Competence Approach Research Articles

Research-Based Instructional Strategies, Professional Competence, and Pedagogical Approaches

This study examines the effectiveness of research-based instructional strategies, professional competence, and pedagogical approaches among elementary teachers in the Schools Division of Iloilo, Philippines, during the 2023-2024 school year. The research employs a descriptive-correlational design to explore the relationships between these variables, with a focus on how teachers’ demographic profiles—such as age, sex, educational attainment, length of service, and position—influence their instructional methods and professional effectiveness. A total of 391 elementary teachers participated in the study, representing a diverse cross-section of the teaching workforce in Iloilo. The study utilized a validated and reliable questionnaire to gather data, which was then analyzed using various statistical tools, including frequency counts, percentages, means, T-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation. The findings reveal that while there is a general uniformity in pedagogical approaches across different age groups, sexes, and levels of teaching experience, significant differences emerge when these approaches are classified by educational attainment and professional position. Younger teachers and those with less experience tend to prioritize active learning strategies and inquiry-based learning, while more experienced teachers and those in higher positions emphasize collaboration, continuous improvement, and differentiation in their teaching methods. The study also identifies a positive correlation between the use of research-based instructional strategies and professional competence, suggesting that teachers who engage with research tend to be more effective in their roles. However, the findings indicate that tailored professional development programs are necessary to address the specific needs and strengths of different teacher groups, particularly concerning their educational background and professional roles. Overall, this research contributes to the ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of education in the Philippines by providing insights into how teachers’ instructional strategies and professional competencies can be improved to better meet the diverse needs of their students. The study’s recommendations focus on fostering collaboration, promoting continuous professional development, and ensuring that teaching practices remain relevant and effective in an ever-evolving educational landscape. Keywords: research-based instructional strategies, professional competence, pedagogical approaches, elementary education, teacher development, educational attainment, teaching experience, classroom practices, student engagement, Philippines education system

Book Review: Social work in the frame of a professional competencies approach by Ana, Opačić

Book Review: <i>Social work in the frame of a professional competencies approach</i> by Ana, Opačić

Educational potential of applied sociology: from the experience of the laboratory of applied and practical ethics

The article emphasizes the insufficient study of the potential of practical and applied tools of sociology in solving the problem of increasing the effectiveness of education, which determines the relevance of the study. It is noted that the methods of applied sociology (primarily questionnaires, surveys, expert interviews, focus groups) used in education allow not only to establish the level of formation of competencies, but also directly contribute to the formation of the latter. The possibilities of the methodology of applied sociology are studied on the material obtained in the course of the work of the laboratory of applied and practical ethics. It is shown that the methods of applied sociology are able to integrate innovations (competency approach, greening of education, inclusive education, etc.) introduced into the field of education. Based on the analysis of work with graduate students of Krasnoyarsk universities in the course of teaching the discipline 'History and Philosophy of Science', it became possible to establish that sociological applied tools are effective in education, since they are not only a means of feedback, but also stimulate reflection on the degree of formation of skills and the acquisition of competencies. It is noted that in the situation of working with adults, such as postgraduate students with professional knowledge, this is especially important. The article presents the experience of using applied sociology methods to analyze the quality of the educational process. The importance of applied sociological methods for monitoring the development, formation of competencies and as feedback to students is emphasized. The idea is substantiated that a project workshop as a technology of advanced learning, which best meets the requirements of a rapidly changing world, is impossible without high-quality monitoring and a sociological survey.

