Health Information Management Research Articles

The changes in health service utilisation in Malawi during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the restriction policies implemented by the Government of Malawi may have disrupted routine health service utilisation. We aimed to find evidence for such disruptions and quantify any changes by service type and level of health care. We extracted nationwide routine health service usage data for 2015-2021 from the electronic health information management systems in Malawi. Two datasets were prepared: unadjusted and adjusted; for the latter, unreported monthly data entries for a facility were filled in through systematic rules based on reported mean values of that facility or facility type and considering both reporting rates and comparability with published data. Using statistical descriptive methods, we first described the patterns of service utilisation in pre-pandemic years (2015-2019). We then tested for evidence of departures from this routine pattern, i.e., service volume delivered being below recent average by more than two standard deviations was viewed as a substantial reduction, and calculated the cumulative net differences of service volume during the pandemic period (2020-2021), in aggregate and within each specific facility. Evidence of disruptions were found: from April 2020 to December 2021, services delivered of several types were reduced across primary and secondary levels of care-including inpatient care (-20.03% less total interactions in that period compared to the recent average), immunisation (-17.61%), malnutrition treatment (-34.5%), accidents and emergency services (-16.03%), HIV (human immunodeficiency viruses) tests (-27.34%), antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiations for adults (-33.52%), and ART treatment for paediatrics (-41.32%). Reductions of service volume were greatest in the first wave of the pandemic during April-August 2020, and whereas some service types rebounded quickly (e.g., outpatient visits from -17.7% to +3.23%), many others persisted at lower level through 2021 (e.g., under-five malnutrition treatment from -15.24% to -42.23%). The total reduced service volume between April 2020 and December 2021 was 8 066 956 (-10.23%), equating to 444 units per 1000 persons. We have found substantial evidence for reductions in health service delivered in Malawi during the COVID-19 pandemic which may have potential health consequences, the effect of which should inform how decisions are taken in the future to maximise the resilience of healthcare system during similar events.

Effects of Health Records Management on Health Service Delivery: A case study of the Prestea Government Hospital. (PGH)

Background: The most crucial instrument when discussing patient healthcare are medical records. Both their management and their utilization are crucial for patient care management. Ghana has used many medical records management systems to aid in healthcare development. Retrospective and epidemiological investigations are slowed down by poor data quality, which inhibits research. As expectations have grown, more initiatives to capture and save patient records electronically are planned. Aim: The purpose of the study is to investigate the perception of health worker about the EHRs use and impact on service delivery. Materials and methods: The study's focus is on the health workers at Prestea Government Hospital (PGH), which include nurses, physicians, biotechnologists, Health Information Manager, pharmacists, midwives, etc. A sample size of 100 people from the intended audience was used. Standardized questionnaires were self-completed by respondent. The Completed questionnaires were given numbers to protect participants anonymity. Participants received sufficient information regarding their right to decline study participation and to withdraw at any time without repercussions. Data was entered into Excel and exported to SPSS for analysis. Descriptive and inferential analysis was performed and the outcomes were shown as tables, graphs, and figures. Results: In all, out of 100 respondents, 35% of them were males and 65% were women. There were a lot of female replies since many of the respondents were nurses. Medical laboratory technicians comprised the smallest proportion of the workforce (5%) of all occupational groups. Prestea Government Hospital survey respondents overwhelmingly concur that electronic health records (EHRs) aid in the delivery of treatment. According to a survey, medical practitioners think the facility's EHR has all of the forms that are utilized there. The idea that the facility's EHRs help with data collection is accepted by few people. Medical professionals believe that the use of EHRs makes it simple to obtain historical patient data. This is so that all information may be easily accessed while undergoing medical treatment and kept securely saved. The system features alarms that play when erroneous data is entered. Although the system features pre-programmed commands that allow for uninterrupted navigation, there are frequently disruptions due to power fluctuations. Conclusion: Access to patients' medical records via an electronic health information system platform is crucial for making medical decisions that will result in effective care delivery in healthcare facilities, lower the risk of treatment errors, decrease patient waiting times, and lower the number of medical errors, a study has found.

