8,653 results on '"E-Health"'
Search Results
2. Patients’ views on physicians’ communication skills in telemedicine: Validation of Communication Assessment Tool among Bangladeshi sample.
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Islam, Mohammad Aminul, Hasan, Tanvir, Mostari, Shabnam, and Joarder, Taufique
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BackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionTechnological advancement has added new dimensions to the communication between physicians and their patients in healthcare settings worldwide. This study aimed to measure patients’ views about physicians’ interpersonal communication during telemedicine consultations by cultural adaptation and validation of the communication assessment tool (CAT) in Bangladesh.A cross-sectional phone survey was conducted among 400 patients who received healthcare services from a telemedicine centre in Bangladesh. Both exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were performed to test the dimensionality of the CAT-Bangla scale. The goodness of fit of the CFA was assessed using the comparative fit index (CFI), Tucker–Lewis index (TLI), Chi-square values, root-mean-square error of approximation (RMSEA) and standardized root mean squared residual (SRMR). The internal consistency reliability of the CAT-Bangla scale was assessed using Cronbach's alpha.Factor analysis findings suggest that the CAT-Bangla scale is unidimensional with good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.876). The individual item analysis findings suggest that most of the patients felt that the physicians treated them with respect (81% rated ‘excellent’) and allowed them to talk without interruption (73.5% rated ‘excellent’). Overall, the level of satisfaction among patients regarding physicians’ communication skills was high with a mean score of 4.36 (SD = 0.30) across all the 14 items. However, the patients were not satisfied with the amount of time that physicians spent with them as none of them reported ‘excellent’ in that domain.The CAT-Bangla scale is feasible, valid, and internally consistent for measuring physicians’ communication skills in the telemedicine environment. This study can contribute to policymakers regarding the integration of learning communication skills of future physicians to competently deliver healthcare in the telemedicine environment. It would also help to understand various aspects of doctor-patient communication in a telemedicine context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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3. Health literacy in parents of children with Hirschsprung disease: a novel study.
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Olsbø, Signe, Kiserud, Sara George, Hermansen, Åsmund, Hamilton Larsen, Marie, and Bjørnland, Kristin
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Purpose: To explore health literacy (HL) among parents of children with Hirschsprung disease (HD). Methods: Norwegian-speaking parents of children under 16 who underwent HD surgery at a tertiary center were surveyed using the Health Literacy Questionnaire-Parent, electronic Health Literacy Scale, General Self-efficacy Scale, and a study-specific questionnaire. Demographics were collected and ethical approval was obtained. Results: Among 132 parents (77 mothers) of 91 children (median age 8 years), high HL scores appeared in the domains "understanding health information" and "active engagement", with lower scores in "provider support", "health information appraisal", and "social support". Higher HL correlated with parents aged over 40 and higher education. Lower scores were seen with non-exclusive Norwegian use at home and not living with the child's other parent. High electronic HL scores were common (mean 3.6, maximum score 5). 69% had high self-efficacy scores (score > 2, maximum score 4). Self-efficacy correlated strongly with higher HL scores. Conclusion: Parents of children with HD feel healthcare providers lack understanding of their child's challenges, experience limited social support and struggle with interpreting health information. We suggest targeted HL interventions for young, lower-educated, non-cohabitating parents and those not primarily speaking the official language at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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4. Transactional e-health literacy and its association with e-health services use in Polish adults: a cross-sectional study.
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Smoła, Paulina, Zwierczyk, Urszula, and Duplaga, Mariusz
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Introduction: The transactional model of e-health literacy addresses not only the skills needed for handling online health-related information but also the capacity to communicate regarding health issues on the Internet. It also emphasizes a critical component of e-health literacy: enabling appraisal and selection of information adequate to individual needs. Our study aimed to culturally adapt the instrument assessingTransactional e-Health Literacy (TeHL) and examine the association between TeHL and the use of e-health services by Polish adult Internet users. Methods: The analysis was conducted on data from an online survey among 1,661 respondents. After cultural adaptation and piloting of the Polish version of the instrument measuring TeHL, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed on two samples obtained by random splitting of the original data set. The roles of TeHL categories in the use of several types of e-health services were assessed with multivariable logistic regression models. Results: We have found that the four-factor model of the Polish version of the TeHL instrument, consisting of 17 items, obtained after excluding item 13, shows the best fit to the measurement data (NFI = 0.950, RFI 0.938, TLI = 0.951, CFI = 0.960, GFI = 0.932, RMSEA = 0.066). Regression modeling revealed that Functional e-health literacy is a significant positive predictor of the use of remote physician advice, the Internet Patient Account Portal, portals providing general health-related information, and websites allowing for checking laboratory test results. Communicative eHL was significantly negatively related to the use of general health-related information portals and positively related to the use of portals offering paid medical advice. Critical e-health literacy was a significant negative predictor of the use of remote physician advice and the laboratory test results websites but a positive predictor of using portals offering paid medical advice and websites offering easy access to e-prescriptions. Finally, Translational e-health literacy was significantly positively associated with the use of the Internet Patient Account Portal, general health-related information portals, and laboratory test results websites. Discussion: Polish version of the instrument assessing TeHL is a tool of confirmed validity that can be used for e-health research in Poland. The relationships between four types of TeHL and the use of concrete e-health solutions show a complex pattern requiring further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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5. Reaching for connection: a qualitative study of communication and interaction in video-based physiotherapy.
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Lange, Elvira and Danielsson, Louise
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WORK , *PHYSICAL therapy , *DIGITAL technology , *QUALITATIVE research , *RESEARCH funding , *INTERVIEWING , *PRIMARY health care , *TELEREHABILITATION , *JUDGMENT sampling , *THEMATIC analysis , *COMMUNICATION , *RESEARCH methodology , *PATIENT-professional relations , *THERAPEUTIC alliance , *PHENOMENOLOGY , *PATIENTS' attitudes , *PSYCHOSOCIAL factors , *PHYSICAL therapists , *EXPERIENTIAL learning - Abstract
Objective: Digital technology has become increasingly relevant in physiotherapy, but little is known about communication and interaction in video-based physiotherapy. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the experiences among patients and physiotherapists, of communication and interaction in digital, video-based physiotherapy. Methods: A qualitative interview study with a phenomenological approach was conducted. Participants were purposively recruited from primary health care clinics. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 physiotherapists and 6 patients. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a phenomenological approach. Results: The analysis resulted in the overall theme Reaching for connection, which captured the central meaning of the participants' experiences. Four categories emerged from the analysis: 1) Closeness at a distance; 2) Overcoming limited bodily communication; 3) The technology as part of the meeting; and 4) Challenging the physical meeting as a norm. The results suggest that communication and interaction in digital settings differ from physical settings, but there is an ongoing adaptation process to this new paradigm. Conclusions: The results of this study show that video-based physiotherapy, while having several benefits according to both patients and physiotherapists, affects the communication in several ways. Physiotherapists need to acknowledge these limitations and seek strategies to adapt and to compensate for the reduced non-verbal elements and lack of touch. Attention to the physical room and shifting between positions (face/full figure) are suggested practical strategies, but also to practice awareness and embodied communication to improve receptivity in the interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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6. Care trajectories for patients utilizing electronic visits for COVID-like symptoms in a large healthcare delivery system: May 2020–December 2021.
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Groom, Holly C, Crawford, Phil, Azziz-Baumgartner, Eduardo, Henninger, Michelle L, Smith, Ning, Salas, Bianca, Donald, Judy, and Naleway, Allison L
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MEDICAL care , *COVID-19 , *ELECTRONIC health records , *DIGITAL health , *OUTPATIENT medical care - Abstract
Background: There is limited information about how on-line screening tools developed by integrated systems facilitated management of COVID-like illness patients. Methods: Using the Kaiser Permanente Northwest (KPNW) Electronic Health Record, we identified adult plan members who accessed online COVID-19 screening e-visits and enumerated their subsequent medical encounters, tests for SARS-CoV-2, and test outcomes. Results: Between May 2020 and December 2021, members completed 55,139 e-visits, with disproportionate representation among females (65% vs. 53% in the overall membership) and members aged <45 years (61% vs. 39%). Thirty percent of patients (16,953) were managed entirely through e-visits and 70% received subsequent in-person care. The percent of SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals was highest among the 1055 individuals triaged to inpatient care (17.9%), compared to 9.5% among those escalated to additional ambulatory care. Conclusions: The e-visit on-line screening tool helped KPNW assist thousands of patients with COVID-19 symptoms, avoid unnecessary in-person patient encounters, and preserved KPNW infection control and pandemic surge capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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7. Development of a low-cost IoT-based e-health monitoring system for diabetic patients.
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Okubanjo, Ayodeji Akinsoji, Alexander, Okandeji, Olumide, Odeyinka, Benjamin, Akinloye, and Oluwatoyin, Oluyemi
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SUSTAINABLE communities ,HEALTH self-care ,DIABETES complications ,HEALTH services accessibility ,PEOPLE with diabetes - Abstract
The global need for diabetic patient self-care is increasing. The current global epidemiology of diabetes calls for an improved healthcare management system, particularly in poorer countries, to minimize the burden of diabetes complications and mortality. The main objective of this study seeks to increase diabetic patients' access to healthcare by utilizing internet of things-based smart self-care high-tech devices. The proposed model was integrated with a Blynk software and hosted in NodeMCU, allowing user to access diabetic health metric from the smartphones or interconnected devices. The e-monitoring system has an inbuilt feedback mechanism that provides online access to healthcare provider for immediate insulin therapy. Furthermore, patients suffering from acute diabetic metabolic issues may have difficulty visiting the hospital. Therefore, they can use the proposed model to track and monitor their blood glucose levels, as well as communicate remotely with their doctor, so improving their health while saving money and time. Also, diabetic patients can use this system to record their health condition on their phone, decreasing the need for doctor visits and clinical medical procedure. The proposed system has several advantages, including speedy internet access and remote monitoring from anywhere in the world. This research also helps to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, which include good health and well-being, equitable healthcare access, and sustainable cities and communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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8. Videocall delivered psychological interventions for treating depressive symptoms in primary care – a systematic review.
