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Thies KC, Bergmans E, Billington A, Fraga GP, Trummer F, Nasr AO, Tilsed J, Kamaras G, Cebula G, Protic A, Khalifa GEA, Vänni V, Alouini S, Uštar KK, Perfetti P, Sari F, Cimpoesu D, Cassar MR, Lott C, Blondeel L, Kooij F, Neutel E, Verdonck P. The European Trauma Course: Transforming systems through training. Resusc Plus 2024; 18:100599. [PMID: 38515443 PMCID: PMC10955415 DOI: 10.1016/j.resplu.2024.100599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The European Trauma Course (ETC) exemplifies an innovative approach to multispecialty trauma education. This initiative was started as a collaborative effort among the European Society for Emergency Medicine, the European Society for Trauma and Emergency Surgery, and the European Society of Anaesthesiology under the auspices of the European Resuscitation Council. With the robust support of these societies, the project has evolved into the independent European Trauma Course Organisation. Over the past 15 years, the ETC has transcended traditional training by integrating team dynamics and non-technical skills into a scenario-based simulation course, helping to shape trauma care practice and education. A distinctive feature of the ETC is its training of doctors and allied healthcare professionals, fostering a collaborative and holistic approach to trauma care. The ETC stands out for its unique team-teaching approach, which has gained widespread recognition as the standard for in-hospital trauma care training not only in Europe but also beyond. Since its inception ETC has expanded geographically from Finland to Sudan and from Brazil to the Emirates, training nearly 20,000 healthcare professionals and shaping trauma care practice and education across 25 countries. Experiencing exponential growth, the ETC continues to evolve, reflecting its unmet demand in trauma team education. This review examines the evolution of the ETC, its innovative team-teaching methodology, national implementation strategies, current status, and future challenges. It highlights its impact on trauma care, team training, and the effect on other life support courses in various countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl-Christian Thies
- EvKB, Dept of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, Bielefeld University Medical Center-Campus Bethel, Bielefeld, Germany
- European Trauma Course Organisation, Niel, Belgium
| | - Elonka Bergmans
- EvKB, Dept of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, Bielefeld University Medical Center-Campus Bethel, Bielefeld, Germany
| | | | - Gustavo P. Fraga
- Dept of Trauma Surgery, Vera Cruz Hospital-Trauma Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | - Ayman O. Nasr
- Trauma Unit, King Fahad University Hospital & College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Khobar, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jonathan Tilsed
- European Trauma Course Organisation, Niel, Belgium
- Hull York Medical School, United Kingdom
- UEMS Division of Emergency Surgery, European Society for Trauma and Emergency Surgery, United Kingdom
| | - Georgie Kamaras
- Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Gregorz Cebula
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, Center for Innovative Medical Education, Kraków, Poland
| | - Alen Protic
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Medicine and Pain Therapy, University Hospital Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Gamal Eldin Abbas Khalifa
- European Trauma Course Organisation, Niel, Belgium
- Emergency and Disaster Medicine, Egyptian Resuscitation Council, Egypt
| | | | | | - Katja Kalan Uštar
- Dept of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, Trbovlje General Hospital, Trbovlje, Slovenia
| | - Paola Perfetti
- Emergency Department at Latisana, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Italy
| | - Ferenc Sari
- European Trauma Course Organisation, Niel, Belgium
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Skellefteå Hospital, Region Västerbotten, Sweden
| | - Diana Cimpoesu
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, Emergency Medicine, II-nd Surgery Department, Hospital “Sf. Spiridon” Iasi, Romania
| | - Mary Rose Cassar
- Emergency Department, Mater Dei Hospital, Malta, University of Malta, Malta
| | - Carsten Lott
- European Trauma Course Organisation, Niel, Belgium
- Klinik für Anästhesiologie, Universitätsmedizin Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Fabian Kooij
- European Trauma Course Organisation, Niel, Belgium
- Anesthesiologie Amsterdam UMC, locatie AMC, Amsterdam Zuidoost, Netherlands
| | - Elizabete Neutel
- European Trauma Course Organisation, Niel, Belgium
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Emergency. Unidade Local de Saúde de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - Philip Verdonck
