaches should be used to achieve high acceptance and uptake. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-022-01018-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandana Hasanzad
- Medical Genomics Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Personalized Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Namazi
- Medical Ethics and History of Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bagher Larijani
- Personalized Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Venkatraman K, Manoharan A. Public Engagement as the Fifth Dimension of Outbreak Communication: Public's Perceptions of Public Health Communication during COVID-19 in India. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 38:285-297. [PMID: 34294016 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2021.1950294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Public health/risk communication is the foremost responsibility of a government during a pandemic. Risk communication aims to educate people, enhance their risk perceptions to help them engage and understand the benefits of compliance with recommendations. The existing legal enforcement of recommendations in India is criticized for failing to influence the public's compliance. While existing research provides conceptual and empirical support in explaining compliance during COVID-19, we note a lack of studies that might bring out country-specific areas of improvement. We argue that value-aligned risk communication is more likely to influence the public's behavioral intentions to adopt the government's recommendations. We employed a triangulation mixed-method study to link risk communication attributes to the public's end goals and values. We triangulate these findings using the COVID score survey. We found that timeliness and transparency constitute risk communication's functional component, and empathy and trust constitute risk communication's emotional component. We found a difference in the preference of functional and emotional components among the public and health partners. Irrespective of this divide in perception, the study found that both groups unanimously noted engagement as the crucial aspect for empowerment and involvement to aid the public in teaming with the government to combat the pandemic effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krithika Venkatraman
- Faculty of Management Science, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (SRIHER)
| | - Anand Manoharan
- Department of Clinical Research, Kanchi Kamakoti CHILDS Trust Hospital
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13
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Yang CWL, Wan ANT, Kwok MCW, Lam TH, Lai AYK. Implementation and evaluation of a model-based risk management process and service enhancement for home-based community care services amidst COVID-19 pandemic in Hong Kong: A mixed-method approach. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1070182. [PMID: 36891327 PMCID: PMC9986770 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1070182] [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: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly challenged all public social services, particularly home-based community care services (HBCCS). Aberdeen Kai-fong Association (AKA) is a non-government organization (NGO) in Hong Kong that systematically manages the challenges to HBCCS. This paper presents a practical example of the implementation and evaluation of the risk management process for HBCCS. Methods Mixed-method design was used to evaluate the implementation of the risk management process in encountering the challenges from existing and potential problems to maintain and enhance HBCCS in four major areas amidst the pandemic. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey and three qualitative focus group interviews were conducted by AKA from 30 December 2021 to 12 March 2022 to collect staff feedback on the institutional risk management process in four areas. Results 109 HBCCS staff members (69% aged 40 years or above; 80% female) completed the questionnaire survey. For resource arrangement and staff training, over 90% of the participants agreed (including strongly agreed) that they had sufficient and reliable personal protective equipment and clear infection control guideline and effective training. Over 80% agreed they had safe working space and effective manpower allocation. However, only 75% agreed they had received emotional support from the organization. Over 90% agreed that the basic services were maintained for service continuation and enhancement, the service users and their families trusted the organization, and the provided services were adjusted according to users' needs. 88% agreed that the organization had obtained support from the neighborhood. For communication among stakeholders, over 80% agreed they had open discussions with the senior management team, and the senior management team was willing to listen. Twenty-six staff members joined the three focus group interviews. The qualitative findings corroborated the quantitative results. Staff appreciated the organisation's work to enhance staff safety and continue advancing services during this difficult period. Regular in-service training, updated information and guidelines to staff, and proactive phone calls to service users, especially the elderly, were suggested to enhance the quality of services. Conclusions The paper could help NGOs and others encountering management challenges in community social services in diverse settings amidst the pandemic and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline W L Yang
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alice N T Wan
- Aberdeen Kai-fong Welfare Association Social Service, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mable C W Kwok
- Aberdeen Kai-fong Welfare Association Social Service, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tai-Hing Lam
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Agnes Y K Lai
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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14
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Geçer E, Yıldırım M. Family Communication and Psychological Distress in the Era of COVID-19 Pandemic: Mediating Role of Coping. JOURNAL OF FAMILY ISSUES 2023; 44:203-219. [PMID: 36605181 PMCID: PMC9760519 DOI: 10.1177/0192513x211044489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to examine the association between family communication and psychological distress with coping as a potential mediator. The study also developed and validated the Family Communication Scale (FCS) in the context of COVID-19 pandemic. Participants (n = 658; 74.9% female) were general public ranged in age between 18 and 58 years (mean age = 26.38, SD = 10.01). The results showed that family communication directly influenced psychological distress and indirectly influenced through approach coping. However, avoidant coping was not directly associated with psychological distress, nor did it mediate the association between family communication and psychological distress. The findings suggest that people, who have better family communication, highly engage in approach coping which in turn leads to better psychological health in face of adversity. The findings have important empirical and theoretical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekmel Geçer
- Department of Psychology, Hamidiye
Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Health
Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Murat Yıldırım
- Department of Psychology, Faculty
of Science and Letters, Ağrı İbrahim Çeçen
University, Ağrı, Turkey
- Department of Neuroscience,
Psychology and Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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15
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Kaya F, Celik E, Batmaz AU, Mutasim AK, Stuerzlinger W, Potel M. Evaluation of an Immersive COVID-19 Data Visualization. IEEE COMPUTER GRAPHICS AND APPLICATIONS 2023; 43:76-83. [PMID: 37022363 DOI: 10.1109/mcg.2022.3223535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 restrictions have detrimental effects on the population, both socially and economically. However, these restrictions are necessary as they help reduce the spread of the virus. For the public to comply, easily comprehensible communication between decision makers and the public is thus crucial. To address this, we propose a novel 3-D visualization of COVID-19 data, which could increase the awareness of COVID-19 trends in the general population. We conducted a user study and compared a conventional 2-D visualization with the proposed method in an immersive environment. Results showed that the our 3-D visualization approach facilitated understanding of the complexity of COVID-19. A majority of participants preferred to see the COVID-19 data with the 3-D method. Moreover, individual results revealed that our method increases the engagement of users with the data. We hope that our method will help governments to improve their communication with the public in the future.
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16
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Frankowska A, Szymkowiak M, Walkowiak D. Teleconsultations Quality During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland in the Opinions of Generation Z Adults. Telemed J E Health 2022; 28:1843-1851. [PMID: 35446678 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2021.0552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The aim of the study was to collect and evaluate the opinions of representatives of Generation Z on their satisfaction with medical teleconsultation services during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland. Methods: An online survey was conducted from April to June 2021. We received replies from 424 students. The research tools used comprised a validated Doctor-Patient Communication (DPC) questionnaire, the Telehealth Satisfaction Scale (TeSS), and a self-authored questionnaire. Results: About 60% of the respondents rated communication with a doctor during the remote visit as medium, with a DPC score value in the intermediate range (36-50). Only 7.5% of students rated DPC as high (DPC score over 50). Also, satisfaction with telemedicine measured by the modified Telehealth Satisfaction Scale was assessed as intermediate by 61.3% of respondents. DPC and satisfaction with telemedicine services are better assessed by students living in large cities and those who used paid telemedicine services. Conclusions: The need to improve the quality of DPC has been observed. Also, the functioning of telemedicine platforms, with the possibility of using images in teleconsultations would be welcome, with the concomitant leveling out of the disproportions in the quality of telemedicine services and DPC between urban and rural areas, as well as between commercial and noncommercial services. This could improve the service delivery process and, consequently, be beneficial for the competitiveness of telemedicine, which will be based on medical rather than organizational aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Frankowska
- Department of Organization and Management in Healthcare, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Marcin Szymkowiak
- Institute of Informatics and Quantitative Economics, Poznań University of Economics and Business, Poznań, Poland.,Statistical Office in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Healthcare, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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17
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed great challenges to intensive care units (ICUs) across the globe. The objective of this review is to provide an overview on how ICU surging was managed during COVID-19 pandemic, with a special focus on papers published in the last 18 months. RECENT FINDINGS From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was apparent that the biggest challenge was the inequity of access to an adequately equipped and staffed ICU bed. The first wave was overwhelming; large surge of patients required critical care, resources were limited and non-COVID-19 care processes were severely compromised. Various approaches were used to address ICU staffing shortage and to expand the physical ICU space capacity. Because of restrictions to family visitations in most ICUs, the pandemic posed a threat to communication and family-centered ICU care. The pandemic, especially during the first wave, was accompanied by a high level of apprehension in the community, many uncertainties about clinical course and therapy and an influx of speculations and misinformation. SUMMARY Although healthcare systems learned how to face some of the challenges with subsequent waves, the pandemic had persistent effects on healthcare systems.
