Implications For Workforce Research Articles

Impact of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology Mentorship Award Program on Careers in Pediatric Dermatology: Workforce Implications.

Extended essays or commentaries providing an opportunity to express personal views and opinions that are meant to enlighten, entertain, and educate readers, and can include articles about medical history, ethics, literature or the arts related to pediatric dermatology. Patient perspectives are also encouraged. Questions on whether a potential submission is appropriate for this section can be addressed to the Editors-in-Chief, or the Section Editors, Lucinda Kohn, MD, MHS (lucinda.kohn@cuanschutz.edu) or Neil Prose, MD (prose001@mc.duke.edu).

Return to work after hip and knee arthroplasty: qualitative outcome from the Netherlands

Abstract Background Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) and Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) are performed daily worldwide. More younger working-age patients are receiving a THA and/or TKA. Outcomes, including Quality-of-Life (QOL), patient satisfaction and Return-to-Work (RTW) are becoming more important and have implications for healthcare budget and health workforce. Clinical recovery pathways should improve patient outcomes and cost-effective care. Insight in patient experiences and expectations regarding RTW remains behind. This study aims to gain insight into influenceable factors in the recovery pathway after THA or TKA that could lead to improved care and enhanced patient participation. Methods In this single-center qualitative study, performed at Zuyderland Medical Center (Sittard-Geleen, the Netherlands), 12 patients (n = 6 THA; n = 6 TKA) aged under 65 years were approached to participate. During interviews 6-weeks after arthroplasty, this research explored their RTW experiences in both pre-, and postoperative, in- and outpatient settings. Results In total, 12 employed patients who received a THA (n = 6, mean age 56 ± 7.4 years; female: n = 4, 66%) or a TKA (n = 6, mean age 61 ± 2.6 years; female n = 3, 50%) participated. Own control regarding RTW and a minimal recovery time after the operation was necessary for all patients. During this time, focus on physical therapy and strengthening was most important. RTW was not expected to be the primary goal during the clinical recovery pathway. The RTW topic was said to belong to the occupational physician (OP) and employer. Patients however knowledge that the type of work should gain importance in the consultation room. Patients missed accessible communication between the orthopedic surgeon and OP. Conclusions Overall, patients are satisfied with the current clinical recovery pathway. Intercollegiate communication should be made more accessible. Own control and strengthening self-management in the RTW remain important for all patients. Key messages • Own control and strengthening self-management should have importance in the guidance of working-age patients after THA or TKA. • Intercollegiate communication should be made more accessible.

Digital automation and working life of HR practitioners: a gender analysis of the implications for workforce and work practices

Human Resources (HR) has emerged as a critical target for digital automation, aiming to reduce costs, improve quality, and expedite repetitive processes within organizations. Several literature reviews have explored this topic, yielding mixed results depending on factors related to the specific national and organizational context. They have highlighted issues such as lack of competence, safety and ethical dilemmas, and bias in decision-making processes. However, despite HR being predominantly female dominated, few studies have examined the gendered implications of digital automation in this field. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the gendered implications of digital automation in recruitment processes and work practices within HR. Drawing upon gender theory, we will conduct a critical literature review based on existing reviews to reevaluate current knowledge. The findings suggest that while digital automation can enhance administrative efficiency in recruitment processes, it does not significantly impact the gender balance of the workforce. However, the findings also indicate that digital automation will likely transform the occupational role into a more masculinized way of working. This transformation is characterized by social distancing, technological rationality, and reliance on self-service systems. In conclusion, digital automation is poised to reshape the HR occupation into what we term “screen-level HR,” comprising a predominantly female workforce engaged in masculine coded work practices.

