Improve Access To Health Care Research Articles

Social Capital and Healthcare Access: A Comparative Study of Urban and Rural Settings

The goal of the research project is to look at the status of healthcare accessibility in various urban and rural contexts. The social networks, connections, and community resources that people have access to are referred to as social capital. This study could provide important new perspectives on the dynamics of healthcare access in rural and urban settings and how they affect people's ability to receive healthcare. The major objective of this research was to study the health care access in the rural and urban areas of southern Rajasthan. The data was collected from 299 urban and 290 rural respondents. The results revealed that the urban population has better access to health facilities as compared to the rural mass in terms of quality as well as quantity. By illuminating healthcare inequities between urban and rural populations, the study tackles an important area of public health. Understanding these processes can educate policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and community leaders regarding possible approaches or strategies to improve healthcare accessibility in various contexts.

A Review of Medical Oxygen Concentrators for Respiratory Applications.

Medical oxygen concentrators are vital apparatuses that deliver supplemental oxygen to persons with hypoxemia. This narrative review provides a review of oxygen concentrators, outlining their operational mechanisms, classification, evaluation criteria, market accessibility, advantages, disadvantages, and prospective developments. Critical insights encompass the dominance of pressure swing adsorption technology in oxygen separation, the increasing demand for portable and energy-efficient models, and the promise of smart technologies and new materials to improve oxygen therapy. The analysis underscores the necessity of tackling issues of accessibility and cost, especially in resource-constrained environments. This review highlights the essential function of oxygen concentrators in potentially fulfilling the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3, 8, 12, 13, and 17 by improving health care accessibility, fostering economic growth, advancing environmental sustainability, and facilitating global partnerships. The incorporation of automated controls and artificial intelligence-driven modifications may become important for customizing oxygen administration to meet patient requirements and fluctuating conditions, hence ensuring optimal therapy and reducing the workload of health care providers. Finally, it is emphasized that the necessity of adressing issues with accessibility and cost, especially in resource-constrained environments.

Seamless journey to care: The rideshare integration pathway for patient access

The integration of electronic health record (EHR) systems like Epic with ride-sharing platforms presents a promising solution to one of healthcare's most persistent challenges: patient transportation barriers. This article explores a comprehensive framework for implementing such integration, addressing technical architecture requirements, data privacy considerations, artificial intelligence applications, and outcome assessment methodologies. The article analysis explores how transportation barriers disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and examines the potential of digital health-mobility partnerships to improve appointment adherence and clinical outcomes. Technical implementation models for Epic integration with ride-sharing services are evaluated, with particular attention to HIPAA compliance and data security. The article further shows how artificial intelligence enhances transportation coordination through predictive scheduling, patient risk identification, and resource optimization. Finally, outcome metrics, cost-benefit frameworks, sustainable funding models, and future expansion pathways are discussed, providing healthcare organizations with actionable insights for implementing integrated transportation solutions to improve healthcare access, operational efficiency, and patient outcomes.

