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1 – 10 of 58Reihaneh Alsadat Tabaeeian, Behzad Hajrahimi and Atefeh Khoshfetrat
The purpose of this review paper was identifying barriers to the use of telemedicine systems in primary health-care individual level among professionals.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this review paper was identifying barriers to the use of telemedicine systems in primary health-care individual level among professionals.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used Scopus and PubMed databases for scientific records identification. A systematic review of the literature structured by PRISMA guidelines was conducted on 37 included papers published between 2009 and 2019. A qualitative approach was used to synthesize insights into using telemedicine by primary care professionals.
Findings
Three barriers were identified and classified: system quality, data quality and service quality barriers. System complexity in terms of usability, system unreliability, security and privacy concerns, lack of integration and inflexibility of systems-in-use are related to system quality. Data quality barriers are data inaccuracy, data timeliness issues, data conciseness concerns and lack of data uniqueness. Finally, service reliability concerns, lack of technical support and lack of user training have been categorized as service quality barriers.
Originality/value
This review identified and mapped emerging themes of barriers to the use of telemedicine systems. This paper also through a new conceptualization of telemedicine use from perspectives of the primary care professionals contributes to informatics literature and system usage practices.
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Siva Shaangari Seathu Raman, Anthony McDonnell and Matthias Beck
Society is critically dependent on an adequate supply of hospital doctors to ensure optimal health care. Voluntary turnover amongst hospital doctors is, however, an increasing…
Abstract
Purpose
Society is critically dependent on an adequate supply of hospital doctors to ensure optimal health care. Voluntary turnover amongst hospital doctors is, however, an increasing problem for hospitals. The aim of this study was to systematically review the extant academic literature to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the current knowledge base on hospital doctor turnover and retention. In addition to this, we synthesise the most common methodological approaches used before then offering an agenda to guide future research.
Design/methodology/approach
Adopting the PRISMA methodology, we conducted a systematic literature search of four databases, namely CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Web of Science.
Findings
We identified 51 papers that empirically examined hospital doctor turnover and retention. Most of these papers were quantitative, cross-sectional studies focussed on meso-level predictors of doctor turnover.
Research limitations/implications
Selection criteria concentrated on doctors who worked in hospitals, which limited knowledge of one area of the healthcare environment. The review could disregard relevant articles, such as those that discuss the turnover and retention of doctors in other specialities, including general practitioners. Additionally, being limited to peer-reviewed published journals eliminates grey literature such as dissertations, reports and case studies, which may bring impactful results.
Practical implications
Globally, hospital doctor turnover is a prevalent issue that is influenced by a variety of factors. However, a lack of focus on doctors who remain in their job hinders a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Conducting “stay interviews” with doctors could provide valuable insight into what motivates them to remain and what could be done to enhance their work conditions. In addition, hospital management and recruiters should consider aspects of job embeddedness that occur outside of the workplace, such as facilitating connections outside of work. By resolving these concerns, hospitals can retain physicians more effectively and enhance their overall retention efforts.
Social implications
Focussing on the reasons why employees remain with an organisation can have significant social repercussions. When organisations invest in gaining an understanding of what motivates their employees to stay in the job, they are better able to establish a positive work environment that likely to promote employee well-being and job satisfaction. This can result in enhanced job performance, increased productivity and higher employee retention rates, all of which are advantageous to the organisation and its employees.
Originality/value
The review concludes that there has been little consideration of the retention, as opposed to the turnover, of hospital doctors. We argue that more expansive methodological approaches would be useful, with more qualitative approaches likely to be particularly useful. We also call on future researchers to consider focussing further on why doctors remain in posts when so many are leaving.
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Gülfer Akça, Aslihan Sanri and Unal Akca
This study aims to evaluate the health literacy level of the parents of children diagnosed with Down syndrome (DS) within one institution in Turkey.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to evaluate the health literacy level of the parents of children diagnosed with Down syndrome (DS) within one institution in Turkey.
Design/methodology/approach
A cross-sectional survey measuring demographics, information of the child and the parent and health literacy was administered to participants. The health literacy levels in the study were measured with the European Health Literacy Scale (EHLS), which consists of 47 questions.
