Awareness Of Healthcare Providers Research Articles

The Effect of Training Health Care Providers Using Gamification Method on Social Skills of Preschool Children

Background: Preschool is one of the most important ages in learning and developing social skills in children. One of the most important issues in the education of healthcare providers is to improve their knowledge about children's social skills because healthcare providers, as an important part of a health team, are at the forefront of communication with families. Objectives: This study was done to investigate the effect of education to health care providers with the gamification method on the social skills of preschool children. Methods: In the present quasi-experimental study, 71 female healthcare providers working in selected collective health centers in Shiraz, Iran, were included in the study. The educational content of this study was an educational software as question games based on gamification, which was provided to healthcare providers. Data collection tools were two questionnaires, including a demographic information questionnaire and a researcher-made questionnaire on social skills in preschool children. To analyze data, the effectiveness of the intervention was measured using Wilks' lambda multivariate test. The relationship between knowledge score and participants' demographic variables was assessed by the linear regression analysis. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 22). Results: There was an increase in the knowledge of healthcare providers at three-time points, including before, immediately after, and one month after the educational intervention. Significant relationships were also observed between mean knowledge scores of the participants in all components of the questionnaire before, immediately after, and one month after the intervention (P < 0.001), with significant increases in mean post-intervention scores. The knowledge scores at three-time points, before, immediately after, and one month after the intervention, had significant associations with the educational level of participants (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Increasing the awareness of health care providers through the gamification method showed that this method has an important role in implementing social skills training for children.

Alcohol and other drug health-care providers and their client's perceptions of e-cigarette use, safety and harm reduction.

E-cigarettes containing nicotine may potentially assist cessation in a heavily nicotine-dependent population with high relapse and tobacco-related burden. This study aims to determine alcohol and other drug (AOD) health-care provider and client awareness, use and attitudes regarding harm reduction and safety of e-cigarettes. The study was part of a larger cluster randomised controlled trial with 32 Australian AOD services. At a post-intervention survey conducted October 2016, health-care providers were asked whether they believed e-cigarettes could help smokers quit tobacco, whether they believe e-cigarettes are safer than tobacco smoking and whether they would recommend e-cigarettes to clients who are interested in quitting smoking. At the 6-month follow-up survey conducted January 2015-March 2016, AOD clients were asked about their e-cigarette knowledge, ever use, current use, reasons for use and place of purchase. One hundred and eighty health-care providers and 427 AOD clients responded. A minority of health-care providers agreed with the statements that e-cigarettes could help smokers quit tobacco (30%), while just under one-third (25%) agreed that e-cigarettes were safer than tobacco smoking. However, only 19% would recommend e-cigarettes. Most AOD clients (93%) reported awareness of e-cigarettes, 39% reported ever use; however, only 7% reported current use. Of those reporting ever use, 52% used a nicotine e-cigarette. The most common reasons for e-cigarette use were 'wanted to try' (72%) and 'help cut down smoking' (70%). Both AOD health-care providers and clients are aware of e-cigarettes but are cautious in using and recommending their use.

The Prescribing Pattern of Medications in Ear, Nose and Throat Outpatient Department of a Public Hospital

Aim: This study aimed to describe the prescribing pattern of medications in ear, nose and throat outpatient department of a public hospital in Alkharj.
 Methodology: The present retrospective study included collecting data from outpatient pharmacy prescriptions from a public hospital in Alkharj. The data was processed using Microsoft Excel 2016 and the descriptive data was represented as frequencies and percentages.
 Results: Most of the prescriptions were written by residents (79.12%). Most of the medications were prescribed as Tablet/Capsule (39.06), Nasal Drop (20.03) and Nasal Spray (16.00%). The most prescribed medication was budesonide (16.16%) followed by xylometasoline (11.62%), paracetamol (11.45%) and amoxicillin/clavulanic Acid (9.60%)
 Conclusion: The study revealed that the most common classes of drug prescribed for E.N.T patients were steroids such as budesonide, antibiotics amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and decongestants such as xylometasoline. It is important to increase the awareness of healthcare providers and patients about these drugs. It is also important to monitor medications prescribing to make sure that they are prescribed and used appropriately.

