Journal articles on the topic 'Health services administration – Information technology – Case studies'
To see the other types of publications on this topic, follow the link: Health services administration – Information technology – Case studies.
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 services administration – Information technology – Case studies.'
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
Moore, Esther C., Clare L. Tolley, David W. Bates, and Sarah P. Slight. "A systematic review of the impact of health information technology on nurses’ time." Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association 27, no. 5 (March 6, 2020): 798–807. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/jamia/ocz231.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract Objective Nursing time represents one of the highest costs for most health services. We conducted a systematic review of the literature on the impact of health information technology on nurses’ time. Materials and Methods We followed PRISMA guidelines and searched 6 large databases for relevant articles published between Jan 2004 and December 2019. Two authors reviewed the titles, abstracts, and full texts. We included articles that included a comparison group in the design, measured the time taken to carry out documentation or medication administration, documented the quantitative estimates of time differences between the 2, had nurses as subjects, and was conducted in either a care home, hospital, or community clinic. Results We identified a total of 1647 articles, of which 33 met our inclusion criteria. Twenty-one studies reported the impact of 12 different health information technology (HIT) implementations on nurses’ documentation time. Weighted averages were calculated for studies that implemented barcode medication administration (BCMA) and 2 weighted averages for those that implemented EHRs, as these studies used different sampling units; both showed an increase in the time spent in documentation (+22% and +46%). However, the time spent carrying out medication administration following BCMA implementation fell by 33% (P < .05). HIT also caused a redistribution of nurses’ time which, in some cases, was spent in more “value-adding” activities, such as delivering direct patient care as well as inter-professional communication. Discussion and Conclusions Most of the HIT systems increased nursing documentation time, although time fell for medication administration following BCMA. Many HIT systems also resulted in nurses spending more time in direct care and “value-adding” activities.
2
De Cola, Maria C., Viviana Lo Buono, Agata Mento, Mariella Foti, Silvia Marino, Placido Bramanti, Alfredo Manuli, and Rocco S. Calabrò. "Unmet Needs for Family Caregivers of Elderly People With Dementia Living in Italy: What Do We Know So Far and What Should We Do Next?" INQUIRY: The Journal of Health Care Organization, Provision, and Financing 54 (January 1, 2017): 004695801771370. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0046958017713708.
Full textAbstract:
Care of the elderly with dementia represents one of the major challenges for the modern society worldwide. The burden of dementia care often falls on the family members, entailing heavy psychosocial and economic consequences. The aim of this study was to evaluate the caregiver’s perspective concerning the support for disease management on behalf of the physicians and the local Sicilian administrations (Italy), and the burden of care and effects on their lifestyle, to propose new prevention strategies and service for managing dementia and caregiver’s burden. Fifty-nine caregivers of Italian elderly people with dementia (mean age, 73; age range: 63-83) were interviewed, and 55 of them completed an ad hoc self-report questionnaire composed of 54 multiple-choice questions. Our findings suggest that caregivers need more information on the disease’s management, as well as on how to deal with the stress due to the disease burden. Moreover, a negative perception about the services offered from the local administration emerged. Assistive technology (AT) could be useful in promoting interaction between general practitioners and specialized centers for diagnosis, pharmacological and psychosocial treatments, and in saving costs. Moreover, case manager could follow patients and support family members within the care pathway, besides collecting and sharing information among the different health professionals involved. Further studies should be aimed at investigating whether AT and/or the use of specific educational strategies could be the right approach for meeting the needs of families living with dementia.
3
Bomba, David, and Tim Land. "The feasibility of implementing an electronic prescribing decision support system: a case study of an Australian public hospital." Australian Health Review 30, no. 3 (2006): 380. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah060380.
Full textAbstract:
Medication errors are common in public hospitals, with the majority at the prescribing stage of the medication pathway. Electronic prescribing decision support (EPDS) is a rules-based computer system that can be used by clinicians to warn against such errors to improve patient safety and support staff workflows. Despite its apparent advantages, this technology has not been widely adopted in Australian public hospitals for inpatient prescribing. A case study using Sauer?s (1993) Triangle of Dependencies Model was conducted in 2003 into the feasibility of implementing an EPDS system at an Australian public hospital in New South Wales. It was found not feasible to implement an EPDS at the hospital studied due to the legacy patient administration system, low availability of information technology on the wards, differing stakeholder views, legislation, and the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW report recommendations. A statewide standard was preferred, with an agreed specification framework identifying basic core data items and functions that an EPDS must meet which can then be used by area health services to: (i) choose a solution which best meets their contextual needs; and (ii) engage vendors to tender for building an open source (non-proprietary) system based on the specification framework.
4
Diamantopoulou, Vasiliki, and Haralambos Mouratidis. "Practical evaluation of a reference architecture for the management of privacy level agreements." Information & Computer Security 27, no. 5 (November 11, 2019): 711–30. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/ics-04-2019-0052.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose The enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation imposes specific privacy- and -security related requirements that any organisation that processes European Union citizens’ personal data must comply with. The application of privacy- and security-by-design principles are assisting organisation in achieving compliance with the Regulation. The purpose of this study is to assist data controllers in their effort to achieve compliance with the new Regulation, by proposing the adoption of the privacy level agreement (PLA). A PLA is considered as a formal way for the data controllers and the data subjects to mutually agree the privacy settings of a service provisioned. A PLA supports privacy management, by analysing privacy threats, vulnerabilities and information systems’ trust relationships. Design/methodology/approach However, the concept of PLA has only been proposed on a theoretical level. To this aim, two different domains have been selected acting as real-life case studies, the public administration and the health care, where special categories of personal data are processed. Findings The results of the evaluation of the adoption of the PLA by the data controllers are positive. Furthermore, they indicate that the adoption of such an agreement facilitates data controllers in demonstrating transparency of their processes. Regarding data subjects, the evaluation process revealed that the use of the PLA increases trust levels on data controllers. Originality/value This paper proposes a novel reference architecture to enable PLA management in practice and reports on the application and evaluation of PLA management.
5
Wehrens, Rik, Vikrant Sihag, Sandra Sülz, Hilco van Elten, Erik van Raaij, Antoinette de Bont, and Anne Marie Weggelaar-Jansen. "Understanding the Uptake of Big Data in Health Care: Protocol for a Multinational Mixed-Methods Study." JMIR Research Protocols 9, no. 10 (October 22, 2020): e16779. http://dx.doi.org/10.2196/16779.
Full textAbstract:
Background Despite the high potential of big data, their applications in health care face many organizational, social, financial, and regulatory challenges. The societal dimensions of big data are underrepresented in much medical research. Little is known about integrating big data applications in the corporate routines of hospitals and other care providers. Equally little is understood about embedding big data applications in daily work practices and how they lead to actual improvements for health care actors, such as patients, care professionals, care providers, information technology companies, payers, and the society. Objective This planned study aims to provide an integrated analysis of big data applications, focusing on the interrelations among concrete big data experiments, organizational routines, and relevant systemic and societal dimensions. To understand the similarities and differences between interactions in various contexts, the study covers 12 big data pilot projects in eight European countries, each with its own health care system. Workshops will be held with stakeholders to discuss the findings, our recommendations, and the implementation. Dissemination is supported by visual representations developed to share the knowledge gained. Methods This study will utilize a mixed-methods approach that combines performance measurements, interviews, document analysis, and cocreation workshops. Analysis will be structured around the following four key dimensions: performance, embedding, legitimation, and value creation. Data and their interrelations across the dimensions will be synthesized per application and per country. Results The study was funded in August 2017. Data collection started in April 2018 and will continue until September 2021. The multidisciplinary focus of this study enables us to combine insights from several social sciences (health policy analysis, business administration, innovation studies, organization studies, ethics, and health services research) to advance a holistic understanding of big data value realization. The multinational character enables comparative analysis across the following eight European countries: Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Given that national and organizational contexts change over time, it will not be possible to isolate the factors and actors that explain the implementation of big data applications. The visual representations developed for dissemination purposes will help to reduce complexity and clarify the relations between the various dimensions. Conclusions This study will develop an integrated approach to big data applications that considers the interrelations among concrete big data experiments, organizational routines, and relevant systemic and societal dimensions. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/16779
6
Novis, David A., Karen A. Miller, Peter J. Howanitz, Stephen W. Renner, and Molly K. Walsh. "Audit of Transfusion Procedures in 660 Hospitals." Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine 127, no. 5 (May 1, 2003): 541–48. http://dx.doi.org/10.5858/2003-127-0541-aotpih.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract Context.—Hemolytic transfusion reactions are often the result of failure to follow established identification and monitoring procedures. Objective.—To measure the frequencies with which health care workers completed specific transfusion procedures required for laboratory and blood bank accreditation. Design.—In 2 separate studies, participants in the College of American Pathologists Q-Probes laboratory quality improvement program audited nonemergent red blood cell transfusions prospectively and completed questionnaires profiling their institutions' transfusion policies. Setting and Participants.—A total of 660 institutions, predominantly in the United States, at which transfusion medicine services are provided. Main Outcome Measures.—The percentages of transfusions for which participants completed 4 specific components of patient and blood unit identifications, and for which participants monitored vital signs at 3 specific intervals during transfusions. Results.—In the first study, all components of patient identification procedures were performed in 62.3%, and all required patient vital sign monitoring was performed in 81.6% of 12 448 transfusions audited. The median frequencies with which institutions participating in the first study performed all patient identification and monitoring procedures were 69.0% and 90.2%, respectively. In the second study, all components of patient identification were performed in 25.4% and all patient vital sign monitoring was performed in 88.3% of 4046 transfusions audited. The median frequencies with which institutions participating in the second study performed all patient identification and monitoring procedures were 10.0% and 95.0%, respectively. Individual practices and/or institutional policies associated with greater frequencies of patient identification and/or vital sign monitoring included transporting units of blood directly to patient bedsides, having no more than 1 individual handle blood units in route, checking unit labels against physicians' orders, having patients wear identification tags (wristbands), reading identification information aloud when 2 or more transfusionists participated, using written checklists to guide the administration of blood, instructing health care personnel in transfusion practices, and routinely auditing the administration of transfusions. Conclusions.—In many hospitals, the functions of identification and vital sign monitoring of patients receiving blood transfusions do not meet laboratory and blood bank accreditation standards. Differences in hospital transfusion policies influence how well health care workers comply with standard practices. We would expect that efforts designed to perfect transfusion policies might also improve performance in those hospitals in which practice compliance is substandard.
