Journal articles on the topic 'Health attitudes Victoria'
To see the other types of publications on this topic, follow the link: Health attitudes Victoria.
Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles
Consult the top 50 journal articles for your research on the topic 'Health attitudes Victoria.'
Next to every source in the list of references, there is an 'Add to bibliography' button. Press on it, and we will generate automatically the bibliographic reference to the chosen work in the citation style you need: APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.
You can also download the full text of the academic publication as pdf and read online its abstract whenever available in the metadata.
Browse journal articles on a wide variety of disciplines and organise your bibliography correctly.
1
Breach, Rayleen, and Linda K. Jones. "Victorian maternal child health nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and beliefs towards national registration changes." Journal of Hospital Administration 6, no. 3 (March 26, 2017): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.5430/jha.v6n3p1.
Full textAbstract:
In 2010 National Registration for nurses was established which was likely to impact the role of the maternal and child health nurses (MCH) in Victoria. This study explored the perceived impact of the national changes to the MCH nurse workforce in Victoria following the implementation of national registration and a proposed national service framework. A qualitative exploratory descriptive design was employed with the purpose of exploring the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of Key Stakeholders (KSH) to the recent changes and perceived impact to Victorian MCH nurses. The significance of this study lies with understanding the gaps in current knowledge of KSH to the national changes. Outlined briefly in this paper will be main findings from the KSH. This involved interviewing 12 KSH from management positions, including Local Government Coordinators, Policy Advisors to the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, the Municipal Association of Victoria, along with academics from Universities that provide postgraduate Child and Family Health education programs for the MCH nurse qualification. Date was transcribed verbatim and content analysis used. Categories were developed by identifying recurrent patterns from the data, labels were then chosen which reflected the participant’s words: “common standard”; “losing our identity”; “universal service”; “we do it well” and “imposed from above”. Overall the KSH were concerned how the disparity in education and qualifications would be resolved and the effect this would have on the service. Findings from this study highlight the importance of comprehensively investigating services offered by all jurisdictions and using collaboration, communication and leadership to effectively introduce change.
2
Dodds, Alison M., D. W. Rankin, D. J. Hill, and N. J. Gray. "ATTITUDES AND SMOKING HABITS OF DOCTORS IN VICTORIA." Community Health Studies 3, no. 1 (February 12, 2010): 28–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1753-6405.1979.tb00227.x.
Full text
3
Charity, Mapingure, Mamimine Patrick Walter, Kabote Forbes, Mirimi Kumbirai, and Nyarota Margaret. "Stakeholders’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Practises towards Health Tourism Development in Zimbabwe." Australian Journal of Business and Management Research 03, no. 02 (February 14, 2013): 24–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.52283/nswrca.ajbmr.20130302a03.
Full textAbstract:
This research explored the feasibility of developing health tourism in Zimbabwe using knowledge levels, attitudes of stakeholders and current practises as barometers of the destination’s potential. Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with tourism experts, hoteliers and tour operators in Harare (capital city of Zimbabwe). The major findings of the study on knowledge, attitudes and practices were that knowledge level on health tourism was high among hoteliers and tourism experts, with tour operators exhibiting little knowledge. In terms of attitude, hoteliers were quite positive about the adoption of health tourism while tourism experts were pessimistic about health tourism’s potential to provide a return on investment. On current health tourism practises the study revealed that there were health packages offered by hotels to a limited extent and only as a requirement for their grading. Nevertheless, an overarching insight from the study was that development of health tourism was a possibility in Zimbabwe if marketed in tandem with existing `anchor’ attractions such as Victoria Falls and others of a similar international stature and appeal.
4
Hanna, Lisa, and Karen Fairhurst. "Using information and communication technologies to consult with patients in Victorian primary care: the views of general practitioners." Australian Journal of Primary Health 19, no. 2 (2013): 166. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/py11153.
Full textAbstract:
Information and communication technologies such as email, text messaging and video messaging are commonly used by the general population. However, international research has shown that they are not used routinely by GPs to communicate or consult with patients. Investigating Victorian GPs’ perceptions of doing so is timely given Australia’s new National Broadband Network, which may facilitate web-based modes of doctor−patient interaction. This study therefore aimed to explore Victorian GPs’ experiences of, and attitudes toward, using information and communication technologies to consult with patients. Qualitative telephone interviews were carried out with a maximum variation sample of 36 GPs from across Victoria. GPs reported a range of perspectives on using new consultation technologies within their practice. Common concerns included medico-legal and remuneration issues and perceived patient information technology literacy. Policy makers should incorporate GPs’ perspectives into primary care service delivery planning to promote the effective use of information and communication technologies in improving accessibility and quality of general practice care.
5
Livingston, Patricia, Melanie Wakefield, and J. Mark Elwood. "Community attitudes towards the early detection of cancer in Victoria, Australia." Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health 31, no. 1 (February 2007): 26–29. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1753-6405.2007.00006.x.
Full text
6
McLennan, Fiona, Kate Vickers, Kylie Mason, Karen Bloomberg, Victoria Leadbetter, and Meg Engel. "Capacity Building and Complex Communication Needs: A New Approach to Specialist Speech Pathology Services in Rural Victoria." Australian Journal of Primary Health 12, no. 2 (2006): 66. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/py06024.
Full textAbstract:
The aim of this article is to provide a description of the establishment of an innovative approach to improving speech pathology services and community inclusion of people with complex communication needs in rural Victoria. The East Hume Regional Communication Service was established by Ovens and King Community Health Service in partnership with Wodonga Regional Health Service in 2004 as part of a "hub and spoke" network of services across Victoria for people with complex communication needs. Unlike traditional speech pathology services that historically have focused on clinical one-to-one intervention, the Regional Communication Service has a strong focus on community capacity building, enhancing inclusion of people with complex communication needs through improved knowledge, skills and attitudes. This paper will review the relevant literature and outline the Victorian Government policy context within which the service was established. Service highlights and successful initiatives will be described and key factors contributing to the success of the East Hume Regional Communication Service will be explored. Areas for process improvement during the initial two years of operation will also be discussed. This article will provide an insight into establishment of a service delivery model addressing both individual needs and community inclusion that has the potential to be extended across multiple disciplines and areas of practice within rural Australia.
7
Carta, Bill, Brenda Happell, and Jaya Pinikahana. "Influence of an educational program on mental health professionals' knowledge and perceptions of problematic alcohol and other drug use." Australian Journal of Primary Health 10, no. 2 (2004): 43. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/py04025.
Full textAbstract:
The issue of co-morbid substance abuse and mental illness is clearly identified in the literature. The adequacy of the knowledge and skills of mental health professionals to deal with the complex problems associated with this co-morbidity has received considerable attention. The effect of an educational program on mental health professionals? knowledge and perceptions of problematic alcohol and substance abuse was measured in a questionnaire survey in Victoria, Australia. The aim was to determine if an educational program could facilitate knowledge and attitudinal change among mental health professionals. In the pre-survey, a questionnaire on knowledge, skills, attitudes and practices was administered to 378 clinicians in Victoria (133 were returned, representing a 46% response rate). In the post-survey, 131 questionnaires were returned (response rate 35%). Significant changes in knowledge were reported following the educational program in the areas of overall knowledge of drug and alcohol, diagnosis of drug and alcohol abuse, and management of drug and alcohol abusers. While positive attitudes towards problematic drug and alcohol issues were expressed, specific educational programs to enhance their knowledge and skills in assessment and management of problematic drug and alcohol users are recommended.
8
Chinnasamy, Alagesan, and Marjory Moodie. "Diabetes Related Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice – A Survey Among Oral Health Professionals in Victoria, Australia." Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dentistry Volume 12 (April 2020): 111–21. http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/ccide.s240212.
Full text
9
Harvey, David H. P. "Integration in Victoria: Teachers’ Attitudes After Six Years of A No‐Choice Policy." International Journal of Disability, Development and Education 39, no. 1 (January 1992): 33–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0156655920390105.
Full text
10
Bismark, Marie M., Simon J. Walter, and David M. Studdert. "The role of boards in clinical governance: activities and attitudes among members of public health service boards in Victoria." Australian Health Review 37, no. 5 (2013): 682. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah13125.