Effect of Elastic Abdominal Binder on Post Cesarean Pain, Distress, Mobilization and Women’s Satisfaction

Background: Abdominal binder (AB) is one of the most effective non pharmacological method that decreases many adverse events after cesarean deliveries as pain and distress, it can also improve physical function and increase women's satisfaction. Aim of the study: This study aimed to assess the effect of elastic abdominal binder on post cesarean pain, distress, mobilization and women's satisfaction. Subjects and methods: Randomized Control Trial was utilized comparing two groups of intervention (AB) and control group (a routine hospital care). The study was carried out at New General Mansoura hospital specific at inpatient departments, and operative room, Egypt, from September 2019 to March 2020. Data was collected through five tools, A Structured Interview Questionnaire Schedule, the Numerical Rating Scale; Symptom Distress Scale ; 6MWT &women satisfaction likert scale. Results: This study found that there was a highly statistically significant difference about pain score in the 1st 8,24,48 hours after delivery and after one week in the binder group than control group, Also, a highly statistically significant difference in the distress symptoms in the 1st 24 hours and in 48 hours as well as after one week from delivery, the present study reported that there were a highly statistically significant different in the binder group versus the non-binder group related to 6MWT in the 1st 8 hours and on postoperative 24hrs, 48hrs&1 week. Also, women in the binder group were satisfied by using it. Conclusion: this study concluded that using AB after CS had a significantly improvement in the post cesarean pain, lowering distress symptoms & foster mobilization. Also, in early initiation of breast feeding. Recommendations: Increase awareness of women health care providers about positive effect of abdominal binder.

Prescribing Trends of Medications Ophthalmological Outpatient Department in a Public Hospital in Alkharj

Aim: The present study was undertaken to describe the prescribing pattern of medications in the ophthalmology department in a public hospital in Alkharj.
 Methodology: This is a cross sectional study included collecting data from outpatient pharmacy prescriptions in a public hospital in Alkharj. All of the outpatients who received prescriptions from the ophthalmology department between the beginning of July till the end of December 2018 were included in the study.
 Results: During the study period, 324 patients received outpatient prescriptions that were written by ophthalmology department. Artificial tears eye drops were the most commonly prescribed drug (29.32%) followed by olopatadine (12.96%), fusidic acid (11.42%) and fluorometholone (10.19%). Most of the prescribers who wrote the prescriptions were residents (98.15%). Eye drop was the most commonly prescribed dosage form (73.77%) followed by ointment (18.21%).
 Conclusion: The present study showed that the most commonly prescribed drugs in outpatient ophthalmology department were artificial tears, olopatadine, fusidic acid and fluorometholone. It is also important to increase the awareness of healthcare providers and patients about the appropriate use of these drugs.

Guideline No. 416: Labour, Delivery, and Postpartum Care for People with Physical Disabilities.

To describe evidence-based practice for managing the labour, delivery, and postpartum care of people with physical disabilities in Canada. This guideline addresses the needs of people with physical disabilities, with a focus on conditions that affect strength and mobility, as well as those that affect neurological or musculoskeletal function or structure. Although aspects of this guideline may apply to people with solely intellectual, developmental, or sensory disabilities (e.g., hearing and vision loss), the needs of this population are beyond the scope of this guideline. Safe and compassionate care for people with physical disabilities who are giving birth. Implementation of this guideline will improve health care provider awareness of specific complications people with physical disabilities may experience during labour, delivery, and the postpartum period and therefore increase the likelihood of a safe birth. A literature review was conducted using MEDLINE (474), Embase (36), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 28) databases. The results have been filtered for English language, publication date of 2013 to present, observational studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and guidelines and references in these publications were also reviewed. The authors rated the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. See online Appendix A (Tables A1 for definitions and A2 for interpretations of strong and weak recommendations). Maternal-fetal medicine specialists, obstetricians, family physicians, nurses, midwives, neurologists, physiatrists, and those who care for people with physical disabilities.