The interface between authoritarian innovations and labour: Implications for the Indian workforce

On assuming office in 2014, India's BJP-led government initiated an ambitious plan to facilitate the ease of doing business, aiming to make India an attractive investment destination. Interview data from 20 trade union leaders and an expert and published data from ILO, government and trade union documents and newspaper archives reveal that, to advance this neoliberal agenda, the government did not use direct and obvious repressive tactics as was the case during the 1976 Emergency, but rather, a combination of discourse, manipulation of democratic institutions like the Parliament and a strategy for disengaging and disempowering the unions that oppose reforms. The new Labour Codes provide a facade for tackling the perennial problem of union recognition and collective bargaining that has plagued Indian industrial relations, but in their implementation, these Codes are likely to weaken unions and erode working conditions. The government's practices attempt to obscure precariousness and silence civil society organisations by imposing unprecedented restrictions on them and disengaging with them. Today, more than ever before, employment in India tends towards informality. Rather than strengthening unions, the government has created fissures in the labour movement by using the unions affiliated with it to manufacture a democratic debate on various pertinent issues, like the Labour Codes.

Less than full-time training, barriers and future needs. A UK-wide online survey of doctors in training.

The the current views of less-than full-time (LTFT) training by both LTFT and full-time (FT) doctors in training, with regards to health and well-being, clinical and non-clinical opportunities, in addition to associated future workforce implications and challenges, are uncertain. We performed a cross-sectional study of UK-based doctors in training via an online questionnaire, designed and piloted by the Royal College of Physicians Edinburgh (RCPE) Trainees and Members Committee. Design was informed by prior investigation into LTFT training undertaken amongst similar populations by RCPE in 2019. The survey was distributed from May to September 2023 via email to trainees across the United Kingdom and was open to all specialties and training grades. The survey focused on lived experience of both LTFT and FT training, as well as perceived challenges for the future workforce. There were 648 responses from doctors in training across the United Kingdom, with an even spread of LTFT and FT trainees. Most responses (53%) were from trainees in medical specialties. Most LTFT trainees plan to train at this pace for more than 5 years. LTFT was commonly linked to improved work-life balance and well-being, with FT training perceived to feature high stress and burnout. Concerns around LTFT relate to administrative errors, reduced training opportunities and colleague prejudice. Trainees are concerned about LTFT leading to rota gaps and incoherent workforce planning around training numbers. With ever-increasing popularity in LTFT training, flexible and robust long-term workforce planning is necessary for the system to adapt to a new normal and improve retention of doctors in training.

Ergonomic practices and interventions in plastic and reconstructive surgery: A systematic review

IntroductionErgonomics has significant implications for a surgical workforce that performs at the interface between human-operated equipment and patient anatomy to achieve operative results. This systematic review evaluated literature discussing ergonomics in plastic surgery to discuss current knowledge, evaluate trends, and identify gaps prime for future study. MethodsA systematic search strategy was developed with a licensed librarian and plastic surgeon to query all manuscripts evaluating ergonomics in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Two independent reviewers screened abstracts, evaluated full texts, and extracted data. ResultsForty-six studies were ultimately included. The number of published studies increased significantly over time when evaluated by year (ρ = 0.660, p < 0.001), with 17 (36.9%) written since 2020. Studies more commonly discussed musculoskeletal pain/disorders (n = 23) compared to surgical instrumentation or technology (n = 18, p = 0.390), operative posture (n = 14, p = 0.041), surgical technique (n = 6, p = 0.002), peri-surgical practices (n = 5, p < 0.001), and surgeon physiology (n = 3, p < 0.001). Of the 19 studies including interventions, approaches more frequently involved novel instrumentation or technology (n = 14, 73.4%) compared to peri-surgical practices (n = 3, 6.5%, p < 0.001) or operative posture (n = 2, 4.3%, p < 0.001). ConclusionsErgonomics in plastic surgery has gained significant interest over time, with recent years representing a large proportion of published literature. Although most studies discuss musculoskeletal pain, the proportion of studies addressing posture and surgical practices are comparatively underrepresented, suggesting a welcome opportunity for future intervention.