Findings
Of the 65 participants who completed the questionnaire, 56.9% were mothers, 68.1% were diagnosed in the neonatal outpatient clinic examination after birth, and 58.5% stayed in the neonatal intensive care unit after birth. The mean score of the IHLS scale was 25.06 ± 6.59. Of the parents, 63.1% were found to be inadequate, 18.5% problematic-limited, and 18.5% adequate health literate. Any parent with excellent health literacy level was identified. High education level (p < 0.001), high income level (p < 0.001), living in the city center (p < 0.05), planned pregnancy (p < 0.05) and being a health worker (p < 0.001) were found to be statistically significant with a high EHSL score.
Research limitations/implications
The presence of Down syndrome (DS) in a child also necessitates ongoing monitoring for a range of conditions, including eye diseases and heart disease. Some surgical procedures, such as heart or gastrointestinal surgeries, may also be required. Additionally, the child may require the administration of various medications. Finally, due to the potential lifelong need for assistance, the child may require the support of an adult throughout their lifetime. This is because of the child's inability to live independently due to their mental state. Therefore, parent education is the most important issue in the follow-up of the disease.
Practical implications
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to determine that parents of children diagnosed with DS have very limited knowledge of the disease and health literacy. Explanation of current diseases, treatments and training of parents should also be included in genetic counseling.
Social implications
DS is a chromosomal disease that requires multidisciplinary care. Parents have to know the course of the disease and its complications.
Originality/value
The findings of this study indicate that parents of children with Down syndrome exhibit a profound lack of knowledge regarding the nature of their child's condition and the available healthcare options. It is therefore imperative that genetic counseling incorporates an explanation of the diagnosed diseases, treatments, and educational resources for parents.
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Simona Andreea Apostu and Bulent Akkaya
The migration of physicians is a global interest, causing imbalances between developed and developing countries. Romania is one of Europe's major providers of physicians, not…
Abstract
Purpose
The migration of physicians is a global interest, causing imbalances between developed and developing countries. Romania is one of Europe's major providers of physicians, not because there is a surplus, but because physicians are drawn to places with better living and working conditions. Medicine in Romania is increasingly highly advanced, and Romanian physicians are well appreciated all over the world. Despite being one of the countries with the most medical graduates in the world, Romania is suffering a doctor exodus. After joining the EU, the problem of physician migration became widespread, resulting in a deficient and inefficient healthcare system. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to estimate the losses registered by Romania because of physicians' decision to migrate.
Design/methodology/approach
These losses were calculated in two ways: utilizing the statistical life value and the amount of money invested in training a medical graduate.
Findings
According to the findings, the losses in 2018 were 104.16 million euros, approximately 0.12% of GDP.
Originality/value
The originality of this paper consists in data, being provided by the College of Physicians from Romania and the method used, this study being the only one that estimates the cost of Romanian physicians' migration. The paper adds to existing knowledge an empirical results regarding quantifying the value reflecting the departure of physicians, using value of statistical life and the amount of money invested in preparing a medical graduate.
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Fatima Iftikhar, Suleman Anis, Umar Bin Asad, Shagufta Riaz, Muntaha Rafiq and Salman Naeem
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a hand disease caused by the pressing of the median nerve present in the palmar side of the wrist. It causes severe pain in the wrist, triggering…
Abstract
Purpose
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a hand disease caused by the pressing of the median nerve present in the palmar side of the wrist. It causes severe pain in the wrist, triggering disturbance during sleep. Different products like splints, braces and gloves are available in the market to alleviate this disease but there was still a need to improve the wearability, comfort and cost of the product. This study was about designing a comfortable and cost-effective wearable system for mild-to-moderate CTS. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy has been used to reduce the pain in the wrist.
Design/methodology/approach
After simulation by using Proteus software (which allowed the researchers to draw and simulate electrical circuits using ISIS, ARES and PCB design tools virtually), the circuit with optimum frequency, i.e. 33 Hz was selected, and the circuit was developed on a printed circuit board (PCB). The developed circuit was integrated successfully into the half glove structure.
Findings
The developed product had good thermophysiological comfort and hand properties as compared to the commercially available product of the same kind. In vivo testing (It involves the testing with living subjects like animals, plants or human beings) was performed which resulted in 85% confirmed viability of the product against CTS. A glove with an integrated circuit was developed successfully to accommodate various sizes without any sex specifications in a cost-effective way to mitigate the issue of CTS.
Research limitations/implications
Industrial workers, individuals frequently using their hands or those diagnosed with CTS may wish to use this product as therapy. The attention could not be paid to the aesthetic or visual appeal of the developed product.
Originality/value
A very comfortable glove with integrated TENS electrodes was developed successfully to accommodate various sizes without any sex specifications in a cost-effective way to mitigate the issues of CTS.