Pregnancy and obstetric complications in women with a history of childhood maltreatment: Results from a nationally representative sample

IntroductionA history of childhood maltreatment is associated with increased risk of perinatal complications, with research primarily focused on childhood sexual abuse. Limited research has examined the relationship between different types of childhood maltreatment on perinatal complications, particularly in population-based samples. MethodsThis study examined the association between childhood maltreatment and self-reported perinatal complications in a sample of pregnant and postpartum women (n = 1279) drawn from the 2012–2013 NESARC-III, a nationally representative survey of United States adults. ResultsNearly half (45%) of pregnant or postpartum women reported at least one form of childhood maltreatment and a quarter (24.6%) of these women experienced a perinatal complication compared to 13.5% of women without a history of childhood maltreatment. Exposure to any childhood maltreatment, childhood sexual abuse and intimate partner violence (IPV) during childhood were significantly associated with increased odds of perinatal complications after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and lifetime psychiatric disorders (AOR ranged from 1.87 to 2.09). Experiencing two or more types of childhood maltreatment (compared to none) was also associated with increased odds of perinatal complications (AOR 2.18 [99% CI = 1.22, 3.90]). ConclusionsThis association may be explained by vulnerability to physical diseases/complications due to persistent changes in biological stress systems, physical injuries from abuse, or as a result of traumatic memories triggered by pregnancy and childbirth. Findings highlight one of many negative sequelae of childhood maltreatment and the importance of promoting healthcare provider awareness of this association so they can provide appropriate interventions when needed.

Patient Journey and Disease-Related Burden in Japanese Patients With Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: A Mixed Methods Study

BackgroundUnderstanding patient journey and burden of disease in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) helps improve diagnostic and treatment processes. ObjectivesThis study aimed to explore patient journey from time of disease onset to a definitive diagnosis and disease burden in Japanese patients with CTEPH. MethodsA mixed-methods study exploring patient journey and disease burden of 33 Japanese patients with a definitive diagnosis of CTEPH. The patients from 2 university hospitals underwent semistructured interviews. Data were transcribed into verbatim records, and 2 independent researchers conducted thematic analyses. Data concerning patient journey were also analyzed quantitatively with supplementary use of medical records. ResultsMedian times from initial onset of symptoms to a confirmed diagnosis and first visitation to a medical institution to a definitive diagnosis of CTEPH were 32 and 20 months, respectively. Thematic analyses found that, for patients, reasons for delay in seeking initial consultations included misattribution of symptoms to aging or lack of physical strength. For healthcare providers, reasons for delays in diagnosis included poor recognition of CTEPH and difficulty in recalling the disease as a differential diagnosis. Burdens of CTEPH were caused by physical symptoms, and mental and social issues, including restriction of daily activities owing to oxygen therapy, disappointment with the intractable nature of the disease, poor understanding of the disease by other people, and lack of social networks. ConclusionsThis study highlighted physical, mental, and social burdens in patients with CTEPH and possible missed opportunities in making the diagnosis of CTEPH during the patient journey. Increasing disease awareness in healthcare providers and networking among patients may contribute to better patient care.

The Prescribing Trends of Digoxin in the Outpatient Setting

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine digoxin prescribing pattern in the outpatient setting in Alkharj.
 Methods: This retrospective study included a review of outpatient records between in 2017 and 2018. It included the entire outpatient who received digoxin during the study period.
 Results: Only 38 patients received digoxin during 2017 and in 2018, 31 patients received digoxin. More than half of the patients receiving digoxin in 2018 were males (58.06%) and about 54.84% of them aged more than 59 years. Most of the prescribers were residents (77.42%). More than 61 % of the prescriptions were written by cardiology department followed by emergency department (22.58%).
 Conclusion: The use of digoxin is uncommon in the outpatient department in Alkharj nonetheless it has a narrow therapeutic window and it should be prescribed carefully because of its adverse events. It is also important to increase the awareness of healthcare providers and patients about digoxin use.