Таксономическая модель подготовки будущих педагогов в системе социального партнерства «Педагогический вуз – Дошкольная образовательная организация»

According to the Concept of the State Program of the Russian Federation “Education Development” until 2030, in order to create advanced professional training of specialists, it is necessary to more fully use the mechanisms of social partnership, which allows to coordinate the diverse needs of the labor market and the academic community. However, for a more reasoned inclusion of social partners in the process of professional training, a multidimensional model specifying the goals and functions of all partnership participants at each stage of students' education in higher education is needed. The aim of the work is to substantiate the taxonomic model of professional training of future teachers in social partnership of pedagogical university and preschool educational organization. The methodology and methods of the research are based on the system, competence and qualimetric approaches, which allow to determine the agreed with social partners competence-oriented goals of professional training of future teachers in the system of social partnership of pedagogical university and preschool educational organization using the method of group expert evaluations. The structure and content of the taxonomic model of students' training in social partnership between a pedagogical university and a preschool educational organization are determined by the method of group expert evaluations. The proposed taxonomic model can be useful for the university administration and academic staff in designing the educational process within the framework of individual educational trajectories of students, taking into account the needs of the regional labor market and the resources of social partners.

A narrative review of cultural identity and health risks in forced migration

Forced migrations driven by conflicts, natural disasters, and persecution severely disrupt cultural identity and exacerbate health vulnerabilities in displaced populations. This narrative review focuses on both physical and mental health outcomes in exploring the intricate relationships between forced migrations, cultural dislocation, and health risks. The study identifies four key themes. First, the aspect of forced migrations and cultural identity highlights the fragmentation of cultural practices and reveals the challenges of identity reconstruction. Second, the facet of forced migration and health vulnerabilities underscores the increased risks of infectious diseases, malnutrition, and mental health disorders such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Third, the interplays of cultural identity and health reveal that the preservation of cultural practices can buffer against negative health influences while cultural losses exacerbate the deterioration of health. Finally, culturally sensitive policies and interventions require healthcare systems to adopt culturally competent approaches that can address the unique challenges confronting forced migrants. The review concludes by identifying gaps in the literature, including the need for additional research on long-term health outcomes and the effectiveness of culturally sensitive interventions. This study delivers valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare providers seeking to improve the well-being of displaced populations through culturally responsive care.

Retrospective analysis of methods for efficient assortment building in pharmacy organizations

Introduction. One of the characteristic features for the modern pharmaceutical market in conditions of economic and political instability is a high level competition among its participants. Competition among pharmacy organizations has a dominant role, where a competent approach to managing the product assortment is important. Supervisors’ main task is to use optimal combinations of methods for analyzing the product portfolio aimed at efficient assortment building under a waste of minor resources. Objective. The aim of the research was to systematize the methods for studying the trade matrix and to select their rational combinations within the bounds of assortment policy development in a pharmacy organization. Material and methods. The study was carried through content analysis of science textbooks on a given topic. In order to assess the frequency of the methods considered and their possible integrations in publications, an electronic resource eLibrary.ru was used. The analysis of publications frequency in the frame of the pharmaceutical market was carried by filtering such keywords as “pharmacy”, “medicinal preparation/ drug”, etc. Results. Having conducted a literature review, we classified the methods for analyzing the assortment of a pharmacy organization into two groups: a market one (based on the calculation of economic evaluation) and a conceptual one (aimed at development of an assortment management strategy). Balanced combinations of methods were described (both within the same classification group and from different groups). Having assessed the methods frequency within the frame of publications, we found out that a number of integrations had a low frequency rate despite their rational use, which indicated the relevance of these combinations active implementation into the work of pharmacy organizations. Conclusion. Thus, in order to conduct a full analysis of the assortment and to adapt to the internal and external environment factors, it is rational for the administrative management of pharmacy organizations to use a set of methods while choosing complementary combinations. This allows you to include into the analysis a larger number of parameters for a more comprehensive study and a “working” assortment building