7
Tahir, Adnan, Fei Chen, Habib Ullah Khan, Zhong Ming, Arshad Ahmad, Shah Nazir, and Muhammad Shafiq. "A Systematic Review on Cloud Storage Mechanisms Concerning e-Healthcare Systems." Sensors 20, no. 18 (September 21, 2020): 5392. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/s20185392.
Full textAbstract:
As the expenses of medical care administrations rise and medical services experts are becoming rare, it is up to medical services organizations and institutes to consider the implementation of medical Health Information Technology (HIT) innovation frameworks. HIT permits health associations to smooth out their considerable cycles and offer types of assistance in a more productive and financially savvy way. With the rise of Cloud Storage Computing (CSC), an enormous number of associations and undertakings have moved their healthcare data sources to distributed storage. As the information can be mentioned whenever universally, the accessibility of information becomes an urgent need. Nonetheless, outages in cloud storage essentially influence the accessibility level. Like the other basic variables of cloud storage (e.g., reliability quality, performance, security, and protection), availability also directly impacts the data in cloud storage for e-Healthcare systems. In this paper, we systematically review cloud storage mechanisms concerning the healthcare environment. Additionally, in this paper, the state-of-the-art cloud storage mechanisms are critically reviewed for e-Healthcare systems based on their characteristics. In short, this paper summarizes existing literature based on cloud storage and its impact on healthcare, and it likewise helps researchers, medical specialists, and organizations with a solid foundation for future studies in the healthcare environment.
8
Cheng, Siu Mee, and Cristina Catallo. "Case definition for health and social care services integrated initiatives." Journal of Integrated Care 27, no. 4 (October 10, 2019): 264–75. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jica-09-2018-0057.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop a case definition of integrated health and social services initiatives that serve older adults, and will provide characteristics to aid in the identification of such initiatives. The case definition is intended to ease the identification of integrated health and social care initiatives. Design/methodology/approach A limited search was undertaken of both scientific and gray literature that documented and/or examined integrated health and social services initiatives. In addition, literature on well-documented and generally accepted integrated healthcare and social services models that reflect collaborations from healthcare and social services organizations that support older adults was also used to develop the case definition. Findings The case definition is as follows: healthcare organizations from across the continuum of care working together with social services organizations, so that services are complementary and coordinated in a seamless and unified system, with care continuity for the patient/client in order to achieve desired health outcomes within a holistic perspective; the initiatives comprise at least one healthcare organization and one social care organization; and these initiatives possess 18 characteristics, grouped under 9 themes: patient care approach; program goals; measurement; service and care quality; accountability and responsibility; information sharing; culture; leadership; and staff and professional interaction. Research limitations/implications A limitation of this study is that the characteristics are based on a limited literature search. The quality of some of the literature both gray and published was not definitive: information on how they undertook the literature search was not provided; exclusion and inclusion criteria were not included; and there was insufficient detail on the design of the studies included. Furthermore, the literature reviews are based on integrated initiatives that target both seniors and non-senior’s based services. The cross-section of initiatives studied is also different in scale and type, and these differences were not explored. Practical implications The case definition is a useful tool in aiding to further the understanding of integrated health and social care initiatives. The number of definitions that exist for integrated health and social care initiatives can make it confusing to clearly understand this field and topic. The characteristics identified can assist in providing greater clarity and understanding on health and social care integration. Originality/value This study provides greater coherence in the literature on health and social care integration. It aids in better framing the phenomenon of healthcare and social services integration, thereby enhancing understanding. Finally, the study provides a very useful and concrete list of identifying characteristics, to aid in identifying integrated health and social care initiatives that serve older adults.
9
Mahmood, Rumel. "Can Information and Communication Technology Help Reduce Corruption? How So and Why Not: Two Case Studies from South Asia." Perspectives on Global Development and Technology 3, no. 3 (2004): 347–73. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/1569150042442539.
Full textAbstract:
AbstractThe deployment of electronic governance over the past few years has enabled citizens to access government information and services with more ease and less cost. Unfortunately, the majority of governments embracing these technologies and making the citizen-government interaction easier to navigate are found primarily in the industrialized West. One exception is India, which is the focus of this paper. Beyond viewing electronic governance as a means of facilitating state-citizen interactions, I explore the linkages between electronic governance and corruption deterrence, and by doing so, fill in a crucial void in the current literature. After reviewing successful ICT-led government reform efforts in the West from public administration literature, a simple model is proposed to determine how these technologies may come to be utilized for reform. The model is then applied to the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and the neighboring government of Bangladesh to test the salience of the variables, and to determine why the former may be more successful than the latter.
10
Pak, Richard, Nicole Fink, Margaux Price, and Dina Battisto. "Two Case Studies in Human Factors in Healthcare." International Journal of Healthcare Delivery Reform Initiatives 2, no. 4 (October 2010): 17–38. http://dx.doi.org/10.4018/978-1-60960-177-5.ch012.
Full textAbstract:
The delivery and consumption of health care services and information is in rapid change due to the introduction of technology, socio-political considerations (in the United States), and the change in population demographics (i.e., the “baby boom generation”). This chapter discusses some of these trends and their implications for two specific stakeholders in the health care system: the nurse and the older patient. In two case studies the authors report on the application of human factors methods to better understand the role of the built-environment on nursing work and the role of technology acceptance issues in older adult usage of electronic personal health records. The authors hope to show that while the challenges are great, the application of human factors methods can help increase performance, safety, and satisfaction for both nurse and older patient.
11
Bloor, Roger N. "Setting up a psychiatric case register." Advances in Psychiatric Treatment 1, no. 3 (January 1995): 86–91. http://dx.doi.org/10.1192/apt.1.3.86.
Full textAbstract:
Case registers have very little to do with computers or any other form of mechanical calculating machine. To write an article on case registers which concentrated on information technology would be as logical as an article on open heart surgery which confined itself to the finer points of scalpel technology. The creation of a case register is as simple or as complicated as the clinician wishes it to be; a case register at its purest is simply a list of contacts with patients, organised to a predetermined format, which allows the clinician to gain information from the list for education, research, planning or administration. The work needed to establish a case register, however, should not be underestimated, and the time spent in thinking through reasons for development of a register is a worthwhile investment. An understanding of the history of the development of psychiatric case registers may help those wishing to develop new registers to avoid treading well worn cul-de-sacs, while reviewing some of the work which has resulted from case registers may demonstrate the enormous potential of a well-designed register in facilitating the extension of knowledge about treatment and provision of services.
12
Masele, Juma James. "Twiga Hosting Ltd – providing affordable information and communication technologies services to small and medium enterprises." Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies 1, no. 4 (October 1, 2011): 1–16. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/20450621111197163.
Full textAbstract:
TitleTwiga Hosting Ltd – providing affordable information and communication technologies services to small and medium enterprises.Subject areaThe case describes the launch of Twiga Hosting Ltd, a company providing information and communication technology (ICT) services to the underserved small and medium enterprise (SME) sector in Tanzania and in a many countries in Africa.Study level/applicabilityThis case targets a range of audience from undergraduate students taking both Bachelor of Commerce and those taking Bachelor of Business Administration; and Postgraduate students taking business‐related courses. Nonetheless, the case may be used by all other learners of advanced studies in entrepreneurship and innovation management.Case overviewThe case addresses a number of issues including: Issues to be considered when starting an ICT enterprise. Strategic management. Business revenue models.Expected learning outcomes To impart/inculcate entrepreneurial insights in ICT and related areas. To make learners aware of the business growth opportunities in ICT ventures. The success factors for fruitful ICT ventures. To enable learners to identify challenges facing entrepreneurs in ICT ventures and the ways to overcome them.Supplementary materialsTeaching notes.
13
Su, Yu, Fei Hou, Mingde Qi, Wanxuan Li, and Ying Ji. "A Data-Enabled Business Model for a Smart Healthcare Information Service Platform in the Era of Digital Transformation." Journal of Healthcare Engineering 2021 (June 1, 2021): 1–9. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2021/5519891.
Full textAbstract:
Digital technology has promoted service innovation and provided effective technical support for public service innovation in recent years. Smart healthcare, a key element of smart city development, has gradually become an important issue in government administration. Digital technology is deeply embedded in healthcare services and reshapes value creation through digital transformation. This study combines data-enabled platform business models and value cocreation and adopts a case study approach to develop a business model for a medical information service platform that allows stakeholders to cocreate value through service exchange and resource integration in smart healthcare ecosystems, promotes efficient and coordinated applications of information, and realizes innovative development in the medical industry.
14
Chiu, Chung-Yi, Timothy N. Tansey, Fong Chan, David Strauser, Michael P. Frain, and Simran Arora. "Effect of Rehabilitation Technology Services on Vocational Rehabilitation Outcomes of Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis." Rehabilitation Research, Policy, and Education 29, no. 2 (2015): 183–92. http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/2168-6653.29.2.183.
Full textAbstract:
Objectives: To examine the effect of rehabilitation technology interventions on the employment or job retention outcomes of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) served by the state-federal vocational rehabilitation program using a case-control study design.Participants: Data for this study were extracted from the Rehabilitation Services Administration Case Service Report database. The sample included 8,715 individuals with MS aged between 16 and 64 years old whose cases were closed between the fiscal years of 2007 and 2011.Outcome measure: Competitive employment.Results: The classification and regression tree method identified 5 homogeneous subgroups ranging from high to low propensity to receive rehabilitation technology services. Specifically, individuals with MS employed at application were most likely to receive rehabilitation technology intervention. The effect of rehabilitation technology on job retention was especially strong for individuals aged 35 years or older with a college education.Conclusion: These findings suggest that rehabilitation technology is an effective service for enhancing job retention outcomes of middle-aged and older adults with MS and provide valuable information for policymakers, health care providers, rehabilitation counselors, and educators.