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18
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Soriano-Moreno DR, Fernandez-Guzman D, Sangster-Carrasco L, Quispe-Vicuña C, Grados-Espinoza P, Ccami-Bernal F, Morocho-Alburqueque N, Coba-Villan N, Velasquez-Fernandez R, Nieto-Gutierrez W. Factors Associated With Drug Consumption Without Scientific Evidence in Patients With Mild COVID-19 in Peru. J Patient Saf 2022; 18:e1189-e1195. [PMID: 35858482 PMCID: PMC9696683 DOI: 10.1097/pts.0000000000001053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with the consumption of drugs without scientific evidence in patients with mild COVID-19 infection in Peru. METHODS An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out including 372 adult patients with a history of mild COVID-19 disease. Factors associated with drug consumption were evaluated by Poisson regressions with robust variance adjustment using the bootstrapping resampling method. RESULTS Seventy-two percent consumed some medication without scientific evidence, with antibiotics (71%) and ivermectin for human use (68%) being the most commonly used. Factors associated with the consumption of drugs to treat mild COVID-19 infection were thinking that the drugs are not effective (adjusted prevalence ratio, 0.55; 95% confidence interval, 0.41-0.74) and not being informed about the efficacy of the drugs (adjusted prevalence ratio, 0.48; 95% confidence interval, 0.36-0.65). CONCLUSIONS Education of the population seems to be the main factor that increases the consumption of drugs without scientific evidence in the Peruvian population to treat mild COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R. Soriano-Moreno
- From the Unidad de Investigación Clínica y Epidemiológica, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Peruana Unión, Lima
| | - Daniel Fernandez-Guzman
- Escuela Profesional de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco
- Grupo Peruano de Investigación Epidemiológica, Unidad para la Generación y Síntesis de Evidencias en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola
| | | | - Carlos Quispe-Vicuña
- Sociedad Científica San Fernando, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima
| | | | | | - Noelia Morocho-Alburqueque
- Sociedad Científica de Estudiantes de Medicina de la Universidad Nacional de Piura (SOCIEMUNP), Piura, Peru
| | | | - Randy Velasquez-Fernandez
- Universidad Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión, Facultad de Medicina Humana, Pasco
- Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos
| | - Wendy Nieto-Gutierrez
- Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Unidad de Investigación para la Generación y Síntesis de Evidencias en Salud, Lima, Peru
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Sharma DR, Girija S, Merugu P. Mediating Role of Perceived Health Risk on Customer Experience and Customer Satisfaction: Evidence from the Airline Industry in India During COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GLOBAL BUSINESS AND COMPETITIVENESS 2022. [PMCID: PMC9645318 DOI: 10.1007/s42943-022-00067-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
With a steep decrease in the rate of COVID-19 infection, and a corresponding increase in the number of vaccinated people, countries have begun to re- open borders to foreign travellers, triggering the resumption of aviation services. However, people are still apprehensive, and are avoiding travel, hindering air travel to get back to the pre-COVID era. This paper determines the experience of air travellers’ during the pandemic applying EXQ model. Additionally, it investigates the role of perceived health risk as a mediating variable in an extended EXQ model. We collected data from a sample of 122 air travelers during the pandemic and analyzed it using IBM SPSS. The outcome of this study sheds light on the experiences of pandemic-affected airline passengers, revealing in the process, factors that passengers value much more now than ever before. The findings confirm that perceived health risk significantly mediates the relationship between customer experience and satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devika Rani Sharma
- GITAM School of Business, GITAM (Deemed to be) University, Hyderabad Campus, 502001 Hyderabad, India
| | - Smitha Girija
- GITAM Institute of Management, GITAM University, Vishakhapatnam, 530045 India
| | - Pratima Merugu
- GITAM Institute of Management, GITAM University, Vishakhapatnam, 530045 India
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20
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Hample J. An Investigation into Memorable Messages about COVID-19. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022; 27:615-623. [PMID: 36382869 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2022.2147256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 has been one of the most talked-about health threats in recent memory. Of the many messages - both good and bad - to which people are exposed, which ones are actually remembered? This study reports results of 319 people who described the COVID-19 message they found most memorable. Results indicate that people find messages about the virus, masks, and dangers of the disease most memorable. The majority of the messages came from TV news or the internet, particularly from social media. Overall, participants felt relatively positively about the messages. Memorable messages came from well-liked or trusted sources and were messages that the participant broadly agreed with (either because they already agreed or because the message changed their mind). Participants were more likely to report agreeing with the message if it produced feelings of happiness or fear and if the source of the message was seen as credible and benevolent. Future messages should focus on creating messages that provoke fear; highlight the credentials and character of the source; and are disseminated via social media and television.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hample
- Department of Communication, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Kearney, Nebraska, USA
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21
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Soltanzadeh A, Adeli SH, Sadeghi Yarandi M, Mahdinia M. Developing a risk assessment method for infectious diseases focusing on COVID-19 based on the Delphi method and fuzzy analytical hierarchy process. Work 2022; 73:799-808. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-220084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Given the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) risk, it is essential to develop a comprehensive risk assessment method to manage the risk of the infectious diseases. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop a risk assessment method for infectious diseases focusing on COVID-19. METHOD: This study was based on the fuzzy Delphi method (FDM) and fuzzy analytical hierarchical process (FAHP) in three steps: (a) designing the preliminary risk assessment algorithm by reviewing the literature, (b) corroborating the designed structure based on the majority opinions of the expert panel and assigning scores to different factors according to the Delphi method, and (c) determining the weight of components and their factors based on the FAHP. RESULTS: The COVID-19 risk index (CVRI) was found to be affected by four components and 19 factors. The four components consisted of the probability of getting sick (5 factors), disease severity (4 factors), health beliefs level (3 factors), and exposure rate (6 factors). The identified components and their relevant factors had different weights and effects on the CVIR. The weights of probability, severity, health beliefs level, and exposure rate components were 0.27, 0.20, 0.14, and 0.38, respectively. The CVRI was found to range from 0.54 to 0.82, defined in three levels. CONCLUSION: Given the significant effects of identified components, factors, and parameters on the incidence of COVID-19 on the one hand and using the FDM and FAHP on the other, the proposed method can be considered as an appropriate method for managing the risk of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Soltanzadeh
- Department of Occupational Safety and Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Research Center for Environmental Pollutants, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Seyyed Hassan Adeli
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Mohsen Sadeghi Yarandi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Mahdinia
- Department of Occupational Safety and Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
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22
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Cunningham-Erves J, Brandt HM, Sanderson M, Clarkson K, Lee O, Schlundt D, Bonnet K, Davis J. Development of a Theory-Based, Culturally Appropriate Message Library for Use in Interventions to Promote COVID-19 Vaccination Among African Americans: Formative Research. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e38781. [PMID: 35781223 PMCID: PMC9337618 DOI: 10.2196/38781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disparities in COVID-19 incidence, hospitalization, and mortality rates among African Americans suggest the need for targeted interventions. Use of targeted, theory-driven messages in behavioral and communication interventions could empower African Americans to engage in behaviors that prevent COVID-19. OBJECTIVE To address this need, we performed a formative study that aimed to develop and design a culturally appropriate, theory-based library of messages targeting concerns around COVID-19 vaccines that could be used in behavioral and communication interventions for African Americans. METHODS Message development occurred between January 2021 and February 2022. Initial messages were designed by a multidisciplinary team of researchers, community leaders, and community members. Kreuter's 5 strategies (ie, linguistic, peripheral, evidential, sociocultural, and constituent-involving strategies) were used to achieve cultural appropriateness. After forming a community-academic partnership, message development occurred in 4 phases: (1) adaptation of a message library using the literature, (2) review by 6 clinical and research experts for content validation, (3) input and review by a 6-member community advisory panel (CAP), and (4) message pretesting with African Americans via semistructured interviews in a qualitative study. RESULTS Themes from the semistructured interviews among 30 African Americans were as follows: (1) community reactions to the messages, (2) community questions and information needs, (3) suggestions for additional content, and (4) suggestions to improve comprehension, relevance, and trustworthiness. Feedback from the CAP, community members, and scientific experts was used by members of the community-academic partnership to iteratively update message content to maximize cultural appropriateness. The final message library had 18 message subsets for adults and 17 message subsets for parents and caregivers of children. These subsets were placed into 3 categories: (1) vaccine development, (2) vaccine safety, and (3) vaccine effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS We used a 4-phase, systematic process using multiple community engagement approaches to create messages for African Americans to support interventions to improve COVID-19 vaccination rates among adults and children. The newly developed messages were deemed to be culturally appropriate according to experts and members of the African American community. Future research should evaluate the impact of these messages on COVID-19 vaccination rates among African Americans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heather M Brandt
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Maureen Sanderson
- Department of Family Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, United States
| | | | - Omaran Lee
- Nashville General Hospital, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - David Schlundt