The descriptive epidemiology of pre-omicron SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections and severe outcomes in Manitoba, Canada.

Vaccination plays a key role in curbing severe outcomes resulting from COVID-19 disease. With the Omicron variant and the relaxing of public health protections breakthrough infections are increasingly common, and certain groups remain at higher risk for severe outcomes from breakthrough infections. We analysed population-based public health data from Manitoba, Canada to understand characteristics of those experiencing breakthrough infections and severe outcomes from breakthrough infections. Data from previous pandemic stages can provide valuable information regarding severe outcomes associated with breakthrough infection in the Omicron and future phases. Positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR tests from Cadham Provincial Laboratory were linked to case information from the population-based Public Health Information Management System. A retrospective design was used with time-to-event analyses to examine severe outcomes among those experiencing breakthrough infection. Breakthrough cases were more likely to have 2 + chronic conditions, compared to age-, sex-, and time-period matched unvaccinated cases (24% vs. 17%), with hypertension (30%), diabetes (17%), and asthma (14%) being the most prevalent chronic conditions amongst breakthrough cases. Severe outcomes resulting from breakthrough infection was associated with age and chronic conditions, with those with 2 + chronic conditions at higher risk of severe outcomes (adjusted hazard ratio: 3.6, 95% confidence intervals: 2.0-6.4). Risk of severe outcomes varied by age group, with those 70 + years at over 13 times the risk of severe outcomes (95% CI: 4.5-39.8), compared to those 18-29 years of age. Our results demonstrate the impact of chronic conditions on the likelihood of, and severity of outcomes from breakthrough infections. These findings underscore the importance of vaccination programs prioritizing vulnerable populations.

EDUKASI SISTEM INFORMASI MANAJEMEN RUMAH SAKIT (SIMRS) KEPADA PEGAWAI PENDAFTARAN TENTANG MUTU PENDAFTARAN RAWAT JALAN DI RSU HAJI MEDAN

This community service aims to increase understanding of Health Information Management Information Systems (SIMRS) and its role. Measuring quality covers many dimensions and reliability is key - ensuring fast, accurate and satisfactory service. Achieving these functions requires the implementation of a web-based information system known as a hospital information management system. The methodology used includes a focus group discussion (FGD), which reveals that the implementation of SIMRS, especially in the implementation of RME, improves the quality of health services and operational efficiency in outpatient registration. The most important benefits identified are enhanced collaboration between departments. A final evaluation will be done to evaluate the participants and #039; understanding the importance of electronic patient records in improving work processes. Evaluation includes questions to all participants and drawing conclusions from the results of the analysis and evaluation. In conclusion, the community service confirms that the use of electronic patient records in Haji Medan Hospital facilitates the tasks of the staff.

Perancangan Sistem Informasi Geografis Rumah Sakit di Kota Depok Berbasis Web Menggunakan Metode Location Based Service

Technological advances in the health sector are growing so rapidly One of the advances in information technology penetrating hospitals such as the use of information technology to support health information management. The hospital's geographic information system is not yet available to the people in Depok city. Many people still find it difficult to know the location and services of hospitals in their area. The purpose of this author is to design a geographic information system for hospitals in Depok city to make it easier for the people of Depok city to know the location, facilities, polyclinic services and doctor's practice schedule. The process of developing a geographic information system of this hospital uses a waterfall model with an analysis and design system assisted using a Unifield Modelling Language (UML) Diagram model. The system is designed using PHP and MySql programming languages as databases. To determine the location point using the Location Based Service (LBS) method. From this design produces a web-based geographic information system for hospitals in Depok city that can be useful for the people of Depok city in accessing information related to polyclinics, doctor schedules and hospital facilities.