ПРОФЕССИОНАЛЬНОЕ ОБУЧЕНИЕ РУКОВОДИТЕЛЕЙ НА ОСНОВЕ КОМПЕТЕНТНОСТНОГО ПОДХОДА

The article considers the features of professional training of managers based on competencies. At the present stage of the development of organizations competence approach to training is used most actively applied. The relevance of using the approach is explained by the fact that knowledge and skills are now not as important as the internal characteristics of a person required for effective performance of work duties. The article presents various approaches to the definition of the concept of «competence», describes the features of professional training of managers and the relationship between training and the competence approach. In addition, one of the variants of the competence model for managers was developed and a competency training program was described step by step. In modern conditions, a manager is required to be goal-oriented, to be able to effectively allocate working time to adjust to the variability of the external environment, as well as to be able to build and lead a team of like-minded people. This, in turn, leads to higher requirements for senior positions, which should be viewed as the correspondence of a manager’s specialized training to the level of development of managerial competencies and the quality of work performance. At the present stage, the competence approach is the basis for professional training and promotion of managers, as it proceeds from the strategic goals of the organization, assumes flexibility in relation to external conditions and the presence of constant feedback on the effectiveness of management activities.

Educational excursion in teaching Russian as a foreign language: developing communicative competence

Importance. One of the innovative forms of teaching Russian as a foreign language is considered – an educational excursion, with the help of which all components of communicative competence are formed: linguistic, discursive, pragmatic and socio-cultural. Based on the theoretical aspects of the study, the specifics of the competence approach, the essence and structure of communicative competence, its role in learning a foreign language are considered, a general idea of innovative forms of teaching Russian as a foreign language is given, criteria for the selection of authentic texts for the development of an educational excursion are proposed. Special attention is paid to the pedagogical tasks that are solved by classes in the form of excursions: working out new vocabulary, communication in realistic conditions, broadcasting information about Russian history and culture in a natural communication situation, etc. The purpose of the study is to determine the didactic potential of the excursion as a form of occupation.Materials and Methods. The material of the study is thematic authentic texts, videos and images, textbooks on Russian as a foreign language, used in classes with foreign students. The following methods are used during the study: descriptive and analytical method, conceptual analysis, modeling.Results and Discussion. As a methodological material, a system of tasks for pre- and postexcursion stages is proposed, recommendations on the organization of training within the framework of the excursion are presented.Conclusion. It is proposed to use the format of a city tour for 1) introducing the necessary linguistic and cultural information; 2) consolidating well-known vocabulary and expanding vocabulary on the topics “City and Transport”, “Biography”, etc.; 3) practicing verbs of movement; 4) developing skills of independent oral utterance; 5) forming skills of teamwork

Student-led symposium on patient-centered reproductive healthcare

Background: Medical curricula addressing sexual and reproductive health often do not have an adequate focus on inclusivity and trauma-informed care. Failure to address culturally competent approaches toward sexual and reproductive health can result in substandard care for patients from diverse backgrounds. Methods: A Reproductive Healthcare Symposium was hosted to address existing reproductive healthcare curricula gaps. A patient-centered, interdisciplinary lens was used to discuss topics such as providing inclusive care, tenets of trauma-informed care, advocacy tactics, and expanding accessibility for underprivileged communities. This paper examines pre-post learning outcomes from the 2021–2023 symposiums. Results: Each year, attendees felt significantly more comfortable communicating a patient’s reproductive healthcare needs to another health professional, addressing reproductive health-related concerns in their field, evaluating their biases, and managing them. In the 2022 and 2023 conferences, students felt significantly more confident working on an interdisciplinary team to address a patient’s reproductive concerns. Discussion: Student-led conferences offer unique ways to address education gaps regarding reproductive freedoms and gender-affirming care in changing landscapes. These conferences can be tailored to a region’s particular reproductive healthcare needs.

РАЗВИВАНЕ НА КЛЮЧОВИТЕ КОМПЕТЕНТНОСТИ ЧРЕЗ ОБУЧЕНИЕ ПО РЕЛИГИЯ В НАЧАЛНИЯ ЕТАП НА ОСНОВНОТО ОБРАЗОВАНИЕ

A number of international and national educational concepts focus on the formation of key competencies in students. Any competence can be developed in any subject. Religious education, although an optional subject, is not isolated and closed from the rest of the educational process, so the report examines the types of competencies that students studying Religion develop. Attention is paid to the interdisciplinary interaction and the practical orientation of the training, which are the main characteristics of the competence approach. A model of innovative pedagogical practice is presented, which gives good results.