Utilizing the Delphi Method to Assess Issues of Sexuality for Men Living with Spinal Cord Injury

This study investigated the physical and psychological issues of sexuality for men after spinal cord injury and identified areas of top concern. Using the Delphi Method, a panel of expert judges (twenty men with spinal cord injury [SCI], C3-T12, age 26–59) completed a series of three questionnaires in an attempt to reach a consensus on previously identified issues. It was agreed that SCI affects physical and psychosocial aspects of sexuality and that sexual support is limited for exploring sexuality post-SCI. Additionally, insight into the social constructs of masculinity, gender roles, body image and disability and their influence on the sexual experiences of this population is provided. Enhancing patient, healthcare provider and societal awareness of sexuality for men after spinal cord injury should be an immediate area of focus to improve sexual and overall quality of life for this population.

Awareness, knowledge, and practice of healthcare providers toward the appropriate management of psychiatric patients presenting to an emergency department in Taif city, Saudi Arabia

Awareness, knowledge, and practice of healthcare providers toward the appropriate management of psychiatric patients presenting to an emergency department in Taif city, Saudi Arabia

Current Awareness and Attitude toward Fertility Preservation in Indonesia: A Nationwide Survey Among Health-care Providers.

Context:Fertility preservation (FP) is necessary for cancer patients who develop infertility due to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In Indonesia, many systematic steps and long-term continued actions must be taken to establish FP units since there has been an increasing incidence of cancer among people under 45 years old.Aims:This study aimed at a comprehensive evaluation on the awareness and practices of health-care providers (HCPs) toward FP.Settings and Design:This was a descriptive cross-sectional study.Subjects and Methods:A validated nationwide online survey was completed by 160 HCPs as a representative sample from 11 provinces in 2017 that provide medical care to cancer patients at hospitals or clinics.Statistical Analysis Used:Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, logistic regression, and Pearson correlation tests were used for the statistical analysis.Results:Respondents were specialists (59.4%) and other HCPs (40.6%). Around 60% of the HCPs who performed cancer therapies already discussed the fertility issues with their patients. Meanwhile, the HCPs (60.7%) also tended not to consult and refer their patients to fertility experts (P < 0.05). However, those who discussed the risk of infertility with patients tended to consult with and refer them to a fertility consultant for further FP procedure as the follow-up for their discussions (odds ratio = 8.98, confidence interval 95%, P < 0.05).Conclusions:In Indonesia, FP awareness of the HCPs who performed cancer therapy was high. Nevertheless, attitudes to refer patients to fertility experts for possible FP management still need to be improved.

Cerebral Cystic Echinococcosis: A Child with a Giant Hydatid Cyst

Aim: Raising awareness of healthcare providers about headache and early morning vomiting in children. Background: Intracranial cystic hydatid disease (Echinococcosis) is a rare worldwide disease caused by encysted larvae of the dog tapeworm Echinococcus granulosa. Human is the intermediate host of this parasite and CNS involvement occurs in only 3%. Clinically, the cyst causes a seizure, increased intracranial pressure and/or focal neurological deficit. Surgical removal of the intact cyst by the Dowling technique is the treatment. A 4-year-old girl was referred to a neurosurgery clinic with a history of headache and early morning vomiting over the previous 2 months. Neurological examination revealed right hemiparesis and bilateral papilloedema. Emergency brain CT-scan revealed a huge intracranial cystic lesion with midline shift. Emergency craniotomy was done and the cyst was removed intact without complication and sent for histopathological examination. The patient was discharged from the hospital with full recovery.

The route to diagnosis of sarcoma patients: Results from an interview study in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.