- Emergency Departement, Antwerp University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Belgium
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Braithwaite Stuart L, Elliott N, Hanmer R, Woodhead A. Meaningful co-production to bring meaningful change: Developing the Allied Health Professionals Dementia Framework for Wales together. Dementia (London) 2024:14713012241236116. [PMID: 38545923 DOI: 10.1177/14713012241236116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
In line with increasing participatory approaches to service and research design, there is a growing appreciation of the need to understand the lived experience of people accessing care and support, including people living with dementia, their carers and supporters. This article describes the process and value of co-production, used alongside principles of appreciative inquiry and evidence-informed practice, as an approach to developing a strategic workforce framework, aimed at increasing access to Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) for people living with dementia and their carers. Engaging in the co-production approach throughout the project lifecycle resulted in positive outcomes as reported by people with lived experience and professionals who were involved, as well as a published national framework that is rooted in the first-hand experiences of people living with dementia, their carers and supporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Braithwaite Stuart
- AHP Clinical Leadership Fellow, Health Education Improvement Wales, UK. Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, UK
| | - Natalie Elliott
- National Consultant AHP Lead for Dementia, Hosted by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, UK
| | - Rebecca Hanmer
- Senior Improvement Manager, Mental Health and Dementia Programme, Improvement Cymru, UK
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Maki D, Tehrany R, Teixeira MJC, Chumak T, Hoerz C. Allied health professionals' experiences and views towards improving musculoskeletal services in the UK for patients with musculoskeletal and co-existing mental health conditions: a qualitative study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:207. [PMID: 38454371 PMCID: PMC10918939 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-06878-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interplay between physical and mental health (MH) is widely recognised amongst patients with Musculoskeletal and co-existing MH conditions. Evidence suggests that psychological interventions improve outcomes and satisfaction in patients with physical conditions, however current healthcare models continue to separate physical and mental health care, as health services are fragmented. If the delivery of MH support could be facilitated by Allied Health Professionals (AHPs), such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists (OTs), this could be an effective, low-cost way to achieve routine integration. This study aimed to explore the experiences of UK physiotherapists and OTs working with patients with MSK and co-existing MH conditions and to understand views on improving MSK services. METHODS This was an exploratory-descriptive qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. Participants were recruited via social media and professional organisations using convenience sampling. Participants included registered UK physiotherapists or OTs within MSK settings who managed patients with MH conditions. Inductive thematic analysis was used, where single and double-level coding, single counting and inclusion of divergent cases were conducted to enhance methodological rigour. RESULTS Three overarching themes were identified. Overarching theme one referred to openness to provide MH support, with scope of practice and lack of confidence as themes. Overarching theme two described challenges, incorporating mental health stigma, the clinical environment, and limited experience. The overarching theme referring to training, identified the need for further training and strategies to implement as themes. CONCLUSION Many challenges to achieving optimal integration of physical and mental health care exist within MSK services. These challenges go beyond the need for additional training and knowledge acquisition and include departmental readiness such as funding, diary management, and supervision by senior colleagues/or psychologists. These need consideration in parallel to match the evolving needs of the MSK population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Maki
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University, London, UK
- Alanzoor Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Complex, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain
| | - Rokhsaneh Tehrany
- Therapies Department, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK.