Full textAbstract:
Objectives To determine the nature and extent of governance activities by health service boards in relation to quality and safety of care and to gauge the expertise and perspectives of board members in this area. Methods This study used an online and postal survey of the Board Chair, Quality Committee Chair and two randomly selected members from the boards of all 85 health services in Victoria. Seventy percent (233/332) of members surveyed responded and 96% (82/85) of boards had at least one member respond. Results Most boards had quality performance as a standing item on meeting agendas (79%) and reviewed data on medication errors and hospital-acquired infections at least quarterly (77%). Fewer boards benchmarked their service’s quality performance against external comparators (50%) or offered board members formal training on quality (53%). Eighty-two percent of board members identified quality as a top priority for board oversight, yet members generally considered their boards to be a relatively minor force in shaping the quality of care. There was a positive correlation between the size of health services (total budget, inpatient separations) and their board’s level of engagement in quality-related activities. Ninety percent of board members indicated that additional training in quality and safety would be ‘moderately useful’ or ‘very useful’. Almost every respondent believed the overall quality of care their service delivered was as good as, or better than, the typical Victorian health service. Conclusions Collectively, health service boards are engaged in an impressive range of clinical governance activities. However, the extent of engagement is uneven across boards, certain knowledge deficits are evident and there was wide agreement among board members that further training in quality-related issues would be useful. What is known about the topic? There is an emerging international consensus that effective board leadership is a vital element of high-quality healthcare. In Australia, new National Health Standards require all public health service boards to have a ‘system of governance that actively manages patient safety and quality risks’. What does this paper add? Our survey of all public health service Boards in Victoria found that, overall, boards are engaged in an impressive range of clinical governance activities. However, tensions are evident. First, whereas some boards are strongly engaged in clinical governance, others report relatively little activity. Second, despite 8 in 10 members rating quality as a top board priority, few members regarded boards as influential players in determining it. Third, although members regarded their boards as having strong expertise in quality, there were signs of knowledge limitations, including: near consensus that (additional) training would be useful; unfamiliarity with key national quality documents; and overly optimistic beliefs about quality performance. What are the implications for practitioners? There is scope to improve board expertise in clinical governance through tailored training programs. Better board reporting would help to address the concern of some board members that they are drowning in data yet thirsty for meaningful information. Finally, standardised frameworks for benchmarking internal quality data against external measures would help boards to assess the performance of their own health service and identify opportunities for improvement.
11
Cullinane, Meabh, Stefanie A. Zugna, Helen L. McLachlan, Michelle S. Newton, and Della A. Forster. "Evaluating the impact of a maternity and neonatal emergencies education programme in Australian regional and rural health services on clinician knowledge and confidence: a pre-test post-test study." BMJ Open 12, no. 5 (May 2022): e059921. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059921.
Full textAbstract:
IntroductionAlmost 78 000 women gave birth in the state of Victoria, Australia, in 2019. While most births occurred in metropolitan Melbourne and large regional centres, a significant proportion of women birthed in rural services. In late 2016, to support clinicians to recognise and respond to clinical deterioration, the Victorian government mandated provision of an emergency training programme, called Maternity and Newborn Emergencies (MANE), to rural and regional maternity services across the state. This paper describes the evaluation of MANE.Design and settingA quasi-experimental study design was used; the Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model provided the framework.ParticipantsParticipants came from the 17 rural and regional Victorian maternity services who received MANE in 2018 and/or 2019.Outcome measuresBaseline data were collected from MANE attendees before MANE delivery, and at four time points up to 12 months post-delivery. Clinicians’ knowledge of the MANE learning objectives, and confidence ratings regarding the emergencies covered in MANE were evaluated. The Safety Attitudes Questionnaire (SAQ) assessed safety climate pre-MANE and 6 months post-MANE among all maternity providers at the sites.ResultsImmediately post-MANE, most attendees reported increased confidence to escalate clinical concerns (n=251/259). Knowledge in the non-technical and practical aspects of the programme increased. Management of perinatal emergencies was viewed as equally stressful pre-MANE and post-MANE, but confidence to manage these emergencies increased post-delivery. Pre-MANE SAQ scores showed consistently strong and poor performing services. Six months post-MANE, some services showed improvements in SAQ scores indicative of improved safety climate.ConclusionMANE delivery resulted in both short-term and sustained improvements in knowledge of, and confidence in, maternity emergencies. Further investigation of the SAQ across Victoria may facilitate identification of services with a poor safety climate who could benefit from frequent targeted interventions (such as the MANE programme) at these sites.
12
Cary, John, and Anne Pisarski. "Social benchmarking to improve river ecosystems." Water Science and Technology 64, no. 5 (September 1, 2011): 1148–53. http://dx.doi.org/10.2166/wst.2011.044.
Full textAbstract:
To complement physical measures or indices of river health a social benchmarking instrument has been developed to measure community dispositions and behaviour regarding river health. This instrument seeks to achieve three outcomes. First, to provide a benchmark of the social condition of communities' attitudes, values, understanding and behaviours in relation to river health; second, to provide information for developing management and educational priorities; and third, to provide an assessment of the long-term effectiveness of community education and engagement activities in achieving changes in attitudes, understanding and behaviours in relation to river health. In this paper the development of the social benchmarking instrument is described and results are presented from the first state-wide benchmark study in Victoria, Australia, in which the social dimensions of river health, community behaviours related to rivers, and community understanding of human impacts on rivers were assessed.
13
Goudey, Ramon E., and Sandra C. Thompson. "Knowledge of and attitudes to infection control of tattooists at registered premises in Victoria, 1994." Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health 21, no. 1 (February 1997): 17–22. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-842x.1997.tb01647.x.
Full text
14
Lien, On. "Attitudes of the Vietnamese Community towards Mental Illness." Australasian Psychiatry 1, no. 3 (August 1993): 110–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/10398569309081340.
Full textAbstract:
There are approximately 155,000 Vietnamese born people in Australia, with 46,000 in Victoria. The majority came to Australia as refugees. Many were subjected to the reality or threat of war, persecution, imprisonment, discrimination, economic deprivation, violence, the loss of family or other major stressors. These stressors have included the hazards of the escape, lengthy stays in refugee camps and, on arrival in Australia, lack of familiarity with English and with the culture. The Vietnamese Community in Australia was expected to have a high prevalence of mental illness, especially when newly arrived from refugee camps. In a study published in 1986 as “The Price of Freedom” [1] 32% of the young Vietnamese adult group was found to suffer from psychiatric disorder. At follow-up two years later, the prevalence of psychiatric disorder, without any major intervention, had dropped to 5–6%, a prevalence lower than that in the Australian-born community. In addition, the Vietnamese community's use of mental health services (inpatient and community-based) is lower than that of any other ethnic group.
15
Turner, Trevor. "Erotomania and Queen Victoria: or love among the assassins?" Psychiatric Bulletin 14, no. 4 (April 1990): 224–27. http://dx.doi.org/10.1192/pb.14.4.224.
Full textAbstract:
The issue of crime and insanity in Victorian Britain is dominated by the 1843 case of Daniel McNaughton. Hounded by paranoid delusions, about which he was relatively unforthcoming despite detailed questioning, he succeeded in shooting Henry Drummond, private secretary to the Prime Minister, Robert Peel. Thinking that it was Peel himself he had shot, McNaughton is quoted by the arresting policeman as stating “he shall break my peace of mind no longer”. The furore over his trial and non-execution filtered down the century, via the McNaughton rules. Daniel himself mouldered in Bethlem and Broadmoor for the rest of his days (West & Walk, 1977, esp. p. 93). But much more prevalent in the public's eye were the seven (at least) serious assaults on the Queen. Not only did they bring about a new criminal charge (vide infra) – but their recurrence tended to promote pro-royalist sympathies as well as pro-custodial attitudes towards “the insane”.
16
Carta, Bill, Brenda HappeIl, and Jaya Pinikahana. "Mental Health Professionals' Knowledge and Perceptions of Problematic Alcohol and Substance Use: A Questionnaire Survey." Australian Journal of Primary Health 8, no. 3 (2002): 67. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/py02045.
Full textAbstract:
The drug and alcohol related knowledge and perceptions of clinicians were examined in order for the Substance Use and Mental Illness Treatment Team to develop a relevant training curriculum for clinicians. A questionnaire on knowledge, skills, attitudes, and practices was distributed to 378 clinicians in Victoria. One hundred and seventy-three clinicians returned the questionnaire giving an overall response rate of 46%. The survey results showed that, although both a knowledge and skills gap exists in assessment and management of alcohol and drug problems, knowledge levels were of an adequate standard overall. Notable areas of weakness included basic knowledge of alcohol and drugs, such as the number of grams of alcohol in a standard drink and the number of alcohol-free days per week recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council. While positive attitudes towards problematic drug and alcohol issues were expressed, specific educational programs to enhance skills in assessment and management of problematic drug and alcohol users are needed.