Agentic AI and Ethics in Telemedicine

Topics that will be discussed are: What does "agentic AI" mean in a healthcare context, and how does it differ from traditional decision-support tools? What ethical tensions arise when AI agents begin to make or recommend autonomous decisions in patient care? What safeguards should be in place to prevent algorithmic bias or patient harm in remote care settings—especially when patients and providers are not co-located? When agentic AI goes wrong, who’s responsible, and how do we ensure accountability in cross-border virtual care? How can health systems build trust in agentic AI when the algorithms themselves may not be fully explainable—even by their creators? How are organizations operationalizing AI ethics beyond principles and into practice—especially when the tech moves faster than policy? Speakers Shanil Ebrahim is a Partner and the National Life Sciences and Healthcare Consulting Leader at Deloitte Canada. He advises clients across healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and retail pharmacy on complex strategy transformations, with a focus on AI and data-driven innovation. Shanil also leads Deloitte Canada's cross-industry AI strategy, helping organizations harness AI to drive growth, personalization, and operational excellence through tech-enabled, citizen and customer-centric solutions. Dr. Dimitrios Kalogeropoulos is a digital health pioneer and a committed advocate for the ethical and responsible use of AI in healthcare. He serves as CEO of the Global Health & Digital Innovation Foundation and as Health Executive in Residence at UCL’s Global Business School for Health. Dr. Kalogeropoulos has advised leading organizations, including the WHO, and has played a key role in shaping global policy initiatives to improve healthcare accessibility and drive sustainable, innovative solutions worldwide. Moderator Sarah Harper, MA, MBA drives digital transformation across the healthcare ecosystem and beyond. With deep expertise engaging with learners of all ages and levels, she blends clinical insight, systems thinking, and user-centered design to turn bold ideas into practical, equitable solutions. Dedicated to helping others, Sarah makes digital care smarter—and more human. Sarah leads AI, Analytics, and Automation initiatives at Mayo Clinic Health System, and holds the academic rank of Assistant Professor of Healthcare Administration. She's the co-host of Tech It to the Limit⁠, a podcast blending wit and wisdom to explore digital health’s messiest challenges. Sarah also serves as an Advisor to Mayo Clinic Platform⁠, supporting solution developers and health systems in tech implementation and evaluation.

Symptoms based Disease Prediction Web Application

Nowadays the way people seek health-related information that is undergoing significant changes worldwide. One major challenge is the difficulty that individuals face in finding trustworthy online resources or information about illnesses, diagnoses, and treatment options. A solution lies in creating a recommendation system for doctors, patients and medications that utilizes review mining to simplify this process and save time. Four machine learning algorithms are used together to achieve around 96% accuracy. It provides departments and doctors information based on prediction to users. It focuses on securely storing patient history for future references integrating advanced password hashing techniques as well as JWT (Jason Web Token) based authentication. It aims to improve healthcare accessibility to reduce patient confusion for faster as well as informed decision making. However, understanding complex medical language can be overwhelming for non-specialist users. The vast amount of medical data is there across different platforms which further complicates their search. To address these issues, such a system must be designed to cater specifically to the needs of the healthcare sector, ensuring it remains userfriendly and easy to understand for all individuals.

Descriptive analysis of the burden of Mpox in Nigeria 2022-2024

Aim to study: Nigeria has continued reporting outbreaks of Mpox since 2017 despite control measures instituted by the one health tripartite sector. This study aimed to assess the burden of Mpox in Nigeria between 2022 and 2024 by identifying geographical hotspots and calculating epidemic thresholds based on reported cases. Material and methods: Mpox outbreak reports from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) for 2022–2024 were reviewed to identify affected states and determine confirmed case counts. Geospatial analysis was conducted using ArcGIS software to identify Mpox outbreak hotspots. Results: A total of 984 confirmed Mpox cases were reported across 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), resulting in 9 fatalities. Lagos State emerged as a major hotspot, accounting for 24.7% of cases (188 cases) in 2022, while Cross River and Plateau States became prominent in 2024. The epidemic thresholds were 115 in 2022, 43 in 2023, and 15 in 2024. Young adults aged 21-40 years were the most affected, and children under 10 years represented an emerging at-risk group in 2024, comprising 30% of reported cases. Geospatial analysis revealed shifting hotspots, contrary to earlier studies that identified Rivers and Bayelsa as major clusters. Conclusion: These findings underscore the need for enhanced surveillance, targeted public health interventions, and improved healthcare access to mitigate Mpox transmission in Nigeria.

Disparities in Preventive Health Services Between Transgender and Cisgender Adults by State-Level Policy Environments.

Disparities in Preventive Health Services Between Transgender and Cisgender Adults by State-Level Policy Environments.