Effect of Sorting and Arrangement of Patient Health Records in Health Records Department of Cottage Hospitals Bojude and Malam Sidi in Kwami L.G.A. Gombe State, Nigeria

The study focused on the effect of sorting and arrangement of patient health records in the health records department of Cottage Hospitals Bojude and Malam Sidi Gombe State, Nigeria. The study population for this research work comprised Health Record Officers/Managers, Health Records Technicians, and Health Records assistants working in the two health records departments of Bojude and Malam Sidi. The study adopted a descriptive survey design to reduce the effects of sorting and arranging patients’ health records in the selected hospital. The population comprised One Hundred (100) respondents with a self-designed structured questionnaire and was validated to establish its reliability; the researcher personally administered the questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using Epi-Info software (Epidemiology Information) version 3.5, and the results were presented in simple analysis form to reveal the respondents’ views based on objectives. The study found that sorting and arranging patients’ health records negatively affect patients and hospitals. Moreover, all health institutions should be mandated to employ qualified and trained Health Information Personnel to maintain the ethics of the Health Information Management Department so that their knowledge in managing patients’ health records will assist in reducing the error of miss sorting and arrangement of patient health records. Also, the management of the hospitals should provide manpower, meaning trained medical records personnel, enough space, and adequate carbonate shape and lightening for proper filing equipment and suitable filing for the health records department to reduce the misfiling of patients’ health records.

Healthcare Providers' Adherence to COVID-19 Prevention and Control Practices in Health Records and Information Management, Ghana.

The impact of contracting coronavirus on healthcare providers (HCPs) affects their ability to combat the infection. The virus can be transmitted through droplets from sneezing, coughing, and yelling, making it essential for HCPs to plan ahead when dealing with patients with respiratory symptoms. The need to assess healthcare providers' perceived adherence to COVID-19 Prevention and Control Practices (PCP) in Health Records and Information Management is vital for optimizing healthcare operations and ensuring the safety of both patients and providers. This study assesses healthcare providers' perceived adherence to COVID-19 PCP in Health Records and Information Management. Subjects and Method. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data from 1268 HCPs working in eight randomly selected hospitals across five regions in Ghana. The survey was carried out from May 15, 2022, to August 13, 2022. Simple random sampling was used to choose these eight facilities from a total of 204 hospitals. Within each facility, HCPs from various departments were selected using simple random sampling. The EpiInfo 7 software's StatCalc tool was used to choose a total sample size of 1268 from an estimated 4482 HCP-PR from the eight hospitals. Compliance with COVID-19 PCP was assessed using a 3-point scale, ranging from one (Yes always) to three (No). Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient was used to examine the statistical reliability of the variables in the dataset. Cronbach's alpha was 0.73 overall, suggesting strong reliability. Bartlett's test for equal variances was used for comparative analysis of health facility and overall mean COVID-19 PCP in different areas of health facilities. IBM SPSS (version 23) statistical software was used for the data analysis process. A total of 1268 HCP-PR participated in the survey, resulting in a 99.6% response rate. Findings reveal that 760 healthcare professionals who handle patients' records (HCP-PR), constituting 60%, consistently followed COVID-19 protocols in the registration and clinic preparation zones. Another 390 individuals (30.7%) adhered to these protocols occasionally, while 119 (9.4%) failed to comply. Similarly, in the filing area, 739 respondents (58.3%) consistently adhered to COVID-19 protocols, 358 (28.3%) occasionally did so, and 170 (13.4%) did not follow the protocols at all. Regarding handling health records cautiously, 540 participants (42.5%) always did, 448 (35.3%) did so sometimes, and 280 (22.2%) neglected these precautions. Additionally, 520 respondents (41.0%) consistently followed COVID-19 precautions when handling computers and other equipment, 393 (31.0%) did so occasionally, and 355 (28.0%) did not adhere to these precautions. The majority of respondents showed good compliance with COVID-19 protocol in the registration and clinic preparation areas. However, in the filing area, just over four out of every seven respondents consistently adhered to COVID-19 PCP. Additionally, four out of every seven participants did not comply with COVID-19 PCP when handling patients' records. Analysis reveals diverse adherence to COVID-19 PCP, and statistical tests show variable performance, highlighting standout health facilities.