IntroductionSarcomas are rare tumours. Early diagnosis is challenging, but important for local control and potentially survival and quality of life(QoL). We investigated (1)the route to diagnosis (RtD) experienced by sarcoma patients, including factors contributing to the length of the RtD from patients’ perspective; (2)the impact of the RtD on QoL and care satisfaction; and (3)differences in aims 1–2 between English and Dutch patients.MethodsFifteen sarcoma patients from The Royal Marsden Hospital, United Kingdom, and Radboud University Medical Centre, The Netherlands, were interviewed, exploring RtD experiences. Interviews were analysed according to qualitative content analysis.ResultsThe main themes were: patient interval, diagnostic interval, reflection on the RtD and recommendations for improvement. Patient interval was long if symptoms were attributed as benign, did not interfere with daily life or were expected to cease. An incorrect working diagnosis, ineffective process of additional investigations, long referral times and lack of a lead clinician lengthened the diagnostic interval. Long waiting times, false reassurance and inadequate information provision led to dissatisfaction and a high emotional burden. Factors for improvement included increasing awareness of patients and healthcare providers, empowering patients, and having a lead clinician.ConclusionThe RtD of sarcoma patients is complex. Increasing awareness of patients and healthcare providers may contribute to shorten the RtD.

The awareness of neglected tropical diseases in a sample of medical and nursing students in Cairo University, Egypt: A cross-sectional study.

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of chronic diseases affecting 1.2 billion people worldwide, with more burden in the developing communities. Improving awareness about NTDs is a powerful affordable long-term intervention for infection control. In literature, there is a limited number of studies in the developing countries assessing the awareness of healthcare providers regarding these diseases. The present study aimed at assessing the awareness of a sample of Cairo University medical and nursing students regarding NTDs. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 184 medical and nursing students in Cairo University. An anonymous self-administered questionnaire in English language with an estimated completion time of 15 minutes was used for evaluation. It included question categories which cover the knowledge about NTDs and control measures as well as the willingness to participate in NTDs control activities. Content analysis was performed on the materials and specifications of the epidemiology course given to medical and nursing students. Out of the study participants, 26% knew the meaning of NTDs. The main source of their knowledge was social media followed by the epidemiology course. A percentage of 33% of the students agreed that NTDs are of public health importance in Egypt. Thirty four percent of the participants expressed their willingness to participate in control activities for NTDs. Comparing medical and nursing students, a higher percentage of the nursing students stated that NTDs are causing a public health problem in Egypt with a statistically significant difference (P value < 0.001), while a statistically significant higher percentage of medical students believed that the awareness level regarding NTDs in Egypt is low (P value = 0.002). Cairo University medical and nursing students in this study showed a gap in the level of knowledge regarding NTDs and their control activities which represents a great threat to the control of these diseases.

Molecular identification of Actinomadura madurae isolated from a patient originally from Algeria; observations from a case report

BackgroundMycetoma is a chronic granulomatous subcutaneous infection caused by anaerobic pseudofilamentous bacteria or fungi. It is commonly prevalent in tropical and subtropical countries. Men are more susceptible to the disease due to greater participation in agricultural works. Mycetoma commonly involves lower extremities, wherein untreated cases lead to aggressive therapeutic choices, such as amputation of the affected body organs and consequently lifelong disability.Case presentationIn this report, we present the rare case of a 58-year-old man, originally from Algeria with a left foot chronic tumefaction of 5 years. In the initial clinical examination, mycetoma was diagnosed based on tumefaction and the presence of multiple sinuses with the emission of white grains. The latter was observed via direct examination. The histopathological analysis demonstrated an actinomycetoma caused by bacteria, as the etiological agent. Imaging showed a bone involvement with osteolysis at the levels of 2nd to 4th metatarsal diaphysis. The mycological and bacterial cultures were both negative. For an accurate diagnosis, the obtained grains were subjected to molecular analysis, targeting the 16S-rDNA gene. Molecular identification yielded Actinomadura madurae as the causal agent, and 800/160 mg of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole was prescribed twice a day for 1 year, as a treatment.ConclusionConsidering low information about this disease, especially in non-endemic areas, it is of high importance to enhance the knowledge and awareness of clinicians and healthcare providers, in particular in the countries with immigration issues.