THE CONCEPT OF FORMING EVALUATION AND ANALYTICAL COMPETENCE OF FUTURE TEACHERS OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES

Control is a component of the system of teaching foreign languages and cultures. The effectiveness of its organization and conduct by the teacher provides quality feedback and significantly affects the results of students’ acquisition of foreign language communicative competence. Control is always related to evaluation. This necessitates the formation of evaluative and analytical competence of the future teacher of foreign languages in the process of professional and methodological training in a higher education institution. Given the peculiarities of teaching foreign languages, the evaluative and analytical competence of a foreign language teacher has its own specificity. At the same time, the analysis of the latest researches and publications makes it possible to ascertain the absence of a scientifically based concept of the formation of evaluative and analytical competence of future teachers of foreign languages in the process of their professional and methodological training in a higher education institution. Such a concept should become the basis for the development of teaching methods in accordance with the conditions of the organization of the educational process in a higher education institution according to a specific educational program and within the limits of mandatory and/or optional components of the professional and methodological training of future teachers of foreign languages. With this study, we aim to develop the concept of the formation of evaluative and analytical competence of future foreign teachers as a scientifically based system of approaches, content of training, methods and means of training, which in their relationship reflect the leading idea and strategy of organizing the educational process to achieve the planned result. To achieve the formulated goal, the following research methods were used: analysis of scientific sources, valid documents to clarify the state of development of the problem of formation of evaluative and analytical competence among future teachers of foreign languages; synthesis, generalization, deduction to determine the main provisions of the concept. Evaluative and analytical competence of a teacher of foreign languages, as a complex and dynamic interaction of special methodological knowledge and methodological skills, is considered in the unity of both components – evaluative and analytical competence. Modern approaches to education form the theoretical basis of the proposed concept. The competence approach is aimed at the formation of target competence and requires a minimally sufficient selection of training content. The technological approach involves the use of learning technologies and technologies for learning. The reflective approach is implemented for self-control, self-analysis, self-evaluation by the student of the process and the result of mastering one’s own evaluation and analytical competence. The formation of evaluative and analytical competence is a joint activity of the teacher and students of higher education – future teachers of foreign languages, therefore the personal-activity approach is applied in the unity of personal and activity components from the positions of the student and the teacher. The content of training for the formation of evaluative and analytical competence is disclosed in subject and activity aspects: the subject aspect consists of topics and typical professional and methodological situations of foreign language teachers in the process of design, implementation and organization of control and evaluation of student learning results, and the activity aspect reflects methodological knowledge, methodological skills as components of target competence. Tasks for mastering methodological knowledge, four groups of tasks for the formation and development of methodological skills are the means of learning. Tasks for the formation and development of methodological skills of future teachers of foreign languages are often multifunctional; this means that in the process of performing the task, the methodological skill / methodological skills are in a different stage of formation. The results of tasks for mastering knowledge are evaluated according to the “correct answer” criterion. Criteria for evaluating the results of tasks for the formation and development of methodological skills are defined depending on the type of task. Methodological reflection is important for a future teacher of foreign languages. The main means of methodological reflection of future teachers of foreign languages in the process of formation and development of evaluative and analytical competence is defined as an electronic methodological portfolio, the content of its sections is proposed. The scientific substantiation of the concepts of the formation of other competencies of the modern foreign language teacher can provide a perspective for further research.