Preservation and conservation practices in health information management in Southwestern Nigeria

Preservation and conservation practices play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity, accessibility, and security of health information in the field of health information management (HIM). This study aimed to explore the current state of preservation and conservation practices, identify the challenges faced by healthcare facilities, and examine the strategies employed for effective implementation. A cross sectional survey was conducted, and data were collected from 70 HIM professionals working in various healthcare settings in Southwestern Nigeria. A convenience sampling method was utilized to recruit participants from various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and healthcare information management companies. A total of 70 respondents were included in the study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire developed specifically for this study. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data collected in this study. The findings revealed that adherence to document retention policies (74.3%), regular backup of electronic health records (64.3%), and the usage of archival quality storage media (50.0%) were the most commonly implemented preservation and conservation practice. However, the implementation of data encryption showed room for improvement. Limited financial resources emerged as a significant challenge, along with technological obsolescence, inadequate training and awareness, data privacy and security concerns, and regulatory compliance. Strategies such as regular staff training and education, collaboration with IT and security experts, robust data backup solutions, periodic review of preservation policies, and creation of a disaster recovery plan were identified as key approaches to enhance preservation and conservation services. The study highlights the importance of allocating sufficient resources, addressing data security concerns, promoting training and awareness, staying current with technology, fostering collaboration, and periodically reviewing preservation policies to ensure effective preservation and conservation of health information. The findings provide valuable insights for HIM professionals and organizations seeking to strengthen their preservation practices and optimize the long term preservation and accessibility of health information.

Analysis of Healthcare Services in 2019 Arbaeen March: A Qualitative Study

Background: The Arbaeen march ritual stands as one of the largest congregations, attended by tens of millions every year. Given the large number of participants in this ritual, it is essential to minimize the health repercussions for pilgrims and ensure their prompt access to medical care. The present study was conducted to analyze the healthcare services during the 2019 Arbaeen march. Materials and Methods: Employing a qualitative approach, this study utilized various data collection methods, including in-depth and semi-structured interviews, field observations, and document review. The target population comprised healthcare decision-makers, managers, and providers of the 2019 Arbaeen march. The interview and data collection guide were developed in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Data collection continued until data saturation. Directed content analysis was employed to analyze the data. Results: Data saturation was achieved after conducting 30 personal interviews. Out of the challenges and significant factors found in healthcare deliveries during the Imam Hussein (AS) Arbaeen march, 9 main themes and categories were identified: Trauma system, disease surveillance system, health issues, health education and promotion, healthcare coordination and collaboration command in the health system, information and communication management, response planning, support and resource management, and safety and security. Conclusion: This study identified the major healthcare issues in the AS Arbaeen march, serving as an evidence-based guide for policymakers and planners of this famous religious ritual. The results of this study are applicable to similar public gatherings and marches.

Reduction in diarrhea cases following implementation of COVID-19 hand hygiene interventions in Ghana: A causal impact analysis.

The human hand has constant contact with the environment, hence requires regular hand hygiene. Hand hygiene has gained recognition because of the COVID-19 pandemic and is a largely effective, affordable preventive measure against infectious diseases. This study used both national and sub-national analyses to evaluate the effect of COVID-19 handwashing guidelines on instances of diarrhea in Ghana. Data on diarrhea cases spanning February 2018 and March 2022 were retrieved from the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS 2) using a data extraction guide. The data were summarized using descriptive statistics. The difference in diarrhea cases between the pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 periods was measured using a two-sample t-test across Ghana's 16 administrative areas. Causal Impact package in R statistical software was employed to determine the impact of the introduction of COVID-19 hand hygiene protocols on diarrheal disease. A total of 5,645,533 diarrheal cases reported between February 2018 and March 2022 through the routine MIS (DHIMS2) were examined. Fifty-three percent of the cases occurred before the introduction of the hand hygiene protocol. Descriptive statistics indicated a statistically significant decrease in average diarrheal cases during the hand hygiene implementation era (13,463 cases reduction, p<0.001). Sub-national analyses revealed significant reductions in various regions: Greater Accra, Ashanti, Ahafo, Central, Eastern, Northern, Upper East, Upper West, and Volta (p<0.05). Causal impact analysis confirmed 11.0% nationwide reduction in diarrheal cases attributed to the COVID-19 hand hygiene protocols (p<0.001). This study underscores the effectiveness of COVID-19 hand hygiene protocols in reducing diarrheal morbidity in Ghana, with varying regional impacts. These findings advocate for the sustenance of investments and commitments made at the COVID hand hygiene protocols, particularly in this era where the pandemic appears controlled.