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Kemberlee Bonnet
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Jamaine Davis
- Department of Biochemistry and Cancer Biology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, United States
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23
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Masthi NR R, Brahmajosyula A, Khamar A, Acharya N, Bilichod LP, Kondath D. Coverage of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) Booster Dose (Precautionary) in the Adult Population: An Online Survey. Cureus 2022; 14:e26912. [PMID: 35983381 PMCID: PMC9376214 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.26912] [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] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic devastated public health worldwide, including India. COVID-19 vaccines and their boosters are life-saving developments that have helped prevent and control the spread of COVID-19. We conducted this study to assess the coverage of the booster dose in an Indian population (the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in India is referred to as the booster or precautionary dose), record the reasons for not taking the booster dose, and determine the effectiveness of the booster. The levels of adherence to COVID-19 precautionary behavior was also assessed. Methods We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study using convenient sampling via an online survey of 550 respondents older than 18 in the second quarter of 2022. The respondents were distributed among 18 states and union territories in India. The data were analyzed as simple proportions and percentages. Results Of the 550 respondents, 152 (27.6%) received the booster dose, indicating low coverage. A small percentage of respondents (7.2%) reported suffering from COVID-19 following the booster, of whom 91% were medical professionals. The most common reported reason for not taking the vaccine was that the respondents were not yet due for their dose (48.1%). The time between the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and the booster had no impact on infection rates. Men were less likely to adhere to COVID-19 precautionary behavior than women, despite similar vaccination rates. Conclusion The COVID-19 vaccine booster had a low acceptance in our study population, with roughly one-quarter of the population receiving the booster. The booster dose has been influential in the prevention of COVID-19. Most respondents followed behavioral safety measures despite the decline of active cases of COVID-19 in India following the Omicron wave. Our results indicate a need to strengthen public strategies to affect behavioral changes, such as improving India's Behavior Change Communication program to ensure adequate booster dose coverage.
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24
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Gupta A, Jamir L, Aravindakshan R, Debnath DJ, Sathiyanarayanan S, Kakkar R. New normal of academic virtual conference: Imperative during pandemic. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2022; 11:166. [PMID: 35847144 PMCID: PMC9277758 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_353_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In COVID pandemic, attending the continuing medical education, workshops, and conferences with physical attendance is not possible. We designed, developed, and hosted the first of its kind academic virtual/online conference at par with an in-person academic conference to disseminate the expertise of the renowned subject experts along with researchers to present their research work due to the ongoing pandemic. We, in this article, had summarized the most critical steps in order to make the process easier for first-timers while providing our more comprehensive walkthroughs on each step. We choose a live session of the speakers on the Zoom meeting mode to retain the atmosphere of a live conference. WhatsApp, Google (Google Meet and E-mail), and Kahoot were other platforms to communicate with speakers, researchers, and participants to seamlessly participate. A number of advantages in terms of protection for delegates/speakers and their families came from the Virtual Conference on Nutrition and Health, restricting the spread of COVID-19, low budget for organizers, economically much cheaper alternatives both for speakers and participants, dissemination of knowledge, time productive, and meeting research paper presentation eligibility for a professional course. When one is new to technology, try adding an innovative aspect as a starting point to future virtual and in-person events, and seeing how it works is imperative. Ensuring Internet bandwidth, updated hardware, or webcam and/or microphone functionality at the participant end is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arti Gupta
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Limalemla Jamir
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Rajeev Aravindakshan
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Dhrubajyoti J. Debnath
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - S. Sathiyanarayanan
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Rakesh Kakkar
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, India
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25
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Rubinelli S, Purnat TD, Wilhelm E, Traicoff D, Namageyo-Funa A, Thomson A, Wardle C, Lamichhane J, Briand S, Nguyen T. WHO competency framework for health authorities and institutions to manage infodemics: its development and features. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2022; 20:35. [PMID: 35525924 PMCID: PMC9077350 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-022-00733-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In April 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) Information Network for Epidemics produced an agenda for managing the COVID-19 infodemic. "Infodemic" refers to the overabundance of information-including mis- and disinformation. In this agenda it was pointed out the need to create a competency framework for infodemic management (IM). This framework was released by WHO on 20th September 2021. This paper presents the WHO framework for IM by highlighting the different investigative steps behind its development. METHODS The framework was built through three steps. Step 1 included the preparatory work following the guidelines in the Guide to writing Competency Framework for WHO Academy courses. Step 2 was based on a qualitative study with participants (N = 25), identified worldwide on the basis of their academic background in relevant fields of IM or of their professional experience in IM activities at the institutional level. The interviews were conducted online between December 2020 and January 2021, they were video-recorded and analyzed using thematic analysis. In Step 3, two stakeholder panels were conducted to revise the framework. RESULTS The competency framework contains four primary domains, each of which comprised main activities, related tasks, and knowledge and skills. It identifies competencies to manage and monitor infodemics, to design, conduct and evaluate appropriate interventions, as well as to strengthen health systems. Its main purpose is to assist institutions in reinforcing their IM capacities and implementing effective IM processes and actions according to their individual contexts and resources. CONCLUSION The competency framework is not intended to be a regulatory document nor a training curriculum. As a WHO initiative, it serves as a reference tool to be applied according to local priorities and needs within the different countries. This framework can assist institutions in strengthening IM capacity by hiring, staff development, and human resources planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rubinelli
- Department of Health Sciences and Health Policy, University of Lucerne and Swiss Paraplegic Research, Frohburgstrasse 3, 6002, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Tina D Purnat
- Unit for High Impact Events Preparedness, Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention, Emergency Preparedness Programme, World Health Organization, Ave Appia 21, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Elisabeth Wilhelm
- Demand for Immunization Team, Global Immunization Division, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, USA
| | - Denise Traicoff
- Workforce Development Team, Global Immunization Division, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, USA
| | - Apophia Namageyo-Funa
- Workforce Development Team, Global Immunization Division, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, USA
| | - Angus Thomson
- Demand for Immunization, Health Section, UNICEF, Plaza, NY, 3 UN, USA
| | - Claire Wardle
- School of Public Health, Brown University, 121 S Main St, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Jaya Lamichhane
- Unit for High Impact Events Preparedness, Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention, Emergency Preparedness Programme, World Health Organization, Ave Appia 21, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sylvie Briand
- Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention, Emergency Preparedness Programme, World Health Organization, Ave Appia 21, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tim Nguyen
- Unit for High Impact Events Preparedness, Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention, Emergency Preparedness Programme, World Health Organization, Ave Appia 21, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland
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Public and Private Information Sharing under "New Normal" of COVID-19: Understanding the Roles of Habit and Outcome Expectation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095552. [PMID: 35564950 PMCID: PMC9105274 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Information sharing is critical in risk communication and management during the COVID-19 epidemic, and information sharing has been a part of individual prevention and particular lifestyles under the "New Normal" of COVID-19. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore influencing factors and mechanisms in public and private information sharing intention among people under the regular risk situation. This study investigated an information sharing mechanism based on a cross-sectional design. We collected 780 valid responses through a sample database of an online questionnaire platform and utilized partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to further analyze the data. To explore the difference caused by news frames, we divided respondents into two groups according to the news frame (action frame vs. reassurance frame) and proceeded with the multi-group analysis. The results showed that four types of outcome expectations (information seeking, emotion regulation, altruism and public engagement) and habit had impacts on public and private information sharing intention. Two paths influencing information sharing proposed in this study were supported. The results showed that outcome expectations were positively related to habit, which implies that the cognitive mechanism was positively relevant to the formation of habit. The results proved that habit played a mediating role between outcome expectations and information sharing. This research found that emotion regulation and public engagement outcome expectations only affected two types of information sharing intention mediated by habit. Regarding the role of the news frame, this study found no significant difference between the group exposed to action-framed news and the group exposed to reassurance-framed news. By exploring influencing factors and the mechanism of information sharing under the "New Normal", these findings contribute to understanding of information sharing and have implications on risk management. The proposed mechanism classifying public and private information sharing complements risk information flowing by considering online risk incubation.