15
Paris, Bonnie L., and Denise M. Hynes. "Diffusion, implementation, and use of Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) in the Veterans Health Administration (VA)." JAMIA Open 2, no. 3 (June 11, 2019): 312–16. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/jamiaopen/ooz017.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract This case study describes the implementation of the Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) software at the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration (VA). VA REDCap enables secure and standardized data collection, fosters collaboration with external researchers through use of a widely used data management tool, facilitates multisite studies through use of data forms that can be shared across sites within and outside the VA, is well suited to health services research studies and quality improvement projects, and enables exporting data for analysis in the VA secure computing environment. Using a diffusion of innovation framework approach, authors explore organizational factors that shaped adoption of REDCap technology and constraints on its use within the VA. Lessons learned from the VA experience are discussed.
16
Lam, Raymond, Estie Kruger, and Marc Tennant. "A critical discussion of the benefits of e-health in population-level dental research." Australian Journal of Primary Health 19, no. 4 (2013): 303. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/py13020.
Full textAbstract:
Population-level research is an essential area of health with the potential to affect quality of life and the broader economy. There are excellent epidemiological studies that have improved health services, but traditional research requires a considerable investment. Although electronic technology has changed the practice of many industries with improved efficiency, its application to health is relatively new. Termed ‘e-health’, this emerging area has been defined by the World Health Organization as the use of information technology to support many aspects of health such as in administration and scientific information. However, not all professionals are convinced of its use. This paper presents a novel application of this emerging area to describe the benefit in data collation and research to support one of the most pressing issues in public health: oral health and policy. Using the Chronic Disease Dental Scheme as an example, a critical discussion of its benefit to population-level research is presented. The Chronic Disease Dental Scheme method of electronic administration has been shown to enhance research and to complement existing progress in health data linkage. e-Health is an invaluable tool for population-level dental research.
17
Parretti, Chiara, Elaheh Pourabbas, Fernando Rolli, Fabrizio Pecoraro, Paolo Citti, and Alessandro Giorgetti. "Robust design of web services supporting the home administration of drug infusion in pediatric oncology." MATEC Web of Conferences 301 (2019): 00013. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/matecconf/201930100013.
Full textAbstract:
Cancer home care is a sector of particular relevance for the Italian health service. The budget ceilings imposed by public finance pose the need to reduce hospitalisation costs, moving patients from treatment to home care as much as possible. This is especially true in the field of pediatric oncology, where a protected family environment offers a variety of benefits to young patients and their families. However, in order to guarantee adequate assistance services, an integrated information system for management must be devised as the center of gravity of a coordinated network of, even heterogeneous, actors. This paper focuses on the identification and evolving development of web services for regulation and control of home administration of drug infusion in pediatric oncology. The Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) remains the software architecture of reference, where as the methodological approach is open to a reconsideration of the continuous improvement of the whole process in light of the ceaseless progress of medical science and information technology. In this paper, his goal is achieved by using a methodological design approach that combines the UML modeling based on Case Stories and the process optimization of Axiomatic Design. Case Stories allow the formalization of end users' requirements in UML language, easily interpreted by software developers. On the other hand, Axiomatic Design allows optimizing the design process by identifying the most robust solutions in terms of greater logical coherence and lesser systemic complexity. We analyze a case study focused on the design of web services supporting the home administration of drug infusion, for young cancer patients in home care. Then, we show how the UML-modeling methodology can be used to design new services on the basis of specific Use Cases. Finally, through theAxiomatic design approach we verify the proposed solutions, by identifying the robust set of web services to be implemented.
18
Hilty, Donald M., John Luo, Evangelina Giron, and Dong-Gil Ko. "A Shared Information Technology-Business-Health Model: Lessons for Healthcare Leaders on Integrating Technology from Investment." Psychology and Cognitive Sciences – Open Journal 7, no. 1 (July 6, 2021): 1–18. http://dx.doi.org/10.17140/pcsoj-7-159.
Full textAbstract:
Objective: Technology is rapidly shifting our day-to-day existence, education, social relationships, health care and business. Psychiatric leaders have slowly explored telepsychiatric services – but few have an approach to technology in general–due to competing clinical, educational and research demands. Technology has typically been added on, rather than integrated, to institutional functions. Method: This narrative review used a literature search of Medline, PsycNET, PsycINFO, Embase, Cochrane, SpringerLink, Scopus, ABI/Inform, Business Source Complete, and Web of Science, using subject headings and keywords along with a manual search of reference lists of articles published by November 2020. The keywords explored four areas: 1) business; 2) service delivery; 3) system change; and 4) technology. Articles were reviewed by title/abstract, full text review and review of references. They were included if they discussed integration of technology into health care and compared literature from medicine/health, psychiatry/behavioral health, business, technology, leadership and health care administration. The goal was to explore how medicine/psychiatry has integrated technology compared to business, and apply business approaches to health care and training. Results: From a total of 2,710 potential references, two authors found 327 eligible for full text review and found 69 papers directly relevant to the concepts. Business and medicine/psychiatry have similarities/differences from both historical and contemporary views. Many health care systems and companies lack a strategic plan for technology and focus only on short-term due to administrative demands. Clinical informatics is a rapidly expanding area and would be central to this process. It has started to facilitate patient-centered care as defined by quality, affordable, and timely health care. While in principle information systems use integrative approaches, electronic health records, electronic means of communications with patients and staff, behavioral health indicators and related digital advances are often added to existing systems rather than integrated. Effective businesses use integrative approaches to share domain knowledge and streamline practices to link information technology (IT) with research and development, production, financing and marketing management. A case example highlights the IT strategy and business leaders’ comments in shifting to straight through processing (STP) from the banking industry for investments. It also exemplifies a model of shared IT-business understanding, which improves performance via efficiency, quality of data/information processing/integration and managerial teamwork. Conclusion: When it is integrated into health care service delivery workflow, evaluated and quality improved, IT facilitates the translation of strategic planning into organizational change. Incremental versus strategically innovative approaches to technological integration for care, education and administration are considered. Successful implementation requires a needs and impact assessment for patients, staff, clinicians and leaders across all levels of the organization. Benefits to the mission, limited disruptions of core operational workflow and reasonable costs reduce the likelihood of failure.
19
Jayasuriya, Rohan. "Information systems for community health: are we addressing the right strategy?" Australian Health Review 18, no. 4 (1995): 43. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah950043.
Full textAbstract:
Computerised information systems for community health services have evolved withadvances in information technology (IT) in Australia and overseas. However, thereis evidence from other sectors for the need to distinguish between an informationsystems (IS) strategy and an IT strategy. This paper uses case studies of computerisedinformation systems developed in New South Wales to identify issues that lead tosuccess and failure. These issues show that many of the shortcomings can beattributed to a poor IS strategy. The paper discusses the shortcomings of an IT-drivenstrategy. It argues that an IS strategy needs to be congruent with the organisationalstrategy for community health and that the system design should satisfy theinformation needs of service personnel if the information is to be used.
20
Andriienko, Anton, and Olga Matveieva. "DEVELOPING THE APPROACH OF E-SERVICES PROVIDING IN TERMS OF DECENTRALIZATION REFORM IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION SYSTEM OF UKRAINE." Three Seas Economic Journal 1, no. 4 (December 28, 2020): 13–17. http://dx.doi.org/10.30525/2661-5150/2020-4-3.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of the paper is to describe the approach of e-services providing in Ukraine in terms of decentralization reform. Methodology. We suggest describing the approach of e-services providing. According to the subject of description, methodology could be classified in groups presented below: description of the background (part 3), which reveals the need for digital education; analysis of digital transformation in public administration decentralization reform (part 4); strategic analysis of the vision for public e-services providing (part 5); generalization of the approaches (part 6). The development of the method of descriptive analyses has been based on several sources, namely: studies of the case of public e-services providing in Ukraine; analyses of extant literature on public e-services and their development. Results. Developing innovative and flexible public e-services in Ukraine, capable for adapting to the citizens’ current needs, has become crucial for public administrations. Progress in e-Government tools implementation continues in Ukraine in terms of decentralization reform. The e-Government concept puts into practice as the ambition of Ukrainian decentralized government to use information and communication technology (ICT) to provide more efficient public e-services for citizens. The relationship between citizens and the local government is crucial and it is mediated through modeling the process of e-services developing and deeper understanding current citizens’ needs by governmental officials. Practical implications. Our research aims at developing bases for strategic vision on public e-services in Ukraine as a framework that lays the foundations enabling a public administration to build flexible and innovative system of e-services, by relying on four bases (openness, participation, collaboration and integration). Value/originality. Revealing the current stage of decentralization reform of Ukraine enable to provide a case study of the organizational, institutional and social capacities for digitalization of e-services and form a strategic vision for their systemic development.
21
Pai, Rajesh R., and Sreejith Alathur. "Determinants of individuals’ intention to use mobile health: insights from India." Transforming Government: People, Process and Policy 13, no. 3/4 (August 8, 2019): 306–26. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/tg-04-2019-0027.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose This study aims to examine the determinants of mobile health technology and applications use intention. The factors are delineated from prior literature and theories of individual traits and adoption characteristics, technology acceptance and health belief. Design/methodology/approach Data from 409 respondents were collected from Indian participants through a questionnaire survey. The construct “use intention” was measured using individual traits to mobile services, subjective norm, health consciousness, awareness and perceived usefulness, and the model was tested. Findings The study found that mobile health technology and the applications awareness and personal innovativeness influence intention to use. Originality/value Previous studies have often looked at technology adoption and acceptance models separately and are less adequately discussed in the Indian context. The components that determine mobile health technology and the applications’ acceptance by literature and theories of individual traits and adoption characteristics, technology acceptance and health beliefs were also inadequately discussed. The significant contribution of this research also includes policy recommendations for improving mobile health acceptance in India.
