Project description:ObjectivesHPV vaccination rates in the United States lag behind other developed countries. Educational interventions are primarily directed at patients and parents rather than healthcare providers (HCPs), despite evidence that provider recommendation is a key determinant of vaccine uptake. The objectives for this review are to synthesize the available evidence related to the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of HCPs surrounding HPV vaccination, to summarize provider-specific educational interventions which have been evaluated, and to review existing provider-specific educational resources from national organizations and whether they align with the gaps identified.MethodsA systematic search was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and ERIC with MeSH terms human papillomavirus, vaccine, education, workshop, training, knowledge, attitude, belief, intention, and healthcare provider. Full text articles were obtained for studies that described the knowledge and attitudes of providers and/or impact of educational interventions. Data extraction was performed by four independent reviewers. Websites of American organizations with an interest in HPV vaccination were manually searched for provider resources.Results1066 publications were identified, and 98 articles were fully reviewed with 40 ultimately included. Providers' knowledge on HPV was generally low with a correspondingly low vaccine recommendation rate. Provider-specific education (e.g., didactic session and communication training) with complimentary interventions demonstrated increased knowledge and vaccine series initiation and completion. Themes identified in descriptive studies highlighted providers' lack of general HPV and vaccine knowledge, low self-confidence in counselling and addressing parental concerns, and discomfort in discussing sexual issues related to vaccination. Many American organizations have provider-specific resources; however, the effectiveness of these materials has not been established.ConclusionsHPV knowledge among providers remains low. Educational interventions to improve knowledge and communication appear to be effective. A breadth of resources from national organizations are available but their efficacy and level of utilization is largely unknown. Coordinated efforts are needed to evaluate provider-specific educational resources to improve vaccine uptake in the US.
Project description:BackgroundThe prevalence rates of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are expected to increase with the rising trends in diabetes and obesity associated with aging populations. Considering the impacts of coexistent NAFLD and CKD on morbidity and mortality rates, screening strategies for groups at high-risk of CKD are needed in community-dwelling individuals with NAFLD. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence and distribution of CKD in NAFLD, as well as the risk factors for CKD and the correlation with liver fibrosis in asymptomatic individuals with NAFLD at primary healthcare centers in Korea.MethodsThis retrospective cross-sectional study used data from 13 health-promotion centers in 10 Korean cities. Liver steatosis and stiffness were assessed using ultrasonography and magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), respectively. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate of <60 mL/min/1.73m2, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio or proteinuria. CKD was categorized into four stages: no CKD, mild, moderate, and severe. Comparisons according to the CKD stages in NAFLD were performed using Student's t-test or the chi-square test. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for CKD and the correlation with liver fibrosis in NAFLD.ResultsThe prevalence of CKD was 12.4% in NAFLD. Albuminuria (16.2%) and proteinuria (8.0%) were more prevalent in NAFLD. NAFLD (odd ratio = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.09-1.48, P = 0.003) was independently associated with CKD of at least mild stage. However, there was no significant association between CKD of at least moderate stage and NAFLD after adjusting for age and a metabolically unhealthy status. CKD was associated with significant liver fibrosis as measured by MRE in NAFLD.ConclusionThe presence of NAFLD and liver fibrosis were independent risk factors for CKD, but NAFLD was not an independent risk factor for the later stages of CKD.
Project description:BACKGROUND:In response to the rising burden of cardiovascular risk factors, the Malaysian government has implemented Enhanced Primary Healthcare (EnPHC) interventions in July 2017 at public clinic level to improve management and clinical outcomes of type 2 diabetes and hypertensive patients. Healthcare providers (HCPs) play crucial roles in healthcare service delivery and health system reform can influence HCPs' job satisfaction. However, studies evaluating HCPs' job satisfaction following primary care transformation remain scarce in low- and middle-income countries. This study aims to evaluate the effects of EnPHC interventions on HCPs' job satisfaction. METHODS:This is a quasi-experimental study conducted in 20 intervention and 20 matched control clinics. We surveyed all HCPs who were directly involved in patient management. A self-administered questionnaire which included six questions on job satisfaction were assessed on a scale of 1-4 at baseline (April and May 2017) and post-intervention phase (March and April 2019). Unadjusted intervention effect was calculated based on absolute differences in mean scores between intervention and control groups after implementation. Difference-in-differences analysis was used in the multivariable linear regression model and adjusted for providers and clinics characteristics to detect changes in job satisfaction following EnPHC interventions. A negative estimate indicates relative decrease in job satisfaction in the intervention group compared with control group. RESULTS:A total of 1042 and 1215 HCPs responded at baseline and post-intervention respectively. At post-intervention, the intervention group reported higher level of stress with adjusted differences of - 0.139 (95% CI -0.266,-0.012; p = 0.032). Nurses, being the largest workforce in public clinics were the only group experiencing dissatisfaction at post-intervention. In subgroup analysis, nurses from intervention group experienced increase in work stress following EnPHC interventions with adjusted differences of - 0.223 (95% CI -0.419,-0.026; p = 0.026). Additionally, the same group were less likely to perceive their profession as well-respected at post-intervention (β = - 0.175; 95% CI -0.331,-0.019; p = 0.027). CONCLUSIONS:Our findings suggest that EnPHC interventions had resulted in some untoward effect on HCPs' job satisfaction. Job dissatisfaction can have detrimental effects on the organisation and healthcare system. Therefore, provider experience and well-being should be considered before introducing healthcare delivery reforms to avoid overburdening of HCPs.