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Sanftenberg, Linda, Bentrop, Max, Jung-Sievers, Caroline, Dreischulte, Tobias, and Gensichen, Jochen
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MENTAL health services , *PSYCHOTHERAPY , *PRIMARY care , *RANDOMIZED controlled trials , *MEDICAL care - Abstract
AbstractBackgroundAimsMethodsResultsConclusionDepression is a very common disorder and comorbidity. Primary care providers are the first medical contacts to diagnose and treat depression. Video calls are emerging communication tools to deliver psychological interventions.To examine the effectiveness of videocall delivered psychological interventions to treat depressive symptoms in adult patients in primary care, as well as a systematic assessment of implementation factors.We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed Central, Embase, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library and the WHO COVID-19 database and included randomized controlled trials only. Two authors screened the studies and assessed the risk of bias independently (Cochrane RoB tool). We followed the PRISMA guidelines. The study protocol was published in PROSPERO (CRD42022295238). The results were synthesized narratively.Of 6.971 identified studies, we included six publications. Studies powered to detect clinically significant changes in primary outcomes, identified video calls to be effective for delivering complex psychological interventions in an integrated primary care setting.Further research is needed to consolidate the findings on a larger scale and evaluate the effectiveness in comparison with alternatives such as telephone-delivered care. Results are promising and indicate the need for replication in larger studies as well as different health care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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9. Effects of Nurse‐Led e‐Health Interventions on the Health‐Related Outcomes of Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review.
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Han, Yujie, Tian, Qi, Xu, Mengmeng, Zhao, Wei, Wang, Ziqi, and Zhang, Wei
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PREGNANT women , *WEIGHT gain , *QUALITY of life , *MENTAL depression , *CINAHL database - Abstract
ABSTRACT Background Objective Design Data Sources Methods Results Conclusions Relevance to Clinical Practice No Patient or Public Contribution Registration Number Pregnancy is a special time for women that involves substantial emotional, physical, social, and family changes, which can lead to physical and psychological harm. The rapid development of e‐health has provided a favourable platform for managing health‐related outcomes in pregnant women, and nurses are the professional group that is most likely to provide e‐health services. Nurse‐led e‐health interventions have attracted increasing attention, but their effects are uncertain.To identify the effectiveness of nurse‐led e‐health interventions in improving health‐related outcomes in pregnant women.A systematic review.The PubMed, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL, ProQuest, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception to March 2023.Two reviewers independently assessed study eligibility and extracted data. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used for quality assessment. The findings of this review are presented using a narrative synthesis.This review included 14 studies involving 2016 participants. Three out of five studies reported that nurse‐led e‐health interventions significantly reduced depressive symptoms. Four studies reported significant improvements in stress and self‐efficacy after the intervention. Two studies reported significant improvements in anxiety symptoms, self‐management ability, and quality of life after the intervention. One study showed that weight gain and physical activity significantly improved after the intervention. Due to the heterogeneity in the included studies, no meta‐analysis was conducted.Nurse‐led e‐health interventions may be beneficial for improving anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, stress, self‐efficacy, weight gain, self‐management ability, physical activity, and quality of life in pregnant women.Nurse‐led e‐health interventions could provide individualised, economic, interactive, and convenient nursing modes for pregnant women. Rigorous and high‐quality evidence confirming the long‐term effects of these interventions on pregnant women is necessary.The patients had no direct involvement in the present study.PROSPERO registration ID: CRD42023401973 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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10. From face-to-face to screen-to-screen: exploring the multifaceted dimensions of digital mental health care.
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Maqsood, Aneela, Gul, Seema, Zahra, Touseef, Noureen, Nazia, and Khattak, Amira
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HEALTH services accessibility ,MENTAL health services ,EVIDENCE gaps ,PATIENT-professional relations ,MEDICAL technology - Abstract
Background: With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world witnessed an unprecedented surge in the adoption of digital platforms across various sectors, including mental health care. In countries such as Pakistan, where traditional face-to-face therapy practices hold social and cultural significance, transitioning to digital therapeutic methods presents a range of unique opportunities and challenges. Objectives: This research aimed to explore the dynamics, implications, and perceptions surrounding digital therapeutic care within the Pakistani sociocultural context. Given the paucity of literature on this subject in the Pakistani context, this study aims to bridge the evidence gap between trends in digital therapy and localized practices. The main goal was to understand the benefits, issues, and challenges therapists and clients face when adopting digital modes for therapeutic care. Method: For this study, primary data was gathered from counsellors and therapists using a qualitative in-depth interview guide. Using a thematic analysis approach, key themes were derived from the interviews that provided insights into the experiences and perceptions of the participants. Results: The study revealed that digital platforms have great potential in breaking down geographical barriers making therapeutic interventions more accessible to a wider demographic. This increased accessibility also brought about a level of comfort for clients as they could access therapy from their familiar surroundings. Among the challenges that needed attention, security and confidentiality stood out, requiring strict measures to safeguard client's data. The shift also brought to light the diverse range of feedback from clients, which was influenced by factors like age and technological proficiency. Moreover, the digital transition posed challenges for both therapists and clients, with many facing an adjustment period as they transitioned from face-to-face to online sessions. One significant challenge was the perceived difficulty in fostering a deep interpersonal connection in a virtual environment. This was further compounded by the need for therapists to modify traditional therapeutic techniques to fit the online mode. Conclusion and implications: The study underscores the evolving nature of digital therapy in Pakistan, setting a foundation for further exploration in aligning technology with therapeutic needs, ensuring optimal benefits for clients while preserving the sanctity and efficacy of the therapeutic relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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11. Prevalence and characteristics of smokers interested in using virtual reality for encouraging smoking cessation: a representative population survey in Great Britain.
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Okpako, Tosan, Kale, Dimitra, Perski, Olga, and Brown, Jamie
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SMOKING cessation , *CIGARETTE smokers , *VIRTUAL reality , *SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC factors - Abstract
Background: Cigarette smoking is one of the leading causes of morbidity in the world. Virtual reality (VR) has been used to encourage and support quit attempts. However, interest in VR may differ according to sociodemographic characteristics. This study aimed to estimate the proportion and associated characteristics of smokers in Great Britain who were interested in using VR for smoking cessation. Methods: Data were collected from 6,858 adults between February to April 2023, from the Smoking Toolkit Study—a monthly, nationally representative, cross-sectional survey of adults in Great Britain. Of these, 873 were smokers (unweighted). Prevalence of interest was assessed descriptively and associations between interest and sociodemographic and smoking characteristics were analysed with weighted logistic regression models. Results: Of 905 (weighted) smokers, 34.6% (95% Confidence Interval (CI):31.0%-38.5%) were interested in using VR for smoking cessation. Smokers had greater odds of reporting interest in VR for smoking cessation who were: highly motivated to quit (Odds Ratio (OR):2.41, 95% CI:1.59–3.65), had made a quit attempt in the past year (OR:1.95, 95% CI:1.37–2.77), currently trying to cut down (OR:1.90, 95% CI:1.34–2.67) and interested in VR generally (OR:10.42, 95% CI:6.97–15.57). Those ≥ 65 years old (OR:0.29, 95% CI:0.15–0.57) and women (OR:0.69, 95% CI:0.49–0.97) were less likely to report interest. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that up to a third of adult smokers may be interested in using VR to support a quit attempt. However, the potential reach of a VR smoking cessation intervention may be lower in certain subgroups such as women, adults 65 years or older, and adults less motivated to quit. From a health equity perspective, it is recommended that non-digital but effective interventions should be made readily available for adults at risk of digital exclusion due to lack of interest. However, as VR grows in popularity and its technological potential becomes fully realised, future research could also focus on strategies to reduce digital exclusion and increase interest. For example, by involving these subgroups in co-design activities and using novel dissemination strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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12. Ethical considerations related to virtual visiting for families and critically ill patients in intensive care: a qualitative descriptive study.
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Clarke, Kirsty, Borges, Karen, Hatab, Sultan, Richardson, Lauren, Taylor, Jessica, Evans, Robyn, Chung, Bethany, Cleverdon, Harriet, Xyrichis, Andreas, Cook, Amelia, Meyer, Joel, and Rose, Louise
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MEDICAL care ,INTENSIVE care units ,COVID-19 pandemic ,MEDICAL personnel ,CONVENIENCE sampling (Statistics) - Abstract
Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual visiting technologies were rapidly integrated into the care offered by intensive care units (ICUs) in the UK and across the globe. Today, these technologies offer a necessary adjunct to in-person visits for those with ICU access limited by geography, work/caregiving commitments, or frailty. However, few empirical studies explore the ethical issues associated with virtual visiting. This study aimed to explore the anticipated or unanticipated ethical issues raised by using virtual visiting in the ICU, such that healthcare professionals can be informed about how to carry out virtual visits ethically, safely and productively. Methods: We used a descriptive exploratory qualitative research approach recruiting a convenience sample of newly-graduated junior doctors facilitating ICU virtual visits in a tertiary academic centre. Eight newly graduated junior doctors, seven female and one male, aged 23–27, participated in semi-structured interviews. We analysed transcripts using an inductive coding approach. Results: Five overarching themes emerged. Two of the themes namely, 'fulfilling a moral instinct to connect families' and 'promoting autonomy', arose from participants' descriptions of how virtual visits aligned with healthcare standards and practices they considered ethical. Three further themes, 'preserving dignity and privacy', 'managing emotional distress', and 'providing equitable access' to virtual visiting technologies, highlight how virtual visits might exacerbate ethical issues related to family communications. Conclusion: Virtual visiting may potentially both ameliorate and exacerbate aspects of ethical healthcare delivery for ICU patients and family members. ICU team members should consider unique ethical considerations related to using virtual visiting. We recommend virtual communications skills training for staff and advocate for the use of easily accessible educational resources for families who wish to visit critically unwell patients remotely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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13. Practical Experience with the Use of Electronic Headache Diaries and Video Consultations in Migraine Care from a Longitudinal Cohort Study.
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van der Arend, Britt W. H., Holwerda, Linde J., Verhagen, Iris E., van Casteren, Daphne S., Timmers, Thomas, and Terwindt, Gisela M.
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MEDICAL personnel , *MIGRAINE , *PATIENT satisfaction , *PATIENT compliance , *SATISFACTION - Abstract
Background: Telemedicine offers a promising solution to enhance the delivery and personalization of headache care. Integrating electronic (e-)tools enables the objective monitoring of migraine. Objectives: This study aims to demonstrate the relevance of e-tools for personalized headache care, assess patient and caregiver compliance and satisfaction, and present their use in enhancing care. Methods: Firstly, a systematic review was performed to validate the diagnostic accuracy of e-diaries for diagnosing migraine. Secondly, we collected e-diary data prospectively from diagnosed adult migraine patients at the Leiden Headache Center. Finally, questionnaires were sent to evaluate satisfaction of patients and health care providers with the Leiden e-headache diary and video consultations. Results: In the systematic review, the Leiden Headache Center's e-diary was the only validated tool. Patients (n = 1,009) were followed for a median of 181 days (interquartile range [IQR] 84–240). Compliance was 96.4% (IQR 85.2 − 99.1%), with 10.8% of days missing. Factors positively associated with compliance were older age (p < 0.001), female sex (p < 0.001), higher e-diary grade (p < 0.001), and clinical use (p = 0.04). The e-diary received a median score of 8/10 and was well-liked by patients (n = 535) and providers (n = 23). Video consultations were a good alternative for physical visits according to 76.9% of patients and 84.6% of providers. Conclusion: Validated e-headache diaries and video consultations in telemedicine enhance headache care accessibility, providing convenient care at preferred times and locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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14. The usability of a digital diary from the perspectives of intensive care patients' relatives: A pilot study.
