Analysis Of Free-text Responses Research Articles

Predicting and assessing the impacts of COVID-19 disruption on marine science and sectors in Australia

AbstractBy March 2020 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was anticipated to present a major challenge to the work undertaken by scientists. This pandemic could be considered just one of the shocks that human society has had and will be likely to confront again in the future. As strategic thinking about the future can assist performance and planning of scientific research in the face of change, the pandemic presented an opportunity to evaluate the performance of marine researchers in prediction of future outcomes. In March 2020, two groups of researchers predicted outcomes for the Australian marine research sector, and then evaluated these predictions after 18 months. The self-assessed coping ability of a group experienced in ‘futures studies’ was not higher than the less-experienced group, suggesting that scientists in general may be well placed to cope with shocks. A range of changes to scientific endeavours (e.g., travel, fieldwork) and to marine sectors (e.g., fisheries, biodiversity) were predicted over the first 12–18 months of COVID-19 disruption. The predicted direction of change was generally correct (56%) or neutral (25%) for predictions related to the scientific endeavour, and correct (73%) or mixed (9%) for predictions related to sectors that are the focus of marine research. The success of this foresighting experiment suggests that the collective wisdom of scientists can be used by their organisations to consider the impact of shocks and disruptions and to better prepare for and cope with shocks. Graphical abstract Word cloud analysis of free text responses to questions about expected impact of COVID-19 on the activities associated with marine science

A survey of obstetrical anesthesia health equity practices at academic centers in the United States (US)

BackgroundLimited research has explored obstetrical anesthesiologists' perceptions of healthcare disparities associated with labor and delivery. The objective of this study was to evaluate the perception of obstetrical anesthesia related healthcare disparities, drivers of disparities, and potential solutions. MethodsAn online survey was emailed to division leads at Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) accredited obstetrical anesthesiology programs in the United States. The survey included a mixture of yes/no, select all that apply, and free-text questions. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize variable distribution. Free text responses were categorized into themes by selective coding. Results149 surveys were delivered, 74 surveys were conducted (50 %), and 57 were completed entirely (38 %). Fifty-seven percent of participants reported perceived presence of obstetrical/obstetrical anesthesia related healthcare disparities. Most participants reported that they consider a patient's cultural preferences during clinical management, collect race/ethnicity data, implement specific practices to address disparities, and analyze outcome data by social determinants of health. The majority of participants reported using additional relevant practice features, including translator services, quality improvement practices, provider rounds, standardized protocols, and cultural competency or diversity training. Thematic analysis of free text responses into drivers of disparities mapped to 6 themes: language barriers, racism or bias, socioeconomics or social determinants of health, access or quality of care, patient-provider interactions or cultural sensitivity, and individual patient factors. ConclusionMost academic obstetrical anesthesia center division leads reported perceived presence of obstetric anesthesia related health care disparities. Efforts should be made to devise targeted solutions to this multifaceted, pervasive problem.

WP6.10 - Factors Impacting Success in The Intercollegiate Membership of The Royal College of Surgeons Examinations

Abstract Aims We have witnessed within surgical training schools, that the attainment of the Intercollegiate Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons iMRCS examinations Part A and Part B continues to be one of the greatest challenges within core surgical training. This study aims to explore a trainee’s examination experience and factors influencing success and examination challenges. Methods A voluntary electronic survey including demographic factors, preparation specific approaches and adjuncts, challenges and barriers was sent to Northern Ireland core surgical trainees. Results were correlated with their examination outcomes. The results were collated using Microsoft excel software. Statistical analysis was completed using SPSS and thematic analysis of free text responses carried out. Results Twenty-seven trainees responded to the survey. The modal age category was 25-34 years with a male to female preponderance of 16 males to 11 females. English language was the first language of 60% of respondents. Statistical significance was demonstrated between age and first-time pass rate in the Part B. No statistical significance was demonstrated between first time pass rate and gender, English language, or background. Forty eight percent of those surveyed attributed personal attitude as a major contributor to success. Conclusion Those who undertook Part A closer to foundation training appeared to require fewer attempts to be successful in Part A, and the hours of preparation and study undertaken, correlated to feeling of preparedness. Part B success correlated to clinical experience.