Characteristics of practica in early childhood education: variation in criteria for placements and mentor educators

ABSTRACT Practicum experiences, a critical feature in educator preparation programs, provide preservice educators opportunities to incorporate theory and practice in classrooms while under the supervision of a mentor educator. Although general descriptions of high-quality practicum experiences are provided by professional organizations and accrediting bodies, state licensing and differences across educator preparation programs contribute to variation in these experiences, which in turn have implications for the early childhood workforce. To provide a data-based understanding of program-level requirements for practicum experiences, the current study collected survey data from 227 early childhood higher education programs across 48 states in the U.S. The survey included questions about practicum placement settings, requirements and additional criteria for practicum placement sites, mentor educator requirements, age of children in the classroom, and intensity of practicum experiences. Results show that higher education programs allow several different types of placements with most programs using public school placements. Types of program and ages of children in the classroom were most frequently reported as required criteria and partnerships and feedback were most frequently reported as additional considerations in the determination of placement sites. Mentor educator education and license criteria varied by the age of the children for the practica. Higher education programs varied in the number and hours of practicum offered with more practicum hours in early elementary, kindergarten, and pre-k classrooms than in infant and toddler classrooms. The variations in characteristics and criteria for practicum placements across educator preparation programs are discussed, including implications for early childhood educator preparation programs and future research.

The Abolition of the One-Child Policy and Its Impact on Household Investment in Educating Girls in China

Implemented in 1979, the One-Child Policy was a controversial measure aimed at controlling population growth but resulted in significant unintended consequences, including gender imbalances and economic strains. The policy's relaxation in 2016 to allow two children, and later up to three children, was a response to demographic and socio-economic challenges. This article examines the short-term impacts of these policy changes on educational investments for girls, noting increases in enrollment rates and evolving parental attitudes towards gender equality. It also considers the long-term effects, such as improved gender parity in education and its implications for workforce and economic growth. However, persistent cultural biases, regional disparities, and economic burdens continue to challenge progress. The findings suggest that while the policy shift has fostered greater educational investment in girls, comprehensive efforts are necessary to address enduring inequalities and ensure equitable educational opportunities across all regions.

Real-World Analysis of Breast Cancer Patients Qualifying for Adjuvant CDK4/6 Inhibitors

BackgroundAdjuvant CDK4/6 inhibitors abemaciclib and ribociclib improved disease-free survival (DFS) added to endocrine therapy in hormone receptor (HR)-positive HER2-negative early breast cancer (EBC), in monarchE (NCT03155997) and NATALEE (NCT03701334) trials respectively. We assessed the proportion and outcome of EBC patients qualifying for adjuvant CDK4/6 inhibitors in the real-world. MethodsConsecutive female patients with HR-positive HER2-negative EBC between 1997 and 2017 from the Australian Capital Territory and South-East New South Wales Breast Cancer Treatment Group registry were analyzed. Patients eligible for abemaciclib had ≥4 axillary nodes involved or 1-3 nodes plus primary >5 cm or grade 3. Ribociclib eligibility was defined as node-positive and node-negative with primary >5 cm or >2 cm grade 3. ResultsOf 3840 patients, 671 (17.5%) were abemaciclib-eligible and 1587 (41.3%) ribociclib-eligible . The 5-year DFS was 77% and 94% in abemaciclib-eligible and noneligible registry patients respectively (HR 2.6, 95% CI 2.26-3.05, P < .001). The 5-year DFS was 86% and 97% in ribociclib-eligible and noneligible registry patients respectively (HR 1.92, 95% CI 1.67-2.19, P < .001). Compared with monarchE trial patients, abemaciclib-eligible registry patients were older (median 55 years in registry vs. 51 years in trial), with lower nodal burden (≥4 nodes in 44% in registry vs. 60% in trial). There were more stage III cancers in NATALEE trial patients (60%) than ribociclib-eligible registry patients (24%). ConclusionsMany women with EBC will qualify for adjuvant CDK4/6 inhibitors (17.5% abemaciclib, 41.3% ribociclib) with resource and workforce implications. In the real-world setting, a greater proportion of adjuvant CDK4/6-eligible patients have lower stage disease, therefore the absolute benefit from treatment may be smaller than estimated by the trials.