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van Mol, Margo M. C., Tummers, Nanda, Leerentveld, Crista, Tieben, Rob, and Buise, Marc
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WORLD Wide Web , *CROSS-sectional method , *PEARSON correlation (Statistics) , *CRITICALLY ill , *PATIENTS , *DIFFUSION of innovations , *RESEARCH funding , *DATA analysis , *PILOT projects , *STATISTICAL sampling , *QUESTIONNAIRES , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics , *FAMILY attitudes , *SURVEYS , *TELEMEDICINE , *PATIENT-centered care , *DIARY (Literary form) , *INTENSIVE care units , *RESEARCH methodology , *RESEARCH , *STATISTICS , *EXTENDED families , *APPLICATION software , *USER-centered system design , *DATA analysis software , *EVIDENCE-based medicine , *PSYCHOSOCIAL factors , *REGRESSION analysis - Abstract
Background: Diaries have been used regularly in international settings as an evidence‐based and easily applicable intervention following a person‐centred approach in the intensive care unit (ICU). In addition, a diary web application known as 'Post‐ICU' has been implemented. Aim: To explore the usability of an innovative digital diary from the perspectives of intensive care patients' relatives. Study Design: A cross‐sectional online survey study was applied among a convenience sample of relatives in the ICUs of two hospitals in the Netherlands. The investigator‐developed questionnaire included, among other things, items with the appreciation of the layout, user friendliness and functionality of the diary. Relevance and applicability were rated between 1 and 10. Data were analysed with SPSS© software, version 27, and reported as the means (±standard deviation [SD]) and percentages. Results: Sixty‐three relatives with an average age of 51 years (SD ± 14.3) participated in the study; there was a slight predominance of women (57%). All but one participant found using the digital diary easy and were able to upload photos to the diary. The participants had invited other relatives (75%) and nurses (61%) to write in the diary, which they viewed as easily feasible (89%). The relevance and applicability of the diary were rated with mean scores of 8.1 (SD ± 1.9) and 8.3 (SD ± 1.6), respectively. Conclusions: The participants found the Post‐ICU diary web application highly valuable and easily feasible. Perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness and technophobia were not found to influence the usability of the digital diary. Relevance to Clinical Practice: The implementation of this new digital tool supports a person‐centred ICU policy because of its focus on the personal diary entries of the patient and the collaborative writing process featuring relatives and professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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15. Safe sleep practices for infants: Comprehensive analysis of YouTube videos.
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Özçevik Subaşi, Damla, Şimşek, Enes, and Akca Sumengen, Aylin
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This study aimed to analyze the accuracy, quality, and reliability of the content of YouTube videos on safe sleep for infants in relation to the safe sleep recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The research was conducted by searching the video-sharing platform YouTube for the keywords "safe sleep." The videos were subjected to a review and evaluation process conducted by two independent reviewers. The modified DISCERN and Global Quality Scale (GQS) were employed to assess the quality and reliability of the videos. The content of the videos was evaluated using an eight-item checklist prepared by the researchers in accordance with the recommendations of the AAP. The Kruskal-Wallis-H, Mann-Whitney U, and Pearson correlation analyses were employed for the purpose of data analysis. All statistical data were deemed significant at the 0.05 level. The 100 most relevant videos were viewed, and 85 videos that met the inclusion criteria were subjected to analysis. The mean values for the quality and reliability of the videos are 2.98 for the modified DISCERN score and 3.26 for the GQS. The mean value for the total checklist score was 4.78 out of 8. As indicated by the checklist developed in this study for the assessment of safe sleep video content, four of the eight items were present in over 80 % of the videos. The remaining four items were present in less than 42 % of the videos. A strong correlation was observed between the total score on the checklist and the modified DISCERN score (r = 0.915, p < 0.001) and the GQS (r = 0.918, p < 0.001). The evidence presented in this study indicates that improvements are needed in the quality and reliability of content on safe sleep practices for infants on YouTube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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16. Securing IoMT Applications: An Approach for Enhancing the Reliability of Security Policies within Cloud Databases.
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KSIBI, SONDES, JAIDI, FAOUZI, and BOUHOULA, ADEL
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DATABASES ,ACCESS control ,DATA warehousing ,ELECTRONIC data processing ,DATA security failures - Abstract
Applications of the Internet-of-Things (IoT) in healthcare have a great potential since they bring, in a cost effective manner, supreme solutions to large scale medical-care. The Internet-of-Medical-Things (IoMT) connects patients to caregivers and facilitates remote healthcare capabilities. Regardless of their expansion, especially during the COVID19 pandemic, IoMT applications encounter critical types of security risks. Many research efforts were conducted to help designing reliable E-Health Systems (EHS), but compliance and privacy-preserving solutions for EHS still require a lot of work. To address this requirement, we focus on reliability enhancement of security policies in the context of EHS. We especially deal with risk management within the data processing and storage area, in IoMT systems, composed mainly of cloud/private databases that store confidential medical data. Malicious users and attackers can discover and leak unauthorized data via exploiting authorized information and may expand their rights by using advanced features such as database functional dependencies. In such critical systems, identifying and evaluating risks associated to non authorized accesses and policies misconfigurations is highly required. We address, in this paper, the analysis and the management of the compliance of concrete security policies based on appropriate risk metrics. Our solution enhances a well-established formal verification and validation approach that allows identifying non-compliance anomalies in concrete policies with a quantified risk-assessment approach for evaluating risks. A case of application is presented as an example to illustrate the relevance of our proposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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17. Guidelines for research and design of software for children with ASD in e-health.
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Bondioli, Mariasole, Buzzi, Maria Claudia, Buzzi, Marina, Chessa, Stefano, Jaccheri, Letizia, Senette, Caterina, and Pelagatti, Susanna
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COMPUTER software developers ,INTERPERSONAL communication ,AUTISM spectrum disorders ,DESIGN science ,CHILDREN'S dental care - Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neuro-developmental disorder that results in narrow interest and impairments in communication and social relationships. Usually, unknown contexts generate anxiety and frustration in persons with ASD, and great impediment in accessing services, including health ones. This seriously compromises prevention and treatment interventions in different medical areas. Technology offers many opportunities for persons with ASD and can be used to act as a mediator, helping to manage communication and interpersonal relationships and to familiarize with the environment, especially in new contexts. Specifically, we used digital tools to reduce stress and anxiety while teaching adequate dental care to children with ASD (MyDentist project). To generalize the R&D approach, we followed in the context of the MyDentist project for its adoption for research and development of inclusive software in e-health. We analyze our design and development process using the three-cycle model proposed by Hevner: the relevance cycle, which connects design with the environment; the rigor cycle, which connects design with the grounding theory; and the design cycle, which builds and evaluates artifacts. We present the results obtained in the project and the lessons learned. Lessons are formalized as guidelines that are further validated by a focus group including experts and stakeholders. A set of guidelines which can drive software development and research in similar contexts. Our research will benefit e-health researchers to perform rigorous and relevant Design Science Research. It will also inform software developers of e-health solutions and healthcare professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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18. End-users' satisfaction and adoption regarding the implementation of a technology solution for screening and counselling individuals with suspicious COVID-19: a cross-section study.
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Marinelli, Pamela, Saragiotto, Bruno Tirotti, Oliveira, Rafael Felipe Ferreira, de Oliveira, Lisandra Almeida, Fagundes, Felipe Ribeiro Cabral, and Hespanhol, Luiz
- Abstract
Purpose: We evaluated the end-users' satisfaction and the adoption of a technology solution embedding a clinical decision algorithm for screening and counselling individuals with suspicious COVID-19. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Data was collected by the startup company Hi! Healthcare Intelligence. Satisfaction was measured using two questions presenting answer options as Likert scales of eleven points (from 0 to 10), in which 0 indicated low satisfaction and 10 indicated high satisfaction. We measured 'general satisfaction' through the average of questions 1 and 2. Descriptive analyses were used to summarize the data. Results: The average satisfaction regarding the experience in using the technology solution and regarding the 'recommendation for a friend or family' was 7.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.60 to 8.28) and 8.14 (95% CI 7.80 to 8.48), respectively. 'General satisfaction' was 8.04 (95% CI 7.70 to 8.37). The adoption regarding the implementation of the technology solution was 24.5% (n = 265). Conclusion: The technology solution embedding a clinical decision algorithm for screening and counselling individuals with suspicious COVID-19 presented high satisfaction. One in four (¼) individuals interested in using the technology solution actually adopted it by following the clinical decision algorithm until the end, when counselling was provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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19. Telehealth of Infants at Risk During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Physical Therapists’ and Caregiver’s Perceptions and Costs.
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Neves dos Santos, Adriana, Schlichting, Tatiane, and Rocha, Nelci Adriana Cicuto Ferreira
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COVID-19 pandemic , *CAREGIVER attitudes , *PROFESSIONAL fees , *CAREGIVERS , *INTERNET access - Abstract
AbstractAimMethodsResultsConclusionWe aimed to describe telehealth used to detect infants at risk of neurodevelopmental delay and assess the assessors’ and caregivers’ perceptions and costs.This was an observational study in which five physical therapists applied the General Movement Assessment, the neurological exam based on the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination, and the Alberta Infant Motor Scale
via telehealth in 65 infants at risk of neurologic delay during the COVID-19 pandemic. The perceptions of assessors and caregivers were assessed using a questionnaire. We tabulated the family’s costs (internet access) and the therapist’s expenses (internet access and professional fees).In general, assessors felt comfortable and reported good quality of teleassessment. They highlighted the significant effort they and caregivers required for synchronous methods, challenges in clearly guiding caregivers on infant positioning, difficulties in adjusting the camera’s position, and unstable internet connections. Most assessors expressed a willingness to continue using telehealth. Caregivers displayed high satisfaction, and the costs were minimal.Teleassessment during the COVID-19 pandemic was feasible, although implementing this method of health service in general clinical practice still requires further scrutiny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2024
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20. Factors that facilitate or hinder the use of the facial rehabilitation webtool MEPP 2.0: a comparative study in the Quebecer health system.