Sexual Health Implications of COVID-19 Pandemic.

IntroductionA novel coronavirus (COVID-19) reached pandemic levels by March 11th, 2020, with a destructive impact across socioeconomic domains and all facets of global health, but little is known of its impact on sexual health.ObjectiveTo review current knowledge on sexual health-related containment measures during pandemics, specifically COVID-19, and focus on 2 main areas: intimacy and relational dynamics and clinical effects on sexual health.MethodsWe carried out a literature search encompassing sexual health and pandemic issues using Entrez-PubMed and Google Scholar. We reviewed the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on sexual health regarding transmission and safe sex practices, pregnancy, dating and intimacy amid the pandemic, benefits of sex, and impact on sexual dysfunctions.ResultsCoronavirus transmission occurs via inhalation and touching infected surfaces. Currently, there is no evidence it is sexually transmitted, but there are sexual behaviors that pose a higher risk of infectivity due to asymptomatic carriers. Nonmonogamy plays a key role in transmission hubs. New dating possibilities and intimacy issues are highlighted. Sexual activity has a positive impact on the immune response, psychological health, and cognitive function and could mitigate psychosocial stressors. COVID-19 pandemic affects indirectly the sexual function with implications on overall health.ConclusionIncreased awareness of health-care providers on sexual health implications related to the COVID-19 pandemic is needed. Telemedicine has an imperative role in allowing continued support at times of lockdown and preventing worsening of the sexual, mental, and physical health after the pandemic. This is a broad overview addressing sexual issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. As this is an unprecedented global situation, little is known on sexuality related to pandemics. Original research is needed on the topic to increase the understanding of the impact the current pandemic may have on sexual health and function.Pennanen-Iire C, Prereira-Lourenço M, Padoa A, et al. Sexual Health Implications of COVID-19 Pandemic. Sex Med Rev 2021;9:3–14.

Perceptions of Patient Disease Burden and Management Approaches of Systemic Mastocytosis (SM) By Healthcare Providers: Results from the TouchStone SM Survey