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Somé NH, Wells S, Felsky D, Hamilton HA, Ali S, Elton-Marshall T, Rehm J. Self-reported mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic and its association with alcohol and cannabis use: a latent class analysis. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:306. [PMID: 35490222 PMCID: PMC9055215 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-03917-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health problems and substance use co-morbidities during and after the COVID-19 pandemic are a public health priority. Identifying individuals at high-risk of developing mental health problems and potential sequela can inform mitigating strategies. We aimed to identify distinct groups of individuals (i.e., latent classes) based on patterns of self-reported mental health symptoms and investigate their associations with alcohol and cannabis use. METHODS We used data from six successive waves of a web-based cross-sectional survey of adults aged 18 years and older living in Canada (6,021 participants). We applied latent class analysis to three domains of self-reported mental health most likely linked to effects of the pandemic: anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Logistic regression was used to characterize latent class membership, estimate the association of class membership with alcohol and cannabis use, and perform sex-based analyses. RESULTS We identified two distinct classes: (1) individuals with low scores on all three mental health indicators (no/low-symptoms) and (2) those reporting high scores across the three measures (high-symptoms). Between 73.9 and 77.1% of participants were in the no/low-symptoms class and 22.9-26.1% of participants were in the high-symptom class. We consistently found across all six waves that individuals at greater risk of being in the high-symptom class were more likely to report worrying about getting COVID-19 with adjusted odds ratios (aORs) between 1.72 (95%CI:1.17-2.51) and 3.51 (95%CI:2.20-5.60). Those aged 60 + were less likely to be in this group with aORs (95%CI) between 0.26 (0.15-0.44) and 0.48 (0.29-0.77) across waves. We also found some factors associated with class membership varied at different time points. Individuals in the high-symptom class were more likely to use cannabis at least once a week (aOR = 2.28, 95%CI:1.92-2.70), drink alcohol heavily (aOR = 1.71, 95%CI:1.49-1.96); and increase the use of cannabis (aOR = 3.50, 95%CI:2.80-4.37) and alcohol (aOR = 2.37, 95%CI:2.06-2.74) during the pandemic. Women in the high-symptom class had lower odds of drinking more alcohol during the pandemic than men. CONCLUSIONS We identified the determinants of experiencing high anxiety, depression, and loneliness symptoms and found a significant association with alcohol and cannabis consumption. This suggests that initiatives and supports are needed to address mental health and substance use multi-morbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nibene Habib Somé
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle, Suite 200, ON, N6G 4X8, London, Canada. .,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. .,Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Samantha Wells
- grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle, Suite 200, ON N6G 4X8 London, Canada ,grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.39381.300000 0004 1936 8884Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.1021.20000 0001 0526 7079School of Psychology, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel Felsky
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Hayley A. Hamilton
- grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle, Suite 200, ON N6G 4X8 London, Canada ,grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Shehzad Ali
- grid.39381.300000 0004 1936 8884Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario Canada ,grid.39381.300000 0004 1936 8884Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada ,grid.5685.e0000 0004 1936 9668Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK ,grid.1004.50000 0001 2158 5405Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia ,grid.418792.10000 0000 9064 3333Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Tara Elton-Marshall
- grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle, Suite 200, ON N6G 4X8 London, Canada ,grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.39381.300000 0004 1936 8884Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.28046.380000 0001 2182 2255School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada ,grid.258900.60000 0001 0687 7127Department of Health Sciences, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario Canada
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle, Suite 200, ON N6G 4X8 London, Canada ,grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,grid.4488.00000 0001 2111 7257Institute for Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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The COVID-19 Pandemic: Early Ripple Effects in Pediatric Palliative Care. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9050642. [PMID: 35626819 PMCID: PMC9139250 DOI: 10.3390/children9050642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Palliative care, which aims to provide comprehensive, interdisciplinary, holistic care to children, adolescents and adults with life-threatening, and ultimately life-limiting conditions, is a discipline that has emerged as an integral component of healthcare systems throughout the world. Although the value of life-affirming palliative care (PC) has been shown across many domains, funding and acceptance of palliative care teams have been variable: some hospital systems have free-standing, dedicated interdisciplinary teams while, in many instances, palliative care services are provided “pro bono” by individuals with a special interest in the discipline, who provide PC in addition to other responsibilities. In this article, we hope to highlight some of the observations on the early effects of the COVID–19 pandemic on the provision of PC in children.
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MacKay M, Ford C, Colangeli T, Gillis D, McWhirter JE, Papadopoulos A. A content analysis of Canadian influencer crisis messages on Instagram and the public’s response during COVID-19. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:763. [PMID: 35428287 PMCID: PMC9010933 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13129-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful mitigation of emerging infectious disease requires that the public adopt recommended behaviours, which is directly influenced by effective crisis communication. Social media has become an important communication channel during COVID-19 where official actors, influencers, and the public are co-creating crisis messages. Our research examined COVID-19-related crisis messages across Canadian influencer accounts within news media, politicians, public health and government, science communicators, and brand influencer and celebrities, posted on Instagram between December 2019 and March 2021 for Health Belief Model and Extended Parallel Processing Model constructs and the corresponding public comment sentiment and engagement. Thirty-three influencer accounts resulted in a total of 2,642 Instagram posts collected, along with 461,436 comments, which showed overall low use of constructs in both captions and images. Further, most posts used no combinations (n = 0 or 1 construct per post) of constructs in captions and images and very infrequently used captions that combined threat (severity and susceptibility) with cues to action and efficacy. Brand influencers and celebrities, politicians, and science communicators had above average post engagement while public health and government and news media had lower. Finally, most influencers saw the largest proportion of neutral sentiment comments. Crisis messages must be designed to include combinations of constructs that increase message acceptance and influence risk perception and efficacy to increase the adoption of recommended and mandated behaviours.