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Martineau, Sarah, Barbeau, Jacinthe, Paquin, Alyssia, and Marcotte, Karine
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FACIAL paralysis , *STATISTICAL reliability , *USER experience , *MEDICAL care , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics - Abstract
Background: Recently, our research team developed an open source and free website called the MEPP website (for the Mirror Effect Plus Protocol) to efficiently provide mirror therapy for patients with facial palsy. Previous studies demonstrated that the first version of the MEPP website improved user experience and likely optimized patients' performance during facial therapy. Nevertheless, compliance was found to be low despite a generally positive opinion of the website, and in light of our earlier findings, MEPP 2.0—a revised and enhanced version of the MEPP 0.1—was created. The purpose of this study was to examine and contrast various factors that help or impede institutional partners of the Quebec health care system from using the MEPP 2.0 website in comparison to its initial version. Methods: Forty-one patients with facial palsy and nineteen clinicians working with this population were enrolled in a within-subject crossover study. For both the MEPP 1.0 and MEPP 2.0, user experience was assessed for all participants. Embodiment was assessed in patients, and factors influencing clinical use were assessed by clinicians. Qualitative comments about their experiences were also gathered. Descriptive statistics and reliability measures were calculated. Differences between the two MEPP versions were assessed using the linear mixed model. Results: Overall, patients appreciated more the MEPP 2.0 (OR = 4.57; p < 0.001), and all clinicians preferred the MEPP 2.0 over the MEPP 1.0. For patients, it seems that facial ownership, as well as possession and control of facial movements, was significantly better with the MEPP 2.0. For clinicians, the MEPP 2.0 specifically allowed them to self-evaluate their intervention and follow up with more objectivity. The use of the MEPP 2.0 was also modulated by what their patients reported. Qualitatively, options to access an Android app and needs for improving the exercises bank were mentioned as hindering factors. Conclusions: The updated version of the MEPP website, the MEPP 2.0, was preferred by our different partners. Trial registration: https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN10885397. The trial was registered before the start of the study on the 1st December 2023 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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21. Scaling up! Staff e-learning for a national take-home naloxone program.
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Ericson, Øystein Bruun, Eide, Desiree, Brendryen, Håvar, Lobmaier, Philipp, and Clausen, Thomas
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DRUG overdose ,NURSES ,SCHOOL environment ,COMMUNITY health services ,HEALTH services accessibility ,DATA analysis ,SOCIAL workers ,PSYCHOLOGISTS ,HEALTH attitudes ,PERSONNEL management ,QUESTIONNAIRES ,OPIOID abuse ,DESCRIPTIVE statistics ,CHI-squared test ,PROFESSIONS ,LONGITUDINAL method ,PRE-tests & post-tests ,ONLINE education ,ATTITUDES of medical personnel ,RESEARCH methodology ,STATISTICS ,PROFESSIONAL employee training ,NALOXONE ,COMPARATIVE studies ,PHYSICIANS ,DATA analysis software ,HEALTH care rationing - Abstract
Background: A staff e-learning course was developed to prepare for scaling up a national take-home naloxone (THN) program in Norway. The aims of the study were to (a) describe participant characteristics for those that completed a THN e-learning course, (b) compare opioid overdose knowledge scores before and after e-learning course completion, and (c) to explore subsequent THN distribution by those trained. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental pre-test, post-test longitudinal cohort study of individuals completing a THN e-learning course from April 2021 to May 2022. Frequency analyses were performed for participant characteristics and subsequent naloxone distributions at 1-week and 1-month follow-up. The opioid overdose knowledge scale (OOKS) was used to measure pre-test-posttest knowledge among participants. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was performed for comparison between pre-test and post-test. Effect size was calculated using Cohen criteria. Results: In total, 371 individuals were included in this study. Most were either nurses or social workers (n = 277, 75%). Participant knowledge increased by medium or large effect for all items measured. At 1-month follow-up, 15% reported naloxone distribution. During the study period, 94 naloxone kits were distributed. Major reasons for not distributing were "clients not interested", "workplace not distributing" and "workplace in process of distributing". Conclusions: Our findings suggest that an e-learning course is equally effective in terms of knowledge transfer as an in-person classroom setting, and may provide engagement in terms of naloxone distribution. However, our findings also emphasize the importance of clear implementation routines, including support from central coordinators to optimize the implementation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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22. Implementation of hospital electronic medical record Patient Friendly Medication Lists and Interim Medication Administration Charts.
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Wembridge, Paul, Rashed, Saly, Monypenny, Nick, and Rodda, Hamish
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MEDICATION error prevention , *TURNAROUND time , *COMPUTER software , *PATIENT safety , *DRUG administration , *NURSING records , *MEDICATION reconciliation , *RETROSPECTIVE studies , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics , *DISCHARGE planning , *PRE-tests & post-tests , *TRANSITIONAL care , *TELEMEDICINE , *ELECTRONIC health records , *URBAN hospitals , *MEDICAL records , *ACQUISITION of data , *COMMUNICATION , *QUALITY assurance , *HOSPITAL pharmacies - Abstract
Patients discharged from Australian hospitals require a list of current medications at the point of discharge, which is commonly in the form of a Patient Friendly Medication List (PFML). Furthermore, the provision of an Interim Medication Administration Chart (IMAC) reduces the number of medication administration delays and omissions for patients discharged to residential aged‐care facilities. To increase the adoption of PFMLs and IMACs, a new process was developed for creating PFMLs and IMACs directly from the discharge prescription in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR). This retrospective pre‐ and post‐intervention audit aimed to evaluate 1 year of PFML and IMAC generation from three acute metropolitan hospitals, prior to and after transitioning from pharmacy dispensing software to EMR‐generated documents. Despite similar hospital activity, the transition to EMR‐generated PFMLs and IMACs was associated with a 157% increase in PFML provision (7930 vs 20 373), a 220% increase in IMAC provision (1569 vs 5022) and a 99% reduction in the number of items typed into the pharmacy dispensing software that did not require supply (−59 171/year). Discharge dispensary turnaround times were lower in the post‐intervention period (36 min vs 30 min, p < 0.01). In conclusion, the transition to EMR‐generated PFMLs and IMACs was associated with increased provision of these documents, reduced data entry for items not required to be supplied, decreased risk of transcription errors and shortened time taken for the hospital pharmacy to process discharge items. This project was exempt due to the local policy requirements that constitute research by the Eastern Health Office of Research and Ethics (Reference no: QA21‐094). The justification for this ethics exemption was as follows: the project complies with the National Health and Medical Research Council's Ethical considerations in quality assurance and evaluation activities and met local requirements for an audit or quality assurance activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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23. The effectiveness of digital health technologies for reducing substance use among young people: a systematic review & meta-analysis.
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O'Logbon, Jessica, Wickersham, Alice, Williamson, Charlotte, and Leightley, Daniel
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SUBSTANCE abuse prevention , *DIGITAL technology , *MEDICAL information storage & retrieval systems , *COST effectiveness , *DIGITAL health , *SMOKING , *TREATMENT effectiveness , *META-analysis , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics , *HARM reduction , *TELEMEDICINE , *SYSTEMATIC reviews , *WORLD health , *MEDLINE , *ODDS ratio , *HEALTH outcome assessment , *ALCOHOL drinking , *CONFIDENCE intervals , *PSYCHOLOGY information storage & retrieval systems , *DRUG abstinence , *ADULTS - Abstract
Background: Substance use amongst young people poses developmental and clinical challenges, necessitating early detection and treatment. Considering the widespread use of technology in young people, delivering interventions digitally may help to reduce and monitor their substance use. Aims: We conducted a systematic review and two meta-analyses to assess the effectiveness of digital interventions for reducing substance use (alcohol, smoking, and other substances) among young people aged 10 to 24 years old. Method: Embase, Global Health, Medline, PsychINFO, Web of Science and reference lists of relevant papers were searched in November 2020. Studies were included if they quantitatively evaluated the effectiveness of digital health technologies for treating substance use. A narrative synthesis and meta-analysis were conducted. Results: Forty-two studies were included in the systematic review and 18 in the meta-analyses. Digital interventions showed small, but statistically significant reductions in weekly alcohol consumption compared to controls (SMD= −0.12, 95% CI= −0.17 to −0.06, I2=0%), but no overall effect was seen on 30-day smoking abstinence (OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 0.70 to 1.80, I2=81%). The effectiveness of digital interventions for reducing substance use is generally weak, however, promising results such as reducing alcohol use were seen. Large-scale studies should investigate the viability of digital interventions, collect user feedback, and determine cost-effectiveness. Prisma/Prospero: This systematic review was conducted following Cochrane methodology PRISMA guidelines. The review was registered with PROSPERO in November 2020 (CRD42020218442). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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24. The Experiences and Perceptions of Older Adults with Multimorbidity Toward E-Health Care: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis.
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Yi, Mo, Hui, Yuwen, Hu, Litian, Zhang, Wenmin, and Wang, Zhiwen
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CINAHL database , *OLDER people , *DISEASE management , *COMORBIDITY , *CHINESE literature - Abstract
Background: Given the growing population of older adults globally, e-Health plays an indispensable role in the chronic disease management of multimorbidity. However, qualitative evidence that synthesizes the experiences of older adults with multimorbidity using e-Health service is currently lacking. The objective was to explore the experiences and perceptions of e-Health care in community-based settings among the older adults with multimorbidity. Methods: Seven electronic databases including PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Chinese BioMedical Literature were searched, and the search was limited to studies from inception to September 1, 2023. Screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal were conducted independently by two reviewers. Thomas and Harden's thematic synthesis methodology was applied to synthesize the original themes. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research, and the confidence of synthesized themes was evaluated by the Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research approaches. Results: Ten studies with moderate methodological quality met eligibility criteria and were included finally. Studies were conducted in four countries with 235 participants who were living with multiple chronic conditions. Among the 10 included studies, 37 credible findings were extracted and interpreted into 3 synthesized themes and 12 subthemes: (1) advantages and benefits perceived during e-Health service, (2) multidimensional challenges and negative experience posed by e-Health service, and (3) preferences, suggestions, and expectations for future e-Health improvement. The confidence in the majority of the three final synthesized themes was rated between "low" and "moderate" scales. Conclusions: The findings of this study provide new insights into implementing tailored e-Health care for older adults with multimorbidity. Further research should emphasize on realizing the potential value of e-Health service based on users' needs and perspectives to promote age-friendliness in geriatric practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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25. The Rise of Virtual Health Care: Transforming the Health Care Landscape in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Review Article.