Medical students in distress: a mixed methods approach to understanding the impact of debt on well-being

BackgroundNearly three in four U.S. medical students graduate with debt in six-figure dollar amounts which impairs students emotionally and academically and impacts their career choices and lives long after graduation. Schools have yet to develop systems-level solutions to address the impact of debt on students’ well-being. The objectives of this study were to identify students at highest risk for debt-related stress, define the impact on medical students’ well-being, and to identify opportunities for intervention.MethodsThis was a mixed methods, cross-sectional study that used quantitative survey analysis and human-centered design (HCD). We performed a secondary analysis on a national multi-institutional survey on medical student wellbeing, including univariate and multivariate logistic regression, a comparison of logistic regression models with interaction terms, and analysis of free text responses. We also conducted semi-structured interviews with a sample of medical student respondents and non-student stakeholders to develop insights and design opportunities.ResultsIndependent risk factors for high debt-related stress included pre-clinical year (OR 1.75), underrepresented minority (OR 1.40), debt $20–100 K (OR 4.85), debt >$100K (OR 13.22), private school (OR 1.45), West Coast region (OR 1.57), and consideration of a leave of absence for wellbeing (OR 1.48). Mental health resource utilization (p = 0.968) and counselors (p = 0.640) were not protective factors against debt-related stress. HCD analysis produced 6 key insights providing additional context to the quantitative findings, and associated opportunities for intervention.ConclusionsWe used an innovative combination of quantitative survey analysis and in-depth HCD exploration to develop a multi-dimensional understanding of debt-related stress among medical students. This approach allowed us to identify significant risk factors impacting medical students experiencing debt-related stress, while providing context through stakeholder voices to identify opportunities for system-level solutions.

Perceptions and experiences of trainers and trainees of UK workplace-based assessment for general practice licensing: a mixed methods survey

ABSTRACT Background Workplace-Based Assessment (WPBA) forms a major component of the UK General Practitioner (GP) licensing, together with knowledge and clinical skills examination. WPBA includes Case-based Discussion, Consultation Observation Tool, Mini-Consultation Exercise, Multisource Feedback, Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire, Clinical Examination and Procedural Skills, Clinical Supervisor’s Report, and Educational Supervisor Review. We aimed to investigate GP trainees’ and trainers’ perceptions and experiences of WPBA regarding validity and fairness. Methods We used a national online survey, with Likert-scaled and free-text responses, to a convenience sample of GP trainees and trainers, on perceptions and experiences of WPBA. Analysis included descriptive statistics, scale development, and regression models to investigate factors associated with attitudes towards WPBA, with thematic analysis of free text responses supported by NVivo 12. Results There were 2,088 responses from 1,176 trainees and 912 trainers. Both groups were generally positive towards WPBA, with trainers more positive or similar to trainees towards individual assessments. In a multivariable regression model, accounting for sex, ethnicity and country of primary medical qualification, trainees were significantly less positive (p < 0.001) while international medical graduates (IMGs) trained outside the European Economic Area (EEA) were significantly more (p < 0.001) positive towards WPBA. Qualitative analysis revealed varying concerns about validity and relevance, assessment burden, potential for bias, fairness to protected characteristics groups, gaps in assessment, and perceptions of individual assessments. Discussion Trainers’ greater positivity towards elements of WPBA accords with their role as assessors. Despite concerns about bias, IMGs from outside the EEA were significantly more positive towards WPBA.

Development of a team-specific research strategy using a modified Delphi method in a regional public hospital dietetics department.