22
Spector-Bagdady, Kayte. "Reconceptualizing Consent for Direct-to-Consumer Health Services." American Journal of Law & Medicine 41, no. 4 (November 2015): 568–616. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0098858815622191.
Full textAbstract:
The market for direct-to-consumer (DTC) health services continues to grow rapidly with former patients converting to customers for the opportunity to purchase varied diagnostic tests without the involvement of their clinician. For the first time a DTC genetic testing company is advertising health-related reports “that meet [Food and Drug Administration] standards for being clinically and scientifically valid.” Ethicists and regulatory agencies alike have recognized the need for a more informed transaction in the DTC context, but how should we classify a commercial transaction for something normally protected by a duty of care? How can we assure informed agreements in an industry with terms and conditions as varied as the services performed? The doctrine of “informed consent” began as an ethical construct building on the promise of beneficence in the clinical relationship and elevating the principle of autonomy—but in the DTC context should we hold providers to legal standards of informed consent and associated medical malpractice liability, or contractual obligations where consumers would seek remedy for breach?This Article analyzes the fine balance that must be struck in an industry where companies are selling services for entertainment or non-medical purposes that possess the capacity to produce serious and disquieting medical information. It begins by reviewing current standards of consent in the clinical setting from both a legal and ethical perspective and then lays forth current standards for DTC consent using two currently controversial case studies: that of keepsake fetal ultrasound and genetic testing.DTC keepsake ultrasound and genetic testing providers attempt to de-medicalize the devices used for these procedures from their intended medical uses to non-medical uses. But while keepsake ultrasound is marketed as “intended for entertainment purposes only,” it can provide medical information as an incidental finding. 23andMe currently purports to be the only DTC genetics service that “includes” reports that meet FDA qualifications, despite disclaimers of intent to “provide medical advice.” The attempted de-medicalization of these devices, therefore, has not been fully transformative, and DTC providers should have more robust ethical and legal duties than the average goods and services seller.This Article delineates these responsibilities, beginning with ethical duties surrounding marketing, entering into, and providing DTC services. It then turns to the legal paradigms necessary to enable, or at least allow for, DTC providers to meet these ethical obligations. While it argues that contractual, as opposed to fiduciary, requirements are most appropriate and that waivers of liability will likely be upheld, it also advocates for a heightened expectation of disclosure during contracting.
23
Njagi, Joan. "Delivering Sexual and Reproductive Health Education to Girls." Girlhood Studies 11, no. 2 (June 1, 2018): 30–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.3167/ghs.2018.110204.
Full textAbstract:
The use of helplines to deliver sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education to girls seeking such information and services can break down barriers created by low access and top-down approaches. However, it is important to interrogate their effectiveness in addressing the SRH needs of girls, particularly in contexts in which hierarchical social relations prevail and conservative religious and cultural norms dictate appropriate expressions and experiences of sexuality for girls and young women. In this article I use data drawn from a qualitative case study of a children’s helpline in Kenya to interrogate the interplay of power and culture in the delivery of SRH information to girls. The findings reveal that while this particular communication technology presents, potentially, a revolution in such delivery, power dynamics and cultural norms still pose barriers.
24
Young, Suzanne. "Outsourcing: two case studies from the Victorian public hospital sector." Australian Health Review 31, no. 1 (2007): 140. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah070140.
Full textAbstract:
Outsourcing was one process of privatisation used in the Victorian public health sector in the 1990s. However it was used to varying degrees and across a variety of different services. This paper attempts to answer the questions: Why have managers outsourced? What have managers considered when they have decided to outsource? The research was carried out in a rural hospital and a metropolitan network in Victoria. The key findings highlight the factors that decision makers considered to be important and those that led to negative outcomes. Economic factors, such as frequency of exchange, length of relationships between the parties, and information availability, were often ignored. However, other factors such as outcome measurability, technology, risk, labour market characteristics and goal conflict, and political factors such as relative power of management over labour were often perceived as important in the decision-making process. Negative outcomes from outsourcing were due to the short length of relationships and accompanying difficulties with trust, commitment and loyalty; poor quality; and excessive monitoring and the measurement of outcomes.
25
Glied, Sherry, Aryana Khalid, and Marilyn B. Tavenner. "The Secretary Shall . . . : Implementing the Affordable Care Act's Private Insurance Expansions." Journal of Health Politics, Policy and Law 45, no. 4 (March 11, 2020): 517–32. http://dx.doi.org/10.1215/03616878-8255457.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract The federal bureaucracy played a critical role in implementing most aspects of the Affordable Care Act's private insurance coverage expansion. Through brief case studies, the authors review three dimensions of this role: the development of the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight, rulemaking in the formulation of the essential health benefits package, and the implementation of the federal website. They relate these to themes in the public administration literature. Politics—both through state decisions and through continuing congressional action (and inaction)—pervaded the implementation process. The challenges of staffing and situating the new bureaucracy effectively changed vertical boundaries within the Department of Health and Human Services, with long-lasting consequences. Finally, the complex design of the policy itself made passage of the legislation easier but implementation much more difficult. Ultimately, however, implementation was remarkably successful, achieving improvements in coverage consistent with the Congressional Budget Office's projections.
26
Porter, Alison, Anisha Badshah, Sarah Black, David Fitzpatrick, Robert Harris-Mayes, Saiful Islam, Matthew Jones, et al. "Electronic health records in ambulances: the ERA multiple-methods study." Health Services and Delivery Research 8, no. 10 (February 2020): 1–140. http://dx.doi.org/10.3310/hsdr08100.
Full textAbstract:
Background Ambulance services have a vital role in the shift towards the delivery of health care outside hospitals, when this is better for patients, by offering alternatives to transfer to the emergency department. The introduction of information technology in ambulance services to electronically capture, interpret, store and transfer patient data can support out-of-hospital care. Objective We aimed to understand how electronic health records can be most effectively implemented in a pre-hospital context in order to support a safe and effective shift from acute to community-based care, and how their potential benefits can be maximised. Design and setting We carried out a study using multiple methods and with four work packages: (1) a rapid literature review; (2) a telephone survey of all 13 freestanding UK ambulance services; (3) detailed case studies examining electronic health record use through qualitative methods and analysis of routine data in four selected sites consisting of UK ambulance services and their associated health economies; and (4) a knowledge-sharing workshop. Results We found limited literature on electronic health records. Only half of the UK ambulance services had electronic health records in use at the time of data collection, with considerable variation in hardware and software and some reversion to use of paper records as services transitioned between systems. The case studies found that the ambulance services’ electronic health records were in a state of change. Not all patient contacts resulted in the generation of electronic health records. Ambulance clinicians were dealing with partial or unclear information, which may not fit comfortably with the electronic health records. Ambulance clinicians continued to use indirect data input approaches (such as first writing on a glove) even when using electronic health records. The primary function of electronic health records in all services seemed to be as a store for patient data. There was, as yet, limited evidence of electronic health records’ full potential being realised to transfer information, support decision-making or change patient care. Limitations Limitations included the difficulty of obtaining sets of matching routine data for analysis, difficulties of attributing any change in practice to electronic health records within a complex system and the rapidly changing environment, which means that some of our observations may no longer reflect reality. Conclusions Realising all the benefits of electronic health records requires engagement with other parts of the local health economy and dealing with variations between providers and the challenges of interoperability. Clinicians and data managers, and those working in different parts of the health economy, are likely to want very different things from a data set and need to be presented with only the information that they need. Future work There is scope for future work analysing ambulance service routine data sets, qualitative work to examine transfer of information at the emergency department and patients’ perspectives on record-keeping, and to develop and evaluate feedback to clinicians based on patient records. Study registration This study is registered as Health and Care Research Wales Clinical Research Portfolio 34166. Funding This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Services and Delivery Research programme and will be published in full in Health Services and Delivery Research; Vol. 8, No. 10. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
27
Jayasuriya, Rohan. "Stages of Growth in End-User Computing: Applications in the Health Sector of Developing Countries in Asia-Pacific." Journal of Information Technology 8, no. 3 (September 1993): 151–59. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/026839629300800304.
Full textAbstract:
Information technology is being adopted in the health sector of developing countries at a rapid rate to enhance management of health services. Lessons from the experiences of the business sector of developed countries are useful if adapted to the situation. End-User Computing (EUC) has been recognized to have potentially the greatest impact on productivity and on the efficient use of resources in developed countries. The experience of developing countries in introducing IT is reviewed. Based on the stage hypothesis model of growth in computing, a framework to analyse and predict EUC growth in the health sector of developing countries is described. Using the structure, people and technology parameters of the framework, benchmarks applicable to the health sector in developing countries for each stage are applied to case studies from the Asia-Pacific region. The utility of the framework in identifying key issues that need to be addressed in planning information systems in developing countries is presented.
28
Wescoat, James L., Riddhi Pankaj Shah, Ranu Singh, and J. V. R. Murty. "Habitations, villages, and gram panchayats: local drinking water planning in rural India with a Pune district case study." Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development 9, no. 3 (July 3, 2019): 522–30. http://dx.doi.org/10.2166/washdev.2019.196.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract Improving rural drinking water services at the village level is a high priority in India. The National Rural Drinking Water Program (NRDWP) calls for village drinking water plans on an annual basis. However, planning data analysis and mapping are complicated by the different levels of local settlement that are involved. The aims of this paper are: first, to review how the term ‘village’ has come to refer to three different types of settlement for planning purposes in India; second, to show how each settlement type has different water data and Geographic Information System (GIS) map coverage; and third, to identify practical strategies for using these different data and mapping resources to develop rural drinking water plans. We address the first objective through a brief historical review of local government administration and drinking water database development in India. Challenges of data analysis and mapping are demonstrated through a case study of Pune district in Maharashtra. This challenge led to the identification of six practical strategies for coordinating the analysis of drinking water data and GIS mapping for planning purposes.