- Department of Orthopaedic and Musculoskeletal Science, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Maria J C Teixeira
- Nursing Research Department, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
- London South Bank University, London, UK
- Nuffield Health Oxford, The Manor Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Tanya Chumak
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University, London, UK
| | - Christine Hoerz
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University, London, UK
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Barrett F, Sampson A, Campo-Engelstein L, Caplan A, Vadaparampil ST, Quinn GP. Leaving a Legacy: Allied Health Professionals' Perceptions of Fertility Preservation and Posthumous Reproduction for Adolescent and Young Adults with a Poor Cancer Prognosis. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:156-161. [PMID: 37294937 PMCID: PMC10877393 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2022.0184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To explore Allied Health Professionals' (AHPs) experiences with and perceptions of posthumous assisted reproduction (PAR) among adolescent and young adults (AYA, ages 15-39) with a poor cancer prognosis. Methods: We conducted a qualitative analysis of video-based 90-minute focus groups (FGs) of AHPs who participated in the Enriching Communication Skills for Health Professionals in Oncofertility (ECHO) training program from May to August 2021. Moderator-facilitated discussions were guided by topics related to experiences around discussions and utilization of PAR among AYA with a poor cancer prognosis. Thematic analysis was conducted using the constant comparison method. Results: Forty-three AHPs participated in one of seven FGs. Three themes emerged: (1) PAR as palliative care: preserving patient's legacy for their partner, siblings, and parents; (2) ethical and legal considerations for balancing patient's time-sensitive needs; and (3) barriers AHPs encounter navigating complex dynamics of care in this population. Subthemes included an emphasis on patient autonomy, a multidisciplinary approach to counseling, early initiation of fertility discussions continuing over time, documenting reproductive desires, and concerns for family and offspring after patient death. Conclusions: AHPs desired timely conversations on reproductive legacy and family planning. In the absence of institutional policies, training, and resources, AHPs emphasized feeling ill-equipped to navigate the complex dynamics between patients, families, and colleagues. The development of transparent institutional policies, implementation of multidisciplinary care teams, and oversight with ethics committees may improve the provision of reproductive health care and/or end-of-life care for AYA with a poor cancer prognosis and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Barrett
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Amani Sampson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lisa Campo-Engelstein
- Department of Bioethics & Health Humanities, Institute for Bioethics & Health Humanities, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Arthur Caplan
- Division of Medical Ethics, Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Susan T. Vadaparampil
- Division of Population Science, Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Gwendolyn P. Quinn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Pettinger C, Tripathi S, Shoker B, Hodge G. Collaborative leadership to support sustainability in practice for dietitians as allied health professionals. J Hum Nutr Diet 2023; 36:2323-2335. [PMID: 37489277 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.13211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allied health professionals (AHPs) have an important role to support the Greener National Health Service (NHS) agenda. Dietitians are AHPs who are already demonstrating strong influence on food sustainability advocacy. There is call for more collaboration across the health professions to optimise "green" leadership in the pursuit of planetary health. The present study aimed to investigate the perceived role of AHP leaders and future leaders around more sustainable healthcare practices. METHODS A mixed methods approach using audio-recorded semi-structured interviews with strategic AHP leaders (n = 11) and focus groups with student AHPs (n = 2). Standardised open-ended questions considered concepts of (i) leadership, (ii) green agenda, (iii) collaboration and (iv) sustainability. Purposive sampling used already established AHP networks. Thematic analysis systematically generated codes and themes with dietetic narratives drawn out specifically as exemplars. RESULTS The findings represent diverse AHP voices, with six of 14 AHPs analysed, including dietetic (future) leaders. Three key themes emerged: (1) collective vision of sustainable practice; (2) empowering, enabling and embedding; and (3) embracing collaborative change. Dietetic specific narratives included food waste, NHS food supply chain issues, and tensions between health and sustainability advice. CONCLUSIONS The present study shows that collaborative leadership is a core aspiration across AHP leaders and future leaders to inform the green agenda. Despite inherent challenges, participant perceptions illustrate how "change leadership" might be realised to support the net zero agenda within health and social care. Dietitians possess the relevant skills and competencies, and therefore have a fundamental role in evolving collaborative leadership and directing transformational change towards greener healthcare practices. Recommendations are made for future leaders to embrace this agenda to meet the ambitious net zero targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Pettinger
- School of Health Professions, Peninsula Allied Health Centre (PAHC), Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Smita Tripathi
- Plymouth Business School, Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Benji Shoker
- Plymouth Business School, Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Gary Hodge
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
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Leone E, Eddison N, Healy A, Royse C, Chockalingam N. Do UK Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) have sufficient guidelines and training to provide telehealth patient consultations? Hum Resour Health 2022; 20:82. [PMID: 36471340 PMCID: PMC9721053 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-022-00778-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic caused a rapid shift to remote consultations. United Kingdom (UK) NHS Allied Health Professional (AHP) services may have been unprepared for telehealth implementation. This study explored these services' organisational readiness regarding telehealth guidelines implementation and staff training. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey exploring available telehealth guidelines and staff training was distributed among UK AHPs and AHP service managers between May and June 2021. RESULTS 658 participants answered the survey (119 managers and 539 clinicians). Most services, in which telehealth was in place, had implemented telehealth guidelines (clinicians, 64%; managers, 82%), with most guidelines produced by the NHS staff who use them for their consultations. Most clinicians reported that guidelines had ambiguous areas (e.g., regarding protection from litigation and dealing with emergencies), whereas most managers reported the opposite opinion. Guidelines most frequently reported on appropriate telehealth technology and environment for staff and patients, while recommended consultation length and how to conduct telehealth with certain population groups were least reported. Clinicians lacked training in most telehealth aspects, while managers reported that staff training focused on telehealth software and hardware. For both clinicians and managers, training is needed on how to deal with emergencies during telehealth. CONCLUSIONS UK NHS AHP services are not fully equipped with clear and comprehensive guidelines and the skills to deliver telehealth. Vulnerable people are excluded from current guidelines, which may widen health inequalities and hinder the success of the NHS digital transformation. The absence of national guidelines highlights the need for uniform AHP telehealth guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enza Leone