Evaluate research capacity and culture among regional hospital dietitians, develop a team specific research strategy, and build research skills of novice researchers. The Research Capacity in Context Tool was used to assess current research capacity and culture at organisational, team and individual levels. Results were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis of free text responses. A modified Delphi method gained consensus regarding research capacity building. Mixed method study. Dietetics department of a regional tertiary hospital (Modified Monash Category 2). All clinical dietitians currently employed within the hospital (n = 20) regardless of employment duration. Self-rated response to research capacity and culture to produce a dietetics-specific research strategy. Fifteen dietitians (75%) completed the Research Capacity in Context Tool. The overall mean score was highest at an organisational level at 7.9 (IQR 2), and lowest at team and individual levels at 4.3 (IQR 2.7) and 4.9 (IQR 3.3) respectively. Common barriers to research included time, lack of skills, knowledge and support. Using the modified Delphi method 39 statements relating to research capacity building met consensus and informed the creation of a research strategy. The results of the Research Capacity in Context Tool from this regional study reflect those reported in the literature at metropolitan sites. A dietetic-specific research strategy was developed to assist with increasing research capacity at a team and individual level in a regional setting. Evaluation of long-term outcomes post implementation will be the subject of further research.

Exploring the administrative burden faced by hematologists: a comprehensive study in Italy.

Administrative burdens have been identified as a major issue impacting patient care, professional practice, and the overall efficiency of healthcare systems. The aim of this study is to assess the administrative burden faced by Italian hematologists. A cross-sectional survey that included both closed-ended quantitative questions and open-ended free text answer options was administered to 1,570 hematologists working with malignancies and members of Italian GIMEMA Foundation - Franco Mandelli ONLUS and the Italian Linfomi Foundation (FIL). The survey was conducted online from May 24 to June 30, 2023. Descriptive statistics were computed for the quantitative data to clearly summarize the responses and descriptive analysis of free text responses was carried out. Surveyed hematologists spend an average of 47.07% of their time on administrative tasks, with 63.22% (n=110) of respondents reporting spending at least half of their time on these activities. More than half (57.47%, n=100) reported that "Patient care" is the medical task most affected by a lack of time. Additionally, 55.17% (n=96) reported experiencing burnout in the past 6 months, with filling out "Forms" being identified as the top contributing administrative task by 27.59% (n=48) of respondents, followed by "Scheduling" (24.71%, n=43) and "Managing IT system failures" (21.84%, n=38). Nearly half of the surveyed hematologists (45.40%, n==79) identified patient care as the top priority requiring more time. The study confirms that the administrative workload of hematologists has a significant impact on patient care, communication, and burnout risk, reducing the time available for patient care, leading to exhaustion and concern about clinical errors.

Evaluating Consent Labs: prioritizing sexual wellbeing through a youth-led, curriculum-based education initiative

IntroductionConsent Labs is an Australian, youth-led, not-for-profit organization delivering comprehensive consent education. Workshops are co-designed by young people and delivered by near-to-peer facilitators in secondary and tertiary institutions. The aims of this paper are (1) to describe the development, design and delivery of Consent Labs and (2) to conduct a retrospective analysis of evaluation data collected by Consent Labs.MethodsE-survey data were collected by workshop facilitators between March 2021 and April 2023. This paper presents a retrospective analysis of these de-identified data. Survey items included age, identity, pre- and post- sexual consent knowledge, attitudes towards the content and delivery and questions inviting free-text responses. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics: frequencies, self-reported change in knowledge using paired t-tests, and differences between groups using chi-square tests. Free-text responses were analyzed using content analysis.ResultsWe describe the conceptualization of Consent Labs, present information about topics covered and report on process evaluation data analysis. Six thousand and twenty-six students returned complete evaluation surveys; 76.3% were school students and 23.7% were university students. The majority (67.3%) identified as female, 24.2% as male, 1.7% as non-binary, 1.2% as other gender identity. Self-reported change in knowledge before and after workshops was significant (pre-workshop knowledge mean score 3.77; post-workshop knowledge mean score 4.58; p &amp;lt; 0.0001). Change in knowledge remained significant when analyzed by institution, school type gender and sexual identity. ‘Consent Foundations’ was the most frequently selected (41.0%) topic as being most valuable. Respondents selected ‘Recognizing Coercion’ and ‘Gaslighting and Other Consent Challenges’ most frequently for future workshops (both 48.3%). Analysis of free text responses provided additional feedback.DiscussionConsent Labs has been gaining recognition nationally since it was first implemented; this is the first analysis of process evaluation data. Limitations of the study include the low response rate, self-reported change in knowledge and the cross-sectional nature of the evaluation. Preliminary findings are encouraging and provide a sound platform for quality improvement and further evaluation. A recent government grant to partner with education academics will ensure that the Consent Labs program and continuing growth will be informed by more rigorous evaluation and evidence.