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Sheerah, Haytham A., AlSalamah, Shada, Alsalamah, Sara A., Lu, Chang-Tien, Arafa, Ahmed, Zaatari, Ezzedine, Alhomod, Abdulaziz, Pujari, Sameer, and Labrique, Alain
- Subjects
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TELEMEDICINE , *DIGITAL transformation , *PATIENT experience , *DIGITAL technology , *HEALTH services accessibility - Abstract
Background: The rise of virtual healthcare underscores the transformative influence of digital technologies in reshaping the healthcare landscape. As technology advances and the global demand for accessible and convenient healthcare services escalates, the virtual healthcare sector is gaining unprecedented momentum. Saudi Arabia, with its ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, is actively embracing digital innovation in the healthcare sector. Methods: In this narrative review, we discussed the key drivers and prospects of virtual healthcare in Saudi Arabia, highlighting its potential to enhance healthcare accessibility, quality, and patient outcomes. We also summarized the role of the COVID-19 pandemic in the digital transformation of healthcare in the country. Healthcare services provided by Seha Virtual Hospital in Saudi Arabia, the world's largest and Middle East's first virtual hospital, were also described. Finally, we proposed a roadmap for the future development of virtual health in the country. Results and conclusions: The integration of virtual healthcare into the existing healthcare system can enhance patient experiences, improve outcomes, and contribute to the overall well-being of the population. However, careful planning, collaboration, and investment are essential to overcome the challenges and ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of virtual healthcare in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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26. Effectiveness of e-health interventions for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
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Zhang, Tongyu, Zhao, Bingyan, Chen, Yu, and Zhang, Chunmei
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Introduction: The goal of this systematic review was to examine the effectiveness of e-health interventions for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Methods: A literature search was conducted across the databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library from database establishment to 3 March 2024. We included randomized controlled trials in English where the intervention group was via e-health. Two reviewers independently carried out the screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal of the studies. Using Stata 17.0, meta-analyses were conducted to synthesize the effects of outcomes of interest. Results: A total of 6663 studies were retrieved, with only 8 RCTs meeting criteria, involving 620 patients. Meta-analysis revealed that e-health interventions significantly reduce CINV severity (MD = − 7.687; 95% CI − 11.903, − 3.326; p < 0.001). However, results regarding CINV incidence reduction and quality of life improvement are inconclusive due to variations in intervention content, modality, and frequency among studies. Conclusions: e-health interventions may reduce the severity and incidence of CINV, while enhancing quality of life. However, the results should be interpreted cautiously. Higher quality studies are needed in the future to further validate the effectiveness of e-health interventions for CINV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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27. Adherence to Online Interventions for Family Caregivers of People With Dementia: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review.
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Atefi, Golnaz L., Koh, Wei Qi, Kohl, Gianna, Seydavi, Mohammad, Swift, Joshua K., Akbari, Mehdi, and de Vugt, Marjolein E.
- Abstract
• What is the primary question addressed by this study? What factors influence intervention adherence among family caregivers of people with dementia? • What is the main finding of this study? The study uncovered predictors of intervention adherence among dementia caregivers, providing insights into dropout rates and reasons behind them, thereby informing the design and implementation of more effective online treatments. Specifically, the findings emphasized the necessity of tailoring interventions to address the specific shared needs of caregivers, highlighting the importance of integrating social component features, such as human-based interaction, with comprehensive discussions on their implications. • What is the meaning of the finding? Understanding predictors of intervention adherence can inform the development of more effective and tailored online interventions for dementia caregivers in research and clinical practice, enhancing support and ultimately improving dementia care outcomes. Online interventions hold promise in supporting the well-being of family caregivers and enhancing the quality of care they provide for individuals with long-term or chronic conditions. However, dropout rates from support programs among specific groups of caregivers, such as caregivers of people with dementia, pose a challenge. Focused reviews are needed to provide more accurate insights and estimates in this specific research area. A meta-analysis of dropout rates from available online interventions for family caregivers of people with dementia was conducted to assess treatment acceptability. A systematic search yielded 18 studies involving 1,215 caregivers. The overall pooled dropout rate was 18.4%, with notable heterogeneity indicating varied intervention adherence. Interventions incorporating human contact, interactive features, and personalization strategies for specific types and stages of dementia predicted significantly lower dropout rates. Methodological assessment revealed variability in study quality. Findings support the effectiveness of social support, personalization strategies, and co-design in enhancing intervention adherence among dementia family caregivers. Further research is needed to explore factors influencing dropout rates and conduct robust trials to refine the implementation of future interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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28. Integrating Homomorphic Encryption in IoT Healthcare Blockchain Systems.
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Aissaoua, Habib, Laouid, Abdelkader, Kara, Mostefa, Bounceur, Ahcène, Hammoudeh, Mohammad, and Chait, Khaled
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INTERNET exchange points ,BLOOD sugar ,INTERNET of things ,DATA warehousing ,ENERGY consumption - Abstract
The Internet of Things (IoT) has recently been implemented in various applications. An IoT network is a group of Internet-connected computing devices embedded in everyday objects. Usually, those devices can interact with each other via the Internet by exchanging data. Because of privacy and security requirements, users of IoT-connected objects need measures to secure corresponding data during storage and transmission. This work presents an architecture that integrates IoT devices, blockchain technology, and embedded homomorphic encryption to ensure high computation speed and security levels in IoT systems. The ultralight linear encryption technique enhances computation speed, making it possible to obtain homomorphic addition over the encrypted data. Using this technique, each administrator gains specific access to the encrypted data. Security, stability, traceability, and anonymity are provided through blockchain technology, which is used to store data. The proposed architecture is demonstrated via a use case from the healthcare sector. The experimental analysis shows our technique's effectiveness in energy consumption reduction and privacy preservation with minimal computation and communication costs. By using five fields per record, name, ID, age, gender, and blood glucose level, we achieved an encryption time equals 0,19 ms and decryption time equals 0,98 ms vs. 15,7 and 1,6 respectively in the best comparison technique. In communication cost, we achieved 1KB vs. 5KB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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29. THE IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGIES ON QUALITY IN THE PROVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES.
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Ribamar da Silva, Ricardo, da Silva Campos, Jessica, Lima Vieira, Silvana, Veras da Silva, Joelma, de Sousa Marques, Deise Luce, Ribeiro da Conceição, Leandro, Rodrigues Sousa, Gustavo, Araújo Alves de Souse, Pedro Felipe, Callou Filho, Cesario Rui, da Silva Goes, Keny Lucas, Fernandes Rocha, José Nathan, de Oliveira Santiago, Francisco Alipio, and Ferreira Assunção, Élida Lúcia
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DATA privacy ,PUBLIC health ,ELECTRONIC health records ,MEDICAL personnel ,ADMINISTRATIVE efficiency ,TELEMEDICINE - Abstract
Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
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- 2024
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30. Application of Deep Learning for Heart Attack Prediction with Explainable Artificial Intelligence.
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Dritsas, Elias and Trigka, Maria
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CONVOLUTIONAL neural networks ,RECEIVER operating characteristic curves ,RECURRENT neural networks ,MYOCARDIAL infarction ,ARTIFICIAL intelligence - Abstract
Heart disease remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and the timely and accurate prediction of heart attack is crucial yet challenging due to the complexity of the condition and the limitations of traditional diagnostic methods. These challenges include the need for resource-intensive diagnostics and the difficulty in interpreting complex predictive models in clinical settings. In this study, we apply and compare the performance of five well-known Deep Learning (DL) models, namely Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), and a Hybrid model, to a heart attack prediction dataset. Each model was properly tuned and evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUC) as performance metrics. Additionally, by integrating an Explainable Artificial intelligence (XAI) technique, specifically Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP), we enhance the interpretability of the predictions, making them actionable for healthcare professionals and thereby enhancing clinical applicability. The experimental results revealed that the Hybrid model prevailed, achieving the highest performance across all metrics. Specifically, the Hybrid model attained an accuracy of 91%, precision of 89%, recall of 90%, F1-score of 89%, and an AUC of 0.95. These results highlighted the Hybrid model's superior ability to predict heart attacks, attributed to its efficient handling of sequential data and long-term dependencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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31. Development of a low-cost IoT-based e-health monitoring system for diabetic patients
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Ayodeji Akinsoji Okubanjo, Okandeji Alexander, Odeyinka Olumide, Akinloye Benjamin, and Oluyemi Oluwatoyin
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E-health ,Diabetes monitoring system ,Internet of things ,SpO2 ,Blood glucose ,Heart rate ,Electrical engineering. Electronics. Nuclear engineering ,TK1-9971 ,Information technology ,T58.5-58.64 - Abstract
Abstract The global need for diabetic patient self-care is increasing. The current global epidemiology of diabetes calls for an improved healthcare management system, particularly in poorer countries, to minimize the burden of diabetes complications and mortality. The main objective of this study seeks to increase diabetic patients’ access to healthcare by utilizing internet of things-based smart self-care high-tech devices. The proposed model was integrated with a Blynk software and hosted in NodeMCU, allowing user to access diabetic health metric from the smartphones or interconnected devices. The e-monitoring system has an inbuilt feedback mechanism that provides online access to healthcare provider for immediate insulin therapy. Furthermore, patients suffering from acute diabetic metabolic issues may have difficulty visiting the hospital. Therefore, they can use the proposed model to track and monitor their blood glucose levels, as well as communicate remotely with their doctor, so improving their health while saving money and time. Also, diabetic patients can use this system to record their health condition on their phone, decreasing the need for doctor visits and clinical medical procedure. The proposed system has several advantages, including speedy internet access and remote monitoring from anywhere in the world. This research also helps to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, which include good health and well-being, equitable healthcare access, and sustainable cities and communities.
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- 2024
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32. Prevalence and characteristics of smokers interested in using virtual reality for encouraging smoking cessation: a representative population survey in Great Britain
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Tosan Okpako, Dimitra Kale, Olga Perski, and Jamie Brown
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Smoking ,E-health ,Cross-sectional studies ,Virtual reality ,Digital exclusion ,Smoking cessation ,Computer applications to medicine. Medical informatics ,R858-859.7 - Abstract
Abstract Background Cigarette smoking is one of the leading causes of morbidity in the world. Virtual reality (VR) has been used to encourage and support quit attempts. However, interest in VR may differ according to sociodemographic characteristics. This study aimed to estimate the proportion and associated characteristics of smokers in Great Britain who were interested in using VR for smoking cessation. Methods Data were collected from 6,858 adults between February to April 2023, from the Smoking Toolkit Study—a monthly, nationally representative, cross-sectional survey of adults in Great Britain. Of these, 873 were smokers (unweighted). Prevalence of interest was assessed descriptively and associations between interest and sociodemographic and smoking characteristics were analysed with weighted logistic regression models. Results Of 905 (weighted) smokers, 34.6% (95% Confidence Interval (CI):31.0%-38.5%) were interested in using VR for smoking cessation. Smokers had greater odds of reporting interest in VR for smoking cessation who were: highly motivated to quit (Odds Ratio (OR):2.41, 95% CI:1.59–3.65), had made a quit attempt in the past year (OR:1.95, 95% CI:1.37–2.77), currently trying to cut down (OR:1.90, 95% CI:1.34–2.67) and interested in VR generally (OR:10.42, 95% CI:6.97–15.57). Those ≥ 65 years old (OR:0.29, 95% CI:0.15–0.57) and women (OR:0.69, 95% CI:0.49–0.97) were less likely to report interest. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that up to a third of adult smokers may be interested in using VR to support a quit attempt. However, the potential reach of a VR smoking cessation intervention may be lower in certain subgroups such as women, adults 65 years or older, and adults less motivated to quit. From a health equity perspective, it is recommended that non-digital but effective interventions should be made readily available for adults at risk of digital exclusion due to lack of interest. However, as VR grows in popularity and its technological potential becomes fully realised, future research could also focus on strategies to reduce digital exclusion and increase interest. For example, by involving these subgroups in co-design activities and using novel dissemination strategies.