Project description:BackgroundDelivery of effective healthcare is contingent on the quality of communication between the patient and the healthcare provider. Little is known about primary healthcare providers' perceptions of communication with patients in Rwanda.AimTo explore providers' perceptions of patient-provider communication (PPC) and analyse the ways in which providers present and reflect on communication practice and problems.MethodsQualitative, in-depth, semi structured interviews with nine primary health care providers. An abductive analysis supplemented by the framework method was applied. A narrative approach allowed the emergence of archetypical narratives on PPC.ResultsProviders shared rich reflections on the importance of proper communication with patients and appeared committed to making their interaction work optimally. Still, providers had difficulty critically analysing limitations of their communication in practice. Reported communication issues included lack of communication training as well as time and workload issues. Two archetypes of narratives on PPC issues and practice emerged and are discussed.ConclusionWhile providers' narratives put patients at the centre of care, there were indications that patient-provider communication training and practice need further development. In-depth exploration of highlighted issues and adapted strategies to tackle communication drawbacks are prerequisites to improvement. This study contributes to the advancement of knowledge related to communication between the patient and the provider in a resource-limited setting.
Project description:Background: Healthcare services, in many countries, are increasingly being provided by cadres not trained as physicians, and these substitute health workers are referred to as mid-level health providers (MLHPs). The objective of this study was to rapidly synthesise evidence on the effectiveness of MLHPs involved in the delivery of healthcare, with a perspective on low- and middle-income countries. Methods: The review team performed an overview of systematic reviews assessing various outcomes for participants receiving care from MLHPs. The team evaluated systematic reviews for methodological quality and certainty of the evidence. Also, the review team consulted relevant stakeholders in India. Results: The final report included seven systematic reviews, with six assessed as moderate to high methodological quality. Mortality outcomes concerning pregnancy and childbirth care services showed no significant differences in care provided by MLHPs when compared with doctors. Pregnancy care provided by midwives was found to improve the quality of care slightly. The risk of failure or incomplete abortion for surgical abortion procedures provided by MLHPs was twice when compared to the procedures provided by doctors. Moderate to high certainty evidence showed that initiation and maintenance of antiretroviral therapy for HIV-infected patients by a nurse or clinical officer slightly reduced mortality. High certainty evidence showed that chronic disease management by non-medical prescribers reduced some important physiological measures compared to medical prescribing by doctors. Conclusions: To date, this is the first rapid overview of the evidence on MLHPs. Low-quality evidence suggests that MLHPs might be suitable to deliver quality pregnancy care. Moderate and high-quality evidence from trials suggests that MLHPs are helpful for chronic disease management and initiation and maintenance of antiretroviral therapy in people with HIV/AIDS. However, the roles and subsequent training and regulation of MLHPs might be different for different care domains.
Project description:BackgroundIn response to an increased health burden from non-communicable diseases (NCDs), primary health care (PHC) is effective platform to support NCDs prevention and control. This study aims to assess Thailand's PHC capacity in providing NCDs services, identify enabling factors and challenges and provide policy recommendations for improvement.MethodsThis cross-sectional mixed-method study was conducted between October 2019 and May 2020. Two provinces, one rich and one poor, were randomly selected and then a city and rural district from each province were randomly selected. From these 4 sites in the 2 provinces, all 56 PHC centres responded to a self-administrative questionnaire survey on their capacities and practices related to NCDs. A total of 79 participants from Provincial and District Health Offices, provincial and district hospitals, and PHC centres who are involved with NCDs participated in focus group discussions or in-depth interviews.ResultsStrong health infrastructure, competent staff (however not with increased workload), essential medicines and secured budget boost PHC capacity to address NCDs prevention, control, case management, referral and rehabilitation. Community engagement through village health volunteers improves NCDs awareness, supports enrolment in screening and raises adherence to interventions. Village health volunteers, the crucial link between the health system and the community, are key in supporting health promotion and NCDs prevention and control. Collaboration between provincial and district hospitals in providing resources and technical support enhance the capacity of PHC centres to provide NCDs services. However, inconsistent national policy directions and uncertainty related to key performance indicators hamper progress in NCDs management at the operational level. The dynamic of urbanization and socialization, especially living in obesogenic environments, is one of the greatest challenges for dealing with NCDs.ConclusionPHC centres play a vital role in NCDs prevention and control. Adequate human and financial resources and policy guidance are required to improve PHC performance in managing NCDs. Implementing best buy measures at national level provides synergies for NCDS control at PHC level.