The Role of Data Visualization in Enhancing Patient Health Literacy

This paper examines how data visualization can serve as a powerful tool to improve patient health literacy by translating complex health information into accessible visual formats. Health literacy, a vital factor in effective healthcare, is influenced by diverse factors such as education, socioeconomic status, and culture. Data visualizations provide a bridge to understanding, allowing patients to more easily comprehend critical health information and, consequently, make informed decisions about their care. The paper investigated the various types of data visualizations used in patient education, discussing design principles for creating effective health-related visual content that can engage patients across health literacy levels. Furthermore, the study examined case studies illustrating successful applications of data visualizations in real-world healthcare settings. In conclusion, the paper addresses the ethical considerations and challenges in employing data visualization as a communication tool, emphasizing the need for culturally competent and inclusive design approaches to maximize comprehension and patient safety. Keywords: Data Visualization, Health Literacy, Patient Education, Healthcare Communication, Ethical Design.

ПАРАДИГМАЛЬНО-ЗМІСТОВИЙ КОНСТРУКТ ПРОЦЕСУ ФОРМУВАННЯ ЗДОРОВ’ЯЗБЕРЕЖУВАЛЬНОЇ КОМПЕТЕНТНОСТІ МАЙБУТНІХ БАКАЛАВРІВ ФІЗИЧНОЇ ТЕРАПІЇ

The processes of reforming higher education in Ukraine have determined significant changes in the content of professional training for future professionals, aimed at developing their professional competencies. Therefore, changes in the paradigmatic level in contemporary higher education are related to changes in the basic theoretical concepts of professional training, implying the choice of the following forms, methods, and means that correspond to the conceptual core of the modern competence paradigm. The paper characterises the essence of the paradigmatic and content construct of health-saving competence of future bachelors of physical therapy, the functioning of which provides for the implementation of holistic, systemic, competence, activity, and environmental approaches as the initial theoretical and methodological foundations of the process of forming the health-saving competence of future bachelors of physical therapy, which should ensure the health protection and an appropriate level of physical therapy in the field of patient care in the future. Accordingly, relevant changes have to be made in the professional training process of future bachelors of physical therapy not only at the level of theory but also at the level of methods of such training. The four basic components of the studied phenomenon have been identified and described: value-motivational, cognitive-content, activity-process, reflective-behavioural, and there has been defined the criterion and indicator construct of their reflection in the levels of formation of health-saving competence of future bachelors of physical therapy, consisting of axiological, cognitive, technological and personal criteria and their indicators. The study proves that in the aggregate it contributes to the determination of self-assessment and self-improvement processes of formation of health-saving competence of future bachelors of physical therapy.

МАТЕМАТИЧНА КОМПЕТЕНТНІСТЬ МАЙБУТНЬОГО ВЧИТЕЛЯ МАТЕМАТИКИ: ТЕОРЕТИЧНИЙ АНАЛІЗ

In the context of modernization of contemporary education on the basis of a competence approach, the problem of professional training of future mathematics teachers, who are able to be actively implemented in the information society, have professional competences that would meet the needs of today, becomes especially relevant. It is emphasized that an important task of training future mathematics teachers is the formation of their mathematical competence. The hierarchy of competences is characterized (according to N. Bibik): key super subjective (basic) competences, which are based on cognitive processes and displayed in different contexts; general subject competences, which belong to a certain set of subjects or branches of knowledge; subject competences - partial to the above, which are acquired in the process of studying a particular subject. The article describes the various definitions of mathematical competence proposed in the State Standard of Basic and Complete General Education (2011), the Concept of the New Ukrainian School (2018), the European Reference Framework of Key Competences for Lifelong Learning (2018), and the PISA International Education Quality Assessment (2022). Based on the analysis, it is determined that mathematical competence is defined by modern scientists as an integrated characteristic of the qualities of a mathematics teacher’s personality, which is expressed in the ability and willingness to apply mathematical knowledge and skills in order to solve professional problems using mathematical methods, applying modern methods of design, mathematical and computer modelling if necessary. Mathematical competence as a result of mathematical training of a graduate of a pedagogical education institution implies a high level of knowledge and experience of independent activity based on this knowledge for the effective professional activity of a future mathematics teacher. The structural components of mathematical competence are allocated: motivational, cognitive, value, activity, and reflexive.