Stalking, harassment, gendered abuse, and violence towards politicians in the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery era.

High levels of harassment and threats against parliamentarians are being reported internationally, especially in the social media space. This is occurring alongside changes in our social landscape, with increasing political polarisation and the ongoing ramifications from the COVID-19 pandemic. Harassment of politicians has been shown to have implications for psychological wellbeing and physical safety. To investigate harassment and violence towards parliamentarians in the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery era, including whether there had been a change in its nature and quantity, and to explore the contribution of social media. A survey of all New Zealand's parliamentarians was fielded in 2022, focusing on their experiences of harassment analysed quantitatively and with manifest and latent content analysis of free text responses. Data were disaggregated and compared by gender. Secondary analyses were conducted on similar data collected from parliamentarians in 2014 to compare trends over time. We obtained a cleaned achieved survey sample of 54 Members of Parliament (MPs). Harassment was reported by 98% of respondents, ranging from disturbing communication to actual physical violence. The vast majority of MPs endorsed multiple modalities of harassment occurring on multiple occasions. Ninety-six percent of MPs had been harassed over social media, with over half being threatened, including threats of physical violence (40%), sexual violence (14%), threats made towards MP's family members (19%), threats towards staff (12%), and death threats (27%). Almost all forms of harassment had increased significantly since 2014. Most MPs reported experiencing abuse related to the Government response to the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g. lockdowns and vaccine mandates). Many MPs commented that the frequency and intensity of abuse increased markedly during the COVID pandemic and had not subsequently abated. Women were at significantly higher risk of certain types of social media harassment including gendered abuse, sexualised comments, threat of sexual violence, and threats toward their family. Harassment of parliamentarians is an escalating issue. Online threats and misogyny are increasingly apparent. This harassment has significant psychosocial costs for victims, their family and staff, and for democratic processes.

Overnight In-House Critical Care Resource Intensivist Improves General Surgery Resident Education.

24/7 critical care staffing has become more commonplace, and their impact on resident training must be carefully considered. At our institution, the Critical Care Resource Intensivist (CCRI) model was implemented to provide in-house dedicated faculty responsible solely for the provision of critical care overnight. An anonymous survey was distributed to all general surgery residents to evaluate CCRI's impact on education and autonomy. Descriptive statistics were completed for quantitative data. Qualitative analysis of free text responses was completed to identify consensus themes. Responses from 26 residents demonstrated they associated CCRI with improved resident education, supervision, and patient care, without limiting autonomy. Qualitative analysis yielded 7 themes, reflecting improvements in patient care and safety, progression of care, operations and procedures, improved education, availability, and independence, but noted potential for conflict. Our findings show 24/7 dedicated intensivist staffing can enhance general surgery resident education without limiting autonomy.

Community pharmacists' perceptions on managing people with oral health problems-A prioritisation survey.

Alternative sources of oral health information are likely to be of benefit to the public, particularly where access to dental services is limited. There is evidence that community pharmacists are willing to advocate for oral health, but it is unclear what is needed to develop this role. The aims of this study were to obtain the views of community pharmacy staff on the frequency and type of oral health conditions they encounter challenges in management and training/research priorities. An anonymous online survey targeted pharmacy staff and elicited quantitative data related to the types and frequencies of oral health conditions experienced. Participants were stratified by age, gender, ethnicity, experience and setting. Free text responses allowed participants to detail challenging aspects of patient management, their priorities for service development and future research. Reflexive thematic analysis of free text responses identified key themes. Oral/facial pain and swelling were seen weekly by most respondents, and daily by 28.8%. Other commonly presenting conditions were ulcers, dry-mouth, thrush and denture issues. Challenges in managing oral health conditions included: access to NHS dentistry, awareness of referral pathways, examination/diagnosis and understanding 'Red Flags'. Acute and chronic oral health conditions commonly present to community pharmacists who lack necessary knowledge/training, which may result in missing 'red flag' symptoms for oral cancer or acute facial swellings which can be life threatening. There is a need to support pharmacists, who are willing to act as oral health advocates, in recognition, prevention and onward referral for oral diseases.