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- 2024
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33. Ethical considerations related to virtual visiting for families and critically ill patients in intensive care: a qualitative descriptive study
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Kirsty Clarke, Karen Borges, Sultan Hatab, Lauren Richardson, Jessica Taylor, Robyn Evans, Bethany Chung, Harriet Cleverdon, Andreas Xyrichis, Amelia Cook, Joel Meyer, and Louise Rose
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Telecommunications ,Telehealth ,E-health ,Critical care unit ,Visiting family ,Visiting ,Medical philosophy. Medical ethics ,R723-726 - Abstract
Abstract Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual visiting technologies were rapidly integrated into the care offered by intensive care units (ICUs) in the UK and across the globe. Today, these technologies offer a necessary adjunct to in-person visits for those with ICU access limited by geography, work/caregiving commitments, or frailty. However, few empirical studies explore the ethical issues associated with virtual visiting. This study aimed to explore the anticipated or unanticipated ethical issues raised by using virtual visiting in the ICU, such that healthcare professionals can be informed about how to carry out virtual visits ethically, safely and productively. Methods We used a descriptive exploratory qualitative research approach recruiting a convenience sample of newly-graduated junior doctors facilitating ICU virtual visits in a tertiary academic centre. Eight newly graduated junior doctors, seven female and one male, aged 23–27, participated in semi-structured interviews. We analysed transcripts using an inductive coding approach. Results Five overarching themes emerged. Two of the themes namely, ‘fulfilling a moral instinct to connect families’ and ‘promoting autonomy’, arose from participants’ descriptions of how virtual visits aligned with healthcare standards and practices they considered ethical. Three further themes, ‘preserving dignity and privacy’, ‘managing emotional distress’, and ‘providing equitable access’ to virtual visiting technologies, highlight how virtual visits might exacerbate ethical issues related to family communications. Conclusion Virtual visiting may potentially both ameliorate and exacerbate aspects of ethical healthcare delivery for ICU patients and family members. ICU team members should consider unique ethical considerations related to using virtual visiting. We recommend virtual communications skills training for staff and advocate for the use of easily accessible educational resources for families who wish to visit critically unwell patients remotely.
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- 2024
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34. Factors that facilitate or hinder the use of the facial rehabilitation webtool MEPP 2.0: a comparative study in the Quebecer health system
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Sarah Martineau, Jacinthe Barbeau, Alyssia Paquin, and Karine Marcotte
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Facial rehabilitation ,Mirror therapy ,Peripheral facial palsy ,Technology ,E-health ,MEPP ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background Recently, our research team developed an open source and free website called the MEPP website (for the Mirror Effect Plus Protocol) to efficiently provide mirror therapy for patients with facial palsy. Previous studies demonstrated that the first version of the MEPP website improved user experience and likely optimized patients’ performance during facial therapy. Nevertheless, compliance was found to be low despite a generally positive opinion of the website, and in light of our earlier findings, MEPP 2.0—a revised and enhanced version of the MEPP 0.1—was created. The purpose of this study was to examine and contrast various factors that help or impede institutional partners of the Quebec health care system from using the MEPP 2.0 website in comparison to its initial version. Methods Forty-one patients with facial palsy and nineteen clinicians working with this population were enrolled in a within-subject crossover study. For both the MEPP 1.0 and MEPP 2.0, user experience was assessed for all participants. Embodiment was assessed in patients, and factors influencing clinical use were assessed by clinicians. Qualitative comments about their experiences were also gathered. Descriptive statistics and reliability measures were calculated. Differences between the two MEPP versions were assessed using the linear mixed model. Results Overall, patients appreciated more the MEPP 2.0 (OR = 4.57; p
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- 2024
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35. Law and digitalization of modern healthcare
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Olga V. Romanovskaya and Georgy B. Romanovskiy
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legal regulation ,e-health ,mobile health ,electronic health record ,digital health ,biomedicine ,telemedicine ,Law - Abstract
The article addresses the issues in healthcare delivery and organization of public healthcare in the face of rapid advancements in digital technologies. The purpose of the study is to outline the legal challenges arising during the implementation of concepts such as digital health, e-health, mobile health as well as establishing the legal framework for electronic medical records and telemedicine, and certain types of innovative biomedical activities. The article illustrates the consistent impact of information and communication technologies on the interaction between patients and healthcare providers. It defines the legal framework for telemedicine and its transition to e-health. The study systematizes the particularities of legal regulations concerning both general electronic medical record and those developed by specialized medical organizations. It presents legal challenges related to data compatibility and potential cross-border exchanges. The concept of mobile healthcare is analyzed, with attention given to the risks associated with its development, notably threats to privacy and cybersecurity. The main directions of digital medicine and the challenges faced by modern legal regulations are summarized, including the use of big data, the integration of artificial intelligence, translational bioinformatics, gamification of various stages of medical care, etc. Additionally, the legal challenges arising from the use of big data and introduction of certain digital devices into medical practice are outlined, with special attention given to the brain-computer interface. Comprehensive recommendations for the improvement of healthcare legislation are presented.
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- 2024
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36. Effectiveness of the MyDiaMate application in reducing diabetes distress in adults with type 1 diabetes: Study protocol of the multi‐national, randomised‐controlled MyREMEDY trial.
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Mohr, Theresa C., de Wit, Maartje, Embaye, Jiska, Ehrmann, Dominic, Hermanns, Norbert, Lehmann, Gina, Anarte Ortiz, María Teresa, Torreblanca Murillo, Laura, Winkley, Kirsty, Famiglietti, Alexandra, Pouwer, Frans, and Snoek, Frank J.
- Abstract
Aims: Diabetes distress is common among people with type 1 diabetes (T1D), negatively affecting quality of life, self management, and diabetes outcomes. E‐health‐based interventions could be an effective and low‐cost way to improve the psychological care for people with T1D experiencing diabetes distress. The MyREMEDY study aims to test the effectiveness of the online unguided self‐help intervention MyDiaMate in decreasing diabetes distress in adults with T1D. MyDiaMate is based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and consists of eight modules, each focusing on a different aspect of living with T1D that is often experienced as burdensome (e.g. hypoglycaemia, fatigue). Methods: The effectiveness of MyDiaMate will be tested through a randomised‐controlled trial across four European countries (the Netherlands, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom). Six hundred and sixty adults (N = 165 per country) with T1D will be recruited and randomised with a balance of 2:1 into the intervention and care as usual groups. Intervention group members receive access to MyDiaMate for 6 months, care as usual group members receive access after 3 months for 3 months. Participants fill in questionnaires at 0 (baseline), 3 (effectiveness) and 6 months (follow‐up). Primary outcome is diabetes distress at 3 months. Secondary outcomes are emotional well‐being, psychological self‐efficacy in relation to diabetes, social engagement, fatigue, and glycaemic outcomes. Moreover, logdata of MyDiaMate use is passively collected. Linear mixed model analyses will be used to test the effectiveness of MyDiaMate along with identifying which user subgroup benefits most from MyDiaMate use. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT06308549. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
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37. Virtual hospitals: The future of the healthcare system? An expert consensus.
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Bidoli, Chiara, Pegoraro, Veronica, Dal Mas, Francesca, Bagnoli, Carlo, Bert, Fabrizio, Bonin, Mauro, Butturini, Giovanni, Cobianchi, Lorenzo, Cordiano, Claudio, Minto, Giulio, Pilerci, Claudio, Stocco, Paolo, Zantedeschi, Maristella, and Campostrini, Stefano
- Abstract
Today, social and healthcare systems at a global level are facing constant challenges dictated by an increasing mismatch between the demand for care services and the supply of human and economic resources. Such a situation has been exacerbated in the past two years by the Covid-19 pandemic. This has led to an increase in the leverage of digitalisation, which has proved to be a crucial tool for the development and application of new organisational models at both hospital and territorial levels, thus addressing the various criticalities already present in the system. In this sense, the Virtual Hospital has emerged as a potential model for increasing effectiveness and efficiency in delivering sociomedical services. Starting from these premises, an EFTE (estimate, feedback, talk, estimate) approach was used to acquire an expert consensus within a multidisciplinary panel of academics and healthcare managers of the Veneto Region in Italy. This article reports the expert opinion on the possible application of the Virtual Hospital model in the national context, starting from the existing international evidence and good practices, highlighting the potential advantages and barriers to its implementation. Furthermore, the article analyses the most relevant areas of investment for the development of intangible assets and the acquisition of tangible assets necessary for its implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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38. Analyzing health service employees’ intention to use e-health systems in southwest Ethiopia: using UTAUT-2 model
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Wasihun Admassu and Kasahun Gorems
- Subjects
UTAUT-2 ,Hospital information system ,e-health ,Behavioral intention ,Structural equation model ,Ethiopia ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background E-health systems have the potential to improve healthcare delivery and access to medical services in resource-constrained settings. Despite its impact, the system exhibits a low level of consumer acceptance and intention to use it. This research paper aims to analyze the intention of health service employees to use e-health systems in southwest Ethiopia using the UTAUT-2 model. Method Institutional-based cross-sectional studies were conducted at four referral hospitals (two private and two public) to examine the acceptance of e-health among consumers. Employees who had previous experience with diagnostic information systems and the health logistic information system were given structured questionnaires based on the UTAUT-2 model. The data were analyzed using the PLS-SEM method to identify the key factors that influence the intention to use e-health systems. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and SmartPLS 3 software. Result Out of the 400 surveyed employees, 225 (56.25%) valid questionnaires were collected. The findings indicate that three factors—effort expectancy (β = 0.276, t = 3.015, p = 0.001), habit (β = 0.309, t = 3.754, p = 0), and performance expectancy (β = 0.179, t = 1.905, p = 0.028)—had a significant positive impact on employees’ intention to use e-health systems. On the other hand, factors such as social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation, and price values did not appear as significant predictors of intention to use e-health. The study model was able to predict 63% of employees’ intentions to use e-health systems. Conclusion Effort expectancy, habit, and performance expectancy were significant predictors of employees’ intention to use e-health systems among health service employees in southwest Ethiopia. The study supports the ideas that ease of use, experience with information systems, and the role of the systems in improving job performance contribute to employees’ intention to use e-health. Policymakers and healthcare organizations in the region can use these findings to develop strategies for successful implementation and adoption of e-health systems, ultimately improving healthcare services and outcomes for the population.