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Watchara Tabootwong, Chonticha Chantakeeree, Boonyapa Pokasem, Kanchana Piboon, Jaturada Jariyarattanakul Niemtest and Sasithorn Karuna
This paper aims to explore the perspectives of registered nurses towards communication with family members of older people with a tracheostomy.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore the perspectives of registered nurses towards communication with family members of older people with a tracheostomy.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative design was used. Ten participants were recruited through purposive sampling. Face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were used in collecting data. Data were analysed by thematic analysis.
Findings
The four themes identified were as follows: communication by considering time difference; considering factors related to effective communication, either family member–related factors or registered nurse–related factors; strategies of communicating to support family members, such as giving an opportunity to ask for accurate information, communicating to build self-confidence and communicating through cases; and using the art of communication by speaking slowly and clearly, using colloquialisms, being steady and calm, as well as using positive language.
Practical implications
Having strategies and using the art of communication are important to help family members in obtaining accurate information and in building self-confidence in the care of older people.
Originality/value
The paper indicates that registered nurses consider factors related to communication, and they gave more information to family members using effective strategies and the art of communication. Therefore, effective communication training to nursing teams should be performed to promote adherence to treatment and family members’ satisfaction.
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Juman Iqbal, Mohammad Nurul Alam and Hamia Khan
Elucidating on the concrete outline of conservation of resource theory, this study aims to explore the links between work-family conflict and workplace thriving. In particular…
Abstract
Purpose
Elucidating on the concrete outline of conservation of resource theory, this study aims to explore the links between work-family conflict and workplace thriving. In particular, this study has integrated depersonalization as a mediator and tested the moderated mediation effects of intrinsic motivation in work-family conflict and depersonalization relationships.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected using a sample of 357 doctors working across various public hospitals in India over two waves (T1 and T2) and was tested using AMOS and Process Macros.
Findings
Exploration reveals that work-family conflict is negatively associated with workplace thriving. The mediating role of depersonalization in between work-family conflict and workplace thriving was established. Moreover, the moderating role of intrinsic motivation in work-family conflict and workplace thriving via depersonalization was also established.
Originality/value
The present study makes a theoretical addition to the literature by investigating nuances through which work-family conflict relationships and thriving at the workplace can be affected. To date, such a relationship has not been established. The study also extends the role of depersonalization as an underlying mechanism between work-family conflict and workplace thriving, making an imperative contribution. This study also tested the moderating role of intrinsic motivation. Overall, these relationships are novel and have been seldom reported.
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Cinzia Storace, Serafina Esposito, Anna Maria Iannicelli and Carmela Bravaccio
To facilitate the reception and care of discharged patients, streamlining processes at the University Hospital and promoting a seamless transition to continuity of care services…
Abstract
Purpose
To facilitate the reception and care of discharged patients, streamlining processes at the University Hospital and promoting a seamless transition to continuity of care services post-discharge.
Design/methodology/approach
Hospitalised patients undergo the Blaylock risk assessment screening score (BRASS), a screening tool identifying those at risk of complex discharge.
Findings
Pre-pandemic, patients with a medium-to-high risk of complex discharge were predominantly discharged to their residence or long-term care facilities. During the pandemic, coinciding with an overall reduction in hospitalisation rates, there was a decrease in patients being discharged to their residence.
Originality/value
The analysis of discharges, with the classification of patients into risk groups, revealed a coherence between the BRASS score and the characteristics of the studied sample. This tool aids physicians in decision-making by identifying the need for a planned discharge in a systematic and organised manner, preventing the loss of crucial information.
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Meryem Zoghlami and Kaouther Saied Ben Rached
This paper aims to examine the health technology use in health information seeking, communication and personal health information management, as well as in the effects they may…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine the health technology use in health information seeking, communication and personal health information management, as well as in the effects they may have on his relationship with the physician and on the consumption of medical resources.
Design/methodology/approach
An online survey was conducted. The questionnaires were distributed via online health discussion forums using Google's survey software with a summary presentation of the study’s objective. The final selection of 362 individuals was made using social media, direct email and collaboration with community groups. The empirical validation of the causal model was conducted using the partial least square approach.
Findings
The results show that the use of e-health strengthens the quality of the patient–physician relationship and patient empowerment while increasing the consumption of medical resources.
Originality/value
The results of this research indicate that the internet has transformed the relationship of patients to health, to their doctors and to the health-care system. In this new context, a reconsideration of the status of the patient must be considered by health service providers.
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