17
MWANGA, J. R., P. MAGNUSSEN, THE LATE C. L. MUGASHE, THE LATE R. M. GABONE, and J. AAGAARD-HANSEN. "SCHISTOSOMIASIS-RELATED PERCEPTIONS, ATTITUDES AND TREATMENT-SEEKING PRACTICES IN MAGU DISTRICT, TANZANIA: PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATIONS." Journal of Biosocial Science 36, no. 1 (January 2004): 63–81. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0021932003006114.
Full textAbstract:
A study on perceptions, attitudes and treatment-seeking practices related to schistosomiasis was conducted among the Wasukuma in the rural Magu district of Tanzania at the shore of Lake Victoria where Schistosoma haematobium and mansoni infections are endemic. The study applied in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and a questionnaire survey among adults and primary school children. The perceived symptoms and causes were incongruous with the biomedical perspective and a number of respondents found schistosomiasis to be a shameful disease. Lack of diagnostic and curative services at the government health care facilities was common, but there was a willingness from the biomedical health care services to collaborate with the traditional healers. Recommendations to the District Health Management Team were: that collaboration between biomedical and traditional health care providers should be strengthened and that the government facilities’ diagnostic and curative capacity with regard to schistosomiasis should be upgraded. Culturally compatible health education programmes should be developed in collaboration with the local community.
18
Loi, Samantha M., Briony Dow, Kirsten Moore, Keith Hill, Melissa Russell, Elizabeth Cyarto, Sue Malta, David Ames, and Nicola T. Lautenschlager. "Attitudes to aging in older carers – do they have a role in their well-being?" International Psychogeriatrics 27, no. 11 (June 15, 2015): 1893–901. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1041610215000873.
Full textAbstract:
ABSTRACTBackground:Attitudes to aging have been investigated in non-carer populations and found to have important relationships with physical and mental health. However, these have not been explored in an older carer sample, although it is becoming increasingly important to clarify variables which are linked with positive carer outcomes. This is one of the first studies to report on older carers, their attitudes to aging, and the relationship with carer-related factors.Methods:A cross-sectional study of 202 carers with a mean age of 70.8 years was conducted in Victoria, Australia, using carer demographic data, carer factors such as depression (using the Geriatric Depression Scale), burden (using the Zarit Burden Inventory, ZBI), physical health, personality, and attitudes to aging (using the Attitudes to Aging Questionnaire, AAQ). Spearman rank correlation and hierarchical regression analyses were used.Results:This study showed that carers had overall positive attitudes to aging inspite of their caring role. It also identified that carer factors including depression and burden contributed a significant amount of the variance to attitudes to aging in terms of physical change and psychosocial loss. Personality traits, specifically neuroticism, and extraversion, were also important contributors to attitudes to aging.Conclusions:Results from this study demonstrated that inspite of moderate levels of depression and spending significant time caring, carers reported positive attitudes to aging. Treating depression, decreasing burden, and investigating the benefits of caring may assist older carers maintain their well-being.
19
Thomas, S. L., K. Lam, L. Piterman, A. Mijch, and P. A. Komesaroff. "Complementary medicine use among people living with HIV/AIDS in Victoria, Australia: practices, attitudes and perceptions." International Journal of STD & AIDS 18, no. 7 (July 1, 2007): 453–57. http://dx.doi.org/10.1258/095646207781147292.
Full textAbstract:
There is limited evidence suggesting the underlying reasons for the use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) by people with HIV/AIDS, or individual attitudes and beliefs about the use of CAMs. Using focus groups and a survey with 151 individuals attending the HIV Clinics at The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, we aimed to provide insights into factors that influence the use of CAMs among people living with HIV/AIDS. Roughly half (49%) of the participants had used CAMs to manage their HIV/AIDs. Users of CAMs utilized a wide range of treatments in managing their condition, but costs of the CAMs meant that users were not necessarily able to use them as much as they might have liked. Use of CAMs was based on a desire to find something beneficial rather than on being dissatisfied with conventional medicine. Further research is needed into (a) the effects of CAMs and (b) the enhancement of communication and collaboration between patients, doctors and complementary medicine practitioners.
20
Bismark, Marie, Susan Biggar, Catherine Crock, Jennifer M. Morris, and David M. Studdert. "The role of governing boards in improving patient experience: Attitudes and activities of health service boards in Victoria, Australia." Patient Experience Journal 1, no. 1 (April 30, 2014): 144–52. http://dx.doi.org/10.35680/2372-0247.1018.
Full text
21
Pitts, Marian K., Suzanne J. Dyson, Doreen A. Rosenthal, and Suzanne M. Garland. "Knowledge and awareness of human papillomavirus (HPV): attitudes towards HPV vaccination among a representative sample of women in Victoria, Australia." Sexual Health 4, no. 3 (2007): 177. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/sh07023.
Full textAbstract:
Background: A vaccine program is underway to protect women against human papillomavirus (HPV) and thus cervical cancer. Previous studies have reported very low levels of HPV knowledge and there has been concern that preventative vaccines might not be readily accepted, given that HPV is transmitted sexually and the optimal time for vaccination is before sexual debut. Methods: A computer-assisted telephone survey was carried out with a representative sample of 1100 women aged 18 to 61 years, randomly selected from households in Victoria, Australia, to investigate knowledge and attitudes about HPV and attitudes towards HPV vaccination. Results: Half of the participants (51%) had heard of HPV; most reported learning about it from the media. Most women indicated they would trust their general practitioner (96.3%), a gynaecologist or specialist doctor (99.6%), or a women’s health service (97.0%) for information about HPV. Few women (11.9%) had ever sought information about HPV and only 14.8% of the total sample had ever discussed HPV with a friend. Strong support was found for vaccination in general and there was also significant support for a HPV vaccine. Conclusion: The present study documents ways in which women learn about HPV and indicates the potential for success of a vaccination program.
22
Devlin, Brooke L., Kiera Staley, Gina L. Trakman, Adrienne J. Forsyth, Matthew G. Nicholson, Grant Cosgriff, Melanie Chisholm, and Regina Belski. "Attitudes and Opinions of Parents towards Water-Only Drink Policy at Junior Triathlon Events." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19, no. 14 (July 12, 2022): 8529. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148529.
Full textAbstract:
Rates of childhood obesity within Australia continue to rise, with consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages one contributing factor. Community sport provides an opportunity to implement policies promoting water as the beverage of choice. However, the attitudes of parents toward a water-only policy are not known. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate parents’ opinions towards beverage consumption and a water-only policy. Data were collected from participants (n = 159) using an investigator-designed questionnaire, administered using iPads, at a junior Triathlon Victoria event. Water was the most popular beverage provided before (75%), during (85%) and after (61%) sport. Parents were more likely to provide sports drinks to children older than 14 years (27%). Three-quarters (77%) of parents reported having received no information regarding hydration requirements. Parents rated the importance of hydration prior to, during and after a triathlon as high (9.08 ± 1.2, 8.76 ± 1.3 and 9.30 ± 0.4 out of 10, respectively). Parents were supportive of a water-only policy at all junior triathlon events and all junior sporting events (7.94 ± 1.3 and 7.86 ± 1.9, respectively). There was less support for a water-only policy for adult triathlons (6.40 ± 3.1). A water-only drink policy at junior sport is viewed positively by parents. This warrants further research and policy development to facilitate behaviour change.
23
Philip Bill Okaka, Olan’g Alfred, Florence Ondieki - Mwaura, and Maurice Sakwa. "Effect of Community Health Support Systems and Technology Obsolescence on Utilization of mHealth Information by Teenagers Living with HIV/AIDS in Island Communities of Lake Victoria, Kenya." International Journal of World Policy and Development Studies, no. 73 (July 11, 2021): 45–56. http://dx.doi.org/10.32861/ijwpds.73.45.56.