Opportunities and challenges in access to healthcare for international migrants with work-related diseases and injuries in Gulf Cooperation Council countries: A systematic literature review protocol

IntroductionInternational labor migrants form a significant part of the global workforce, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which host around 11% of the world’s migrant workforce. This high concentration presents unique challenges in healthcare access and delivery. This systematic review aims to evaluate whether international labor migrants in GCC countries have effective access to healthcare for work-related diseases and injuries and to propose evidence-based recommendations for policy and healthcare interventions.MethodsWe will include studies from 2013 to 2023 published in peer-reviewed journals in English or Arabic (with English abstracts) available on PubMed, Embase and CINAHL. Search strategies are developed using MeSH terms and key terms related to our study population (international labor immigrants), context (the GCC countries), and exposure (migrant status; work-related diseases and injuries). The screening process involves two stages: initial review of titles/abstracts and full-text review. Studies meeting eligibility criteria and focusing on our primary outcome (access to healthcare) will be included. Data extraction will cover study characteristics, population demographics, described exposures, outcomes measured, and key findings. Given the expected heterogeneity, narrative synthesis will be primarily used, with meta-analysis as an option.DiscussionBy considering both migrant workers and expatriate professionals, we provide a culturally tailored perspective. Methodological rigor is ensured through the gold standard screening process, where at least two reviewers independently screen the literature at each stage, with a senior reviewer resolving discrepancies. We will identify barriers, facilitators, and inform targeted interventions for policymakers. Our findings will support evidence-based strategies to improve healthcare access for international labor migrants in the GCC countries.Systematic review registrationThis systematic review protocol was registered on the international registry PROSPERO (CRD42024532851) on April 21, 2024.

Cultural perceptions and social determinants of health in perinatal mental health: An obstetric-psychiatric perspective.

Cultural perceptions and social determinants of health in perinatal mental health: An obstetric-psychiatric perspective.

Environmental and socioeconomic factors influencing hepatotropic virus transmission

Background: Viral hepatitis remains a major public health concern worldwide. In 2022 alone, it accounted for approximately 1.3 million deaths, with hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C viruses (HCV) responsible for the majority. However, hepatitis A (HAV) and hepatitis E (HEV) viruses continue to cause significant outbreaks, especially in settings with poor sanitation, while hepatitis D virus contributes to more severe outcomes in individuals with HBV. The burden of these infections is disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries, where socioeconomic disparities, environmental conditions, and healthcare limitations hinder prevention and control efforts. Aims of the study: This review aims to analyze environmental and socioeconomic factors influencing the global prevalence and transmission dynamics of these infections.Material and methods: A comprehensive English-language literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and the World Health Organization databases, focusing on articles published between January 1, 2012, and May 28, 2025. From an initial pool of 437 articles, 44 articles and 8 reports were included for detailed analysis.Results: Environmental determinants such as inadequate sanitation, poor water quality, and overcrowding significantly contribute to HAV and HEV outbreaks, particularly in low-income countries. Socioeconomic factors, including poverty, limited healthcare access, and education gaps, exacerbate HBV and HCV spread via unsafe medical practices and needle sharing. Displacement and migration amplify the vulnerability of at-risk populations, especially in regions with endemic viral hepatitis. Innovative technologies, including direct-acting antivirals for HCV and vaccines like Hecolin for HEV, have shown promise but face challenges in accessibility and affordability.Conclusions: This study underscores the critical connection of environmental and socioeconomic factors in shaping the burden of hepatotropic viruses globally. Targeted public health interventions, improved healthcare access, and policy frameworks are essential to reduce transmission and achieve WHO's 2030 elimination targets for HBV and HCV.

DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH SERVICE UTILIZATION IN LOW-INCOME FAMILIES IN THE COASTAL REGION OF MAGINTI ISLAND, WEST MUNA REGENCY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Accessibility to healthcare services remains a significant challenge among low-income families in coastal regions such as Maginti Island, West Muna Regency. Several socioeconomic and environmental factors are believed to influence the utilization of available health services. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with the utilization of healthcare services among poor families in Maginti Island. Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2024. A total of 57 respondents were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using univariate and bivariate methods (Chi-square test). Results: The study found significant associations between healthcare service utilization and three main factors: knowledge of health, availability of transportation, and household income level (p < 0.05). Families with better knowledge, easier access to transportation, and higher income levels were more likely to use healthcare services. Conclusion: Socioeconomic status, transportation access, and knowledge play crucial roles in determining healthcare utilization among the poor in Maginti Island. Strengthening health education and infrastructure is essential to improving healthcare access in coastal communities.

Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional pada Ibu Bersalin: Sebuah Studi Cross Sectional di Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia

Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) in Indonesia remains high, particularly in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). This study analyzes the relationship between National Health Insurance (JKN) ownership and mothers choosing childbirth facilities in NTT. This study employs a cross-sectional design with a quantitative approach, utilizing secondary data from the 2017 Indonesian Demographic and Health Survey (IDHS), which was conducted from October to November 2024. The study population includes mothers who gave birth in NTT during the 2017 IDHS period, with a sample of 1,236 respondents selected using a stratified two-stage cluster sampling technique. Data analysis was performed using the chi-square test to assess the relationship between JKN ownership as the independent variable and the choice of childbirth facility as the dependent variable. Additionally, covariate variables such as maternal education level, economic status, maternal age, and residential location were analyzed. The results indicate that maternal education level has a significant relationship with the selection of healthcare facilities (p-value < 0.001). However, maternal age (p-value = 0.447), economic status (p-value = 0.199), residential location (p-value = 0.069), and JKN ownership (p-value = 0.110) do not show significant relationships. This study concludes that health education for pregnant women and optimizing the JKN program are necessary to enhance the utilization of healthcare facilities for childbirth and improve healthcare access, particularly in regions such as NTT.

Policy Analysis to Strengthen Healthcare Access for Illinois Farmworkers.

US farmworkers are among the most vulnerable members of the labor force, facing hazardous working conditions and limited healthcare access. This policy analysis examines ways to improve healthcare access for farmworkers in Illinois to reduce health disparities and enhance public health. To identify viable policy options, the analysis incorporated an environmental scan, expert consultations, and a comprehensive literature review to map the healthcare landscape, reveal service gaps, and incorporate stakeholder perspectives. These options were then evaluated using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Policy Analytical Framework and Kingdon's model, which assess feasibility, public health impact, and alignment with current political conditions. Four key options emerged: increasing Medicaid access by reopening and uncapping the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults and Seniors Programs, pursuing a Section 1332 State Innovation Waiver, establishing Medicaid billing for community health workers, and improving Medicaid reimbursement rates for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Enhancing FQHC reimbursement was identified as the most feasible and impactful approach, enabling FQHCs to expand capacity, retain staff, and open new centers in underserved areas. Nurses play a critical role in advocating for equitable healthcare access. This analysis highlights the need for targeted, sustainable policy interventions to advance health equity for farmworkers.

Reproductive Rights in India: Legal Progress vs. Social Barriers

This research paper explores the evolution and current status of reproductive rights in India, focusing on key legal developments such as the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971, and the recognition of reproductive autonomy under Article 21 of the Constitution. Despite these advancements, challenges like unsafe abortions (60%), limited contraceptive options (37% rely on sterilization), and high maternal mortality rates (MMR of 103) persist, especially in rural areas. The paper highlights how patriarchal norms, economic barriers, and social stigma continue to restrict women’s autonomy. It advocates for improved healthcare access, awareness, and systemic reforms to make reproductive rights a reality for all women.

The Global, Regional and National Burden of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in 204 Countries and Territories, 1990–2021 a Retrospective Cohort Study

Introduction Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition involving recurrent reflux of stomach contents, causing symptoms and complications that impact quality of life. This study aimed to assess the global GERD burden from 1990 to 2021. Methods We used the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 data to analyze the incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability (YLDs) for GERD across 204 countries. We estimated the population-level distributions by age and sex, using age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) and age-standardized YLDs (ASYLDs). The average annual percent change (AAPC) in incidence, prevalence, and YLDs was calculated along with 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs). Results In 2021, the global ASIR of GERD was 3,881.86 per 100,000, reflecting an AAPC increase of 3.80% since 1990. The prevalence also increased, with an AAPC of 3.38%, reaching 9,838.60 per 100,000. Global ASYLDs rose to 75.56 per 100,000, showing an AAPC increase of 3.49%. GERD burden varied by region; high-income areas like North America and East Asia saw declines, while Western Sub-Saharan Africa and Central Europe showed increases. India and China had the highest recorded incidences, with 36,567,410 and 20,863,747, respectively. Decomposition analyses revealed that population growth and aging contributed most to the increase in YLDs. Conclusion The global GERD burden significantly increased from 1990 to 2021, especially in low and middle-income regions. This highlights the urgent need for enhanced public health measures, early diagnosis, and improved healthcare access to manage the growing disease burden and improve patient outcomes.