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Zhao Y, Ding Y, Shen Y, Liu W. Gender Difference in Psychological, Cognitive, and Behavioral Patterns Among University Students During COVID-19: A Machine Learning Approach. Front Psychol 2022; 13:772870. [PMID: 35432126 PMCID: PMC9010541 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.772870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic affects all population segments and is especially detrimental to university students because social interaction is critical for a rewarding campus life and valuable learning experiences. In particular, with the suspension of in-person activities and the adoption of virtual teaching modalities, university students face drastic changes in their physical activities, academic careers, and mental health. Our study applies a machine learning approach to explore the gender differences among U.S. university students in response to the global pandemic. Leveraging a proprietary survey dataset collected from 322 U.S. university students, we employ association rule mining (ARM) techniques to identify and compare psychological, cognitive, and behavioral patterns among male and female participants. To formulate our task under the conventional ARM framework, we model each unique question-answer pair of the survey questionnaire as a market basket item. Consequently, each participant's survey report is analogous to a customer's transaction on a collection of items. Our findings suggest that significant differences exist between the two gender groups in psychological distress and coping strategies. In addition, the two groups exhibit minor differences in cognitive patterns and consistent preventive behaviors. The identified gender differences could help professional institutions to facilitate customized advising or counseling for males and females in periods of unprecedented challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijun Zhao
- Computer and Information Sciences Department, Fordham University, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Yijun Zhao
| | - Yi Ding
- Graduate School of Education, Fordham University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yangqian Shen
- Graduate School of Education, Fordham University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Wei Liu
- Computer and Information Sciences Department, Fordham University, New York, NY, United States
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Shankar PR, Nadarajah VD, Wilson IG. Implications of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic for primary care. Aust J Prim Health 2022; 28:200-203. [PMID: 35331366 DOI: 10.1071/py21096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has caused widespread global disruption. In this article, the authors put forward lessons from the pandemic for primary care. Among these are primary healthcare requires substantial investment; big data should be carefully regulated and used to strengthen primary care; primary care physicians can support media to provide impartial, objective information; protecting the health of vulnerable populations is important; and infectious diseases are still relevant today. Travel and tourism significantly impact health and primary care. Pandemics may be more common in the future due to climate change, increased human population and habitat loss, among other reasons. We should apply the lessons learned from the current pandemic to better prepare for future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pathiyil Ravi Shankar
- IMU Centre for Education, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
| | - Vishna D Nadarajah
- Institutional Development and International, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
| | - Ian G Wilson
- IMU Centre for Education, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
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Nouri R, Salari R, Kalhori SRN, Ayyoubzadeh SM, Gholamzadeh M. Persian mobile health applications for COVID-19: A use case-based study. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2022; 11:100. [PMID: 35573610 PMCID: PMC9093665 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_759_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, a significant number of mobile health apps have been created around the world and in Iran to help consequence reduction of this emerging pandemic. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to review the characteristics of Persian Android and iOS apps related to COVID-19 and determine their use-cases based on a reference model. METHODS This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in three main steps. First, a systematic search was conducted via Iranian mobile apps' markets using the keywords related to COVID-19 in January 2021. Then, the retrieved apps were analyzed according to their characteristics. Finally, the use-cases of the given apps were determined and categorized based on a reference model. RESULTS Based on our inclusion criteria, 122 apps were selected and evaluated. Most of these apps (87.7%) was free. Small proportions (5%) of reviewed apps have been developed with participation of clinical expert and half of the apps mentioned the references they used. Furthermore, about half of the apps (50.8%) were provided contact information of the developers. The studied apps were classified into four use-case major categories, including educational (98%), fulfilling a contextual need (18%), communicating, and/or sharing the information (0.83%), and health-related management (2%). CONCLUSION The results showed that the Persian mobile apps for COVID-19 are not in a satisfying situation. Furthermore, although these apps are significant in quantity but in terms of use-cases, they are not widespread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasool Nouri
- Department of Medical Library and Information Sciences, Health Information Technology Research Center, School of Management and Medical Information Sciences, University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Raheleh Salari
- Department of Ophthalmology, Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sharareh R. Niakan Kalhori
- Research Fellow and Guest Scientists, Peter L. Reichertz Institute for Medical Informatics of TU Braunschweig and Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Ph.D. in Medical Informatics, Associate Professor, Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Ayyoubzadeh
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marsa Gholamzadeh
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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Looking for the Sustainability Messages of European Universities’ Social Media Communication during the COVID-19 Pandemic. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14031554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Organizations in general, and higher education institutions in particular, had to face many challenges during the pandemic in order to carry out their usual activities. Since communications and interactions between universities and students were required to take place online, the messages sent by universities on their social media platforms held greater importance. In this regard, the purpose of the paper was to identify the promotion strategies used by European universities on Facebook and Instagram in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, we were interested in identifying differences and similarities in the types of messages European universities sent on the two social networks, regarding the way they communicated about sustainability. The method used in order to conduct the research was content analysis, while having as an instrument a content analysis grid. We analyzed the activity of 20 European universities included in the World University Rankings 2021. The results of the research revealed that universities communicated more on Facebook than on Instagram, that the most frequent messages regarding sustainability were the ones about the actions carried out by universities in order to protect the environment, and that they registered a higher engagement rate on Instagram than on Facebook.
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Kotera Y, Ozaki A, Miyatake H, Tsunetoshi C, Nishikawa Y, Kosaka M, Tanimoto T. Qualitative Investigation into the Mental Health of Healthcare Workers in Japan during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19010568. [PMID: 35010828 PMCID: PMC8744919 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the mental health of healthcare workers in many countries including Japan. While many survey-based findings have reported the serious state of their wellbeing among healthcare workers, the first-hand experience of the mental health and coping in this population remains to be evaluated. Accordingly, this study aimed to appraise them using constructionist thematic analysis on semi-structured interviews attended by a purposive and snowball sample of 24 healthcare workers in Japan conducted in December 2020-January 2021. Four themes were identified: (1) increased stress and loneliness, (2) reduced coping strategies, (3) communication and acknowledgement as a mental health resource, and (4) understanding of self-care. Participants noted that the characteristics of Japanese work culture such as long hours, collectivism and hatarakigai (i.e., meaning in work) to explain these themes. These findings suggest that robust support at an organizational and individual level, capturing intrinsic values, are particularly important for this key workforce to cope with increased stress and loneliness, leading to better patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Kotera
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Akihiko Ozaki
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jyoban Hospital of Tokiwa Foundation, Iwaki 972-8322, Japan;
- Medical Governance Research Institute, Tokyo 108-0074, Japan;
| | | | - Chie Tsunetoshi
- Department of Community Health Nursing, University of Fukui, Fukui 910-1104, Japan;
| | - Yoshitaka Nishikawa
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan;
| | - Makoto Kosaka
- Orange Home-Care Clinic, Fukui 910-0018, Japan; (H.M.); (M.K.)
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Moyano D, Lay Mendivil L. [Communication products for COVID-19 prevention promoted by governments in Latin America and the CaribbeanProdutos de comunicação para a prevenção da COVID-19 promovidos pelos governos da América Latina e do Caribe]. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2021; 45:e111. [PMID: 34815734 PMCID: PMC8603996 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2021.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objetivo. Caracterizar el contenido de los productos comunicacionales dirigidos a la población general para la prevención de la COVID-19 promovidos por los gobiernos de América Latina y el Caribe (ALC). Métodos. Estudio descriptivo, trasversal y exploratorio de los productos comunicacionales publicados hasta el 28 de febrero del 2021 en los sitios web oficiales de los ministerios de salud de los 47 países y territorios de ALC para la prevención de la COVID-19. Se emplearon métodos cuantitativos y cualitativos a partir de dimensiones recomendadas por la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) y un enfoque de determinantes sociales de la salud (DSS). Se utilizó la técnica de análisis de contenido y triangulación por observador. Resultados. Se analizaron 3 253 productos informativos; en los 47 países y territorios de ALC, al menos un producto incluyó alguna recomendación de la OMS y en 46 se abordó alguna de las categorías y subcategorías relacionadas con los DSS intermedios. De los DSS estructurales, se aplicó el enfoque de género y alguna lengua indígena en al menos un producto de solo 4 y 7 países, respectivamente. En 35 países se encontró al menos un producto con información errónea y en 13 no se abordó la infodemia. Conclusiones. Se encontró una cantidad considerable de productos comunicacionales para la prevención de la COVID-19, pero no reflejaban un adecuado enfoque de diversidad y salud integral, y mostraban vacíos y errores de comunicación. Los países deben revisar sus políticas de comunicación en salud en el contexto de la pandemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Moyano
- Universidad Nacional de La Matanza Universidad Nacional de Córdoba Buenos AiresCórdoba Argentina Universidad Nacional de La Matanza, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Lina Lay Mendivil
- Grupo de Investigación en Nutrición y Sistemas Alimentarios Saludables y Sostenibles INSAS-UTP Ciudad de Panamá Panamá Grupo de Investigación en Nutrición y Sistemas Alimentarios Saludables y Sostenibles INSAS-UTP, Ciudad de Panamá, Panamá
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Aja GN. Harnessing the potentials of masters/mistresses of ceremony to promote community health and wellbeing amidst COVID-19 and other public health challenges. PUBLIC HEALTH IN PRACTICE 2021; 2:100169. [PMID: 34841374 PMCID: PMC8608394 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2021.100169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Public health risk communication and general health information dissemination efforts require multiple approaches to sustainably engage communities to pursue individual and collective preventive actions. Engaging only highly skilled professionals to deliver public health messages, particularly in low and middle-income countries is expensive. Thus, masters/mistresses of ceremony (MCs) have the potential to contribute to disseminating evidence-based messages to communities on existing, emerging or re-emerging public health issues in developed and developing countries, thereby complementing existing dissemination efforts being made towards malaria, HIV/AIDS and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) prevention and control, among others. Establishing feedback mechanisms to assess the impact of the MC-led health promotion on the target audiences is vital.