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, Staffordshire University, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2DF, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Eddison
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, Staffordshire University, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2DF, United Kingdom
- Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, Wolverhampton, WV10 0QP, United Kingdom
| | - Aoife Healy
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, Staffordshire University, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2DF, United Kingdom
| | - Carolyn Royse
- Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 2JY, United Kingdom
| | - Nachiappan Chockalingam
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, Staffordshire University, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2DF, United Kingdom.
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Griffiths A, Brooks R, Haythorne R, Kelly G, Matu J, Brown T, Ahmed K, Hindle L, Ells L. The impact of Allied Health Professionals on the primary and secondary prevention of obesity in young children: A scoping review. Clin Obes 2022; 13:e12571. [PMID: 36451267 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) have the capacity to promote healthy behaviours in young children through routine 'contact points', as well as structured weight management programmes. This scoping review aims to evaluate the impact of AHPs in the prevention of obesity in young children. Databases were searched for relevant evidence between 1st January 2000 and 17th January 2022. Eligibility criteria included primary evidence (including, but not limited to; randomized controlled trials, observational studies, service evaluations) evaluating the impact of AHPs on the primary and secondary prevention of obesity in young children (mean age under 5 years old). AHP-related interventions typically demonstrated improvements in outcomes such as nutritional behaviour (e.g. lower sweetened drink intake), with some reductions in screen time. However, changes in weight outcomes (e.g. body mass index (BMI) z-score, BMI) in response to an AHP intervention were inconsistent. There was insufficient data to determine moderating effects, however tentative evidence suggests that those with a lower socioeconomic status or living in an underprivileged area may be more likely to lose weight following an AHP intervention. There was no evidence identified evaluating how AHPs use routine 'contact points' in the prevention of obesity in young children. AHP interventions could be effective in optimizing weight and nutritional outcomes in young children. However, more research is required to determine how routine AHP contact points, across the range of professional groups may be used in the prevention of obesity in young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Griffiths
- Obesity Institute, School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Rob Brooks
- School of Health Studies, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - Rebecca Haythorne
- Obesity Institute, School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Gill Kelly
- Obesity Institute, School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Jamie Matu
- Obesity Institute, School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Tamara Brown
- Obesity Institute, School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Kanar Ahmed
- Department of Health and Social Care, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, England, UK
| | - Linda Hindle
- Department of Health and Social Care, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, England, UK
| | - Louisa Ells
- Obesity Institute, School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
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Eddison N, Leone E, Healy A, Royse C, Chockalingam N. The potential impact of allied health professional telehealth consultations on health inequities and the burden of treatment. Int J Equity Health 2022; 21:91. [PMID: 35773695 PMCID: PMC9245876 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-022-01689-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a rapid shift to remote consultations. The study aimed to explore the prevalence of telehealth consultations amongst allied health professional (AHP) services in the UK National Health Service (NHS), and the potential impact on health inequities and burden of treatment for patients. METHODS Cross-sectional online survey. Participants were practising UK registered AHP and/or AHP service manager in an NHS/social care/local authority service. Data was collected between May - June 2021. RESULTS 658 participants took part in this study, including 119 AHP service managers, managing a total of 168 AHP services, and 539 clinicians. 87.4% of clinicians and 89.4% of services represented were using telehealth consultations as a method of delivering healthcare, the majority reported their services were planning to continue using telehealth post COVID-19 restrictions. Participants reported a lack of technological skills for patients as the most prevalent barrier affecting the patient's ability to conduct a telehealth consultation, followed by a lack of technology for patients. These were also reported as the biggest disadvantages of telehealth for patients. The majority of clinicians reported a reduction in the cost of parking/transport to attend hospital appointments as a patient benefit of telehealth consultations. Reported benefits for clinicians included saving travel time/costs and allowing flexible working, while benefits to the AHP service included patient flexibility in how their appointments are conducted and reducing the potential exposure of staff to communicable diseases. CONCLUSIONS The current large-scale implementation of telehealth in NHS AHP services may increase disparities in health care access for vulnerable populations with limited digital literacy or access. Consequently, there is a danger that telehealth will be considered inappropriate and thus, underutilised, negating the potential benefits of sustainability, patient empowerment and the reduction in the burden of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Eddison
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, Staffordshire University, Technologies Leek Road, ST4 2DF, Stoke on Trent, UK. .,Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, WV10 0QP, Wolverhampton, UK.