Smart Healthcare Monitoring System Using Mobile App, Data Collection using Cloud Storage, and Building a Dashboard for Real-Time Health Analytics and Reporting

Abstract— The rapid advancement in IoT and cloud computing has revolutionized healthcare monitoring systems. This project proposes a Smart Healthcare Monitoring System that integrates a mobile app (Android-based), cloud storage (Thing Speak), and a real-time analytics dashboard (Power BI) for continuous health tracking. The system collects vital health parameters such as body temperature (LM35 sensor) and heart rate (pulse sensor) via an ESP8266-based IoT module, transmits data to the cloud, and visualizes it for medical professionals and patients. The Android app (developed in Java/Android Studio) enables users to monitor real-time health metrics, while Thing Speak ensures secure cloud-based data storage. Power BI generates interactive reports for predictive analytics, and SQLite manages local data efficiently. RESTful APIs facilitate seamless communication between devices and the cloud. This system enhances remote patient monitoring, reduces hospital visits, and provides timely medical interventions, improving healthcare accessibility and efficiency. Keywords— IoT-based Health Monitoring,Cloud Computing in Healthcare, Real-time Health Analytics, Remote Patient Monitoring

Navigating the patient experience in primary healthcare clinics in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia: a secondary analysis study

BackgroundThe patient experience is a critical indicator of healthcare quality, particularly in primary healthcare centers (PHCCs). Understanding patients’ perceptions is essential for improving service delivery and achieving patient-centered care. Despite healthcare reforms in Saudi Arabia, research on patient experiences in PHCCs in the Eastern Province remains limited.ObjectiveThis study aims to analyze patient experience trends in PHCCs within the Eastern Health Cluster of Saudi Arabia, identifying factors influencing satisfaction levels.MethodsA secondary analysis was conducted using patient experience data from the Ministry of Health’s Press Ganey survey. Data from 81,211 completed surveys collected between 2022 and 2023 were analyzed. The survey assessed seven domains of patient experience, and statistical tests, including t-tests and one-way ANOVA, were used to examine variations by demographic factors.ResultsThe overall patient experience score was 85.4%, with the highest satisfaction in the registration process (88.6%) and the lowest in the “moving through” domain (79%). Elderly patients (>65 years) reported higher satisfaction compared to younger adults (18–34 years) (p < 0.05). Male patients expressed slightly greater satisfaction than females (p < 0.05). Satisfaction varied across health networks, with Network C receiving the highest scores (88.8%) and Network B the lowest (83.2%). Patient satisfaction improved from 2022 (84%) to 2023 (86.4%).ConclusionThe patient experience in PHCCs within the Eastern Health Cluster has improved over time, reflecting ongoing healthcare reforms. However, disparities exist across demographic groups and health networks. Addressing patients’ concerns about wait times and service flows is necessary to enhance satisfaction. Future research should explore qualitative aspects of the patient experience and assess interventions to improve healthcare accessibility and equity.

Establishing environmental sustainability in a resource-limited surgical setting: the design of Kyabirwa surgical center.