29
Pratama, Muhammad Arfan. "THE IMPLEMENTATION OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN ANTI-CORRUPTION TO SUSTAIN ECONOMIC GROWTH." Asia Pacific Fraud Journal 5, no. 2 (December 30, 2020): 191. http://dx.doi.org/10.21532/apfjournal.v5i2.156.
Full textAbstract:
Corruption is an extraordinary crime which gives domino effect on government systems. The impacts include low economic growth and high poverty rate. Corruption enriches certain class only so that the budget which is allocated for the development of the country cannot be fully absorbed. Public service facilities for health, education, and administration cannot operate optimally due to the stalled building construction. To increase the economic growth of a country, a structured improvement is needed by involving the role of citizen in monitoring the government system. The development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) enhances the transparency of ongoing government systems and public services. Studies conducted by Qiang (2009) and Andersen (2009) showed that the implementation of ICT proved to be able to increase economic growth in developing and developed countries with an increase in GDP. Khan and Majeed (2019) also proved that the implementation of ICT and E-Government also increased GDP for Southeast Asian countries in the period 1980-2015. The ICT developments include e-government, big data analysis, blockchain technology, and whistleblowing systems. The implementation of ICT in government systems, such as licensing systems and procurement systems, provides increased transparency and quality so that economic growth also increases. It takes a lot of money to implement ICT in the government system, but it also becomes an opportunity for state officials to abuse their authority. An example of the use of ICT in Indonesia is the procurement of E-ID Cards. Therefore, the integrated whistleblowing system can be sought to guard the benefits of implementing ICT in increasing economic growth.
30
Helou, Samar, Elie El Helou, Victoria Abou-Khalil, Jad Wakim, Jeanine El Helou, Alain Daher, and Charline El Hachem. "The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Physicians’ Use and Perception of Telehealth: The Case of Lebanon." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 13 (July 6, 2020): 4866. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17134866.
Full textAbstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic forced physicians to quickly adapt and find ways to provide their usual offline services by using online tools. We aimed to understand how physicians adapted to the sudden need for telehealth and if their perception of telehealth changed due to their experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted an exploratory sequential mixed-methods study. We interviewed five Lebanese physicians and thematically analyzed the interviews. We developed a questionnaire based on the analysis results and administered it online to physicians in Lebanon. In total, 140 responses were collected. We found that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, physicians engaged in more telehealth activities in the realms of telemedicine, public awareness, continuing medical education, research, administration, and teaching. They also expanded their repertoire of information-technology tools. Our results also show that there was a significant shift in the physicians’ perceptions, indicating greater openness and willingness to adopt telehealth services. However, a significant amount of skepticism and uncertainty regarding telemedicine remains, especially concerning its efficiency, safety, and the adequacy of existing regulations. Based on our findings, we offer recommendations for health IT policy makers, developers, and researchers, to sustain the continuity of telehealth activities beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
31
Iyer, Sowmya, Priyanka Mehta, Joanne Weith, Dat Hoang-Gia, Janet Moore, Chalise Carlson, Philip Choe, Erin Sakai, and Christine Gould. "Converting a Geriatrics Clinic to Virtual Visits during COVID-19: A Case Study." Journal of Primary Care & Community Health 12 (January 2021): 215013272110002. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/21501327211000235.
Full textAbstract:
Background: To characterize the experience of converting a geriatrics clinic to telehealth visits in early stages of a pandemic. Design: An organizational case study with mixed methods evaluation from the first 8 weeks of converting a geriatrics clinic from in-person visits to video and telephone visits. Setting: Veteran’s Health Administration in Northern California Participants Community-dwelling older Veterans receiving care at VA Palo Alto Geriatrics clinic. Veterans had a mean age of 85.7 (SD = 6.8) and 72.1% had cognitive impairment. Intervention: Veterans with face-to-face appointments were converted to video or telephone visits to mitigate exposure to community spread of COVID-19. Measurements: Thirty-two patient evaluations and 80 clinician feedback evaluations were completed. This provided information on satisfaction, care access during pandemic, and travel and time savings. Results: Of the 62 scheduled appointments, 43 virtual visits (69.4%) were conducted. Twenty-six (60.5%) visits were conducted via video, 17 (39.5%) by telephone. Virtual visits saved patients an average of 118.6 minutes each. Patients and providers had similar, positive perceptions about telehealth to in-person visit comparison, limiting exposure, and visit satisfaction. After the telehealth appointment, patients indicated greater comfort with using virtual visits in the future. Thirty-one evaluations included comments for qualitative analysis. We identified 3 main themes of technology set-up and usability, satisfaction with visit, and clinical assessment and communication. Conclusion: During a pandemic that has limited the ability to safely conduct inperson services, virtual formats offer a feasible and acceptable alternative for clinically-complex older patients. Despite potential barriers and additional effort required for telehealth visits, patients expressed willingness to utilize this format. Patients and providers reported high satisfaction, particularly with the ability to access care similar to in-person while staying safe. Investing in telehealth services during a pandemic ensures that vulnerable older patients can access care while maintaining social distancing, an important safety measure.
32
Loewenson, Rene, and Sarah Simpson. "Strengthening Integrated Care Through Population-Focused Primary Care Services: International Experiences Outside the United States." Annual Review of Public Health 38, no. 1 (March 20, 2017): 413–29. http://dx.doi.org/10.1146/annurev-publhealth-031816-044518.
Full textAbstract:
Many high- and middle-income countries (HMICs) are experiencing a burden of comorbidity and chronic diseases. Together with increasing patient expectations, this burden is raising demand for population health–oriented innovation in health care. Using desk review and country case studies, we examine strategies applied in HMICs outside the United States to address these challenges, with a focus on and use of a new framework for analyzing primary care (PC). The article outlines how a population health approach has been supported by focusing assessment on and clustering services around social groups and multimorbidity, with support for community roles. It presents ways in which early first contact and continuity of PC, PC coordination of referral, multidisciplinary team approaches, investment in PC competencies, and specific payment and incentive models have all supported comprehensive approaches. These experiences locate PC as a site of innovation, where information technology and peer-to-peer learning networks support learning from practice.
33
Porter, Alison, Sarah Black, Jeremy Dale, Robert Harris-Mayes, Robin Lawrenson, Ronan Lyons, Suzanne Mason, et al. "PP32 Electronic records in ambulances – an observational study (ERA)." Emergency Medicine Journal 36, no. 10 (September 24, 2019): e14-e14. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/emermed-2019-999abs.32.
Full textAbstract:
BackgroundThe introduction of information technology (IT) in emergency ambulance services to electronically capture, interpret and store patient data can support out of hospital care. Although electronic health records (EHR) in ambulances and other digital technology are encouraged by national policy across the UK, there is considerable variation across services in terms of implementation. We aimed to understand how electronic records can be most effectively implemented in a pre-hospital context, in order to support a safe and effective shift from acute to community-based care.MethodsWe conducted a mixed-methods study with four work packages (WPs): a rapid literature review, a telephone survey of all 13 freestanding UK ambulance services, detailed case studies in four selected sites, and a knowledge sharing workshop.ResultsWe found considerable variation in hardware and software. Services were in a state of constant change, with services transitioning from one system to another, reverting to paper, or upgrading. Ambulance clinicians were dealing with partial or unclear information, which may not fit comfortably with the EHR. Clinicians continued to use indirect data input approaches such as first writing on a glove. The primary function of EHR in all services seemed to be as a store for patient data. There was, as yet, limited evidence of their full potential being realised to transfer information, support decision making or change patient care.ConclusionsRealising the full benefits of EHR requires engagement with other parts of the local health economy, dealing with the challenges of interoperability. Clinicians and data managers are likely to want very different things from a data set, and need to be presented with only the information that they need.
34
Ayeni, Philips O., Blessed O. Agbaje, and Maria Tippler. "A Systematic Review of Library Services Provision in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic." Evidence Based Library and Information Practice 16, no. 3 (September 15, 2021): 67–104. http://dx.doi.org/10.18438/eblip29902.
Full textAbstract:
Objective – Libraries have had to temporarily shut their doors because of the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in the provision of online and remote services. This review analyzed services offered by libraries, the technological tools used, and the challenges facing libraries during the pandemic. Methods – This study employed a systematic literature review, following the PRISMA checklist (Moher at al., 2009). The Building Blocks search strategy was employed to search for keywords of concepts in Library and Information Science Abstract (LISA), Library and Information Science Technology Abstract (LISTA), Library Science Database, Web of Science (WoS) core collections, and Google Scholar. A set of inclusion and exclusion criteria was pre-determined by the authors prior to database searching. Quality assessment of included studies was performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (Hong et al., 2018). A tabular approach was used to provide a summary of each article allowing the synthesis of results, which led to the identification of eight broad categories of services provided by libraries in included studies. Results – The first set of searches from the 5 databases produced 3,499 results. After we removed duplicates and applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria based on titles and abstracts, 37 potentially relevant articles were identified. Further screening of the full-text led to the final inclusion of 23 articles used for the qualitative synthesis. The majority of the studies were conducted in the United States of America (n= 6, 26.1%), followed by India (n=4, 17%), and China (n=2, 8.7%). The remaining studies were carried out in United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Mexico, Romania, Czech Republic, Indonesia, Pakistan, Nigeria, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe. The most common method used in selected studies was the case study (n= 11, 48%), followed by survey (n=7, 30.4%), content analysis (n=4, 17.4%), and mixed methods (n=1, 4.3%). The majority of the studies were carried out in academic libraries (74%), while the rest were based on medical, public, and special libraries. Findings show that the majority of academic libraries in the included studies are providing and expanding access to electronic resources (n=16, 69.6%) and increasing open access resources and services (n=11, 47.8%). More so, most academic libraries are assisting in virtual education and teaching endeavors of faculty and students (n=13, 56.5%). In addition, some medical and public libraries are bolstering public health safety through health literacy (n=12, 52.2%), supporting research efforts, and engaging in virtual reference services, among others. In order to carry out these services, libraries are harnessing several educational, social networking, communication, and makerspaces technologies. Most of the libraries in the included studies reported budgetary challenges, and the need for new ICT infrastructure and Internet service as they move their services online. Conclusion – This review found that libraries are adapting in a number of ways to continue their roles in meeting patrons’ needs in spite of the growing challenges posed by COVID-19 restrictions and lockdown. For libraries to thrive in these trying times, there must be a well-structured approach to ensuring continuity of services. Libraries should prioritize the acquisition of electronic resources as well as increase their efforts to digitize resources that are only available in printed copies. As library services have predominantly shifted online, there should be concerted effort and support from government and funding agencies to equip libraries with the technological facilities needed to provide cutting-edge services. The quality assessment of the included studies shows that there is need for rigor and transparency in the methodological description of studies investigating library services provision in a pandemic. This review provides an overview of the ways libraries have responded to the challenges posed by a global pandemic, and hence will be of use and interest to all librarians especially those in health and academic sectors.