Green and Digital Technologies in Design

The goal of the study is to develop conceptual projects and products with an experimental nature within the module “Green Technologies in Design” of the innovative integrative module “Innovative Design”. This module is studied in the extended professional training program at PGD “Elisaveta Vazova,” Sofia, over a two-year period from 2021 to 2023. Project-based learning for students in theeleventh and twelfth grades, specializing in “Computer-Aided Design and Drawing of Textile Flat Products,” is implemented through the application of digital, green, ecological, sustainable, waste-free, and low-waste technologies, techniques, and materials in design. It has led to the creation of original designer projects and environmentally friendly ecological products. The project developssustainable practical skills and emotional-aesthetic competencies for creative ecological thinking, ecological education, culture and behaviour, solving ecological problems, practical application of the interdisciplinary and competence approach, and transforming “green” skills into a “green” way of life.Keywords: green and digital technologies in design, innovative design, product design.

Patient experiences in outpatient substance use disorder treatment: A qualitative study exploring both clinical and non-clinical contexts

BackgroundAddressing the persistent treatment gap in substance use disorder (SUD) remains a critical challenge, with only 13 % of Americans with SUDs receiving necessary treatment. We explored the complexities of engaging in SUD treatment from patients' perspectives and aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of their treatment experiences. MethodsWe conducted semi-structured interviews with 34 patients who had been attending outpatient SUD clinics in New York State for 6 or less months. Participants were recruited from seven clinics using purposive sampling. Interviews were conducted between June and August 2022. We conducted thematic analysis of coded data to explore patients' experiences and preferences while navigating their treatment journeys. ResultsCritical elements for a positive treatment experience included cultural humility, confidentiality, consistency, trust, peer counselors with SUD experience, a strong sense of connection, and addressing needs beyond clinical settings. These included assistance with housing and employment, participation in external clinic events, and access to amenities like coffee and snacks. Participants favored holistic treatment approaches integrating mental health and involving peer recovery counselors. However, participants also identified ineffective aspects, including rigid and generic approaches, stigmatizing attitudes, and challenges related to communities and environmental influences. ConclusionThe study highlights the multifaceted nature of outpatient SUD treatment, emphasizing the integration of patient-centered, holistic, and culturally competent approaches. Tailoring interventions to individual circumstances and acknowledging the diverse needs of patients are imperative for effective healthcare practices.

An Exploration of Black Couples’ Experience with Perinatal Loss

Pregnancies among Black Americans in the United States are associated with a higher mortality rate than Whites. Despite the considerable occurrence of perinatal loss within the Black community, research investigating its effects on relationship satisfaction and intimacy remains scarce. This study provides a platform for intimate partners to express their perspectives on the relationship in the aftermath of fetal or neonatal mortality. Seven Black couples were interviewed to explore the effects of perinatal loss on their intimacy and communication, as well as the gender disparities that are present. The findings revealed that the intersection of race and gender had a significant impact on Black couples’ grief and their inclination to seek care. The racial-ethnic component focuses on how relational satisfaction is viewed through cultural perspectives, offering professionals a culturally sensitive and competent approach to meet the relational needs of Black couples.