From Servant Leadership to Organizational Sustainability Mediated by Innovation Capability in the Professional Organization Pormiki

This research aims to analyze and explain the influence of Servant Leadership on Organizational Sustainability, mediated by Innovation Capabilities, within the Professional Association of Indonesian Health Information Management (PORMIKI). The study is designed based on a quantitative paradigm with a survey to test causality using a cross-sectional time horizon. The research population consists of 18,427 board members of the regional executive boards across Indonesia, with a sample of 413 selected using the quota sampling method. Data analysis employs Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) for inferential analysis. The results indicate that most respondents are women with varied years of service. Servant leadership can enhance innovation capabilities and organizational sustainability. Servant leadership is a resource and a learning source for determining innovation capabilities and organizational sustainability. The findings extend the understanding of the importance and mechanisms of servant leadership for organizational sustainability. These results have practical implications for organizational leaders and open opportunities for further research.

Managing routine health information system data during a security crisis in the health district of Timbuktu, Mali in 2023

an effective health information system (HIS) ensures the production, analysis, dissemination and use of reliable and up-to-date information on the determinants of health. However, it can encounter obstacles that hinder its functioning, such as armed conflicts, which limit access and quality of healthcare services. The purpose of our study was to help improve data management for routine health information system in the health district of Timbuktu during a security crisis. we conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study, among health information management professionals in the Timbuktu Health District from 15 April to 08 September 2023. Data obtained from a survey questionnaire were analyzed using Epi Info version 7.2.2. and processed using Microsoft Word and Excel 2016. a total of 6 health facilities were surveyed. Data collection, analysis and feedback were very poor. Data quality was 100% complete, 92.40% prompt and 68.11% accurate. The major constraints were: low involvement of health workers in the SIS (22.22%), insufficient training on the SISR (29.63%), supervision (47.06%), internet inaccessibility (66.67%), feeling of insecurity (37.04%) and fear (61.76%) in health facilities. our results show low-level processes, poor network coverage, shortage of qualified health information management professionals and increasing insecurity. A broader mixed-methods research would provide a better understanding.

Snakebites and Antisnake Venom Utilization in Ghana's Oti Region: A 6-Year Retrospective Study.

Background: Snakebite is a global environmental and occupational hazard and a significant public health threat. In rural areas, snakebite cases often go unreported and undocumented due to the lack of access to well-structured healthcare facilities/infrastructure. In some cases, the need for antisnake venom (ASV) far outstrips supply, negatively affecting treatment outcomes. This study, therefore, assessed the epidemiological characteristics of snakebite cases, their management, and how antivenoms are utilised at the selected hospital in the Jasikan District Hospital. Methods: A 6-year retrospective study using secondary data from antivenom return forms (pharmacy records), clinical records (patient folders), the District Health Information Management System-2 (DHIMS-2) database, and consulting room registers was carried out in selected hospitals in the Jasikan District, Oti, Ghana. Results: The predominant symptom of snakebite was localised pain (71.4%). The snakebite commonly occurred at home (19%) and on farms (18%). Of the 98 snakebite cases, ASV was administered to 73 (74.5%) cases. Supportive treatment applied included prophylactic antitetanus immunoglobulin (ATS) (80.6%), prophylactic antibiotics (63%), corticosteroids (80.6%), and analgesics (63%). 95% (n = 94) of complete recoveries were recorded; three were discharged against medical advice, and one was mortality. The supply and use of antivenom were erratic throughout the months of high incidence, partly due to inconsistent availability at the Regional Medical Stores. The average ASV vials and hospital stay duration were 1.23 ± 0.86 vials and 2.67 ± 1.97 days, respectively. Although the peak of snakebites occurs in April, May, and June, the demand for antivenom in April and May exceeded supply. Conclusion: The outcome of most snakebite case management was appropriate, irrespective of inadequate ASV supply in certain months. The erratic antivenom supply should be aligned with seasonal and facility-use patterns to enhance regional snakebite management.