| | - Enza Leone
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, Staffordshire University, Technologies Leek Road, ST4 2DF, Stoke on Trent, UK
| | - Aoife Healy
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, Staffordshire University, Technologies Leek Road, ST4 2DF, Stoke on Trent, UK
| | - Carolyn Royse
- Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, DT1 2JY, Dorchester, Dorset, UK
| | - Nachiappan Chockalingam
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, Staffordshire University, Technologies Leek Road, ST4 2DF, Stoke on Trent, UK
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Deane JA, Clunie G. Healthcare professionals in research (HPiR) Facebook community: a survey of U.K. doctoral and postdoctoral healthcare professionals outside of medicine. BMC Med Educ 2021; 21:236. [PMID: 33892707 PMCID: PMC8067642 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-021-02672-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare professionals outside of medicine (HCPs), including nurses, midwives and allied health professionals, are increasingly involved in research for patient benefit. Their challenge is to negotiate inter-professional or professionally isolated contexts. The aims of this study were to evaluate the 'Healthcare Professionals in Research' (HPiR) Facebook group (a self-directed and confidential peer support group for doctoral and postdoctoral HCPs) including engagement, the experiences of doctoral and postdoctoral HPiR members and to identify future career challenges using an on-line survey. METHODS The HPiR Facebook group was launched in May 2019. Five HCP Community managers (CMs) were trained in on-line platform curation, moderation and screening. An on-line survey was designed to capture data from HPiR members. A purposive sampling approach was applied. Respondents were required to be doctoral and postdoctoral HCPs and a registered member of the HPiR group. Respondents represented a range of healthcare professions, 79 % of whom had over ten years clinical experience. Membership growth and engagement was analysed. Descriptive statistics were used to present numerical data. Qualitative data were analysed thematically. RESULTS 96 members were admitted to the group within the first month. All members were actively engaged with group content. 34/96 doctoral and postdoctoral HCPs completed the survey. Most members joined for networking (88 %) and peer support (82 %) purposes. Analysis of text responses showed difficulties in balancing a clinical academic career and highlighted the consequences of undefined clinical academic roles and pathways. CONCLUSIONS Doctoral and postdoctoral HCPs value the opportunities that HPiR provides for peer support and connection with fellow HCPs. HPiR has the potential to strengthen research capacity, support research skill development and drive change within the clinical academic community. Clinical academic roles and pathways need to be standardised. The creation of opportunities beyond doctoral studies is a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Deane
- Sackler MSK LAB, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, M13 9PL, Manchester, UK.