Full textAbstract:
The emergence of mHealth as an alternative access point for care and treatment is lauded by development agencies as ingenious innovation for bridging health care access for teenagers living with HIV/AIDS among detached communities like the islands of Lake Victoria. It is also presumed that mHealth transcends beyond teenagers’ concerns with location and unfriendly hours of operation of health facilities. mHealth is alleged to increase privacy and confidentiality, reduce the cost of service delivery, and loops over retrogressive cultural beliefs and attitudes exhibited by health care providers and caregivers, consequently increasing access to health information, care, and treatment. Specifically, the study sought to determine the technology obsolescence and explore community-based health support systems that facilitate suitable utilization of mHealth by teenagers living with HIV from the island communities of Lake Victoria and its effect on treatment access. To support this study, two philosophies: The theory of Reasoned Action and the Technology Adoption Lifecycle Model were applied. Anchored on cross-sectional study design, stratified sampling identified the psychosocial support groups of teenagers living with HIV. The probit model was applied to the study. With a study population of approximately 409 in Ringiti, Remba, Rusinga, Mfangano, and Mageta Islands, questionnaires were administered to 173 sampled teenagers living with HIV as a unit of analysis, and a control group made up of 30 percent of the sample ascertained effect of mHealth on treatment access. Five focus group discussions and key informant interviews of 10 and 3 were held on each Island. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to estimate the effect of the independent variables on the dependent variable. Further, the results showed that technology obsolescence and community-based health support systems had a significant effect on access to treatment by teenagers living with HIV/AIDS in the Island communities of Lake Victoria. Consequently, this study provides organizations promoting access to access to treatment by teenagers living with HIV/AIDS through mHealth. The study recommended that government and organizations involved in HIV/AIDS related activities should adopt a culture of enhancing mHealth by focusing on technology obsolescence and community-based health support systems. This could go a long way in ensuring there is improved access to treatment by teenagers living with HIV/AIDS in Island communities of Lake Victoria.
24
Roche, Ann M., Michael D. Parle, Jane Campbell, and John B. Saunders. "Substance Abuse Disorders: Psychiatric Trainees' Knowledge, Diagnostic Skills and Attitudes." Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry 29, no. 4 (December 1995): 645–52. http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/00048679509064980.
Full textAbstract:
Objective: The drug and alcohol related knowledge and attitudes of trainee psychiatrists were examined to obtain a baseline measure of these factors in order to determine whether current training is appropriate and adequate. Method: A questionnaire was distributed to trainees enrolled in the training program of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia (N=425). Questions were asked relating to theoretical knowledge, diagnostic and problem solving skills for a number of drug groups; further questions concerned the respondents' attitudes and opinions on aspects of management. Results: Sixty per cent of recipients returned the questionnaire. Theoretical and applied knowledge levels were of an adequate standard overall, but highly variable. Notable areas of weakness included knowledge of opiates, barbiturates and stimulants. Trainees' views regarding treatment options were also variable. Alcoholics Anonymous was considered the best supported form of treatment from evidence from controlled trials. Low levels of self efficacy and little support were recognised for early intervention strategies. Conclusions: While positive views were generally expressed towards involvement with patients with alcohol and drug problems, specific strategies to enhance training and performance are needed. Findings are discussed in terms of continuing education. It is recommended that if sufficient training in this area is not provided then psychiatrists will have little confidence in appropriate therapeutic approaches in treating substance misusers.
25
Dow, Briony, Marcia Fearn, Betty Haralambous, Jean Tinney, Keith Hill, and Stephen Gibson. "Development and initial testing of the Person-Centred Health Care for Older Adults Survey." International Psychogeriatrics 25, no. 7 (April 29, 2013): 1065–76. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1041610213000471.
Full textAbstract:
ABSTRACTBackground: Health services are encouraged to adopt a strong person-centered approach to the provision of care and services for older people. The aim of this project was to establish a user-friendly, psychometrically valid, and reliable measure of healthcare staff's practice, attitudes, and beliefs regarding person-centered healthcare.Methods: Item reduction (factor analysis) of a previously developed “benchmarking person-centred care” survey, followed by psychometric evaluations of the internal consistency reliability and construct validity, was conducted. The initial survey was completed by 1,428 healthcare staff from 17 health services across Victoria, Australia.Results: After removing 17 items from the previously developed “benchmarking person-centred care” survey, the revised 31-item survey (Person-Centred Health Care for Older Adults Survey) attained eight factors that explain 62.7% of the total variance with a Cronbach's α coefficient of 0.91, indicating excellent internal consistency. Expert consultation confirmed that the revised survey had content validity.Conclusions: The results indicated that the Person-Centred Health Care for Older Adults Survey is a user-friendly, psychometrically valid, and reliable measure of staff perceptions of person-centered healthcare for use in hospital settings.
26
Barber, Bridget, Margaret Hellard, Rebecca Jenkinson, Tim Spelman, and Mark Stoove. "Sexual history taking and sexually transmissible infection screening practices among men who have sex with men: a survey of Victorian general practitioners." Sexual Health 8, no. 3 (2011): 349. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/sh10079.
Full textAbstract:
Background HIV notifications among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Victoria, Australia, have increased recently. Early HIV diagnosis is a prevention strategy that requires general practitioners (GP) to recognise at-risk individuals and perform screening. Sexual history taking is part of this process. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 354 Victorian GP to investigate attitudes and practices regarding sexual history taking and screening for HIV in MSM. Results: In total, 185 (53%, 95% CI: 47–58%) GPs reported being ‘very likely’ to take a sexual history from MSM presenting for a routine check-up; however 161 (46%, 95% CI: 40–51%) would not do so during the initial consultation. Barriers to sexual history taking included time constraints (28%, 95% CI: 24–36%), feeling inadequately trained (25%, 95% CI: 21–30%), discomfort discussing sex (24%, 95% CI: 20–29%) and fear of patient embarrassment (24%, 95% CI: 20–29%). Factors associated with a reduced likelihood included being male, time constraints, fear of patient embarrassment, and moral or religious views. Most GP (63%, 95% CI: 58–68%) reported they would offer HIV screening 3–6 monthly for MSM with casual partners; 54 (16%, 95% CI: 12–20%) would offer screening only on request. Being unlikely to take a sexual history and fear of patient embarrassment were associated with a decreased likelihood of offering an HIV test. Conclusion: GP often fail to take a sexual history from MSM, limiting opportunities to offer HIV screening. Strategies are required to increase GPs’ awareness of sexual health as a priority for MSM.
27
Monaghan, Timothy, Jo-Anne Manski-Nankervis, and Rachel Canaway. "Big data or big risk: general practitioner, practice nurse and practice manager attitudes to providing de-identified patient health data from electronic medical records to researchers." Australian Journal of Primary Health 26, no. 6 (2020): 466. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/py20153.
Full textAbstract:
Research utilising de-identified patient health information extracted from electronic medical records (EMRs) from general practices has steadily grown in recent years in response to calls to increase use of health data for research and other secondary purposes in Australia. Little is known about the views of key primary care personnel on this issue, which are important, as they may influence whether practices agree to provide EMR data for research. This exploratory qualitative study investigated the attitudes and beliefs of general practitioners (GPs), practice managers (PMs) and practice nurses (PNs) around sharing de-identified EMR patient health information with researchers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 participants (6 GPs, 3 PMs and 2 PNs) recruited via purposive sampling from general practices in Victoria, Australia. Transcripts were coded and thematically analysed. Participants were generally enthusiastic about research utilising de-identified health information extracted from EMRs for altruistic reasons, including: positive effects on primary care research, clinical practice and population health outcomes. Concerns raised included patient privacy and data breaches, third-party use of extracted data and patient consent. These findings can provide guidance to researchers and policymakers in designing and implementing projects involving de-identified health information extracted from EMRs.
28
Manning, Victoria, Nicki A. Dowling, Simone N. Rodda, Ali Cheetham, and Dan I. Lubman. "An Examination of Clinician Responses to Problem Gambling in Community Mental Health Services." Journal of Clinical Medicine 9, no. 7 (July 1, 2020): 2075. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/jcm9072075.
Full textAbstract:
Gambling problems commonly co-occur with other mental health problems. However, screening for problem gambling (PG) rarely takes place within mental health treatment settings. The aim of the current study was to examine the way in which mental health clinicians respond to PG issues. Participants (n = 281) were recruited from a range of mental health services in Victoria, Australia. The majority of clinicians reported that at least some of their caseload was affected by gambling problems. Clinicians displayed moderate levels of knowledge about the reciprocal impact of gambling problems and mental health but had limited knowledge of screening tools to detect PG. Whilst 77% reported that they screened for PG, only 16% did so “often” or “always” and few expressed confidence in their ability to treat PG. However, only 12.5% reported receiving previous training in PG, and those that had, reported higher levels of knowledge about gambling in the context of mental illness, more positive attitudes about responding to gambling issues, and more confidence in detecting/screening for PG. In conclusion, the findings highlight the need to upskill mental health clinicians so they can better identify and manage PG and point towards opportunities for enhanced integrated working with gambling services.
29
Woodruff, Madeleine Eloise, Rebecca Doyle, Grahame Coleman, Lauren Hemsworth, and Carolina Munoz. "Knowledge and attitudes are important factors in farmers’ choice of lamb tail docking length." Veterinary Record 186, no. 10 (January 20, 2020): 319. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/vr.105631.