УПРАВЛІННЯ ЛЮДСЬКИМИ РЕСУРСАМИ ЗАКЛАДІВ ОХОРОНИ ЗДОРОВ’Я

Introduction. Significant changes in the functioning of the health care sector determined the transition to a new management system, which is reflected in the management of health care facilities in general and in the management of human resources in particular. The modern development of high technologies leads to the transformation of work and the structure and quality of human resources. The requirements for the professional and qualification level of employees, work discipline, experience, individual characteristics and soft skills, the ability to master new knowledge and acquire new skills are increasing. Therefore, the role and place of a person in the organization is growing and there is a need to change approaches to human resource management. The purpose of the article: substantiation of the theoretical and methodological provisions of human resource management of health care institutions Results. Based on the generalization of domestic and foreign works, the definition of human resources of the organization as a determining factor and the driving force of its development, which combines personal, business, professional qualities, the totality of which, with their continuous development, ensures strategic competitive advantages of the organization, has been clarified. The author's vision of the grouping of requirements for employees of health care institutions based on the competence approach, which takes into account such groups of criteria as basic (the same for all employees within a certain category), professional and general competencies (which can differ significantly even within the same category of employees) is substantiated ). The essence of human resources management as a set of methods, approaches, technologies for creating the necessary conditions and motivation of the organization's employees for the formation, development and realization of personal, business, and professional potential for achieving the goals of the organization, ensuring its competitiveness on the one hand, and the interests of employees on the other is specified. The methodological basis of human resources management has been improved based on the symbiosis of elements of basic concepts and models that determine the fundamental principles, criteria and approaches that take into account modern changes in the environment of organizations, the nature of work, requirements for employees and their positioning as a subject of the management process. The methodological aspects of human resources management have been developed, namely, criteria (competitiveness of human resources, human potential, efficiency of its use, optimal staffing), approaches (complex , institutional, structural-functional, functional, systemic, synergistic), which maximally take into account the specifics of the functioning of organizations. A conceptual model of human resources management has been developed, the main difference of which is the orientation to the person in all its manifestations and the creation of conditions for the development and realization of the personal, business, and professional potential of employees to achieve their own goals and the goals of the organization's development, ensuring its competitiveness. Conclusions. Human resources of the organization are the driving force of its development. They include personal, business, professional qualities. Human resources management consists in creating the necessary conditions and motivating the organization's employees to form, develop, and realize their personal, business, and professional potential to achieve the organization's goals, ensure its competitiveness on the one hand, and the interests of employees on the other.

TEACHING ENGLISH LEXICON BASED ON COMPETENCY APPROACH IN A DIGITAL EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT

This article discusses the issues of teaching English lexicon based on a competency approach in a digital educational environment during the current era of advanced science and technology.

The role of primary care in hepatitis B elimination in the UK migrant context, a mixed-methods study

Background300 million individuals live with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), with consequences including cirrhosis and cancer. In the UK migrants are disproportionately affected. Many are unaware of their diagnosis and face barriers accessing services. The WHO has called for elimination by 2030. Primary care (PC) is ideally placed but poorly engaged and utilised in CHB care. This study aims to explore UK PC contribution and approaches to strengthen CHB care from migrant and PC perspectives. MethodsAn online survey (21 questions on CHB knowledge/practice/barriers/care delivery) was advertised to PC practitioners. In-depth views were explored through (i) PC focus groups, (ii) semi-structured interviews with migrants with CHB lived experience. Results were analysed to give descriptive statistics and qualitative data using reflexive-thematic analysis. Findings218 survey questionnaires, five PC focus-groups (n=16), and sixteen migrant participant interviews were completed. 63·5% of PC practitioners reported regularly seeing patients from high-prevalence countries but only 14·2% had screening policies and 80·3% were unaware of WHO targets. Barriers to CHB screening and management included knowledge, unstandardised pathways, workload, and stigma. 75·8% were under-confident interpreting results. Facilitators included simplified algorithms, specialist support, translated materials and peer-support. Almost 60% stated they would be comfortable with a CHB shared-care model with specialist oversight and funding. Contact-tracing, vaccination, and re-engaging those lost-to-care were identified improvement areas. Focus-groups reflected survey data, preliminary themes included potential of integrated care and empowerment of PC. Migrant participant interview data highlighted the impact of missed opportunities for CHB care on patient experience, importance of “making that first contact count” and sharing power and knowledge through a culturally competent patient-centred approach. InterpretationIntegrated CHB care is in line with patient and provider preference and could support elimination progress. PC needs to be equipped with simplified pathways, sustainable integrated-care models, specialist support, funding, and culturally competent resources. FundingJC was funded by Hospital for Tropical Diseases Centenary Fellowship and now funded by Wellcome PhD Programme for Primary Care Professionals.