35
Zhao, Jin, Zubair Ahmad, Saima K. Khosa, M. Yusuf, Osama Abdulaziz Alamri, and Mohamed S. Mohamed. "The Role of Technology in COVID-19 Pandemic Management and Its Financial Impact." Complexity 2021 (September 10, 2021): 1–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2021/4860704.
Full textAbstract:
A pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is causing an unprecedented situation for the world’s health services. Health, local communities, and government are adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, on January 21, 2020, the WHO Emergency Committee declared a global health emergency because of increasing numbers of COVID-19 case notifications from countries overseas. While the pandemic caused grave damage to socioeconomic phenomena and multiple global phenomena such as commodity prices, remittances, trade, tourism, significant job loss, and drastically lower wages, the pandemic has also negatively affected multiple global phenomena. The advent of technology has spurred significant changes in many aspects of our lives and improved the exchange of information, the presentation of data, and the management of medical resources through telemedicine. In this article, we present a mathematical data visualization approach for analyzing pandemic data behaviors, such as exponential growth and deviations using the data related to COVID-19 events. Furthermore, this article will include studies on the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on finance sector.
36
Inkinen, Tommi. "Best practices of the Finnish Government Information Society Policy Programme." Transforming Government: People, Process and Policy 6, no. 2 (May 25, 2012): 167–87. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/17506161211246917.
Full textAbstract:
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to classify the best practices selected by the “Finnish Government Information Society Policy Programme” with a framework that includes four segments: technology, supply, demand, and spatial impact scale. These segments are elemental parts of service development processes, the best of which are classified into seven distinct categories: Telecommunications; Citizen Readiness; Education and Research; Working Life; Public Sector Electronic Services; Social and Health Care; and Electronic Commerce.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical material includes the best practices as defined by the Finnish Government Information Society Policy Programme 2003‐2007. The best practices were analyzed through their project descriptions. The data were classified with textual content analysis into categories that were further analyzed numerically. The tools of statistical analysis included cross‐tabulations and chi‐square tests.FindingsThe results reveal differentiation among the best practices. The majority of service development concerns applications and software. However, physical infrastructure development was also present in the largest cities. Public sector organizations produced more than half of all of the best practices selected. Public‐private partnerships were also common, and the majority of service development was targeted to the national level.Research limitations/implicationsThe best practices analyzed illustrate the view of the Finnish Government Information Society Policy Programme. Consequently, the analysis highlights the values of the policy program. The data include only a small segment of on‐going development activity and represents a case study and therefore it is limited to the Finnish and Nordic context.Originality/valueThis paper uses a unique primary data set. The results obtained reflect the originality of the study and clearly provide sufficient grounds to consider electronic service development. The results are also transferable to public sector decision makers dealing with regional policies and development.
37
Shahpori, Reza, Noel Gibney, Nancy Guebert, Caroline Hatcher, and David Zygun. "An on-line dashboard to facilitate monitoring of provincial ICU bed occupancy in Alberta, Canada." Journal of Hospital Administration 3, no. 1 (October 10, 2013): 47. http://dx.doi.org/10.5430/jha.v3n1p47.
Full textAbstract:
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds are among the most valuable hospital resources for which demands periodically exceed supplies. Hence monitoring and management of utilization of these resources is essential for providing an efficient and equitable service. The purpose of this article is to describe the design, development and utilization of a dashboard for the measurement of occupancy and management of capacity of a provincial network of ICUs. The dashboard utilizes the exiting hospital data sources and infrastructure to provide a timely snapshot of bed utilization as well as a historical view of unit occupancy and enables simulation scenarios for capacity planning in a dispersed geographical location. This information is used by administration for managing the scarce ICU resources and helping with standardization of admit and discharge processes to and from intensive care units in order to enhance efficiency. In our case, the existing hospital information systems proved to contain reliable data and the existing information technology infrastructure owned proper resources to be accessed to develop such valuable tool. Such dashboard presents necessary information to facilitate understanding of capacity and bed utilization and can help create a sense of community and standardization of critical care services which would eventually contribute to a more equitable and efficient health system.
38
Apolinário-Hagen, Jennifer, Jessica Kemper, and Carolina Stürmer. "Public Acceptability of E-Mental Health Treatment Services for Psychological Problems: A Scoping Review." JMIR Mental Health 4, no. 2 (April 3, 2017): e10. http://dx.doi.org/10.2196/mental.6186.
Full textAbstract:
Background Over the past decades, the deficient provision of evidence-based interventions for the prevention and treatment of mental health problems has become a global challenge across health care systems. In view of the ongoing diffusion of new media and mobile technologies into everyday life, Web-delivered electronic mental health (e-mental health) treatment services have been suggested to expand the access to professional help. However, the large-scale dissemination and adoption of innovative e-mental health services is progressing slowly. This discrepancy between potential and actual impact in public health makes it essential to explore public acceptability of e-mental health treatment services across health care systems. Objective This scoping review aimed to identify and evaluate recent empirical evidence for public acceptability, service preferences, and attitudes toward e-mental health treatments. On the basis of both frameworks for technology adoption and previous research, we defined (1) perceived helpfulness and (2) intentions to use e-mental health treatment services as indicators for public acceptability in the respective general population of reviewed studies. This mapping should reduce heterogeneity and help derive implications for systematic reviews and public health strategies. Methods We systematically searched electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, PsycINFO, Psyndex, PsycARTICLES, and Cochrane Library, using reference management software for parallel searches) to identify surveys published in English in peer-reviewed journals between January 2010 and December 2015, focusing on public perceptions about e-mental health treatments outside the context of clinical, psychosocial, or diagnostic interventions. Both indicators were obtained from previous review. Exclusion criteria further involved studies targeting specific groups or programs. Results The simultaneous database search identified 76 nonduplicate records. Four articles from Europe and Australia were included in this scoping review. Sample sizes ranged from 217 to 2411 participants of ages 14-95 years. All included studies used cross-sectional designs and self-developed measures for outcomes related to both defined indicators of public acceptability. Three surveys used observational study designs, whereas one study was conducted as an experiment investigating the impact of brief educational information on attitudes. Taken together, the findings of included surveys suggested that e-mental health treatment services were perceived as less helpful than traditional face-to-face interventions. Additionally, intentions to future use e-mental health treatments were overall smaller in comparison to face-to-face services. Professional support was essential for help-seeking intentions in case of psychological distress. Therapist-assisted e-mental health services were preferred over unguided programs. Unexpectedly, assumed associations between familiarity with Web-based self-help for health purposes or “e-awareness” and intentions to use e-mental health services were weak or inconsistent. Conclusions Considering the marginal amount and heterogeneity of pilot studies focusing on public acceptability of e-mental health treatments, further research using theory-led approaches and validated measures is required to understand psychological facilitator and barriers for the implementation of innovative services into health care.
39
Lewis, Jane, Jane Greenstock, Kim Caldwell, and Beth Anderson. "Working together to identify child maltreatment: social work and acute healthcare." Journal of Integrated Care 23, no. 5 (October 19, 2015): 302–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jica-08-2015-0032.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose – The wider research literature indicates that health professionals’ ability to identify possible child maltreatment varies, and that this can lead to under-reporting of possible maltreatment to local authority (LA) statutory child protection agencies. The purpose of this paper is to understand how acute trust paediatric and LA services work together in suspected cases of child maltreatment, and what is viewed locally as good practice. Design/methodology/approach – A mixed-method approach, consisting of an online survey, qualitative case studies and good practice examples, was used to describe key features of current practice in joint working between acute trusts and LA services, and to generate insights that could help improve practice. Findings – Holistic assessment and information gathering, supported by training and expert input, were identified as being critical to a comprehensive approach to identifying maltreatment. Both in-hospital and community-based social work arrangements can be effective bases for joint working in respect of child maltreatment. Effective joint working relies on shared vision and values, and investment in, and commitment to, collaborative working. Research limitations/implications – This study covered arrangements in emergency departments (EDs) and maternity departments only, so future research could usefully look more broadly within acute care settings. Study respondents were also limited to safeguarding leads so, in future, there would be real value in exploring the experiences, practices and views of frontline practitioners. Practical implications – The study includes practical implications for hospital and social work teams working to safeguard children. Originality/value – The study highlights the characteristics of effective liaison between acute trust maternity and EDS and social work teams.
40
Westwood, Marie, Bram Ramaekers, Shona Lang, Nigel Armstrong, Caro Noake, Shelley de Kock, Manuela Joore, Johan Severens, and Jos Kleijnen. "ImmunoCAP® ISAC and Microtest for multiplex allergen testing in people with difficult to manage allergic disease: a systematic review and cost analysis." Health Technology Assessment 20, no. 67 (September 2016): 1–178. http://dx.doi.org/10.3310/hta20670.