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Evans S, Klas A, Mikocka-Walus A, German B, Rogers G, Ling M, Fernando J, Kothe E, Westrupp E. "Poison" or "protection"? A mixed methods exploration of Australian parents' COVID-19 vaccination intentions. J Psychosom Res 2021; 150:110626. [PMID: 34583017 PMCID: PMC8503786 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2021.110626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The success of COVID-19 vaccination programs relies on community attitudes, yet little is known about parents' views. We aimed to explore the reasons behind Australian parents' vaccine intentions for themselves and for their children. METHOD This mixed methods study relates to Wave 13 (January 2021) of a longitudinal study of Australian parents' experiences during COVID-19 and contained 1094 participants (83% mothers). We used multinomial logistic regression to understand demographic predictors of vaccine intention, and a descriptive template thematic analysis to analyse open-ended questions about parents' reasons for vaccine intentions for themselves and their children. RESULTS 64% of Australian parents intend on vaccination, 26% are unsure and 9% intend to decline; 48% intend to vaccinate their children, 38% are unsure, and 14% intend to decline. Relative to those intending to vaccinate, parents unsure (OR = -0.63, 95% CI: 0.46, -0.84, p = .002) or not intending (OR = -0.41, 95% CI: 0.24, 0.67 p < .001) to vaccinate were more likely to have lower trust in doctors. Similar predictors emerged for parents who did not intend to vaccinate their children (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.31, 0.70, p < .001). Qualitative data indicated that many parents had not made a firm decision, including a lack of alignment between intentions and reasons. For example, parents who said 'yes' to vaccination, often then expressed hesitance and a focus on risks in their written response. Reasons for hesitancy for themselves included concerns about testing, side effects, and long-term outcomes. Similar themes were present for children, but parents expressed a strong desire to protect their children, and an eagerness for health information. CONCLUSION Based on prior research and the themes identified here, a multipronged campaign that includes education/promotion, good access to vaccines and role models, is likely to support parents to make informed decisions regarding COVID-19 vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Evans
- Deakin University, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia,Corresponding author at: School of Psychology, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - A. Klas
- Deakin University, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia,Deakin University, Misinformation Lab, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia
| | - A. Mikocka-Walus
- Deakin University, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia
| | - B. German
- Deakin University, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia
| | - G.D. Rogers
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
| | - M. Ling
- Deakin University, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia,Deakin University, Misinformation Lab, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia
| | - J.W. Fernando
- Deakin University, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia
| | - E. Kothe
- Deakin University, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia,Deakin University, Misinformation Lab, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia
| | - E.M. Westrupp
- Deakin University, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Victoria, Australia,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
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Pian W, Chi J, Ma F. The causes, impacts and countermeasures of COVID-19 "Infodemic": A systematic review using narrative synthesis. Inf Process Manag 2021; 58:102713. [PMID: 34720340 PMCID: PMC8545871 DOI: 10.1016/j.ipm.2021.102713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
An unprecedented infodemic has been witnessed to create massive damage to human society. However, it was not thoroughly investigated. This systematic review aims to (1) synthesize the existing literature on the causes and impacts of COVID-19 infodemic; (2) summarize the proposed strategies to fight with COVID-19 infodemic; and (3) identify the directions for future research. A systematic literature search following the PRISMA guideline covering 12 scholarly databases was conducted to retrieve various types of peer-reviewed articles that reported causes, impacts, or countermeasures of the infodemic. Empirical studies were assessed for risk of bias using the Mixed-Methods Appraisal Tool. A coding theme was iteratively developed to categorize the causes, impacts, and countermeasures found from the included studies. Social media usage, low level of health/eHealth literacy, and fast publication process and preprint service are identified as the major causes of the infodemic. Besides, the vicious circle of human rumor-spreading behavior and the psychological issues from the public (e.g., anxiety, distress, fear) emerges as the characteristic of the infodemic. Comprehensive lists of countermeasures are summarized from different perspectives, among which risk communication and consumer health information need/seeking are of particular importance. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed and future research directions are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Pian
- School of Economics & Management, Fuzhou University, 2 Xueyuan Road, Qishan Campus, Fuzhou City 350116
- Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 315 Xihong Road, Fuzhou City 350025, China
| | - Jianxing Chi
- School of Communication, Fujian Normal University, 1 Keji Road, Qishan Campus, Fuzhou City, 350117, China
- School of Information Management, Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuhan City 430072, China
| | - Feicheng Ma
- Center for Studies of Information Resources, Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuhan City 430072, China
- Big Data Institute, Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuhan City 430072, China
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Strategies of communicating health-related risks to vulnerable groups of immigrants during a pandemic: a scoping review of qualitative and quantitative evidence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH GOVERNANCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/ijhg-06-2021-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this rapid scoping review was to map existing literature on risk communication strategies implemented by authorities and aimed at vulnerable immigrants in the context of pandemics.
Design/methodology/approach
Existing literature on the topic was charted in terms of its nature and volume by summarizing evidence regarding the communication strategies. Literature searches were conducted in Academic Search Premier and CINAHL, databases were searched from 2011 to present on March 31, 2021.
Findings
Five articles met the criteria and were included in this review, pointing at limited research in this area. The findings indicated that a close interaction between communication authorities and immigrants is important. Community education, building trust in communication sources, clear risk communication and inclusive decision-making among all were found to be important when communicating health risks to immigrants.
Research limitations/implications
The primary limitation of this rapid scoping review is that the literature searches were conducted in only two databases, namely, Academic Search Premier and CINAHL. A wider search across several other databases could have given more profound results. Furthermore, some studies where immigrants were conceptualized as, for instance, “disadvantaged groups” might be overseen due to a choice of the search strategy used in this study. There are also certain limitations related to the studies included in this review.
Practical implications
Identifying efficient ways of conveying recommendations may further assist authorities and scientists in developing more effective health-related risk communication.
Originality/value
This study covered health-related risk communication in the context of pandemics, addressing the need to investigate different groups of immigrants and the challenges related to communicating risks to these groups.
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Training with High Fidelity Simulation in the Care of Patients with Coronavirus-A Learning Experience in Native Health Care Multi-Professional Teams. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9101260. [PMID: 34682940 PMCID: PMC8535904 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9101260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The training of emergency and intensive care teams in technical and non-technical skills is fundamental. The general aim of this study was to evaluate the training of various professional teams with simulations based on the care of COVID-19 patients using Zone 3 simulations (native emergency medical services and intensive care units-ICU teams) in the Region of Murcia (Spain). A mixed pilot study was designed (qualitative/quantitative) comprised of three phases: Phase 1: detection of needs (focus groups), Phase 2: design of simulation scenarios, and Phase 3: training with high-fidelity simulation and evaluation of competences. The results were used to determine the real training needs of these health professionals, which were used to design four simulation scenarios in line with these needs. The team competences were evaluated before and after the training session, with increases observed after the training sessions, especially in non-technical skills such as communication. Training with zone 3 simulation, with multi-professional native emergency and intensive care teams who provided care to patients with coronavirus was shown to be an effective method, especially for training in non-technical skills. We should consider the training needs of the professionals before the start of any training program to stay one-step ahead of crisis situations.