Full textAbstract:
BackgroundTail docking is common practice in the sheep industry to prevent soiling of the breech and flystrike. To ensure optimal healing after tail docking and reduce the risk of arthritis, perineal cancers and prolapses, it is recommended to dock tails equivalent to the length of the vulva. However, recent studies have found that some tails are docked too short (24–86 per cent).MethodsTo address this issue, this study aimed to identify key drivers behind tail docking length decisions. Two focus groups, phone (n=30) and online surveys (n=21) were conducted in regional Victoria, Australia to examine farmer knowledge of and attitudes towards appropriate lamb tail length and barriers to best practice. The focus group data were analysed qualitatively, and the surveys were analysed qualitatively and quantitatively.ResultsIn total, 57 per cent of farmers were classed as docking tails short. Short tail docking appeared to be influenced by unawareness of the recommended length and docking at a length that shearers approve of. Other potential factors included lack of knowledge of negative health consequences associated with short tails, importance placed on dag and flystrike prevention, and impracticality of measuring where to dock.ConclusionAddressing these factors in future education and intervention programmes may improve tail docking practice and sheep welfare.
30
Tomnay, Jane E., Rachelle L. Gebert, and Christopher K. Fairley. "A survey of partner notification practices among general practitioners and their use of an internet resource for partner notification for Chlamydia trachomatis." Sexual Health 3, no. 4 (2006): 217. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/sh05052.
Full textAbstract:
Objectives: To determine in which circumstances Victorian general practitioners (GPs) offer chlamydia testing to patients, the attitudes of GPs in relation to contact tracing, how often GPs use a pre-printed partner letter and patient brochure and what proportion of GPs have immediate internet access in their consulting rooms. Methods: This study involved two parts, an initial survey of a sample of GPs in Victoria and a study of GP use of a website that provided treatment guidelines, a printable client brochure and a partner letter. Results: Of 418 eligible GPs, 221 (53%, 48–58%, 95% CI) returned completed surveys. Of these, 213 (97%, 93–99%, 95% CI) GPs believed that patients were largely responsible for notifying partners. Partner letters were rarely used: 167 (76%, 70–81%, 95% CI) GPs reported they never used partner letters, 18 (8%, 5–13%, 95% CI) GPs reported rare use and 23 (10%, 7–15%, 95% CI) GPs reportedusing them sometimes. Of the GPs, 181 (82%, 77–87%, 95% CI) reported they would find a partner letter and patient brochure on a website helpful. During the study, the website was accessed by 28 GPs (25%, 17–34%, 95% CI) in Gippsland and 17 GPs (8%, 5–13%, 95% CI) in Geelong who received positive chlamydia results on 110 and 208 clients respectively. Conclusions: GPs mostly considered patients responsible for partner notification but uncommonly used partner letters or an information brochure to assist them. Importantly, GPs reported that they could improve partner notification if further support was provided. In addition, when a website was provided with useful documents on it, up to 25% of GPs used it. This indicates that simple and inexpensive interventions can support GPs with strategies that may improve the control of chlamydia.
31
Callegari, Emma T., Suzanne M. Garland, Alexandra Gorelik, Nicola J. Reavley, and John D. Wark. "Predictors and correlates of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in young women: results from the Safe-D study." British Journal of Nutrition 118, no. 4 (August 28, 2017): 263–72. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0007114517002021.
Full textAbstract:
AbstractVitamin D deficiency is a global public health concern. Studies of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) determinants in young women are limited and few include objective covariates. Our aims were to define the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and examine serum 25(OH)D correlates in an exploratory study of women aged 16–25 years. We studied 348 healthy females living in Victoria, Australia, recruited through Facebook. Data collected included serum 25(OH)D assayed by liquid chromatography-tandem MS, relevant serum biochemistry, soft tissue composition by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, skin melanin density, Fitzpatrick skin type, sun exposure using UV dosimeters and lifestyle factors. Mean serum 25(OH)D was 68 (sd27) nmol/l and 26 % were vitamin D deficient (25(OH)D <50 nmol/l). The final model explained 56 % of 25(OH)D variance. Serum sex hormone-binding globulin levels, creatinine levels, sun exposure measured by UV dosimeters, a positive attitude towards sun tanning, typically spending >2 h in the sun in summer daily, holidaying in the most recent summer period, serum Fe levels, height and multivitamin use were positively associated with 25(OH)D. Fat mass and a blood draw in any season except summer was inversely associated with 25(OH)D. Vitamin D deficiency is common in young women. Factors such as hormonal contraception, sun exposure and sun-related attitudes, as well as dietary supplement use are essential to consider when assessing vitamin D status. Further investigation into methods to safely optimise vitamin D status and to improve understanding of the impact of vitamin D status on long-term health outcomes is required.
32
Borland, R. "Changes in prevalence of and attitudes to restrictions on smoking in the workplace among indoor workers in the state of Victoria, Australia, 1988-90." Tobacco Control 1, no. 1 (March 1, 1992): 19–24. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/tc.1.1.19.
Full text
33
Knightbridge, Stephen M., Robert King, and Timothy J. Rolfe. "Using Participatory Action Research in a Community-Based Initiative Addressing Complex Mental Health Needs." Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry 40, no. 4 (April 2006): 325–32. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/j.1440-1614.2006.01798.x.
Full textAbstract:
Objective: This paper describes the first phase of a larger project that utilizes participatory action research to examine complex mental health needs across an extensive group of stakeholders in the community. Method: Within an objective qualitative analysis of focus group discussions the social ecological model is utilized to explore how integrative activities can be informed, planned and implemented across multiple elements and levels of a system. Seventy-one primary care workers, managers, policy-makers, consumers and carers from across the southern metropolitan and Gippsland regions of Victoria, Australia took part in seven focus groups. All groups responded to an identical set of focusing questions. Results: Participants produced an explanatory model describing the service system, as it relates to people with complex needs, across the levels of social ecological analysis. Qualitative themes analysis identified four priority areas to be addressed in order to improve the system's capacity for working with complexity. These included: (i) system fragmentation; (ii) integrative case management practices; (iii) community attitudes; and (iv) money and resources. Conclusions: The emergent themes provide clues as to how complexity is constructed and interpreted across the system of involved agencies and interest groups. The implications these findings have for the development and evaluation of this community capacity-building project were examined from the perspective of constructing interventions that address both top-down and bottom-up processes.
34
Trompf, J. P., and P. W. G. Sale. "Differences in management practices and attitudes between the Triple P Program entrants and other pastoral producers in the region." Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 41, no. 6 (2001): 773. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ea00193.
Full textAbstract:
A survey of the pasture productivity settings, practices and attitudes was undertaken for 229 pastoral producers who volunteered to enter the Triple P Program in 1997, and for 89 pastoral producers from 2 representative districts of Victoria. The latter group of producers was considered to be representative of the general population of pastoral producers in the regions where the Triple P Program was undertaken. Comparison of the survey results reveals that the volunteer participants entering the paired-paddock extension program employed different management practices and had different attitudes to productivity issues compared with the general pastoral producers. Before entering the program the Triple P volunteers were already employing more productive practices such as soil testing, measuring pasture availability and spring lambing. In addition the volunteers had higher whole-farm stocking rates and fertiliser use than the general pastoral producers. The different management practices employed by the 2 groups were consistent with their contrasting attitudes towards managing their farms. The Triple P volunteers were focussed on improving production per hectare through increased stocking rates, which could be achieved by additional expenditure on fertiliser and pasture renovation. The general pastoral producers were more focussed on improving production per head which was achieved by gauging animal performance, maintaining stock in good condition and maintaining expenditure on animal health. We contend that the differences identified between the producers volunteering to participate in the Triple P Program and the general pastoral producers are a direct consequence of the voluntary approach used to recruit Triple P participants. This approach attracts a select group of farmers who are inclined to engage in extension and training activities and tend to have different attitudes and practices to the general pastoral producer. A more proactive approach to recruitment will be required if a larger proportion of the general producer population is to engage in the paired-paddock extension program.
35
Tracy, Jane M. "People with an intellectual disability in the discourse of chronic and complex conditions: an invisible group?" Australian Health Review 33, no. 3 (2009): 478. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah090478.