| | - G Clunie
- Sackler MSK LAB, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
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Marler H, Ditton A. "I'm smiling back at you": Exploring the impact of mask wearing on communication in healthcare. Int J Lang Commun Disord 2021; 56:205-214. [PMID: 33038046 PMCID: PMC7675237 DOI: 10.1111/1460-6984.12578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgical and respirator masks are worn to reduce the risk of droplet and airborne transmission of viral respiratory disease. As a result of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, mask wearing has been designated mandatory for healthcare professionals working in UK hospitals for the foreseeable future. It is thus timely to consider the long-term implications of mask wearing on communication within healthcare settings, from both a patient and a clinician perspective. AIMS The primary objective is to identify research evidence that corresponds to the mask-wearing experiences of healthcare professionals working on the ground. By drawing together a summary of the literature illustrating the potential challenges associated with mask wearing, it is possible to make an application to various clinical cohorts and to formulate a set of preliminary, evidence-based support strategies. The paper additionally explores the role for the Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) in supporting communication in the context of mask wearing. METHODS & PROCEDURES Through a scoping review of the relevant literature, this paper reflects holistically on the prospective challenges associated with mask wearing across a variety of healthcare settings and patient populations. The subsequent conclusions have been used to inform the proposed clinical guidelines for safe and effective practice. OUTCOMES & RESULTS There is a current research gap with regards to mask wearing in non-medical and non-clinical healthcare workers, and the impact this may have on both a professional and a personal basis. In the absence of preliminary data, the development of associated communication support strategies is hindered. This paper draws upon a variety of clinically conceivable issues faced by healthcare professionals, outlines important practical and ethical considerations, and proposes evidence-based solutions to some of the challenges identified. Future research is required to gather evidence with regards to actual clinical experiences of mask wearing to substantiate hypotheses. CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS Although undoubtedly essential in protecting the health of staff and patients, there are numerous logistical, physiological, psychological, social and economic complications associated with the wearing of masks. The ability of healthcare staff to successfully communicate with patients and with colleagues is jeopardized, which may adversely affect the efficiency, effectiveness, equitability and, most notably, safety of therapeutic intervention. The SLT has a distinct role in facilitating communication in order to safeguard the provision, accessibility and efficacy of services. What this paper adds What is already known on the subject Existing research explores the impact of mask wearing on medical doctors, surgeons and dentists, and upon the corresponding patient cohorts. Little is known about how mask wearing may affect Allied Health Professionals and their ability to deliver therapeutic interventions safely and effectively. With mandatory face covering potentially a long-term requirement for UK healthcare staff, it is both timely and relevant to consider the consequences of mask wearing on communication across acute and community settings. What this paper adds to existing knowledge This paper identifies a range of prospective key issues associated with mask wearing across a variety of clinical and non-clinical populations, with application specifically to vulnerable patient cohorts. Through evidence synthesis, this paper provides a summary of fundamental issues supported by relevant literature, and draws upon these in order to propose a preliminary set of evidence-based clinical guidelines setting out potential solutions to the challenges faced. This review additionally assists in quantifying the role of the SLT within these extraordinary circumstances, with the aim of prompting unified practice, building upon professional guidance and increasing skill recognition. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? In addition to their role in facilitating the development of individualised communication strategies for patients, SLTs should actively seek to provide widely accessible multidisciplinary education opportunities focusing on supporting communication; with specific reference to mask wearing and the associated communicative challenges. At a commissioning and managerial level, leaders within healthcare should acknowledge mask wearing as just one of the complexities associated with frontline working in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and aim to support their workforce by delivering resources and protocols which maximize and promote staff safety, efficiency, resilience and well-being in concurrence with positive patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annabel Ditton
- Colman Centre for Specialist Rehabilitation ServicesNorwichUK
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Davis SF, Enderby P, Harrop D, Hindle L. Mapping the contribution of Allied Health Professions to the wider public health workforce: a rapid review of evidence-based interventions. J Public Health (Oxf) 2018; 39:177-183. [PMID: 26989160 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdw023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The objective was to identify a selection of the best examples of the public health contributions by Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) in order to encourage a wider awareness and participation from that workforce to public health practice. Study design A mapping exercise was used to identify evidence-based interventions that could lead to health improvements across a population. Methods A rapid review was undertaken to identify evidence, followed by a survey of Allied Health Profession (AHP) practitioners and an expert panel consensus method to select the examples of AHP public health interventions. Results Nine evidence-based interventions are identified and selected as examples of current AHP good practice. These examples represent a contribution to public health and include screening interventions, secondary prevention and risk management. Conclusions This study contributes to a strategy for AHPs in public health by appraising the effectiveness and impact of some exemplar AHP practices that contribute to health improvement. There is a need for AHPs to measure the impact of their interventions and to demonstrate evidence of outcomes at population level.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fowler Davis
- Centre for Health and Social Care Research, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - P Enderby
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - D Harrop
- Centre for Health and Social Care Research, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
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