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Comber S, Wilson L, Kelly S, McCay-Peet L. Physician leaders' cross-boundary use of social media: what are the implications in the current COVID-19 environment? Leadersh Health Serv (Bradf Engl) 2021; ahead-of-print. [PMID: 34319016 DOI: 10.1108/lhs-06-2020-0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to better understand social media (SM) factors that physician leaders need to consider, as they adapt their cross-boundary practices to engage with colleagues and patients. Firstly, this study explores why SM is being used by physicians to cross horizontal (physician to physician) and stakeholder (physician to patient) boundaries prior to COVID-19. Secondly, based on the studies reviewed, this study provides insights on the practical SM implications for physician leaders working in the COVID-19 environment to actively enhance their practices, reduce public confusion and improve patient care, thus informing health-care practices. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH A systematic literature review was used to conduct a structured transparent overview of peer reviewed articles that describe physicians' use of cross-boundary SM across several disciplines (e.g. health, information science). As a baseline assessment prior to COVID-19, the review synthesized 47 articles, identified and selected from six databases and Novanet. This study used NVivo 12 to thematical code the articles, leading to the emergence of four broad factors that influence SM use. FINDINGS A key reason noted in the literature for physicians use of SM to cross horizontal boundaries is to share knowledge. Regarding stakeholder boundaries, the most cited reasons are to improve patient's health and encourage behavioural changes. Insights garnered on the practical SM implications include the need for physicians to be stronger leaders in presenting trustworthy and consistent facts about health information to the public and fellow peers. As role models for the effective use of SM tools, physician leaders can mentor and coach their colleagues and counterparts. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS As this was a literature review, the authors did not collect primary data to further explore this rapidly changing and dynamic SM world. Next steps could include a survey to determine firstly, how physicians currently use SM in this COVID-19 environment, and secondly, how they could leverage it for their work. Findings from this survey will help us better understand the role of physician leaders as health-care influencers and how they could better create trust and inform the Canadian public in the health information that is being conveyed. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Physician leaders can play a key role in positively influencing institutional support for ethical and safe SM use and engagement practices. Physicians need to participate in developing regulations and guidelines that are fundamentally to physician leader's SM use. Central to this research would be the need to understand how physicians cross-boundary practices have changed during and potentially post COVID-19. Physician leaders also need to monitor information sources for credibility and ensure that these sources are protected. As role models for the effective use of SM tools, physician leaders can mentor and coach their colleagues and counterparts in this area. ORIGINALITY/VALUE Although there have been studies of how physicians use SM, fewer studies explore why physician leaders' cross boundaries (horizontal and stakeholder) using SM. Important insights are gained in physician leaders practical use of SM. Key themes that emerged included: organizational and individual, information, professional and regulations and guideline factors. These factors strengthen physician leaders understanding of areas of foci to enhance their cross-boundary interactions. There is an urgency to study the complexity of SM and the effectiveness of regulations and guidelines for physicians, who are being required, at an accelerated rate, to strengthen and increase their cross-boundary practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Comber
- Rowe School of Business, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Lisette Wilson
- Marine Affairs Program, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | | | - Lori McCay-Peet
- School of Information Management, Dalhousie University Faculty of Management, Halifax, Canada
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Chronic primary pain in the COVID-19 pandemic: how uncertainty and stress impact on functioning and suffering. Pain 2021; 163:604-609. [PMID: 34382606 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Patel J, Desai H, Okhowat A. The Role of the Canadian Media During the Initial Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Topic Modelling Approach Using Canadian Broadcasting Corporation News Articles. JMIR INFODEMIOLOGY 2021; 1:e25242. [PMID: 34447922 PMCID: PMC8330922 DOI: 10.2196/25242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Beginning as a local epidemic, COVID-19 has since rapidly evolved into a pandemic. As countries around the world battle this outbreak, mass media has played an active role in disseminating public health information. Objective The aim of this study was to get a better understanding of the role that the Canadian media played during the pandemic and to investigate the patterns of topics covered by media news reporting. Methods We used a data set consisting of news articles published on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) website between December 2019 and May 2020. We then used Python software to analyze the data using Latent Dirichlet Allocation topic modelling. Subsequently, we used the pyLDAvis tool to plot these topics on a 2D plane through multidimensional scaling and divided these topics into different themes. Results After removing articles that were published before the year 2019, we identified 6771 relevant news articles. According to the CV coherence value, we divided these articles into 15 topics, which were categorized into 6 themes. The three most popular themes were case reporting and testing (n=1738), Canadian response to the pandemic (n=1259), and changes to social life (n=1171), which accounted for 25.67%, 18.59%, and 17.29% of the total articles, respectively. Conclusions Understanding the Canadian media’s reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic shows that the Canadian pandemic response is a product of consistent government communication, as well as the public’s understanding of and adherence to protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janhavi Patel
- Michael G DeGroote School of Medicine McMaster University Hamilton, ON Canada
| | - Harsheev Desai
- Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science Ryerson University Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Ali Okhowat
- UBC Global Health Faculty of Medicine University of British Columbia Vancouver, BC Canada
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Goldbort J, Zhuang J, Bogdan-Lovis E, Bresnahan M, Frasher B. Navigating Uncertain Times: Information Management about Pregnancy and Breastfeeding during the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2021; 26:473-479. [PMID: 34528499 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2021.1954731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to COVID-19 while the short- and long-term impact of COVID-19 on maternal and infant health is only partially understood. We assessed the amount of uncertainty and anxiety pregnant women experienced about COVID-19 and whether, and the extent to which, they engaged in information seeking about COVID-19. In total, 320 pregnant women from 38 states took part in this research. The results showed that pregnant women experienced uncertainty and anxiety about pregnancy and breastfeeding and engaged in information seeking from their healthcare providers. Pregnant women's uncertainty influenced information seeking via anxiety, but the effect varied depending on participants' assessments of coping, communication, and target efficacy. While healthcare providers need to discuss ways to avoid COVID-19 infection, participants were assured that their providers had a plan to help them if they became infected with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Goldbort
- College of Nursing, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Jie Zhuang
- Department of Communication Studies, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Elizabeth Bogdan-Lovis
- Center for Ethics and Humanities in the Life Sciences, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Mary Bresnahan
- Department of Communication, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Breanna Frasher
- Department of Communication, Health Communication Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Singh R, Chouhan S, Rai NK. Essential role of communication to alleviate the COVID-19 Pandemic fear. J Family Med Prim Care 2021; 10:2052-2053. [PMID: 34195152 PMCID: PMC8208225 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_2373_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Singh
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Sunil Chouhan
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Nirendra K Rai
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
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Alsawalqa RO. Cyberbullying, social stigma, and self-esteem: the impact of COVID-19 on students from East and Southeast Asia at the University of Jordan. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06711. [PMID: 33869877 PMCID: PMC8045034 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the way people live, work, and socialize, and has perhaps even altered the reasons why they harass one another. To our knowledge, the present study is one of the first studies to address cyberbullying among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional objectives were to reveal the causes and types of cyberbullying that university students from East and Southeast Asia have experienced because of COVID-19, and to explore the relationship between cyberbullying and self-esteem. Of the 525 university students from different East and Southeast Asian countries and varied academic backgrounds who were invited to participate in the study, 310 students agreed and were included. Moreover, a sample of 400 Jordanian undergraduate students, who participated in cyberbullying against East and Southeast Asian students on social media, answered a questionnaire to reveal their reasons for engaging in bullying during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study also examined the relationship and differences between sex and nationality. The findings revealed that cyberbullying contributed to low self-esteem in students of East and Southeast Asian descent who were victims of bullying. Men were more likely to be bullies and cyberbullies than women. The bullies admitted that the main reason for cyberbullying was humor, and that they were unaware that their harsh or aggressive behaviors could be categorized as bullying. This study aimed to make a positive contribution to the scant literature on cyberbullying/cyber racism among university students in an Arab country. We believe our findings can help guide the formulation of policies and solutions that address cyberbullying, especially between resident and foreign students.