What helps patients access web-based services in primary care? Free-text analysis of patient responses to the Di-Facto questionnaire

BackgroundThe National Health Service (NHS) and general practice are increasingly adopting digital services. These services can impact both positively and negatively upon patient experiences, and access to digital services is not equal amongst all groups. Within a wider project examining digital facilitation (the Di-Facto study) our team conducted a patient survey amongst English primary care practices aiming to investigate patient views of what supports uptake and use of web-based services. This paper reports on the analysis of the free-text responses from the patient survey.MethodsThe Di-Facto patient survey was distributed to practices in eight clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in England between 2021–2022. We examined free-text responses to two questions relating to access to primary care web-based and support for web-based services. We used qualitative reflexive thematic analysis based on a six-stage process to analyse responses.ResultsOf the 3051 patients who responded to the Di-Facto survey, 2246 provided a free-text response. We present our findings in two major themes: systems and structures and their impact on use of web-based services, and ‘what works for me’, a description of how respondents described what worked, or did not work in terms of their interactions with web-based services. Respondents described how the technology, such as poor practice website design, confusion over multiple digital apps, data security and concerns about eConsultation offerings impacted on use of web-based services. Respondents described practice level barriers, such as a lack of or inconsistent provision, which prevented optimal use of web-based services. Respondents described personal and technical barriers that impacted on their use of digital services, and described which web-based services worked well for them. Respondents felt that web-based services were not a replacement for face-to-face interactions with a doctor.ConclusionsThis analysis of free-text responses from a large patient survey highlights the system, practice, and person level barriers and facilitators to use of digital services in primary care. With an increasing push towards digital solutions in NHS primary care, practices should consider the design, rollout and communication of their web-based services to support patient access.

Why do people use ChatGPT? Exploring user motivations for generative conversational AI

Generative conversational artificial intelligence (AI), such as ChatGPT, has attracted substantial attention since November 2022. The advent of this technology showcases the vast potential of such AI for generating and processing text and raises compelling questions regarding its potential usage. To obtain the requisite knowledge of users’ motivations in adopting this technology, we surveyed early adopters of ChatGPT (n = 197). Analysis of free text responses within the uses and gratifications (U&amp;G) theoretical framework shows six primary motivations for using generative conversational AI: productivity, novelty, creative work, learning and development, entertainment, and social interaction and support. Our study illustrates how generative conversational AI can fulfill diverse user needs, surpassing the capabilities of traditional conversational technologies, for example, by outsourcing cognitive or creative works to technology.

Identifying the motives for and against drinking during pregnancy and motherhood, and factors associated with increased maternal alcohol use

Abstract Aim Maternal drinking (alcohol use during pregnancy/motherhood) is a hidden public health concern which can have significant negative effects on the woman and child. This pilot survey explored several domains that might influence maternal drinking. Subject and methods Two cross-sectional, online surveys recruited (1) women who were pregnant and (2) mothers who were not pregnant. Surveys captured data on alcohol use and harmful drinking, attitudes on and motives for drinking/not drinking, and perceived barriers to drinking less. Content analysis of free text responses complemented quantitative data. Results In this convenience sample of 836 pregnant women and 589 mothers, 91% of pregnant women and 28% of mothers reported abstinence. Of those reporting alcohol use, median consumption was 2.3 units/week in pregnant women, and 6.9 units/week in non-pregnant mothers. Of mothers currently drinking, 25.1% reported hazardous or harmful levels. Heavier drinking was associated with numerous motives, including using alcohol as a coping strategy. Child welfare was a key motivating factor for not drinking, as were practical issues of motherhood. The stresses of motherhood were a perceived barrier to reducing drinking, and mothers reported more barriers than pregnant women. Conclusion Stress reduction motives may be a risk factor for heavier maternal drinking, while motives for not drinking seem to be focused on child welfare and maternal well-being. Stress and a lack of knowledge about how to reduce drinking appear to be barriers for mothers to change their drinking behaviour. These findings can inform the development of effective public health interventions to reduce maternal drinking.