Full textAbstract:
BackgroundAllergy is a form of immune-mediated exaggerated sensitivity (hypersensitivity) to a substance that is either inhaled, swallowed, injected or comes into contact with the skin. Foreign substances that provoke allergies are called allergens. It has been claimed that multiplex allergen testing may help in diagnosing the cause of symptoms in patients with an unclear cause of allergy or who are allergic to more than one substance.ObjectivesTo evaluate multiplex allergen testing [devices that can measure the presence of multiple immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in a patient’s blood at the same time], by assessing (1) clinical effectiveness (allergy symptoms, incidence of acute exacerbations, mortality, adverse events of testing and treatment, health-care presentations or admissions, health-related quality of life); (2) effects on treatment (diet, immunotherapy medications, other potential testing); (3) any additional diagnostic information provided by multiplex allergen testing; and (4) cost-effectiveness (cost of different assessment strategies).MethodsFifteen databases were searched from 2005 to April 2015, including MEDLINE (via OvidSp), MEDLINE In-Process Citations, MEDLINE Daily Update, PubMed (National Library of Medicine), EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), Health Technology Assessment (HTA) database, Science Citation Index (SCI), Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science (CPCI-S), BIOSIS Previews, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) HTA programme, and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA); supplementary searches of conference proceedings and trials registries were performed. Review methods followed published guidance from the Cochrane Collaboration and the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, UK. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using appropriate published tools or a review-specific tool designed by the project team. Studies were summarised in a narrative synthesis. Owing to a lack of data on the clinical effectiveness of multiplex allergen testing, no long-term cost-effectiveness model was developed. A conceptual model structure was developed and cost analyses were performed to examine the short-term costs of various possible diagnostic pathways.ResultsFifteen studies were included in the review. The very limited available data indicated that the addition of multiplex allergen testing [ImmunoCAP®Immuno Solid-phase Allergen Chip (ISAC), Thermo Fisher Scientific/Phadia AB, Uppsala, Sweden] to standard diagnostic work-up can change the clinicians’ views on the diagnosis, management and treatment of patients. There was some indication that the use of ImmunoCAP ISAC testing may be useful to guide decisions on the discontinuation of restrictive diets, the content of allergen-specific immunotherapy (SIT) prescriptions, and whether or not patients should receive SIT. However, none of the studies that we identified reported any information on clinical outcomes subsequent to changes in treatment or management. There was some evidence that ImmunoCAP ISAC may be useful for discriminating allergens that are structurally similar and are recognised by the same IgE antibody (cross-immunoreactive). No data were available for Microtest (Microtest Matrices Ltd, London, UK). Detailed cost analyses suggested that multiplex allergen testing would have to result in a substantial reduction of the proportions of patients receiving single IgE testing and oral food challenge tests in order to be cost-saving in the short term.ConclusionsNo recommendations for service provision can be made based on the analyses included in this report. It is suggested that a consensus-based protocol for the use of multiplex allergen testing be developed. The clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the proposed protocol should then be assessed by comparing long-term clinical and quality of life outcomes and resource use in patients managed using the protocol with those managed using a standard diagnostic pathway.Study registrationThis study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42015019739.FundingThis project was a Diagnostic Assessment Report commissioned by the NIHR HTA programme on behalf of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.
41
Katabaro, Justine Mushobozi, and Yonghong Yan. "Effects of Lighting Quality on Working Efficiency of Workers in Office Building in Tanzania." Journal of Environmental and Public Health 2019 (November 14, 2019): 1–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2019/3476490.
Full textAbstract:
Background. In this era of Information Communication Technology, a high-quality working environment is essential to the occupants. Providing quantity rather the quality of work environments is very common in most of the least developed countries, including Tanzania. Existing research asserts that poor indoor environmental quality such as lighting has a detrimental effect on human health, and in case of the office working population, it also affects their work performance. This study aims to analyze the effects of the lighting quality on working efficiency of workers in Tanzania. Methods. Four representative offices from the administration building at Mbeya University of Science and Technology were investigated from June to September 2018. The customized questionnaire survey tool was administered to the randomly selected occupants to survey their perceptions about the quality of lighting in their workplace and its influence on their health and work efficiency. Physical observation and illuminance distribution measurements were also conducted. Results. The statistical analysis indicates that the majority of the occupants are less satisfied with the lighting quality in their working environment, and some respondents reported that it significantly affected their work efficiency and wellbeing. The average desk illuminance and uniformity level were found to be below the recommended values of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the International Commission on lighting (CIE). Conclusion. Despite the suggested improvement measures, this research emphasizes that poorly articulated work environment can adversely affect the productivity and work efficiency of the workers. The workers in such condition are also exposed to occupational diseases. Thus, providing a healthy work environment should be a fundamental right of the workers.
42
Laurenza, Elena, Michele Quintano, Francesco Schiavone, and Demetris Vrontis. "The effect of digital technologies adoption in healthcare industry: a case based analysis." Business Process Management Journal 24, no. 5 (September 3, 2018): 1124–44. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/bpmj-04-2017-0084.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the extant literature regarding the exploitation of digital technologies by illustrating how this type of IT can influence business process improvements in the healthcare industry. Design/methodology/approach The paper reports an illustrative case study for MSD Italy, the Italian subsidiary of the USA-based company Merck & Co., Inc. The group sells drugs for human use in Italy but is also active in the veterinary (MSD Animal Health) industry, with Vree Health, and in solutions and software-based services for the healthcare industry. Findings The results show that the adoption of digital technologies could improve the performance of main healthcare business processes, particularly those processes that can be simplified with the adoption of information technology. More specifically, digital technologies could increase efficiency and, at the same time, allow for the delivery of better quality and reduced response times, with many benefits for several stakeholders, such as national health systems, clinicians and patients. Originality/value Although some studies report the need for effective business processes for sustainable healthcare systems, there is a lack of literature regarding the specific implications of the adoption of such digital technologies for the business process management of healthcare firms. This paper attempts to fill in this gap.
43
Melián-González, Santiago, and Jacques Bulchand-Gidumal. "Good moves, mistakes and unexpected events in an initiative to improve public management in the ICT service provision at a university." International Review of Administrative Sciences 75, no. 2 (June 2009): 271–91. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0020852309104176.
Full textAbstract:
New public management aims to improve the efficacy and other performance criteria of public organizations. To that end, it is based on principles like specialization and public organization desegregation, and on practices such as outsourcing and the development of internal markets. This article presents a public university management action comprising the creation of an information and communications technology service enterprise. The bases for this initiative include theoretical approaches as well as practical issues. The value of this work is that it studies the referred initiative implantation process and its subsequent effects. The case method is used to analyse some theoretical proposals of new public management. The result is that good moves, mistakes and unforeseen consequences have been found, making it a source of learning for academics and professionals in this field. Points for practitioners Internal markets constitute an appropriate mechanism to achieve the benefits of new public management. However, when implementing it, care has to be taken in several aspects: (1) the use of private sector initiatives in the public sector is complex and many different aspects have to be considered; (2) the human resources of the contracting company have to be involved in the process from the very beginning and; (3) measures of performance of the process must be developed and put into practice. That said, internal markets allow an increase in the number of services delivered without increasing the number of work posts, providing the parent firm with the advantages of both outsourcing and insourcing.
44
Porter, Alison, Sarah Black, Jeremy Dale, David Fitzpatrick, Robert Harris-Mayes, Robin Lawrenson, Ronan Lyons, et al. "VP205 Implementing Electronic Records In Ambulances." International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care 33, S1 (2017): 246. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0266462317004305.
Full textAbstract:
INTRODUCTION:Increasingly, ambulance services offer alternatives to transfer to the emergency department (ED), when this is better for patients. The introduction of electronic health records (EHR) in ambulance services is encouraged by national policy across the United Kingdom (UK) but roll-out has been variable and complex.Electronic Records in Ambulances (ERA) is a two-year study which aims to investigate and describe the opportunities and challenges of implementing EHR and associated technology in ambulances to support a safe and effective shift to out of hospital care, including the implications for workforce in terms of training, role and clinical decision-making skills.METHODS:Our study includes a scoping review of relevant issues and a baseline assessment of progress in all UK ambulance services in implementing EHR. These will inform four in-depth case studies of services at different stages of implementation, assessing current usage, and examining context.RESULTS:The scoping review identified themes including: there are many perceived potential benefits of EHR, such as improved safety and remote diagnostics, but as yet little evidence of them; technical challenges to implementation may inhibit uptake and lead to increased workload in the short term; staff implementing EHR may do so selectively or devise workarounds; and EHR may be perceived as a tool of staff surveillance.CONCLUSIONS:Our scoping review identified some complex issues around the implementation of EHR and the relevant challenges, opportunities and workforce implications. These will help to inform our fieldwork and subsequent data analysis in the case study sites, to begin early in 2017. Lessons learned from the experience of implementing EHR so far should inform future development of information technology in ambulance services, and help service providers to understand how best to maximize the opportunities offered by EHR to redesign care.
45
McFarlane, Daniel C., Alexa K. Doig, James A. Agutter, Jonathan L. Mercurio, Ranjeev Mittu, Lara M. Brewer, and Noah D. Syroid. "Defeating information overload in health surveillance using a metacognitive aid innovation from military combat systems." Journal of Defense Modeling and Simulation: Applications, Methodology, Technology 14, no. 4 (September 9, 2016): 371–88. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1548512916667246.