Introduction: SM is a rare, mast cell neoplasm characterized by uncontrolled proliferation, accumulation, and activation of abnormal mast cells (MCs). Approximately 95% of patients with SM harbor the D816V mutation, which results in constitutive activation of the KIT receptor, causing debilitating symptoms across all SM subtypes such as pruritus, headaches, bone pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, brain fog, and anaphylaxis. Patients with SM are managed across specialties depending on symptom severity and organ involvement. Hematologists/oncologists and allergists/immunologists both play key roles in the management of disease. With few multidisciplinary SM practices in the US, more information is needed across specialties to enable optimal SM care. Here we report findings from the TouchStone SM survey of healthcare providers (HCPs) in the US to inform perceptions of disease and disease management strategies. Methods: HCPs completed an online survey containing 47 items covering a range of concepts related to diagnosis (how made, how long it takes), symptoms (how assessed, what symptoms patients experience, how HCPs discuss symptoms with patients, treatment and management), perceived impact on daily life, treatment received (prescription and over-the-counter, treatment goals, unmet needs) and satisfaction (symptom management, overall treatment and disease management). The focus of these analyses are HCP perceptions of disease severity, treatment goals, and disease management. Practicing hematologists/oncologists and allergists/immunologists were eligible if caring for ≥4 SM patients and in practice ≥3 years post fellowship. HCPs were recruited through double-blinded market research survey panels, with individual responses kept confidential. Descriptive analyses were performed on survey responses. Results: Of 304 HCPs contacted, 60 allergists/immunologists and 59 hematologists/oncologists were enrolled with an average of 14 years of practice experience. On average, participating HCPs had 25 SM patients (range: 4-100) under their care. HCPs reported perceived prevalence of the KIT D816V mutation at 46% of patients (range 0-100), substantially lower than published prevalence rates of up to 95%.1 Among HCPs, the average perceived time from patient symptom onset to diagnosis was 8 months, in contrast to 7 years as reported by patients.2 Allergist/immunologists reported primarily seeing patients with non-advanced disease (80%), while hematologists/oncologists reported managing both non-advanced (50%) and advanced patients (50%). Participating HCPs reported that 58% of their patients have moderate-severe SM. HCP treatment goals for SM patients were consistent across specialties. The 2 most important treatment goals for non-advanced patients were improved quality of life (QoL) (40%; 48/120) and improvement of symptoms (24%; 29/119), while the 2 most important treatment goals for advanced patients were improved progression-free survival /improved overall survival (34%, 35/104) and improved QoL (25%, 26/104). Conclusions: Allergists/immunologists co-manage SM care with hematologists/oncologists, particularly in non-advanced SM, and have similar treatment goals for this patient population, including improvement in QoL and symptom control. In this sample of HCPs, the perceived prevalence of the KIT D816V mutation as well as the perceived time from symptom onset to diagnosis were substantially lower than published estimates. These gaps identified suggest a need to improve HCP awareness of SM symptoms and diagnostic tools to help facilitate earlier patient diagnosis. 1. Garcia-Montero et al. Blood. 2006;108(7):2366-2372. 2. Jennings SV et al. Immuno Allergy Clin North Am. 2018;38(3):505-525. Disclosures Mesa: Promedior: Research Funding; Incyte: Research Funding; Genetech: Research Funding; CTI: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Abbvie: Research Funding; Sierra Onc: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; LaJolla Pharma: Consultancy; Samus: Research Funding. Sullivan:Blueprint Medicines Corporation: Current Employment, Current equity holder in publicly-traded company. Dubinsky:Blueprint Medicines Corporation: Current Employment, Current equity holder in publicly-traded company. Carroll:Blueprint Medicines Corporation: Consultancy, Current equity holder in publicly-traded company. Mathias:Blueprint Medicines Corporation: Other: employed by Health Outcomes Solutions, which received funding Blueprint for providing assistance in developing the Touchstone survey. Castells:Blueprint Medicines Corporation: Consultancy, Other: Clinical trials: Principle Investigator; UpToDate: Other: Author fee; Annals of Allergy, Asthma &amp; Immunology: Other: Editorial Board.

Analysis of Practice Patterns Among Experts and Community Healthcare Providers for the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Analysis of Practice Patterns Among Experts and Community Healthcare Providers for the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Awareness and perceptions of advanced practice pharmacists among health care providers in New Mexico

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to evaluate health care provider awareness and perceptions of the 2 types of advanced practice pharmacists (APPhs) in New Mexico: pharmacist clinicians (PhCs) and community pharmacists with independent prescriptive authority (iRPhs). MethodsA cross-sectional electronic survey was administered to health care providers in New Mexico to describe awareness and perceptions of APPhs and benefits and barriers to collaborative practice with APPhs. ResultsA total of 5905 providers received the emailed survey, and 634 (11%) completed the survey, with 68% of the respondents indicating that they were not aware of the 2 types of APPhs in New Mexico. The top benefits of working with a PhC identified by the respondents were access to medication knowledge, enhanced clinical outcomes, and increased access to patient care. The barriers to employing a PhC at their practice included cost, difficulty in billing for services, and limited reimbursement. Importantly, 80% of the respondents felt that PhCs should be recognized as providers for insurance reimbursement. Awareness of iRPhs varied by prescriptive authority service, ranging from 34% for tuberculin skin testing to 84% for adult vaccinations. Overall, 80%-92% indicated that iRPhs should be reimbursed, depending on the prescriptive authority service. ConclusionProvider awareness of APPhs in New Mexico was low; however, the willingness to refer patients to APPhs for clinical services was high. Cost, difficulty in billing for services, and reimbursement for PhC services were the primary identified barriers to adding a PhC into practice. Most of the respondents indicated that both types of APPhs should be granted provider status and reimbursed by third-party payers for their services.