The U.S. Supreme Court Dobbs decision’s impact on the future plans of 2023 residency graduates at the University of Utah

This study aimed to understand how the Dobbs decision impacted graduating resident physicians in Utah and to understand residents' perspectives on abortion access. We invited all 2023 graduating residents at the University of Utah, from all specialties, to participate in this survey. We analyzed univariate relationships between respondent demographics and change of career plans post-Dobbs. We also performed a thematic analysis of free text responses. We received responses from 85 residents (55% of all graduating residents from the University of Utah) representing 19 specialties. Six (7%) residents changed their practice location due to the Dobbs decision. Most residents supported and wanted to advocate for legal abortion. In a thematic analysis, many graduating residents do not want to live in an abortion-restrictive state. The Dobbs decision impacts physicians across all specialties, not just obstetrician/gynecologists. Future research into the impact of the Dobbs decision should include physicians of all specialties.

Variable Practice, Variable Results: Impact of Postinterview Communication Practices Among Critical Care Medicine/Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Fellowship Applicants and Program Directors

BackgroundWhile post-interview communication (PIC) guidelines exist, adherence is voluntary. There are no studies of PIC practices in Critical Care Medicine (CCM) and Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine (PCCM) fellowship recruitment. Research QuestionWhat is the frequency, format, goals, and content of PIC between CCM/PCCM applicants and program directors (PD)? What is the impact of PIC on applicant and program rank order lists (ROL)? Study Design and MethodsCCM/PCCM applicants and PDs were separately surveyed after the 2022-2023 National Resident Matching Program Specialty Match. Surveys included multiple-choice, Likert-scale, and two free text questions. Thematic content analysis of free text responses was performed. ResultsOne-third of eligible participants responded (applicants: n=373, 34%; PDs: n=86, 32%). Applicant respondents applied to CCM (19%), PCCM (69%), or both (12%). PDs represented CCM (17%), PCCM (57%), or both (26%) programs. Applicant (66%) and PD (49%) respondents reported initiating PIC. PIC did not impact ROL decision for most applicants (73%) or PDs (83%), though 21% of applicants and 17% of PDs moved programs or applicants up on their ROL in response to PIC. A quarter (23%) of applicants strongly agreed or agreed that PIC was helpful in creating their ROL, 27% strongly disagreed or disagreed, and 29% were neutral. PIC challenges identified by both groups included time, lack of uniformity, peer pressure, misleading language, and uncertainty about motives, rules, and response protocols. InterpretationPIC is common among CCM/PCCM applicants and PDs. About 50% of applicants and 20% of PDs share ranking intentions via PIC. While PIC did not impact ROL for most applicants and PDs, a minority of applicants and PDs moved programs up on their ROL after receiving PIC from the other party. Applicants have mixed perspectives on PIC value. Applicants and PDs alike desire clear guidance on PIC to minimize ambiguous and misleading communication.

How and to what extent did the Coventry City of Culture ‘City Host’ volunteer programme affect the volunteers’ mental wellbeing? A qualitative study

BackgroundA team of volunteers, known as City Hosts, were recruited to support UK City of Culture 2021 awarded to Coventry. City Hosts held various roles facilitating cultural event delivery and promoting a positive experience for visitors. This study aimed to (i) understand how and to what extent the volunteering programme impacted volunteer subjective wellbeing, and (ii) explore the mechanisms of change and intermediate outcomes between volunteering and subjective wellbeing.MethodsThis qualitative study comprised inductive and deductive analysis of data collected through semi-structured interviews, conducted between December 2021–May 2022 with City Hosts. This was complimented with secondary qualitative analysis of free text responses within Monitoring and Evaluation data collected from City Hosts in surveys conducted in August and November 2021, and April 2022.ResultsApproximately 180 City Hosts responded to the free text questions in each survey and 27 completed interviews. Analysis of data collected from City Hosts suggested positive wellbeing impacts from volunteering and supported theorised pathways to improved wellbeing. Strengths of the City Host programme included (i) facilitating the full range of mechanisms of change that mediate improved volunteer wellbeing, particularly promoting social connections and developing a strong role and group identity and (ii) flexibility around what volunteers do, how much, and how often.ConclusionsThis study offers lessons for others designing volunteering programmes who wish to promote wellbeing among associated volunteers. We also offer evidence that exposure to culture may be one mechanism by which volunteering can improve wellbeing.