Canadian employers’ perspectives on a new framework for health informatics competencies

Competencies are the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to operate and perform successfully in the workplace. Due to the evolving nature of health informatics, it is important continuously examine and refine competencies in this field. In this study, we administered a questionnaire to Canadian employers (N = 29) of health informatics cooperative education (co-op) students to garner their feedback on competencies within a New Health Informatics Professional Competencies Framework. Overall, the findings supported this new framework. An average of ratings within each of the four competency categories revealed that participants perceived Management Science to be the most important, followed by Information & Computer Science, then Health Science and finally Data Science. Further, at least 20 (69 %) respondents rated nine of the 12 competencies as important. Of the 12 competencies, Biological and Clinical Science was rated the lowest. Findings from this study can potentially be used to inform curricula, career progression, and hiring practices in health informatics. Future work includes refining the questionnaire to assess the competencies more comprehensively and potentially exploring the importance of more transferable skills or general competencies (e.g., communication, problem-solving). Additionally, we want to survey a broader sample of health informatics professionals and integrate recent national and international work on health informatics competencies. Future work is also recommended towards the development of a maturity model for competencies of more experienced health informatics professionals.

Program Sosialisasi dan Pelatihan Penggunaan Sistem Informasi Posyandu: SIMBAT (Sistem InforMasi BalitA Sehat Terpadu)

&lt;em&gt;In every organization, including Posyandu (Integrated Service Post) which is a public health institution based on community empowerment, information systems have a key role in providing accurate and timely information for reporting and decision making, in line with the Ministry of Health's regulations regarding health transformation as outlined in PMK No.24 of 2022. However, the effectiveness of the SIMBAT Posyandu Information System is hampered by the lack of ability of a number of posyandu cadres to use information and communication technology (ICT). To overcome this problem, this program was implemented which aims to improve the ability of Posyandu cadres in managing health information, especially in registration, recording and reporting, through socialization of the use of the Web-Based Posyandu Information System. Methods for implementing this socialization program include coordination with partners, needs analysis, training planning, preparation of training tools and materials, and implementation of training. The result of this activity is the ability of posyandu cadres to use information and communication technology, including the SIMBAT application based on pretest and posttest results, initially 40% after training became 80%.&lt;/em&gt;

Penyuluhan Ibu Hamil Melalui Pelayanan Antenatal Care Untuk Mencegah Kurang Energi Kronik

Antenatal Care (ANC) is the most important component of pregnant women's health services to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates. With ANC, the progress of the pregnant woman's condition will be well monitored at all times and knowledge about childbirth preparation will increase. Based on the background above, the researcher is interested in taking the title Counseling Pregnant Women Through Antenatal Care Services to Prevent Chronic Energy Deficiency which aims to improve and maintain the health of mothers and babies, prepare for the birthing process so that the baby can be delivered safely and minimize trauma that may occur in the child. during childbirth and reduce the number of deaths and morbidity rates in mothers. The data collection method that the author uses is the survey method. The survey method is a method used as a general category of research, one of which uses a questionnaire. The research results showed that the average knowledge score before and after the health education was carried out increased by 42.21 points, which means that the health education carried out had an impact on increasing the knowledge of Health Information Management students about ANC disease in pregnant women who experience CED. The increase in the average knowledge score is possible because health education uses appropriate methods and media such as lectures and discussions. Leaflet media also helps health education participants to easily remember the material. Using appropriate methods and media in health education can help health education participants understand the material

The Integration of Social Determinants of Health into Health Information Management Systems and Technologies

The Integration of Social Determinants of Health into Health Information Management Systems and Technologies