Full textAbstract:
TO THE EDITOR: Goddard et al, authors of ?People with an intellectual disability in the discourse of chronic and complex conditions: an invisible group??1 are to be congratulated for raising discussion about one of the most vulnerable groups in Australia with respect to their receipt of optimal health care. The authors conclude that ?developing interventions and strategies to increase the knowledge of health care workers . . . caring for people with intellectual disabilities will likely improve the health care needs of this population and their families?. In relation to this identified need for health professional education and training in the care of people with intellectual disabilities, we would like to draw the attention of your readers to some work undertaken by the Centre for Developmental Disability Health Victoria (CDDHV) to address this issue. The CDDHV works to improve the health and health care of people with developmental disabilities through a range of educational, research and clinical activities. In recent years there has been an increasing awareness of the need for health professional education in this area. Moreover, as people with disabilities often have chronic and complex health and social issues, focusing on their health care provides a platform for interprofessional education and a springboard for understanding the essential importance and value of interprofessional practice. Recently, the CDDHV has taken a lead role in developing a teaching and learning resource that focuses both on the health care of people with disabilities and on the importance and value of interprofessional practice. This resource promotes and facilitates interprofessional learning, and develops understanding of the health and health care issues experienced by people with disabilities and those who support them. ?Health and disability: partnerships in action? is a new video-based teaching and learning package, produced through an interprofessional collaboration between health professionals from medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, paramedic practice, health science, social work, speech pathology, dietetics and dentistry. Those living with a disability are the experts on their own experience and so their direct involvement in and contribution to the education of health care professionals is essential. The collaboration between those featured in the video stories and health professionals has led to the development of a powerful resource that facilitates students and practitioners developing insights into the health and health care issues encountered by people with developmental disabilities. We also believe that through improving their understanding of, and health provision to, people with disabilities and those who support them, health professionals will acquire valuable attitudes, knowledge and skills applicable to many other patients in their practice population. Jane M Tracy Education Director Centre for Developmental Disability Health Victoria Melbourne, VIC
36
Saraswat, Nidhi, Rona Pillay, Neeta Prabhu, Bronwyn Everett, and Ajesh George. "Perceptions and Practices of General Practitioners towards Oral Cancer and Emerging Risk Factors among Indian Immigrants in Australia: A Qualitative Study." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 21 (October 22, 2021): 11111. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182111111.
Full textAbstract:
Background: In Australia, Indian immigrants are one of the fastest-growing communities. Since oral cancer is widespread in India, the indulgence of Indians in customs of areca (betel) nut use in Australia may be linked to the recent rise in oral cancer cases. Since GPs (general practitioners) are primary healthcare providers, it is pivotal to ensure the oral cancer awareness of GPs. This study aimed to explore oral cancer risk-related knowledge, beliefs, and clinical practices of GPs in Australia. Methods: Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with GPs practicing across New South Wales and Victoria. Purposive and snowball sampling were used for recruitment. Data were analysed through a directed content analysis approach. Results: All GPs were knowledgeable of major oral cancer causative factors including tobacco and alcohol, but some had limited understanding about the risks associated with areca nut preparations. Positive attitudes were evident, with all participants acknowledging the importance of oral cancer risk assessment. Most GPs recalled not performing oral cancer routine check-ups. Conclusion: GPs presented good oral cancer knowledge except for emerging risk factors such as areca nut use. Varied beliefs and inconsistent clinical practices relating to oral cancer screening is concerning. Accessible oral cancer training around emerging risk factors may benefit GPs.
37
Kaehler, Nils, Bipin Adhikari, Phaik Yeong Cheah, Nicholas P. J. Day, Daniel H. Paris, Marcel Tanner, and Christopher Pell. "The promise, problems and pitfalls of mass drug administration for malaria elimination: a qualitative study with scientists and policymakers." International Health 11, no. 3 (November 3, 2018): 166–76. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/inthealth/ihy079.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract Background The emergence of artemisinin resistance in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) has prompted urgent containment measures. One possible approach is mass drug administration (MDA). This article explores attitudes towards and perceptions of MDA for malaria elimination among policymakers and leading malariologists. Methods Thirty-two semistructured interviews (SSI) were conducted with policymakers (n=17) and principal investigators (n=15) selected based on their involvement in malaria prevention, control and elimination in the GMS. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed for qualitative content (thematic) analysis using NVivo (QSR International, Doncaster, Victoria, Australia). Results Researchers and policymakers described reluctance and consequently delays to pilot MDA for malaria elimination. Most policymakers and some researchers reported concerns around the evidence base, citing a lack of data on its effectiveness and appropriate target populations. There were also worries about promoting resistance. Other issues included a previous lack of support from the World Health Organization, past MDAs, the remoteness of target populations and challenges explaining the rationale for MDA. Conclusions The complex rationale for MDA for malaria elimination, mistaking pilot studies for implementation, past experiences with MDA, difficulties in selecting appropriate sites and the WHO’s lack of clear backing undermined the support for MDA for malaria elimination.
38
Drosdowsky, Allison, Sarah Blaschke, Trista Koproski, Sonia Fullerton, Arti Thakerar, Steve Ellen, Jo Phipps-Nelson, and Corry de Neef. "<i>Corrigendum to</i>: Cancer patients’ use of and attitudes towards medicinal cannabis." Australian Health Review 44, no. 4 (August 5, 2020): 656. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah19066_co.
Full textAbstract:
<b>Objectives</b>Access to medicinal cannabis is a timely and important issue in cancer care. Recent legislative changes in Australia have increased access to medicinal cannabis, but the views of people with cancer on this topic are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of the use of and attitudes towards medicinal cannabis among people with cancer. <b>Methods</b>A cross-sectional study was performed using an anonymous, 15-item study-specific paper-based survey. The survey was administered over a 2-week period in August 2017 in the waiting rooms of a specialist cancer hospital. <b>Results</b>In all, 339 patients completed the survey (mean (±s.d.) age 59±15 years; 52% male). Fourteen respondents (4%) were currently using cannabis medicinally. Only one of these respondents had a prescription for their cannabis product. Most respondents would consider using a medicinal cannabis product if recommended by their doctor (<i>n</i>=271; 80%). <b>Conclusion</b>This study is the first of its kind to survey the use of and attitudes towards medicinal cannabis in a broad sample of Australian people with cancer. Few respondents were currently using cannabis for medicinal purposes, but an overwhelming majority were in favour of increasing access and would consider using a prescribed product. <b>What is known about the topic?</b>Cannabis may have a wide variety of medicinal uses, particularly in the cancer setting. Currently, people with cancer in Victoria have limited access to medicinal cannabis despite recent legislative changes. <b>What does this paper add?</b>In a general sample of people with cancer, few were using cannabis for medicinal purposes, but most were in favour of widening access and would consider using a product their doctor prescribed. <b>What are the implications for practitioners?</b>Despite supporting access, patients indicated that the recommendations of doctors and increasing the evidence base are necessary requirements to their use of medicinal cannabis.
39
Ross, Anna, Nicola Reavley, Lay San Too, and Jane Pirkis. "Evaluation of a novel approach to preventing railway suicides: the community stations project." Journal of Public Mental Health 17, no. 2 (June 18, 2018): 51–60. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jpmh-06-2017-0022.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to describe an evaluation of the Community Stations Project. The Community Stations Project was designed to address railway suicides in two ways: by improving the station environment in a manner that might improve community members’ feelings of wellbeing; and raising community members’ awareness of poor mental health and likelihood of reaching out to at-risk individuals. It involved four types of interventions (arts and culture, music, food and coffee, and “special events”) delivered at four stations in Victoria. Design/methodology/approach A short anonymous survey was administered to community members on iPads at the four participating railway stations during the implementation of the interventions (between October and December 2016). The survey included questions about respondents’ demographics, their awareness of the intervention(s), their views of the station, their attitudes towards people with poor mental health and their emotional wellbeing. Findings A total of 1,309 people took part in the survey. Of these, 48 per cent of community members surveyed reporting noticing an intervention at their station. Noticing the events was associated with positive views of the station, improved understanding of poor mental health, and a greater likelihood of reaching out to someone who might be at risk of poor mental health. Awareness of intervention events was not associated with respondents’ own emotional wellbeing. Practical implications Continuing to focus efforts on mental health awareness activities may further strengthen the impact of the Community Stations Project interventions and ultimately prevent suicides at railway stations. Originality/value This paper evaluates a novel approach to improving wellbeing and understanding of poor mental health in the train station environment.
40
Ervin, Kaye, Carol Reid, Tegan Podubinski, and Jacquie Phillips. "Trauma-informed knowledge, awareness, practice, competence and confidence of rural health staff: A descriptive study." Journal of Nursing Education and Practice 11, no. 9 (April 22, 2021): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.5430/jnep.v11n9p1.