A survey of dental professionals' opinions around the use of antibiotics in molar 3 extractions and dental implant placement.

This survey was conducted to determine the type and frequency of antibiotics (AB) use for the prevention of infections in dental third molar (M3) extraction and implantation procedures (DIP) among UK dentists and the opinions underpinning their practice. Systematic reviews of the evidence were undertaken alongside this survey of practicing dentists in the United Kingdom to identify the opinions and practices of those undertaking the procedures.With ethical approval, a survey was designed for online delivery and was sent to every dental practitioner in the UK with a publicly available email address or social media contact. The opening page provided the project information sheet and proceeding to complete and submit the questionnaire was considered consent to participate. The online survey was circulated to 900 identified addresses and a total of 145 responses were received. Responses were collated in Microsoft® Excel™ and analyzed using IBM® SPSS™ plus thematic analysis of free text responses. There were 42% of participants (n=61) who discouraged AB prophylactic use in M3 extractions in people with no systemic conditions and who also preferred postoperative AB use when required. Where, 57.9% of respondents (n=84) supported the short-term use of ABs (5-7 days) for M3 extraction and 53% (n=77) in DIP placement in patients with no relevant medical history. As an ad hoc finding, dentists reported on the negative impact of heavy smoking and oral parafunctional behavior on DIP success. The use of antibiotics and broad spectrum antibiotics remains higher than current guidelines would recommend. Further research is required to clarify the specific risks arising from underlying medical conditions to further clarify where prophylaxis is required.

Patient-reported experiences and satisfaction with head and neck surgery outreach clinics in regional New South Wales, Australia: A cross-sectional survey.

Head and neck surgery services are increasingly being centralised in Australia. Outreach models can overcome burdens of travel that patients in regional and rural areas experience when attending routine appointments, by providing services closer to home. To explore patient-reported experiences and satisfaction with regional outreach services for head and neck surgery in Australia. Patients who attended two regional outreach clinics in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, were surveyed over a 6-month period. Patients completed the Outpatient Cancer Clinics Survey (2020 version) that explored perceptions and experiences of the clinic. Patients with cancer were asked to complete the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and the Communication and Attitudinal Self-Efficacy scale. Descriptive statistics and analysis of data was performed, and results were compared to the NSW statewide Outpatient Cancer Clinics Survey (2020). Content analysis of free text responses was performed. Some 128 patients responded (56% response rate; mean age 67.2 years, 46.1% female). Compared to the 2020 NSW survey, a higher proportion of patients in our cohort responded positively to 14 of the 26 questions, with the greatest differences observed for questions regarding waiting area comfort (+12.1%, p = 0.008), being informed about different treatment options (+9.5%, p = 0.04), and issues relating to parking (+9.5%, p = 0.03). A lower proportion of our sample responded positively to the question about whether health professionals knew enough about their medical history (-19.3%, p < 0.001). Respondents appreciated having a local clinic that helped them avoid travel to major cities and associated expenses and highlighted benefits of expert consultation and timeliness of investigations. However, cost of appointments and level of reimbursements remain barriers for some patients. Patients had a high level of satisfaction with regional outreach clinics for head and neck surgery across most domains, indicating patients highly value this service.

The Power Hour of Writing: An empirical evaluation of our online writing community

The “Power Hour of Writing” is an institution-led approach which brings together staff and postgraduate research students in a community that encourages participants to write regularly as part of their academic practice, helping to develop sustainable habits. This research into the “Power Hour of Writing” combines analysis of participant numbers with qualitative analysis of free text responses from online surveys taken at three different time points. Three themes emerged and were evident across all three surveys, independent of their time point: The importance of community; making writing a legitimate part of people’s everyday work; and accountability, which is built into the structure of the “Power Hour Of Writing”. Our research indicates that regular, short timeslots for writing can have a valuable impact on staff and postgraduate researchers. Not only did this intervention help build the community at a time while people were working even more in isolation due to the pandemic, but it also highlighted to participants that protecting time for writing benefits their work.