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- 2024
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39. Implementation of a multimodal home-based rehabilitation intervention after discharge from inpatient geriatric rehabilitation (GeRas): an early qualitative process evaluation
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Catharina Roth, Leonie Maier, Bastian Abel, Patrick Roigk, Kilian Rapp, Oliver Schmidberger, Martin Bongartz, Simone Maier, Isabel Wirth, Brigitte Metz, Désirée Immel, Benjamin Finger, Sabine Schölch, Gisela Büchele, Oliver Deuster, Hans‑Helmut Koenig, Sophie Gottschalk, Judith Dams, William Micol, Jürgen M. Bauer, Michel Wensing, and Petra Benzinger
- Subjects
Geriatric rehabilitation ,E-health ,Telemedicine ,Post inhouse rehabilitation intervention ,Transitional care ,Geriatrics ,RC952-954.6 - Abstract
Abstract Background Geriatric rehabilitation aims at increasing physical and social activity and maintaining the functional reserve of older people. However, the continuity of geriatric rehabilitation in the outpatient setting is limited due to a lack of structured aftercare programs. In order to overcome this, a three-month multimodal home-based intervention program (GeRas) was implemented. The aim of this early qualitative process evaluation was to assess GeRas in terms of perceived reach, effectiveness/efficacy, adoption/uptake, implementation, and maintenance/sustainability (Domains within the RE-AIM Framework) from the perspective of patients who received the intervention and healthcare providers who were involved in the delivery of the intervention. Methods In a qualitative process evaluation, 13 healthcare providers and 10 patients were interviewed throughout the beginning of the implementation period of GeRas to capture early experiences using a semi-structured interview guide. The interview guide and qualitative content analysis was guided by the RE-AIM Framework. Results The GeRas program was perceived to be largely well implemented and beneficial by healthcare providers and patients. According to healthcare providers, GeRas showed more advantages compared to usual care. Additionally, outcome expectations were mainly met (Domain 1: Effectiveness). However, the implementation of the intervention delivered via the eHealth system was perceived as challenging (Domain 2: Adoption). Nevertheless, the outpatient physical exercise, the outpatient counselling, and the continuous care after discharge improved perceived well-being regardless of the intervention type (Domain 3: Implementation). To facilitate the continued use of GeRas, technical requirements should be created to increase user-friendliness and to motivate patients to continue the training in the long term (Domain 4: Maintenance). Conclusion Although initial experiences with the implementation and effectiveness of GeRas were positive in general, organisational and technical issues need to be resolved to enhance sustainable and successful implementation of the GeRas program. Trial registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00029559). Registered 5/10/2022.
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- 2024
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40. A cardiac-rehab behaviour intervention to reduce sedentary time in coronary artery disease patients: the SIT LESS randomized controlled trial
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Sophie H. Kroesen, Bram M. A. van Bakel, Marijn de Bruin, Arzu Günal, Arko Scheepmaker, Wim R. M. Aengevaeren, Frank F. Willems, Roderick Wondergem, Martijn F. Pisters, Francisco B. Ortega, Maria T. E. Hopman, Dick H. J. Thijssen, Esmée A. Bakker, and Thijs M. H. Eijsvogels
- Subjects
Cardiac rehabilitation ,e-Health ,Prevention ,Sedentary lifestyle ,Physical activity ,Cardiovascular disease ,Nutritional diseases. Deficiency diseases ,RC620-627 ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background High sedentary times (ST) is highly prevalent in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), highlighting the need for behavioural change interventions that effectively reduce ST. We examined the immediate and medium-term effect of the SIT LESS intervention on changes in ST among CAD patients enrolled in cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Methods CAD patients participating in CR at 2 regional hospitals were included in this randomized controlled trial (1:1, stratified for gender and hospital). The control group received CR, whereas SIT LESS participants additionally received a 12-week hybrid behaviour change intervention. The primary outcome was the change in accelerometer-derived ST from pre-CR to post-CR and 3 months post-CR. Secondary outcomes included changes in ST and physical activity characteristics, subjective outcomes, and cardiovascular risk factors. A baseline constrained linear mixed-model was used. Results Participants (23% female; SIT LESS: n = 108, control: n = 104) were 63 ± 10 years. Greater ST reductions were found for SIT LESS compared to control post-CR (-1.7 (95% confidence interval (CI): -2.0; -1.4) versus − 1.1 (95% CI: -1.4; -0.8) h/day, pinteraction=0.009), but not at 3 months post-CR (pinteraction=0.61). Besides, larger light-intensity physical activity (LIPA) increases were found for SIT LESS compared to control post-CR (+ 1.4 (95% CI: +1.2; +1.6) versus + 1.0 (95% CI: +0.8; +1.3) h/day, pinteraction=0.020). Changes in other secondary outcomes did not differ among groups. Conclusion SIT LESS transiently reduced ST and increased LIPA, but group differences were no longer significant 3 months post-CR. These findings highlight the challenge to induce sustainable behaviour changes in CAD patients without any continued support. Trial registration Netherlands Trial Register: NL9263. Registration Date: 24 February 2021.
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- 2024
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41. RESTART: a stepped-care approach to facilitate return to work for employees with psychological distress: design of a randomized controlled trial
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Hanneke A.M. Lettinga, Sandra H. van Oostrom, Hendrika P. Zijlstra, Johannes R. Anema, and Karin I. Proper
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e-Health ,Psychological distress ,Participatory approach ,Return to work ,Stepped-care ,Workplace intervention ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background Common mental health problems, such as stress, anxiety and depression, are highly prevalent among workers and often lead to long-term absenteeism and work disability. Effective elements found in previous researched interventions were to explicitly focus on return to work (RTW) and not solely on symptom reduction, to take into account the employees’ cognition towards RTW and to include the workplace environment. Based on these elements, a stepped-care approach was developed. The aim of this paper is to present the study design of a randomized controlled trial (RESTART), evaluating the effectiveness of the stepped-care approach on lasting RTW and the implementation process. Methods RESTART is a randomized controlled trial with a 2 × 2 factorial design and a follow-up of one year. Employees eligible for this study are those who reported sick within 2 to 8 weeks with psychological distress based on a distress screener. Participants will be randomized to a group receiving a tailored e-Health app or usual care, as well as randomized to a group receiving a Participatory Approach (PA; conversational method) in the workplace or usual care. The PA will however only be provided in case of persistent sickness absence at 8 weeks. Measurements take place at baseline, after the e-Health intervention period (3 months), and after the PA intervention period (6 months) and 12 months. Primary outcome is lasting RTW, defined as full RTW in previous or equal work for at least four consecutive weeks. Secondary outcomes are (the severity of) stress-related symptoms, total number of sickness absence days, self-efficacy for RTW and self-reported health. A process evaluation including a realist evaluation will also be conducted. Discussion Early intervention that focuses on RTW, the cognition towards RTW despite symptoms and involves the workplace environment, plays a crucial role in managing sickness absence among employees with psychological distress. If effective, the stepped-care approach is relevant for employees, employers and society as a whole. Trial Registration ISRCTN: 90663076. Registered on 5 October 2023.
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- 2024
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42. Common and differential variables of anxiety and depression in adolescence: a nation-wide smartphone-based survey
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Martin Weiß, Julian Gutzeit, Rüdiger Pryss, Marcel Romanos, Lorenz Deserno, and Grit Hein
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Adolescence ,Anxiety ,Depression ,Machine learning ,e-Health ,Pediatrics ,RJ1-570 ,Psychiatry ,RC435-571 - Abstract
Abstract Background Mental health in adolescence is critical in its own right and a predictor of later symptoms of anxiety and depression. To address these mental health challenges, it is crucial to understand the variables linked to anxiety and depression in adolescence. Methods Here, we analyzed data of 278 adolescents that were collected in a nation-wide survey provided via a smartphone-based application during the COVID-19 pandemic. We used an elastic net regression machine-learning approach to classify individuals with clinically relevant self-reported symptoms of depression or anxiety. We then identified the most important variables with a combination of permutation feature importance calculation and sequential logistic regressions. Results 40.30% of participants reported clinically relevant anxiety symptoms, and 37.69% reported depressive symptoms. Both machine-learning models performed well in classifying participants with depressive (AUROC = 0.77) or anxiety (AUROC = 0.83) symptoms and were significantly better than the no-information rate. Feature importance analyses revealed that anxiety and depression in adolescence are commonly related to sleep disturbances (anxiety OR = 2.12, depression OR = 1.80). Differentiating between symptoms, self-reported depression increased with decreasing life satisfaction (OR = 0.43), whereas self-reported anxiety was related to worries about the health of family and friends (OR = 1.98) as well as impulsivity (OR = 2.01). Conclusion Our results show that app-based self-reports provide information that can classify symptoms of anxiety and depression in adolescence and thus offer new insights into symptom patterns related to adolescent mental health issues. These findings underscore the potentials of health apps in reaching large cohorts of adolescence and optimize diagnostic and treatment.
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- 2024
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43. Systematic content analysis of self-help smokeless tobacco cessation smartphone applications available in India
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Nishant Nishant, Arpit Gupta, Richa Shrivastava, Arpita Rai, Diptajit Das, and Ashima Goyal
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Assessment ,E-health ,Health mobile apps ,MARS ,Mobile health (mhealth) smartphone apps ,Smokeless tobacco ,Dentistry ,RK1-715 - Abstract
Background: The content of smartphone applications (apps) that offer smoking cessation interventions has been appraised in the past. Considering the high prevalence of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use in Southeast Asia, identifying high-quality and credible apps for SLT cessation would be more helpful. Objective: This study evaluated the technical quality of apps for SLT cessation and their content adherence with the standard tobacco cessation guidelines. Materials and methods: A systematic search of SLT cessation smartphone apps freely available in the Google PlayStore was conducted using nine relevant search terms, and the first fifty apps under each search term were identified. The technical quality of the apps was rated using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Adherence of the app content to the standard tobacco cessation guidelines was also determined. Results: Three apps were found to be relevant for SLT cessation. However, none of the apps was high-quality or incorporated existing evidence on SLT cessation. Conclusion: Adherence of these apps to the tobacco cessation guidelines by the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), India and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), U.K., was limited only to a few checklist parameters.