Full textAbstract:
Background and objective: By adopting a trauma-informed approach to care at the organisational and clinical levels, health care systems and providers can enhance the quality of care that they deliver and improve health outcomes for individuals with a trauma history. This study aimed to explore the trauma-related knowledge, attitudes awareness, practice, competence and confidence of health service staff from three small rural health services in Victoria, Australia, and examine their self-reported capacity to respond to clients with a trauma history.Methods: Staff from each site were invited to complete a paper-based survey. The survey included demographic information and questions related to knowledge and understanding of trauma, experience of trauma-informed care and confidence engaging in, and perceived importance of, trauma-informed practices. Results: The respondents were predominately nurses. Results showed that 16% of respondents had undertaken training in trauma-informed care and 44% disagreed that they had an understanding of trauma-informed practices. There were high levels of agreement for statements related to knowledge and understanding of trauma and low levels of agreement with statements related to experience of trauma-informed care. More than 70% of respondents reported that they had little knowledge of the principals of trauma-informed care, and little experiencing with practicing trauma-informed care.Discussion and conclusions: Overall, the survey results showed that staff were trauma-aware, but supported the need for more education and training in trauma-informed practices and improved organisational approaches to support trauma-informed approaches. It is important for organisations to shift from being trauma aware to being trauma-informed, by building foundational awareness of these practices and reinforcement through continuing education.
41
Yeatman, Heather. "Action or inaction? Food and nutrition in Australian local governments." Public Health Nutrition 12, no. 9 (September 2009): 1399–407. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1368980008004114.
Full textAbstract:
AbstractObjectiveTo determine the current level of activity of Australian local governments in twenty-nine food and nutrition action areas and whether the level of activity had changed between 1995 and 2007.DesignA cross-sectional study utilising a postal survey was undertaken of all local governments in Australia. The same instrument and protocol were used in 1995 and 2007.SettingAustralian local governments.ResultsLocal governments in Australia continue to be engaged in food and nutrition activities. This involvement has constricted in range in the last 12 years but higher levels of engagement are reported for several areas. The levels of involvement of local governments in the different states varied significantly, with Victoria reporting higher levels of involvement in several areas, particularly in food and nutrition activities related to community services. Local governments in New South Wales and Western Australia reported significantly lower levels of involvement in food and nutrition activities. Several factors may have contributed to these differences, including availability of resources and support, mandatory requirements by state governments, different attitudes of General Managers and staff and availability of funds for special projects.ConclusionsIf Australian local governments are to be recognised and supported for their involvements in food and nutrition activities, more in-depth research is required to elucidate the factors that act as barriers or facilitate their on-going involvement in this important area. Support for local governments in rural areas to become or remain engaged in food matters should receive special consideration.
42
Ristevski, Eli, Sharyn Thompson, Sharon Kingaby, Claire Nightingale, and Mahesh Iddawela. "Understanding Aboriginal Peoples’ Cultural and Family Connections Can Help Inform the Development of Culturally Appropriate Cancer Survivorship Models of Care." JCO Global Oncology, no. 6 (September 2020): 124–32. http://dx.doi.org/10.1200/jgo.19.00109.
Full textAbstract:
PURPOSE To explore the cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship experiences of Aboriginal people in the Gippsland region, Victoria, Australia, and identify factors critical to the development of a culturally appropriate cancer survivorship model of care. PATIENTS AND METHODS Yarning circles were used to capture the stories of 15 people diagnosed with cancer and/or those of family members. Yarning circles were conducted in two locations in the Gippsland region. Sessions were facilitated by an Aboriginal Elder, audio recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis of the data were triangulated among three researchers and incorporated researcher reflexivity. RESULTS Cultural connections and family were critical supports on the cancer journey. Putting the needs of the family first and caring for sick family members were more important than an individual’s own health. There was “no time to grieve” for one’s own cancer diagnosis and look after oneself. Cancer was a private experience; however, the constancy of deaths highlighted the importance of raising family awareness. Health professionals did not always understand the importance of people’s cultural and family supports in their treatment and recovery. There were negatives attitudes in hospitals when family come to visit, seeing family as too large and overstaying visiting times. Health professionals did not seek family assistance with communication of information to family members whose literacy level was low, nor did they include family in treatment decision-making. Access to services depended on family support with transport, finances, and family responsibilities, often resulting in lapses in treatment and follow-up services. CONCLUSION Understanding the importance of Aboriginal peoples’ cultural and family connections can help to inform the development of culturally safe cancer survivorship models of care.
43
Pavlin, N., R. Parker, J. M. Gunn, C. K. Fairley, and J. Hocking. "56. TAKE THE SEX OUT OF STI SCREENING! VIEWS OF GPS AND YOUNG WOMEN ON IMPLEMENTING CHLAMYDIA SCREENING IN AUSTRALIA." Sexual Health 4, no. 4 (2007): 306. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/shv4n4ab56.
Full textAbstract:
In-depth face to face interviews were carried out with a randomly selected sample of 20 General Practitioners (GPs) and 24 young women from across Victoria. We aimed to determine the attitudes of GPs and young women to chlamydia screening, what systems and education would be required to support chlamydia screening in general practice in Australia and in particular to explore how young women feel about being asked to test for chlamydia when they attend a GP for any reason. Both GPs and young women accept age-based screening for chlamydia and screening during a sexual health related consultation in general practice. Both feel that a large scale public education program, encompassing the high prevalence of chlamydial infection in young people in Australia, the asymptomatic nature of infection and the potential consequences if untreated, will be essential in ensuring the success of a chlamydia screening program in Australia. For the women, trust in their GP, was a major factor in the acceptability of chlamydia screening. They also felt chlamydia screening should be offered to all young women rather than targeted at 'high risk' women based on sexual history and they particularly emphasised the importance of normalising chlamydia screening. Women were clear that they did not want to be asked to provide a sexual history as part of being asked to have a chlamydia test. This finding has not been widely published in the literature and is worthy of comment. There is considerable evidence suggesting that GPs also regard sexual history taking as a barrier to STI testing in general practice. Chlamydia is an STI and notification and treatment of sexual partners is important. Understanding these concepts promotes young women's acceptance of chlamydia screening. However, is a detailed sexual history really an important precursor to a chlamydia test? Our study suggests maybe not.
44
Devitt, Bianca Alix, Jennifer Philip, Madhu Sudan Singh, Linda R. Mileshkin, and Sue-Anne McLachlan. "Patients’ and health professionals’ perspectives on the outcomes, conduct, and medico-legal implications of multidisciplinary cancer meetings (MDMs)." Journal of Clinical Oncology 30, no. 15_suppl (May 20, 2012): e16562-e16562. http://dx.doi.org/10.1200/jco.2012.30.15_suppl.e16562.
Full textAbstract:
e16562 Background: Multidisciplinary cancer meetings (MDMs) are a fundamental component of multidisciplinary cancer care. Guidelines relating to their conduct are largely based on expert opinion rather than empirical evidence. We examined patients and health professionals’ (HPs) attitudes to the outcomes, conduct and medico-legal implications of MDMs. Methods: Two study-specific questionnaires were developed based on qualitative research, published literature and guidelines, for health professionals who attend MDMs and patients with a current or previous diagnosis of cancer. The questionnaires were administered at 4 health services encompassing tertiary and regional centres in Victoria, Australia. Results: 170 HPs (response rate 62%) and 110 patients (response rate 83%) completed the questionnaire. 92% of patients want their case discussed at an MDM. HPs believe the focus of MDMs is to consider different treatment modalities (99%) and ensure patients receive evidence-based care (83%) rather than address psychosocial issues (52%). Similarly, patients allocated 71% of MDM discussion time to discussing possible treatment options, 15% to relevant social issues and 14% to psychological issues. More than 70% of patients and HPs thought no formal patient consent was required prior to discussion at MDM. 75% of HPs agreed MDMs provided them with increased medico-legal protection. 93% of HPs thought MDM discussions should result in a consensus on the proposed management plan. Patients would prefer to discuss the outcomes of the MDM personally with their treating doctor (81%) and 75% also desired written documentation. Conclusions: Patients and HPs agree the focus of MDMs is predominately medical with emphasis on treatment planning rather than the psychosocial needs of patients. Both groups believe MDM discussion forms part of standard care and formal consent is not required. HPs aim to develop an individualized, evidence-based management plan, agreed to by consensus. Strategies to improve communication of this plan to patients should be developed. This is the first empirical evidence on MDMs’ conduct and should help inform the development of future guidelines.
45
Chan, Jun Keat, Kah Hong Yep, Sarah Magarey, Zoe Keon-Cohen, and Matt Acheson. "Fit Testing Disposable P2/N95 Respirators during COVID-19 in Victoria, Australia: Fit Check Evaluation, Failure Rates, and a Survey of Healthcare Workers." COVID 1, no. 1 (July 6, 2021): 83–96. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/covid1010007.