Analyzing The Impact of Aging Populations on Healthcare Systems

The impact of aging populations on healthcare systems has become a significant concern globally. As people live longer, healthcare systems are facing challenges in providing quality care to older adults. This essay analyzes the impact of aging populations on healthcare systems by exploring the implications for healthcare delivery, workforce, costs, and technology. Through a review of literature, this essay identifies key issues and trends related to aging populations and healthcare systems. The findings suggest that healthcare systems need to adapt to the needs of older adults by developing innovative solutions that address the complexities of aging.

TOWARDS ETHICAL AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT WITH AI

This article considers into the ethical considerations surrounding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in business management. As AI becomes more prevalent in decision-making and operations, businesses encounter numerous ethical challenges. These include concerns about algorithmic bias, transparency, workforce implications, and data privacy. The ethical implications of AI in business are complex and far-reaching. This thorough analysis examines real-world examples, ethical frameworks, and best practices to help businesses responsibly navigate these challenges. By proactively addressing these ethical dilemmas, businesses can harness the advantages of AI while maintaining ethical standards and societal values.

Experiences of pursuing an intensivist career in regional and rural Australia: An interview study.

The regional and rural intensivist workforce is vital to delivering high standards of healthcare to all Australians. Currently, there is an impending workforce disaster, with higher senior medical officer vacancy rates among regional and rural intensive care units, with these units being staffed by junior doctors who are in earlier stages of their training, which in turn increases supervisory burden. There is a lack of comprehensive literature on the barriers and enablers of training, recruiting and retaining regional and rural intensivists. To address this gap, a qualitative study was conducted, involving 13 in-depth, structured interviews with full-time and part-time intensivists from eight Australian regional and rural hospitals. Content analysis of the interview data resulted in the identification of four major categories: unique practice context, need for a broad generalist skill set, perks and challenges of working in a regional/rural area and workforce implications. The study findings revealed that regional and rural intensive care practice offers positive aspects, including work satisfaction, supportive local teams and an appealing lifestyle. However, these benefits are counterbalanced by challenges such as a heavier burden of on-call work, a higher proportion of junior staff which increase supervisory burden and limited access to subspecialist services. The implications of these findings are noteworthy and can be utilised to inform government policies, hospitals, the College of Intensive Care Medicine and the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists in developing strategies to enhance the provision of intensive care services and improve workforce planning in regional and rural areas.

Impact of post-Dobbs abortion restrictions on maternal-fetal medicine physicians in the Southeast: a qualitative study

BackgroundThe US Supreme Court overturned federal abortion protections in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. Many states in the Southeastern US responded with restrictive policies that limit and criminalize abortion care. ObjectiveTo characterize the impacts of abortion restrictions on maternal fetal medicine physicians (MFMs) in the Southeastern US post Dobbs. Study DesignWe conducted qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 35 MFMs in 10 Southeastern states between February and June 2023. Our recruitment strategy relied on convenience and snowball sampling. Audio-recorded interviews were analyzed using Dedoose software and a descriptive qualitative approach that incorporated deductive and inductive approaches. ResultsEmergent themes were identified, and a conceptual framework was developed based on overarching themes. We found that abortion laws and external constraints following Dobbs resulted in ethical, professional, and legal challenges for MFMs that led to changes in clinical practice and deviations from patient-centered care. These forced changes resulted in negative impacts on MFMs such as increased fear, hypervigilance, and increased workload for MFMs. The changes also prompted concerns about health risks and negative emotional impacts for patients. Supportive colleagues, hospital systems, and policies were associated with decreased stress, emotional distress, and disruption of healthcare delivery. ConclusionsAbortion restrictions in the Southeastern US limit the ability of MFMs to provide or facilitate abortions in the setting of fetal anomalies and maternal health risk. MFMs perceived these restrictions to have negative professional and emotional repercussions for themselves, as well as negative impacts on patients. Supportive colleagues and clear guidance from hospital systems and departments on how to interpret laws were protective. Our findings have implications for the MFM workforce and patient care in the region.