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- 2024
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44. Current trends and future directions of mHealth in psychology: Challenges and promising perspectives
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Luis A. Rivera Ramirez
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e-health ,m-health ,intervention ,mental health ,psychology ,Medicine (General) ,R5-920 - Abstract
The impact of e-Health and m-health interventions on mental health, highlighting their potential to address psychological problems. E-health is defined as the use of information and communication technologies in support of health, while mobile health refers to the usage of mobile technologies for health purposes. Both offer benefits such as availability, accessibility, cost-effectiveness and content personalization. The effectiveness of mobile apps in improving quality of life, reducing symptoms of stress and depression, and promoting emotional well-being. The importance of integrating psychological theories into these applications is highlighted and the need for more research, especially in populations such as older adults and health workers. Accessibility and reach of psychological services through m-health are crucial, but challenges are observed in adoption and usability, especially in environments such as that of university students. The need to carefully consider the socio-cultural experiences and preferences of users when developing m-health applications is highlighted. There are three examples of interventions in Mexico, highlighting the implementation of preventive strategies for adolescents, augmented reality in psychology teaching, and a smoking cessation programme for adults. Although successful, it is recognized that there is little scientific evidence related to mobile applications in the Mexican population. It highlights the potential of mobile technology in mental health, but also points to challenges and the need for ongoing research to ensure the ethical and effective development of applications in this field.
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- 2024
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45. Intelligent health in the IS area: A literature review and research agenda
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Xitong Guo and Yan Li
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Intelligent health ,IT impacts ,Service innovation ,Research agenda ,e-Health ,Online health communities ,Science (General) ,Q1-390 - Abstract
As the global demand for healthcare services continues to grow, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare ecosystem has become a pressing concern. Information systems are transforming the healthcare delivery process, shifting the focus of healthcare services from passive disease treatment to proactive health prevention and the healthcare management model from hospital-centric to patient-centric. This study focuses on reviewing research in IS journals on the topic of e-health and is dedicated to constructing a theoretical model of intelligent health to provide a research basis for future discussions in this field. In addition, as the innovation of intelligent healthcare services has led to changes in its elements (e.g., an increase in the number of stakeholders), there is an urgent need to sort out and analyze the existing research.
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- 2024
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46. ‘Feeling Hot’: Exploring the feasibility of nocturnal erection detection through penile temperature measurements
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Hille J. Torenvlied, Evelien Trip, Wouter Olthuis, Loes I. Segerink, Rob C. M. Pelger, and Jack J. H. Beck
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ambulatory diagnostics ,e‐health ,erectile dysfunction ,nocturnal erections ,penile temperature ,RigiScan ,Diseases of the genitourinary system. Urology ,RC870-923 - Abstract
Abstract Objectives The observational ‘Feeling Hot’ study aims to evaluate the feasibility of employing overnight penile temperature measurements for the detection of nocturnal erections, thereby contributing to the advancement and modernization of a non‐invasive diagnostic system for erectile dysfunction. Subjects/Patients and Methods In this proof‐of‐concept study, 10 healthy men aged 20–25 were recruited, following the methodology outlined in the ‘Staying Hot’ study by Torenvlied et al. Participants underwent ambulatory overnight penile temperature measurements concurrent with RigiScan recordings. Key outcome measures included baseline and peak penile temperatures during RigiScan‐annotated nocturnal erections. Reference measurements of the thigh temperature were also taken to assess nocturnal temperature variations. Results Statistically significant penile temperature increases (p = 0.008, n = 9) were observed during nocturnal erections, with an average elevation of 1.47°C noted during the initial erections. This underscores the practical utility of penile temperature measurements in detecting erection onset. Challenges arose in accurately determining erection duration and subsequent erection onsets due to the persistence of elevated temperatures following initial erections, termed the ‘Staying Hot effect’. Reference thigh temperature measurements aided in addressing this challenge. Conclusion Examining overnight penile temperature alongside simultaneous RigiScan recordings has yielded valuable insights into the viability of using the temperature methodology for detecting nocturnal erections. The ‘Feeling Hot’ study findings demonstrate significant penile temperature elevation during nocturnal erections in healthy young men, highlighting the potential of integrating this measurement methodology into the design of a modernized tool for ambulatory erectile dysfunction diagnostics. Further development of an advanced sensor system to comprehensively assess erection duration and quality is essential for enhancing clinical applicability.
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- 2024
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47. Analyzing health service employees' intention to use e-health systems in southwest Ethiopia: using UTAUT-2 model.
- Author
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Admassu, Wasihun and Gorems, Kasahun
- Subjects
- *
OCCUPATIONAL health services , *CONSUMER behavior , *JOB performance , *STRUCTURAL equation modeling , *MEDICAL care - Abstract
Background: E-health systems have the potential to improve healthcare delivery and access to medical services in resource-constrained settings. Despite its impact, the system exhibits a low level of consumer acceptance and intention to use it. This research paper aims to analyze the intention of health service employees to use e-health systems in southwest Ethiopia using the UTAUT-2 model. Method: Institutional-based cross-sectional studies were conducted at four referral hospitals (two private and two public) to examine the acceptance of e-health among consumers. Employees who had previous experience with diagnostic information systems and the health logistic information system were given structured questionnaires based on the UTAUT-2 model. The data were analyzed using the PLS-SEM method to identify the key factors that influence the intention to use e-health systems. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and SmartPLS 3 software. Result: Out of the 400 surveyed employees, 225 (56.25%) valid questionnaires were collected. The findings indicate that three factors—effort expectancy (β = 0.276, t = 3.015, p = 0.001), habit (β = 0.309, t = 3.754, p = 0), and performance expectancy (β = 0.179, t = 1.905, p = 0.028)—had a significant positive impact on employees' intention to use e-health systems. On the other hand, factors such as social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation, and price values did not appear as significant predictors of intention to use e-health. The study model was able to predict 63% of employees' intentions to use e-health systems. Conclusion: Effort expectancy, habit, and performance expectancy were significant predictors of employees' intention to use e-health systems among health service employees in southwest Ethiopia. The study supports the ideas that ease of use, experience with information systems, and the role of the systems in improving job performance contribute to employees' intention to use e-health. Policymakers and healthcare organizations in the region can use these findings to develop strategies for successful implementation and adoption of e-health systems, ultimately improving healthcare services and outcomes for the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
48. Acceptability of the combined online interactive mindfulness and exercise programme (MOVE-Online) for adults with chronic pain – A qualitative study.
- Author
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Deegan, Orla, Fullen, Brona M., Hearty, Conor, and Doody, Catherine M.
- Subjects
- *
CHRONIC pain treatment , *QUALITATIVE research , *FOCUS groups , *RESEARCH funding , *SELF-efficacy , *EVALUATION of human services programs , *MINDFULNESS , *EXERCISE therapy , *INTERVIEWING , *TELEMEDICINE , *EXPERIENCE , *PAIN management , *CONCEPTUAL structures , *AFFECT (Psychology) , *PATIENTS' attitudes , *PATIENT participation , *ADULTS - Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this qualitative study was to utilise the recent Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA) to explore participants' acceptability of the mindfulness and exercise interventions in the MOVE-Online pain management programme (PMP) and the programmes' online delivery method. Methods: Online focus groups were carried out following the completion of the PMP. The data were analysed using template analysis in terms of the seven TFA constructs of acceptability [(i) Perceived Effectiveness, (ii) Affective Attitude, (iii) Self-Efficacy, (iv) Ethicality, (v) Burden, (vi) Opportunity Costs and (vii) Intervention Coherence]. Results: Twenty-one participants took part in the focus groups. Five of the seven TFA constructs of acceptability were identified in the analysis. The participants perceived the intervention to have been effective at achieving the goals of the PMP (TFA construct: (i) Perceived Effectiveness), to have supported their emotional management ((ii) Affective Attitude), promoted long term self-directed engagement ((iii) Self-Efficacy), fostered a valued group environment ((iv) Ethicality) and the online delivery of the programme reduced the physical burden associated with participation at an in-person PMP ((v) Burden). Conclusion: The results of the study supports the utility of the TFA as a tool to explore the multi-dimensional construct of acceptability for the participants in the MOVE-Online programme. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: This investigation contributes to the understanding of acceptability as a complex multidimensional construct and emphasises the importance of considering the multiple dimensions when evaluating participants interpretations of novel complex interventions. Results suggest that participants found a pain management programme delivered in a live, online, interactive format to be acceptable, and it may be useful for rehabilitation professionals as an option for chronic pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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49. Sensor-Based Real-Time Monitoring Approach for Multi-Participant Workout Intensity Management.
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Saias, José and Bravo, Jorge
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DIGITAL technology ,PHYSICAL training & conditioning ,HEART beat ,WEARABLE technology ,WIRELESS communications - Abstract
One of the significant advantages of technological evolution is the greater ease of collecting and analyzing data. Miniaturization, wireless communication protocols and IoT allow the use of sensors to collect data, with all the potential to support decision making in real time. In this paper, we describe the design and implementation of a digital solution to guide the intensity of training or physical activity, based on heart rate wearable sensors applied to participants in group sessions. Our system, featuring a unified engine that simplifies sensor management and minimizes user disruption, has been proven effective for real-time monitoring. It includes custom alerts during variable-intensity workouts, and ensures data preservation for subsequent analysis by physiologists or clinicians. This solution has been used in sessions of up to six participants and sensors up to 12 m away from the gateway device. We describe some challenges and constraints we face in collecting data from multiple and possibly different sensors simultaneously via Bluetooth Low Energy, and the approaches we follow to overcome them. We conduct an in-depth questionnaire to identify potential obstacles and drivers for system acceptance. We also discuss some possibilities for extension and improvement of our system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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50. Online Disease Management Training for Older Adults With Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
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Yilmaz, Evre and Polat, Ülkü
- Subjects
- *
SELF-efficacy , *DISEASE management , *VISUAL analog scale , *RANDOMIZED controlled trials , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics , *FUNCTIONAL status , *OSTEOARTHRITIS , *QUALITY of life - Abstract
Introduction: Using online methods in health education is an effective method that provides individual services to older adults with limited access to health services and allows for low‐cost and continuous communication. Methods: The study was completed with 52 older adults diagnosed with osteoarthritis, including 26 intervention and 26 control participants. For data collection, a Patient Information Form, Visual Analogue Scale, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, Self‐Efficacy Scale in Arthritis, World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument‐Older Adults Module and a Telephone Counselling Follow‐up Form were used. Individuals in the intervention group were provided with online training for the first 4 weeks and telephone counselling for the following 4 weeks. Scales were applied to both groups. Results: The scales were applied to both groups at the first, second and last measurements. It was determined that there was a significant difference between the total pain and functional status scores of the individuals in the intervention and control groups at the second and last measurement (p < 0.05), while the average scores of the intervention group were lower control group. The total self‐efficacy score and quality of life total score of the intervention group were statistically significantly higher than the total score of the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: As a result of the research, it was found that online education and telephone counselling given to elderly individuals with osteoarthritis were effective in reducing pain severity and improving functional status, self‐efficacy and quality of life. Trial Registration: The trial was registered at ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT04816474/2021‐08‐10/https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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