Full textAbstract:
Quantitative fit testing was utilised to evaluate the Department of Health and Human Services in Victoria (DHHS) recommended fit check and determine pass/fail rates for self-selected P2/N95 respirators. Survey experience and training related to P2/N95 respirators were also obtained. This was an observational study at a specialist tertiary referral centre, Melbourne, Australia, between 29 May 2020 and 5 June 2020. The primary outcome was quantitative fit test pass/fail results, with fit check reported against fit test as a 2 × 2 contingency table. The secondary outcomes were the number of adjustments needed to pass, as well as the pass rates for available sizes and types of self-selected respirators, survey data for attitudes, experience and training for P2/N95 respirators. The fit check predicts respirator seal poorly (PPV 34.1%, 95% CI 25.0–40.5). In total, 69% (40/58) of respirators failed quantitative fit testing after initial respirator application and is a clinically relevant finding (first-up failure rate for P2/N95 respirators). Only one person failed the fit test for all three respirator fit tests. There was significant variability between each of the seven types of self-selected P2/N95 respirators, although sample sizes were small. Few participants were trained in the use of P2/N95 respirators or the fit check prior to COVID-19, with a high number of participants confident in achieving a P2/95 respirator seal following a fit test. The fit check alone was not a validated method in confirming an adequate seal for P2/N95 respirators. Quantitative fit testing can facilitate education, improve the seal of P2/N95 respirators, and needs to be integrated into a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Program (RPP).
46
Collins, Anna, Sue-Anne McLachlan, and Jennifer Philip. "Initial perceptions of palliative care: An exploratory qualitative study of patients with advanced cancer and their family caregivers." Palliative Medicine 31, no. 9 (April 3, 2017): 825–32. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0269216317696420.
Full textAbstract:
Background: Despite evidence for early integration of palliative care for people with advanced cancer and their families, patterns of late engagement continue. Prior research has focused on health professionals’ attitudes to palliative care with few studies exploring the views of patients and their carers. Aim: To explore initial perceptions of palliative care when this is first raised with patients with advanced cancer and their families in Australian settings. Design: Cross-sectional, prospective, exploratory qualitative design, involving narrative-style interviews and underpinned by an interpretative phenomenological framework. Setting/participants: Purposively sampled, English-speaking, adult patients with advanced cancer ( n = 30) and their nominated family caregivers ( n = 25) recruited from cancer services at a tertiary metropolitan hospital in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Results: Three major themes evolved which represent the common initial perceptions of palliative care held by patients with advanced cancer and their carers when this concept is first raised: (1) diminished care, (2) diminished possibility and (3) diminished choice. Palliative care was negatively associated with a system of diminished care which is seen as a ‘lesser’ treatment alternative, diminished possibilities for hope and achievement of ambitions previously centred upon cure and diminished choices for the circumstances of one’s care given all other options have expired. Conclusion: While there is an increasing move towards early integration of palliative care, this study suggests that patient and caregiver understandings have not equally progressed. A targeted public health campaign is warranted to disentangle understandings of palliative care as the ‘institutional death’ and to reframe community rhetoric surrounding palliative care from that of disempowered dying to messages of choice, accomplishment and possibility.
47
Allen, Michelle. "FROM CESSPOOL TO SEWER: SANITARY REFORM AND THE RHETORIC OF RESISTANCE, 1848–1880." Victorian Literature and Culture 30, no. 2 (August 27, 2002): 383–402. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1060150302302018h.
Full textAbstract:
IN 1855, THE REVEREND GIRDLESTONE zealously promoted sanitary reform in Britain, claiming that the movement was “pregnant with the most important advantages to the human race, in every point of view — social, moral, and religious” (29). Girdlestone’s claim provides a useful starting point for considering representations of reform, as this view of the redemptive powers of cleanliness has been accepted by many historians as a characteristic Victorian attitude.1 But while it is true that many Victorians believed that sweeping public health reforms could fuel the physical and moral regeneration of the urban poor, it is also true that others responded to these reforms with fear, anger, and suspicion: an active strain of resistance flourished within Victorian sanitary discourse. That scholars have privileged the Victorians’ declarations of faith in matters of cleanliness and to some degree shared in these sentiments should not surprise us. The idea of public health reform as universally advantageous accords not only with our own sense of the desirability of sanitary techniques such as flush-toilets and water-borne sewerage, which have become naturalized in the West, but also with a narrative of historical progress.2 While this essay does not dispute the fact that the sanitary idea gained wide acceptance in the period, it does seek to shift the focus away from Victorian faith to Victorian apostasy in matters of reform.
48
Greenwood, M. C., D. C. Tyler, M. A. Newton, N. V. Clarke, J. J. Hayes, and C. L. Turner. "BASS STRAIT OFFSHORE FACILITY SAFETY CASES: A CASE STUDY ON EFFECTIVE WORKFORCE INVOLVEMENT IN THE MODERN SAFETY CASE REGIME." APPEA Journal 42, no. 2 (2002): 95. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/aj01062.
Full textAbstract:
In 2001, Esso submitted 18 different Bass Strait Facility Safety Cases as part of their five year revision cycle, and obtained regulatory acceptance for each of them. These revised safety cases incorporated the accumulated learning from our many previous offshore safety case submissions, the 1998 Longford accident and our work with the WorkSafe Victoria Major Hazards Division. A number of significant challenges were met and overcome. This paper discusses our experiences and describes the processes we used to successfully develop useful, easy to use living safety cases for our offshore workforce.Although our priority was to demonstrate that we knew our facilities, had identified hazards, assessed the risks associated with those hazards and had control measures in place to reduce those risks to as low as reasonably practicable, we also wanted to bring about behavioural change. This paper will explain how our safety case revision processes were used to successfully change workforce behaviours with consequent changes to collective attitudes and values across the organisation.Extensive and highly effective employee involvement was integral to all stages of the safety case planning and development process. The paper examines how a skilled team comprising a workforce-elected Health and Safety Representative, an Offshore Installation Manager and specialist safety professionals collaborated to deliver a true program of workforce involvement and buy-in that in turn delivered the behavioural changes necessary for a true safety case culture to flourish.Esso’s approach of developing a safety case as a shopfloor friendly tool highlighting the linkages between routinely used safety management system controls and the major accident event risks present at the workplace has delivered significant benefit in developing a risk averse health and safety culture. A comprehensive ongoing learning program designed to give the workforce the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to use the safety case to maximum advantage, has been developed as a key component of our safety case program. This paper explores the successful planning, development and implementation of this innovative learning program that has been widely recognised by regulators and industry.
49
Ramsay, Rosalind. "Psychiatrists and the public." Psychiatric Bulletin 15, no. 12 (December 1991): 795. http://dx.doi.org/10.1192/pb.15.12.795.
Full textAbstract:
One hundred and fifty years on, how, Professor Clare asked an invited audience of eminent non-psychiatrists at the Royal Society of Medicine, do we fare? Is there really a more positive attitude to mental illness, now than in the nineteenth century, or even the 1960s? The Victorian public image of madness was characterised by ignorance, intolerance and fear and the mentally ill regarded as less than human, available to be exploited or used to entertain; and also, dangerous and incurable, best put away in large mental hospitals or ‘bins’. The media colluded in maintaining such attitudes: a leader in The Times in 1900, commenting on the 30-fold increase in the mental hospital population, was anxious that soon the mad might outnumber the sane!
50
Mullen, P., and J. Ogloff. "Providing mental health services to adult offenders in Victoria, Australia: Overcoming barriers." European Psychiatry 24, no. 6 (September 2009): 395–400. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpsy.2009.07.003.
Full textAbstract:
AbstractPurposeTo illustrate the development of the interface between general and forensic mental health services in Victoria, Australia.MethodDeveloping effective cooperation between the general and forensic mental health services requires overcoming a number of barriers. The attitude of general services that antisocial behaviour was none of their business was tackled through ongoing workshops and education days over several years. The resistance to providing care to those disabled by severe personality disorders or substance abuse was reduced by presenting and promoting models of care developed in forensic community and inpatient services which prioritised these areas. The reluctance of general services to accept offenders was reduced by involving general services in court liaison clinics and in prisoner release plans. Cooperation was enhanced by the provision of risk assessments, the sharing of responsibility for troublesome patients, and a problem behaviours clinic to support general services in coping with stalkers, sex offenders and threateners.ConclusionsActive engagement with general services was promoted at the level of providing education, specialised assessments and a referral source for difficult patients. This generated a positive interface between forensic and general mental health services, which improved the quality of care delivered to mentally abnormal offenders.