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Almuzaini Y, Mushi A, Aburas A, Yassin Y, Alamri F, Alahmari A, Yezli S, Khan AA, Jokhdar HA. Risk Communication Effectiveness During COVID-19 Pandemic Among General Population in Saudi Arabia. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:779-790. [PMID: 33658873 PMCID: PMC7917303 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s294885] [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: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The novel coronavirus (COVID-19), declared a pandemic by WHO in March 2020, is an unprecedented occurrence in our recent history. Effective risk communication by health authorities, through relaying reliable and authoritative information, is imperative in combating the spread of the outbreak. We aimed to measure the effectiveness of risk communication campaign and overall awareness during COVID-19 pandemic among the general population in Saudi Arabia. Patients and Methods A cross-sectional survey of 5472 individuals in Saudi Arabia was conducted to assess several factors regarding the risk communication messages during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the knowledge and response of the general population toward COVID-19 and MoH efforts. The questionnaire was divided into five main sections: general knowledge of COVID-19, channels and social media platforms used perceived risk and stress or panic toward COVID-19, satisfaction and community perception, most trusted source of information, and type of information received. Results A total of 5472 individuals participated in the study residing in Saudi Arabia. Overall knowledge of COVID-19 was determined to be above average (0.58 + 0.159). Of the general population, 57.1% perceived that the risk of getting sick with COVID-19 is low, while nearly half of the respondents (45.7%) have a high level of stress and panic toward COVID-19. The majority of responders to the questionnaire reinforced that MoH was their most trusted source of information for the COVID-19 pandemic (91.7%). Conclusion This study showed that the risk communication campaign by healthcare authorities during the COVID-19 pandemic has improved the awareness among the general population in Saudi Arabia, where the overwhelming majority placed high trust in the MoH as its main reference for COVID-19 information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasir Almuzaini
- Global Center for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, 12341, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Mushi
- Global Center for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, 12341, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alhanouf Aburas
- Global Center for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, 12341, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yara Yassin
- Global Center for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, 12341, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad Alamri
- Global Center for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, 12341, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Alahmari
- Global Center for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, 12341, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saber Yezli
- Global Center for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, 12341, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anas A Khan
- Global Center for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, 12341, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 12372, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hani A Jokhdar
- Deputyship of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia
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Abu-Akel A, Spitz A, West R. Who Is Listening? Spokesperson Effect on Communicating Social and Physical Distancing Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Psychol 2021; 11:564434. [PMID: 33510664 PMCID: PMC7837291 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.564434] [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: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective communication during a pandemic, such as the current COVID-19 crisis, can save lives. At the present time, social and physical distancing measures are the lead strategy in combating the spread of COVID-19. In this study, a survey was administered to 705 adults from Switzerland about their support and practice of social distancing measures to examine if their responses depended on (1) whether these measures were supported by a government official or an internationally recognized celebrity as a spokesperson, (2) whether this spokesperson was liked, and (3) the respondent's age. We also considered several attitudinal and demographic variables that may influence the degree to which people support and comply with social distancing measures. We found that the government official was more effective in eliciting responses supportive of social distancing, particularly as manifested in the stated current compliance with social distancing measures. The effect was substantially stronger among older respondents, although these respondents expressed a lower risk perception. Although there was a general trend for greater endorsement of the social distancing measures among participants who liked the spokesperson, this was non-significant. In addition, respondents' greater support and compliance was positively associated with (1) higher concern for the current situation, (2) higher concern for the well-being of others, and (3) greater belief that others were practicing social distancing, and negatively with (4) greater self-reported mobility. Current compliance correlated negatively with (5) household size. Since different parts of the population appear to have different perceptions of risk and crisis, our preliminary results suggest that different spokespersons may be needed for different segments of the population, and particularly for younger and older populations. The development of evidence-based knowledge is required to further identify who would be the most effective spokesperson, and in particular to groups with low risk perception and low compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Abu-Akel
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Spitz
- Institute of Computer and Communication Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Robert West
- Institute of Computer and Communication Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Al-Zyoud W, Oweis T, Al-Thawabih H, Al-Saqqar F, Al-Kazwini A, Al-Hammouri F. The Psychological Effects of Physicians' Communication Skills on COVID-19 Patients. Patient Prefer Adherence 2021; 15:677-690. [PMID: 33854302 PMCID: PMC8039207 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s303869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic has affected physician-patient communication (PPC) in multiple ways. This study aims to report on the impact of physician-patient communication (PPC) skills on COVID-19 patients' psychology in Jordan. SAMPLE AND METHODS In this study, two questionnaires were designed. The first questionnaire targeted physicians, with 72 responses, and the second questionnaire targeted patients, with 248 responses. Both questionnaires contained common sections covering nine aspects of communication such as empathy, honesty, optimism, simple and deliberateness. RESULTS This study found that the psychological effect of physicians' positive communication skills on COVID-19 patients is significant. There were almost statistical agreement between physicians' and patients' questionnaire responses that the physicians' communication skills have positively affected the patients' psychological status; all patients' responses confirmed this finding. CONCLUSION Based on this study's findings, appropriate and continuous training will advance physicians' communication skills in the form of exercises that could be as simple as class- or lecture-based activities, or using technology-based learning. Using a protocol or handbook to guide such communication is another essential strategy to enhance physician-patient communication (PPC). The study recommends that physicians must be aware that PPC skills required may vary depending on whether they are dealing with a pandemic or non-pandemic situation. Generally, appropriate or positive communication skills are considered one of the main factors effecting patients' psychological responses to their diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walid Al-Zyoud
- School of Applied Medical Sciences, German Jordanian University, Amman, Jordan
- Correspondence: Walid Al-Zyoud German Jordanian University, Amman Madaba Street, P.O. Box 35247, Amman, 11180, JordanTel +962 6 429 4401Fax +962 6 430 0215 Email
| | - Thelal Oweis
- School of Basic Sciences and Humanities, German Jordanian University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Haytham Al-Thawabih
- School of Applied Humanities and Languages, German Jordanian University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Fawwaz Al-Saqqar
- School of Basic Sciences and Humanities, German Jordanian University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Akeel Al-Kazwini
- School of Applied Medical Sciences, German Jordanian University, Amman, Jordan
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Limbachia J, Owens H, Matean M, Khan SS, Novak-Lauscher H, Ho K. Organizing a Mass Gathering Amidst a Rising COVID-19 Public Health Crisis: Lessons Learned From a Chinese Public Health Forum in Vancouver, BC. Cureus 2020; 12:e12365. [PMID: 33527047 PMCID: PMC7842969 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.12365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) evolved from a rising public health concern to a pandemic over mere weeks. Before March 11, 2020, the Public Health Agency of Canada had not advised against any mass gatherings. Herein, we highlight practical precautions taken by event organizers to adapt to the rising public health threat from COVID-19 and maintain public safety when conducting a health forum for the Chinese community of Vancouver, British Columbia on February 22, 2020. Materials and Methods In the pre-forum phase, we advertised the availability of virtual conferencing for remote participation in the forum and also had an official communication from the Ministry of Health available regarding COVID-19 on our website. At the forum, we ensured that attendees sanitized their hands at registration and had access to sanitizers throughout the forum. Additionally, we provided translated health literature on COVID-19 to participants and had our health professional speakers address COVID-19-related questions. Results This year, 231 older Chinese adults attended the forum in-person, while 150 participated remotely. The total number of 381 participants compares well to previous iterations of the forum, with twice the amount of participants on average attending online than before. Of the participants who attended the forum, 89% suggested that the forum would be effective in improving their overall health and 87% cited the forum's utility in directing them to access community resources. None of the attendees had COVID-19 or are suspected to have contracted it at the forum. Conclusion Conducting a mass gathering during a crisis required closely following guidance from local public health authorities, constant and clear communication with attendees, and employing practical risk mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayneel Limbachia
- Digital Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, CAN
| | - Hollis Owens
- Digital Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, CAN
| | - Maryam Matean
- Digital Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, CAN
| | - Sophia S Khan
- Digital Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, CAN
| | | | - Kendall Ho
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, CAN
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