Full textAbstract:
Modern sensors for health surveillance generate high volumes and rates of data that currently overwhelm operational decision-makers. These data are collected with the intention of enabling front-line clinicians to make effective clinical judgments. Ironically, prior human–systems integration (HSI) studies show that the flood of data degrades rather than aids decision-making performance. Health surveillance operations can focus on aggregate changes to population health or on the status of individual people. In the case of clinical monitoring, medical device alarms currently create an information overload situation for front-line clinical workers, such as hospital nurses. Consequently, alarms are often missed or ignored, and an impending patient adverse event may not be recognized in time to prevent crisis. One innovation used to improve decision making in areas of data-rich environments is the Human Alerting and Interruption Logistics (HAIL) technology, which was originally sponsored by the US Office of Naval Research. HAIL delivers metacognitive HSI services that empower end-users to quickly triage interruptions and dynamically manage their multitasking. HAIL informed our development of an experimental prototype that provides a set of context-enabled alarm notification services (without automated alarm filtering) to support users’ metacognition for information triage. This application is called HAIL Clinical Alarm Triage (HAIL-CAT) and was designed and implemented on a smartwatch to support the mobile multitasking of hospital nurses. An empirical study was conducted in a 20-bed virtual hospital with high-fidelity patient simulators. Four teams of four registered nurses (16 in total) participated in a 180-minute simulated patient care scenario. Each nurse was assigned responsibility to care for five simulated patients and high rates of simulated health surveillance data were available from patient monitors, infusion pumps, and a call light system. Thirty alarms per nurse were generated in each 90-minute segment of the data collection sessions, only three of which were clinically important alarms. The within-subjects experimental design included a treatment condition where the nurses used HAIL-CAT on a smartwatch to triage and manage alarms and a control condition without the smartwatch. The results show that, when using the smartwatch, nurses responded three times faster to clinically important and actionable alarms. An analysis of nurse performance also shows no negative effects on their other duties. Subjective results show favorable opinions about utility, usability, training requirement, and adoptability. These positive findings suggest the potential for the HAIL HSI system to be transferrable to the domain of health surveillance to achieve the currently unrealized potential utility of high-volume data.
46
Tatara, Naoe, Hugo Lewi Hammer, Jelena Mirkovic, Marte Karoline Råberg Kjøllesdal, and Hege Kristin Andreassen. "Associations Between Immigration-Related User Factors and eHealth Activities for Self-Care: Case of First-Generation Immigrants From Pakistan in the Oslo Area, Norway." JMIR Public Health and Surveillance 5, no. 3 (August 16, 2019): e11998. http://dx.doi.org/10.2196/11998.
Full textAbstract:
Background Immigrant populations are often disproportionally affected by chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Use of information and communication technology (ICT) is one promising approach for better self-care of T2DM to mitigate the social health inequalities, if designed for a wider population. However, knowledge is scarce about immigrant populations’ diverse electronic health (eHealth) activities for self-care, especially in European countries. Objective With a target group of first-generation immigrants from Pakistan in the Oslo area, Norway, we aimed to understand their diverse eHealth activities for T2DM self-care in relation to immigration-related user factors specific to this target group: proficiency in relevant languages (Urdu, Norwegian, English), length of residence in Norway, and diagnosis of T2DM compared with general user factors (age, gender, education and digital skills, and self-rated health status). Methods Data were from a survey among the target population (N=176) conducted in 2015-2016. Using logistic regression, we analyzed associations between user factors and experiences of each of the following eHealth activities for T2DM self-care in the last 12 months: first, information seeking by (1) search engines and (2) Web portals or email subscriptions; second, communication and consultation (1) by closed conversation with a few acquaintances using ICT and (2) on social network services; and third, active decision making by using apps for (1) tracking health information and (2) self-assessment of health status. Using Poisson regression, we also assessed the relationship between user factors and variety of eHealth activities experienced. The Bonferroni correction was used to address the multiple testing problem. Results Regression analyses yielded the following significantly positive associations: between Urdu literacy and (1) information seeking by Web portals or email subscriptions (odds ratio [OR] 2.155, 95% CI 1.388-3.344), (2) communication and consultation on social network services (OR 5.697, 95% CI 2.487-13.053), and (3) variety (estimate=0.350, 95% CI 0.148-0.552); between length of residence in Norway and (1) communication and consultation by closed conversation with a few acquaintances using ICT (OR 1.728, 95% CI 1.193-2.503), (2) communication and consultation on social network services (OR 2.098, 95% CI 1.265-3.480), and (3) variety (estimate=0.270, 95% CI 0.117-0.424); between Norwegian language proficiency and active decision making by using apps for self-assessment of health status (OR 2.285, 95% CI 1.294-4.036); between education and digital skills and active decision making by using apps for tracking health information (OR 3.930, 95% CI 1.627-9.492); and between being a female and communication and consultation by closed conversation with a few acquaintances using ICT (OR 2.883, 95% CI 1.335-6.227). Conclusions This study implies immigration-related factors may confound associations between general user factors and eHealth activities. Further studies are needed to explore the influence of immigration-related user factors for eHealth activities in other immigrant groups and countries. International Registered Report RR2-DOI 10.2196/resprot.5468
47
Smith, Marie, Devra Dang, and Jennifer Lee. "E-Prescribing: Clinical Implications for Patients with Diabetes." Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology 3, no. 5 (September 2009): 1215–18. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/193229680900300529.
Full textAbstract:
With the recent Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and stimulus package incentives for health information technology, many clinicians are expected to adopt or enhance their use of e-prescribing systems. E-prescribing has nearly eradicated medication errors resulting from prescriber handwriting interpretations, yet several other patient-care and workflow benefits still remain a promise. As prescribers select or update their e-prescribing systems (whether stand-alone or integrated with electronic health records), close attention is needed to the e-prescribing application features and level of clinical decision support to avoid clinical blind spots, including incomplete or inaccurate patient medication lists, poor drop-down menu or screen design, and lack of clinically relevant and actionable drug interaction and drug allergy alerts. This article presents three case studies that highlight common e-prescribing problems involving diabetes patients.
48
Joseph, Sundari, Susan Klein, Samantha McCluskey, Penny Woolnough, and Lesley Diack. "Inter-agency adult support and protection practice." Journal of Integrated Care 27, no. 1 (February 11, 2019): 50–63. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jica-06-2018-0041.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose Collaborative inter-agency working is of paramount importance for the public protection agenda worldwide. The purpose of this paper is to disseminate the findings from a research study on the inter-agency working within adult support and protection (ASP) roles in the police, health and social care. Design/methodology/approach This realistic evaluation study with two inter-related phases was funded by the Scottish Institute for Policing Research. This paper reports on Phase 1 which identified existing gaps in the implementation of effective inter-agency practice by reviewing the “state of play” in inter-agency collaboration between the police and health and social care professionals. In total, 13 focus groups comprising representatives from Police Scotland (n=52), Social Care (n=31) and Health (n=18), engaged in single profession and mixed profession groups addressing issues including referral and information exchange. Findings On analysing context-mechanism-outcome (CMO), gaps in joint working were identified and attributed to the professionals’ own understanding of inter-agency working and the expectations of partner agencies. It recommended the need for further research and inter-agency training on public protection. Research limitations/implications This unique Scottish study successfully identified the inter-agency practices of health, social services and police. By means of a modified realistic evaluation approach, it provides an in-depth understanding of the challenges that professionals face on a day-to-day basis when safeguarding adults and informed strategic recommendations to overcome the barriers to good practices in organisational working. The methods used to determine CMO could benefit other researchers to develop studies exploring the complexities of multi-causal effects of cross-boundary working. The use of the same case study in each focus group helped to neutralise bias. However, the voluntary nature of participation could have resulted in biased perceptions. The limited numbers of health professionals may have resulted in less representation of health sector views. Practical implications This paper reports on a Scottish study that focused on the coordinated and integrated practices amongst the police, health and social services’ professionals who support and protect adult members of society at risk of harm and has implications for their practice. Social implications Whilst the focus of this study has been on ASP, the conclusions and recommendations are transferable to public protection issues in many other contexts. Originality/value Studies on the joint-working practices amongst police and health and social services’ professionals who support and protect adult members of society at risk of harm are uncommon. This study investigated professionals’ perceptions of gaps and concerns pertaining to integrated working by means of a realistic evaluation approach. It recommended the need for further research and inter-agency training on public protection.
49
Pinto, Francisco Silva, Alain Michel Tchadie, Susana Neto, and Shahbaz Khan. "Contributing to water security through water tariffs: some guidelines for implementation mechanisms." Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development 8, no. 4 (August 23, 2018): 730–39. http://dx.doi.org/10.2166/washdev.2018.015.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract The reform of water pricing practices and tariff mechanisms plays an important role in improving water supply services. However, setting tariff policies is a process that is rife with controversy. The current urban development rhythm and consequent challenges, in several developing cities, requires an urgent review and the establishment of an increasingly more ‘integrated’ management system with a suitable water tariff policy to promote water security. Many lessons can be learned from the successes and failures of water pricing policies in other countries and world regions, taking into account the context, status and development of the water supply sector. In this paper, several case studies are assessed throughout different countries or regions (South Africa, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and Europe) to provide key information able to support successful policy ‘transfer routes’. Based on those lessons, key policy recommendations are summarized to pave the way towards water security, particularly in rapidly growing urban centres that suffer already from water stress.
50
PHAM, THU THUY, BRUCE M. CAMPBELL, STEPHEN GARNETT, HEATHER ASLIN, and MINH HA HOANG. "Importance and impacts of intermediary boundary organizations in facilitating payment for environmental services in Vietnam." Environmental Conservation 37, no. 1 (March 2010): 64–72. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s037689291000024x.
Full textAbstract:
SUMMARYIntermediaries are seen as important actors in facilitating payments for environmental services (PES). However, few data exist on the adequacy of the services provided by intermediaries and the impacts of their interventions. Using four PES case studies in Vietnam, this paper analyses the roles of government agencies, non-government organizations, international agencies, local organizations and professional consulting firms as PES intermediaries. The findings indicate that these intermediaries are essential in supporting PES establishment. Their roles are as service and information providers, mediators, arbitrators, equalizers, representatives, watchdogs, developers of standards and bridge builders. Concerns have been raised about the quality of intermediaries’ participatory work, political influence on intermediaries’ activities and the neutral status of intermediaries. Although local organizations are strongly driven by the government, they are important channels for the poor to express their opinions. However, to act as environmental services (ES) sellers, local organizations need to overcome numerous challenges, particularly related to capacity for monitoring ES and enforcement of contracts. Relationships amongst intermediaries are complex and should be carefully examined by PES stakeholders to avoid negative impact on the poor. Each of the intermediaries may operate at a different level and can have different functions but a multi-sector approach is required for an effective PES implementation.