Global workforce implications of Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health Organization

Global workforce implications of Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health Organization

Robotics in Manufacturing: A Review of Advances in Automation and Workforce Implications

The integration of robotics in manufacturing processes has undergone significant advancements, reshaping the landscape of industrial production and introducing transformative changes. This review explores the latest developments in robotics within the manufacturing sector, shedding light on the technological breakthroughs and their implications on the workforce. The recent surge in robotics adoption in manufacturing has been driven by the pursuit of increased efficiency, precision, and cost-effectiveness. From traditional robotic arms to cutting-edge collaborative robots (cobots) that work alongside human operators, the manufacturing industry has witnessed a paradigm shift. Advanced robotic systems equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms enable adaptive and autonomous decision-making, further enhancing their capabilities. Automation in manufacturing, fueled by robotics, has yielded numerous benefits such as improved product quality, reduced production cycle times, and increased overall productivity. The review delves into case studies and real-world applications where robotics have proven instrumental in optimizing manufacturing processes across diverse industries. However, as the manufacturing landscape evolves, the implications for the workforce cannot be overlooked. The integration of robotics poses challenges and opportunities for human workers. While automation has the potential to eliminate routine and hazardous tasks, it also necessitates upskilling and reskilling of the workforce to operate, program, and maintain robotic systems. The review examines the socio-economic impacts of increased automation, discussing potential shifts in employment patterns and the need for a strategic approach to workforce development. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the advances in robotics within manufacturing and their profound implications on the workforce. Striking a balance between automation and human collaboration is crucial for the future of manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of proactive strategies to harness the benefits of robotics while ensuring a resilient and adaptable workforce.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION POTENTIAL: THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN BUSINESS

Purpose: The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into business operations has become a pivotal driver of innovation and efficiency. This research paper explores the multifaceted landscape of AI implementation in businesses, examining the benefits of AI implementation. Theoretical Framework: The methodology adopted for this research comprises Semi-structured interviews with six key stakeholders’ executives, AI project managers, and digital transformation staff. Six additional globally businesses were chosen for case studies based on AI adoption maturity and digital transformation performance. Additionally, a qualitative content study of AI and digital transformation literature was conducted. Results and Discussion: The study revealed that as businesses continue to integrate AI, a balanced approach considering workforce implications is crucial to realizing the full potential of AI. The study also found out that the adoption of Artificial Intelligence in business is a nuanced process shaped by a confluence of factors. Organizational leadership, culture, resource availability, perceived benefits, regulatory considerations, data security, technology evaluation, and workforce readiness all play intricate roles. Thus, a holistic understanding of these factors empowers organizations to navigate the complex space of AI adoption, unlocking its transformative potential. Research Implications: The study's findings have many practical implications to businesses adoption of AI. AI, managers must promote innovation and adaptability. AI implementation requires human and technology capital. To reduce AI risks, legal and data security measures must be followed. To prepare employees for an AI-enabled workplace, organizations should adopt comprehensive training and development programs. Businesses may overcome AI implementation challenges and capitalize on its disruptive potential by addressing these five pragmatic elements. Originality and Value: This study contributes to the literature by offering insights into the nuanced landscape of AI adoption in businesses, emphasizing the crucial role of workforce considerations. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted factors shaping AI implementation. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by the holistic approach and contributes valuable guidance for organizations navigating the complexities of AI adoption, fostering innovation and efficiency while prioritizing workforce integration.

Re-engagement, quality of life, and burden of treatment in adults on dupilumab for severe atopic dermatitis-A mixed methods study.