Project description:BackgroundPrimary healthcare (PHC) providers are widely acknowledged for putting the most efficient and long-lasting efforts for addressing community health issues and promoting health equity. This study aimed to explore PHC providers' experiences with coronavirus pandemic preparedness and response in Armenia.MethodsWe applied a qualitative study design using semi-structured in-depth interviews and structured observation checklists. Study participants were recruited using theoretical and convenience sampling techniques throughout Armenia. Inductive conventional content analysis was utilized to analyze the in-depth interviews. Nineteen in-depth interviews were conducted with 21 participants. Observations took place in 35 PHC facilities. The data collected during the observations was analyzed using the "SPSS22.0.0.0" software.ResultsFive main themes of primary healthcare providers' experiences were drawn out based on the study findings: 1) the gap in providers' risk communication skills; 2) uneven supply distributions; 3) difficulties in specimen collection and testing processes; 4) providers challenged by home visits; 5) poor patient-provider relationships. The results revealed that primary care providers were affected by uneven supply distribution throughout the country. The lack of proper laboratory settings and issues with specimen collection were challenges shaping the providers' experiences during the pandemic. The study highlighted the health systems' unpreparedness to engage providers in home visits for COVID-19 patients. The findings suggested that it was more challenging for healthcare providers to gain the trust of their patients during the pandemic. The study results also underlined the need for trainings to help primary care providers enhance their risk communication expertise or assign other responsible bodies to carry out risk communication on PHC providers' behalf.ConclusionThe study discovered that PHC providers have a very important role in healthcare system's preparedness and response to handle public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the findings the study team recommends prioritizing rural PHC development, ensuring appropriate supply distributions, developing comprehensive protocols on safe home visits and specimen collection and testing processes, and trainings PHC providers on risk communication, patient-centeredness, as well as proper use of personal protective equipment.
Project description:BackgroundHypertension is the most commonly managed problem in general practice in Australia, but blood pressure control is not achieved for most patients. An important factor to consider in hypertension control is patient medication adherence. Use of dose administration aids (DAAs) could increase adherence to medicines and reduce the frequency of medication errors. We conducted a trial to evaluate adherence to DAAs in real-world conditions. This study is a process evaluation of the main trial. This stydy aims to understand the acceptability of DAAs from patients, providers, and carers perspectives and examine implementation barriers and facilitators of trial processes.MethodsIn-depth, semi structured interviews were conducted in an Australian general practice participating in a pilot randomised controlled trial evaluating a DAA-based strategy for people with high-risk primary and secondary cardiovascular disease. Interview topics included DAA acceptability, factors affecting adherence and trial implementation. Transcribed interview data were analysed thematically and interpretively. The consolidated framework for implementation research was used to guide our analysis.ResultsNineteen interviews were conducted (16 participants or carers, 1 physician, 1 pharmacist and 1 DAA packaging company representative). All trial participants reported improved adherence, especially in those with prior poor adherence. Key barriers to DAA use included inertia to change, resistance from the pharmacist with regards to repackaging by an external provider, logistics of direct home delivery and lack of communication. A key facilitator to trial implementation was the therapeutic relationship of patients with the health care professionals.ConclusionThe DAA strategy was generally acceptable to patients and the physician as a cardiovascular preventative strategy. Participants suggested a DAA-based strategy as particularly appropriate for those with prior poor adherence to medications.Trial registrationACTRN12620001239954. 19/11/2020.
Project description:BackgroundPatients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) often struggle with blood pressure control. In team-based models of care, pharmacists and primary care providers (PCPs) play important roles in supporting patients' blood pressure management.ObjectiveTo describe whether PCPs' acceptance of pharmacists' recommendations impacts systolic blood pressure (SBP) at 36 months.DesignAn observational analysis of a subset of participants randomized to the intervention arm of the Simultaneous risk factor control using Telehealth to slOw Progression of Diabetic Kidney Disease (STOP-DKD) study.ParticipantsSTOP-DKD participants for whom (1) the pharmacist made at least one recommendation to the PCP; (2) there were available data regarding the PCP's corresponding action; and (3) there were SBP measurements at baseline and 36 months.InterventionParticipants received monthly telephone calls with a pharmacist addressing health behaviors and medication management. Pharmacists made medication-related recommendations to PCPs.Main measuresWe fit an unadjusted generalized linear mixed model to assess the association between the number of pharmacists' recommendations for DKD and blood pressure management and PCPs' acceptance of such recommendations. We used a linear regression model to evaluate the association between PCP acceptance and SBP at 36 months, adjusted for baseline SBP.Key resultsPharmacists made 176 treatment recommendations (among 59 participants), of which 107 (61%) were accepted by PCPs. SBP significantly declined by an average of 10.5 mmHg (p < 0.01) among 47 of 59 participants who had valid measurements at baseline and 36 months. There was a significant association between the number of pharmacist recommendations and the odds of PCP acceptance (OR 1.19; 95%CI 1.00, 1.42; p < 0.05), but no association between the number of accepted recommendations and SBP.ConclusionsPharmacists provided actionable medication-related recommendations. We identified a significant decline in SBP at 36 months, but this reduction was not associated with recommendation acceptance.Trial registrationNCT01829256.