Enhancing Health Information Management with Smart Rings

A little electronic device that is worn on the finger is called a smart ring. It incorporates mobile technology and has features that make it simple to use the device. These gadgets, which resemble conventional rings and are usually made to fit on the finger, are outfitted with features including access management, gesture control, mobile payment processing, and activity tracking. A poor sleep pattern, an irregular schedule, and bad eating habits are all part of the problems with health that a lot of people today are facing. Diets lacking of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains are common. Individuals in India also experience metabolic issues. In the medical field, smart rings will help patients with problems relating to stomach illnesses and the incapacity to consume meals that are tailored to their bodies' needs. The smart ring tracks all bodily functions, including blood sugar and glucose levels, and presents the information instantly. Based on this data, the ring generates what the body will find to be perfect insights and a workable site layout. In addition, we conducted focus groups and individual interviews as part of our core approach and discussing the difficulties they're having maintaining up the right diet, as well as whether or not the smart ring will be beneficial to them.However, everyone was very enthusiastic about and supportive of the concept of using smart rings in healthcare, and they believed that these rings may assist them in maintaining their health and have a well-balanced diet plan.This response came from the primary data and also working on the Emerging Technology Canvas Analysis of smart rings in healthcare has led to a significant improvement in our understanding of the technology's application in the medical field. It is believed that there will be a growing demand for smart health care as people become more conscious of their health.The majority of individuals will finally utilize this ring after three to four years, when demand for it will have increased. Their daily lives will be significantly impacted by it.

Burden, coping and resilience among caregivers for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: An integrative review.

This study aims to synthesise quantitative and qualitative evidence to comprehensively examine the burden of family caregivers of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients and to understand their coping strategies and related resilience factors. Long-term chronic obstructive pulmonary disease care causes heavy psychological and physical burden to caregivers, which is related to the coping strategies used. Resilience is a protective factor originating within the individual and has become a concept related to illness, health and care. An integrative review. Relevant literature was comprehensively searched from China Biology Medicine, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan Fang, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Ovid databases from the establishment of the database till January 2023, and the quality of the selected articles was evaluated. Reporting was done according to a PRISMA checklist. The burden of family caregivers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease includes poor health, worry and fear, anticipatory loss and uncertainty, relationship tensions and disagreements, loss of identity and social isolation, lack of supportive knowledge and financial burden. Family caregivers used problem-centred coping, emotion-centred coping, avoidance coping, social support and dyadic coping with their patients to manage their burdens. The factors chronic obstructive pulmonary disease associated with a caregiver's resilience included a higher level of knowledge, social and familial support, a close relationship with patients, a caregiver's sense of responsibility, the patient's high self-efficacy, etc. CONCLUSIONS: The findings show that caregivers of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients face multiple burdens, adapt through different coping styles and have different psychological consequences, while coping style and mental health status also affect the magnitude of burden. The findings informed health professionals about personalised chronic obstructive pulmonary disease home care interventions to reduce caregiver burden, effectively manage illness and maintain family intimacy. No patients, families, service providers or members of the public were involved in this study.

Tele‐Dementia in Africa: Setting roadmap for implementation

AbstractBackgroundAlzheimer’s disease and dementia related disorder incidence and prevalence continue to increase in Africa due to changing ageing demographics. Despite this rise, overall quality and quantity of available evidence to inform best practices in recruitment, retention and inclusion of underrepresented population in ADRD research is very low. Africa needs creative innovations to bridge the dementia care gap and telemedicine offers a unique opportunity for prompt diagnosis, follow up and care supportMethodThis was an observational study of remote video assessment of persons living with Dementia and their caregivers. Mobile phone and web‐based applications for virtual consultation and health information management system were built to engage patients with various clinical conditions across multiple specialties. The assessment and follow up were done between September 2020 and December 2022.Cognitive assessment tools were administered via telemedicine platform for screening and post diagnostic management due to the COVID‐19 lock downResultA total of 50 patients with Dementia and their caregivers attending Neurology clinic at the Geriatric centre UCH were engaged on the platform for clinical follow up. Mean(+SD) age of was 74.0(+7.2) year and 56% were females, 82.8% had some form of formal education, 67.2% married and 97.9 lived with other persons. Over 31.9% participants had at least one comorbidity. 93% of the participants expressed satisfaction with video conferencing platform. 87% retention rate on follow up on the platform,13% of drop out rate due to technical fault and poor internet connectionConclusionwe believe implementation of telemedicine will improve recruitment and retention of persons living with dementia and it offers a promising dementia management strategy for Africa