Targeted biologic therapies have revolutionised the treatment of severe atopic dermatitis (AD). To assess effects of dupilumab on patient re-engagement, quality of life (QOL), and burden of treatment (BOT) in severe AD. Adults on dupilumab for AD completed questionnaires on QOL, BOT, and provided qualitative reflections, with a subset interviewed to explore experience of leaving and re-engaging with dermatology. Prior treatments, adverse events, and clinical severity scoring were evaluated. Statements and interviews were qualitatively reviewed. Of 41 patients; median age was 34years, 68% were male; and 93% (n=38) had trialled ≥1 immunomodulatory therapies before dupilumab. Median dermatology life quality index was 21 (range 9-30, SD±5.1) pre-dupilumab, and 2 (range 0-11, SD±3.4) post-dupilumab. Median eczema area and severity index was 31.4 (range 10-46.4, SD±11.8) pre-dupilumab, and 6.4 (range 0.4-13.2, SD±3.6) on dupilumab. Burden of treatment scores on dupilumab were low (median 0-3/10) across all domains. Themes identified pre-dupilumab included sleep disturbance, low self-esteem, social isolation, disempowerment, frustration with ineffective treatments, and high financial costs. Benefits included confidence reacquisition, enhanced sleep, liberation from time-consuming 'messy' topical regimes, improved relationships, and reclaimed autonomy. Side effects included red/itchy eyes (37%, n=13) and facial dermatitis (20%, n=7).Twelve patients had deeper interviews. Regarding disengagement with dermatology, themes included ineffectiveness and toxicity of older treatments, attendance futility, dermatologist fatigue, and 'fizzling out'. Regarding re-engagement with dermatology, themes included social media influence, novelty, exasperation with QOL, and life-changing improvements seen with dupilumab. The emergence of novel effective treatments for AD has significant implications for dermatology workforce and financial planning.

Nurses' Experience After First Wave of COVID-19: Implications for a Trauma-Informed Workforce.

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted nurses worldwide, increasing their risk of burnout and compassion fatigue. Although the literature on nurse deployment has been limited, this study describes nurses' experience and assesses their professional quality of life after the first phase of the pandemic and redeployment efforts. In 2020, nurses returning from their deployment to COVID-19 treatment units were invited to complete the Professional Quality of Life Survey and gather for debrief sessions, referred to as campfires, in which semistructured questions about their experiences were administered among clinical nurses and nurse leaders. Employing a mixed methods design, the authors conducted descriptive statistics for survey responses and inductive thematic analysis to identify emergent themes from open-ended questions. A total of 19 campfires were held with 278 nurse participants. Of the 278 participants, 220 completed surveys. Of these, 194 (88%) represented 30 nurse leaders and 164 staff nurses. The majority of surveyed nurses in both groups reported compassion satisfaction despite reporting moderate levels of burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Qualitative themes from campfires with clinical nurses and nurse leaders revealed similarities, such as concern for safety and lack of choices and transparency, although each group faced unique challenges. Findings related to post deployment and adverse psychological health suggest that a trauma-informed approach (ie, staff autonomy, physical and psychological safety, transparency, offering choices, leveraging voices, and collaboration) by leaders could enhance a culture of wellness, build resilience, and mitigate empathic burnout and also proactively and strategically thinking about preventive measures for future catastrophic events.

Implementation of home ‘finger-prick’ carcino-embryonic antigen testing for colorectal cancer follow-up – A pilot study of user acceptability

AimRoutine carcino-embryonic antigen blood testing is required after colorectal cancer resection, requiring face-to-face appointments. This has workforce implications, and impacts patients’ lives. We assessed feasibility and acceptability of self-taken blood tests. Methods50 colorectal cancer patients with experience of face-to-face phlebotomy surveillance agreed to self-testing finger-prick kits. Follow-up questionnaires assessed perspectives and preferences. Results68% (50/74) of patients agreed to participate. 76% (38/50) successfully completed samples. 62% (29/47) felt it was no worse than their previous experience. Regarding future testing, 47% (22/47) preferred finger-prick testing. 19% (9/47) expressed no preference. This was unaffected by patient age. Qualitative assessment showed difficulties with pain, discomfort, and sample collection, but was more convenient and saved time for patients. ConclusionsMany preferred finger-prick assessment, but some found it challenging, unnecessary or less preferable. This may reduce burden of follow-up blood tests but currently would only be acceptable to a limited patient cohort.

Data Disaggregation of Asian Americans: Implications for the Physician Workforce.

Data Disaggregation of Asian Americans: Implications for the Physician Workforce.