The healthcare industry is a leading contributor to climate change and resource depletion and its footprint is growing given efforts to improve healthcare access worldwide. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are most vulnerable to this environmental degradation due to their relatively weaker infrastructure and lack of resources. This case study describes the infrastructure and procedures that drive environmental sustainability at Kyabirwa Surgical Center (KSC), an ambulatory surgery facility in rural Uganda that has cared for over 25,000 patients since its 2019 inception. KSC was architecturally designed with the goal of zero carbon footprint, exemplifying how environmental sustainability can be achieved in low-resource settings. In collaboration with a New York-based institution, Ugandan stakeholders constructed the original8500 ft2 center with local materials, leveraging natural resources such as sunlight and natural ventilation to minimize energy required. The center also prioritized operational independence from the local power grid and water supply, nearly exclusively using solar power and rainwater. Specific treatment and storage protocols, like environmentally conscious anesthesia regimens, were also implemented to minimize environmental footprint. From 2021 to 2023, KSC obtained only 0.4% of its power and 25% of its water from the town. Excluding installation, this saves KSC an estimated $6,121 in annual operating costs-greater than annual maintenance costs estimated at $5,040. KSC also conserved 11% of solar power produced and 93% of rainwater collected from 2021 to 2023 for future use. Lastly, 71% of procedures were completed under environmentally friendly alternatives to general anesthesia. Integrating sustainability into LMIC surgical care is essential for improving healthcare resilience and accessibility. KSC shows that sustainable surgical models are feasible with innovative design, renewable energy, and potentially cost-effective practices. Scaling these efforts requires global collaboration, particularly support from high-income countries (HICs), to build resilient health systems in the face of climate change and resource limitations.

Understanding Rural Patients’ Perspectives on Patient Care Teams

Introduction: With a critical primary care clinician shortage, team-based care (TBC) is under development to enhance access, especially in rural regions. However, there has been limited discussion about TBC from the patient’s perspective. We explored rural patient preferences for composition of their current and ideal primary health care team. Methods: An anonymous online survey of rural residents was conducted within the Kootenay-Boundary region of British Columbia. The survey included demographic information and current and ideal health care team composition. Descriptive statistics were used. Results: Four hundred ninety individuals responded to the survey. Most respondents self-identified as female, were over age 40 years, White, and had a postsecondary school diploma. Those with a health care provider (n=362, 74%) included a primary care doctor (86.5%), alternative medicine practitioner (52.2%), allied health professional (35.4%), friends/family/support people (35.1%), specialist physician (30.1%) and nurse practitioner (18.5%) on their team. Ideal health care teams included a primary care physician (92.2%) followed by an alternative medicine practitioner (64.1%), allied health professionals (61.2%), specialist physician (59.8%), and nurse practitioner (54.8%). Almost half of all respondents (46.6%) chose five or more categories of team members and 43.7% chose 3-4 categories of members. Respondents (81.1%) were highly likely (49.6%) or likely (31.6%) to affiliate with a primary health care team clinic. Conclusion: Both current and ideal health care team membership included many types of caregivers, with most respondents including three or more team-member categories. As many people in rural BC are without primary care providers, incorporating alternative medical practitioners and allied health professions into clinical teams within multidisciplinary settings could improve health care access.

Enhancing Healthcare Accessibility and Patient Satisfaction through Effective Communication Strategies: A Case Study in Bangladesh

Effective communication is critical in improving healthcare accessibility and patient satisfaction, especially in diverse and resource-constrained settings like Bangladesh. This study investigates the impact of communication strategies on healthcare delivery using a qualitative case study approach. Focusing on a public healthcare facility that serves both rural and urban populations, the research explores how various communication practices, ranging from face-to-face interaction to digital tools like telemedicine, shape patient experiences and access to care. Semi-structured interviews with patients and healthcare providers revealed that communication strategies significantly influence how patients navigate the healthcare system. Thematic findings show that empathetic provider-patient interaction, language-appropriate communication, and accessible digital technologies enhance both satisfaction and service reach. However, challenges such as low health literacy, infrastructural limitations, and socio-economic disparities continue to hinder effective communication. These barriers highlight the need for context-specific interventions. The study emphasizes that improving healthcare outcomes requires a multifaceted approach to communication, one that combines interpersonal sensitivity, cultural awareness, and technological adaptation. The findings offer practical insights for healthcare practitioners and policymakers, suggesting that the integration of human-centered communication strategies and inclusive digital tools can play a vital role in achieving equitable and patient-centered care in Bangladesh.