Majority Of Doctors Research Articles

The Use of the Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation (SBAR) Form as a Tool for Handoff Communication in the Pediatrics Department in a Sudanese Teaching Hospital.

Patient care transitions between healthcare providers are common in hospitals -- this project aimed to audit the use of Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation (SBAR)-based handoff communication tool in the handoff process. This prospective audit was conducted at Ribat Teaching Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan. Allhandoffcommunicationsof pediatric inpatients who requiredclose monitoringduring the study period were included. Two cycles of data collection were conducted, each spanning a duration of two weeks. The data, whether in the first or second cycle, were collected using a checklist document containing theitems of the SBAR form.After the end of the first cycle, regular training sessions about the content and importance of the SBAR form were conducted for one week. Additionally, doctors' perception regarding the form was assessed. Some 48 doctors participated in this study, 29 females and 19 males. In the first cycle, the percentages of filled SBAR form components were as follows: Situation 7%, Background 0.00%, Assessment 0.00%, and Recommendation 0.00%. After conducting training sessions, the second cycle assessment was done and itshowed improvement in all form components: Situation 88.8%, Background 83.6%, Assessment 66.3%, and Recommendation 69.5%. Regarding the doctors' perception assessment, the majority reported the usefulness of the SBAR form in patients' safety, physicians' communication, and accountability. The SBAR form is a simple and effective tool for improving communication; it helps doctors capture all relevant patient information. Most importantly, the majority of doctors were satisfied with the use of this tool for handoff communication.

Study of knowledge, attitude, and practices of biomedical waste management among healthcare workers in tertiary care government hospital in western Maharashtra

Background: Bio-medical wastes produced in the course of health care activities has a higher potential for infection and injury than any other type of waste among healthcare workers. Studies in India and other developing countries have shown lack of knowledge and poor practice of biomedical waste (BMW) management.Methods: This was an observational hospital-based cross-sectional study. Study group included 210 healthcare workers, which includes doctors, interns, nursing staff, laboratory technicians, and class IV workers. Study was done by using a semi-structured questionnaire. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel 2016.Results: The majority of doctors (92%), interns (90%), nursing staff (93%) had adequate knowledge about BMW management, but lab technicians and class IV workers (70%) had poor knowledge. Among all health care workers (HCW), 50% of HCW attended the training for biomedical waste management, 46% of the HCW thought that BMW management is an extra burden on work. Except for nursing staff (100%), other healthcare workers (>55%) do not follow the color-coding of BMW.Conclusions: The study emphasizes the need to conduct periodic training among all healthcare workers about all aspects related to bio-medical waste management.

Attitudes and practices of ophthalmology doctors in London (UK) on the importance of discussing work as a clinical outcome with patients during consultations: A cross sectional survey.

BackgroundLimited research suggests that non-occupational health doctors rarely discuss occupation with their patients. There is a gap in research regarding the attitudes and practices of doctors towards discussing patient occupation and return to work. The aim of this work was to explore the attitudes of ophthalmology doctors towards work as a clinical outcome and assess the need for occupational health training among participants (doctors).MethodsA cross-sectional survey among doctors working in ophthalmology in two London teaching hospitals. The survey focused on the attitudes of doctors towards ‘work’ as a clinical outcome, their practices of asking patients about occupation, their perceived level of competency in this area of clinical practice and the level of training doctors had received in this field. Descriptive data analysis was undertaken and results presented as frequencies and proportions.ResultsThe response rate was 30/72 (42%). Approximately a quarter (8/30;27%) of doctors ‘always’ discussed return to work during care planning whilst the majority (25/30;87%) of doctors agreed or strongly agreed that this should always be the case. Over half of the doctors had received no formal OH training on how to discuss or assess the impact of health on work and only 17/30 (57%) considered themselves competent in discussing these work outcomes with patients. Over half agreed that additional training would be useful, with the majority believing that it would be most useful at all stages of medical training.ConclusionWe found the majority of ophthalmology doctors regard ‘return to work’ as an important clinical outcome yet most do not routinely discuss work outcomes with patients to inform care planning. Majority of doctors lack training in how to discuss issues relating to work and would benefit from additional OH training.

Influenza and Other Prophylactic Vaccination Coverage in Polish Adult Patients Undergoing Allergen Immunotherapy-A Survey Study among Patients and Physicians.

Vaccines against infectious diseases may raise safety concerns in patients undergoing allergen immunotherapy (AIT). The objective of our study was to investigate influenza vaccine and other selected prophylactic vaccines coverage in patients treated with AIT and the attitude of physicians towards vaccinations in this group of patients. We conducted a questionnaire-based study among patients undergoing AIT and physicians. The patients’ survey evaluated influenza and other prophylactic vaccines coverage. The physicians’ survey assessed their experience and opinions on prophylactic vaccinations during AIT. In total, 176 patients (aged 18–79 years) and 120 doctors filled the questionnaires. Patients were assigned to two groups—inhaled allergens group (n = 101) and insect venoms group (n = 68). The number of patients who received any dose (36% and 45%, p = 0.26), as well as two or more doses (17% and 22%, p = 0.43) of influenza vaccine was comparable between two groups. However, in both groups there was a significant (p < 0.0001) decrease in influenza vaccine uptake after the beginning of AIT. Patients from the inhaled allergens group declared a higher tetanus vaccine rate (41% vs. 19%, p = 0.004). The groups did not differ in the pneumococcal and tick-borne encephalitis vaccination coverage. A majority of doctors believe that prophylactic vaccinations in patients undergoing AIT are safe and effective (96% and 94%, respectively); however, as many as 87% of them identify with the need to create clear recommendations regarding vaccinating patients undergoing AIT. Prophylactic vaccine coverage is not satisfactory among Polish adult patients undergoing AIT. Polish doctors are convinced of the validity of prophylactic vaccinations during AIT.

Knowledge about Folic Acid Supplementation for Prevention of Neural Tube Defects among Gynecologist and Paediatric Surgeon

Aim: To assess the knowledge of gynecologist &amp; Paediatric Surgeon about the role of folic acid in prevention of neural tube defects. Study design: Cross Sectional Study Setting &amp; duration of study: Department of Paediatirc Surgery, KEMU/Mayo Hospital Lahore from 1st November to 15 December. Methodology: After ethical approval data was collected on a questioner performa created on google doc regarding demographic variables, knowledge about neural tube defects, dose and timing of folic acid supplementation in prevention of neural tube birth defects. Results: 70% of the doctor who took part in this study work between 20-30 year of age. 50% were male &amp; 50% were female. Majority of doctors (80%) have experience of 1-10 years after graduation. The participants doctors include postgraduate residents (68%) followed by consultant (11.1%), Medical Officer, Senior Registrar, Registrar &amp; House Officer. 90.7% were government employee most of them have knowledge about meningomylocele but majority of them (57.4%) did not have proper knowledge about dose and timing of folic acid supplementation for prevention of neural tube defects. Conclusions: We conclude that most of gynecologist and paediatric surgeons don’t have sufficient knowledge about role of folic acid in prevention of neural tube defects, specially meningomyelocele in children. There is a need to launch awareness campaign among healthcare providers through social media, symposium, and newspaper about supplementation of folic acid before conception in women so that this important disability condition/disease incidence may be reduced Keywords: Meningomyeloclele, Folic Acid Supplementation, Prevention

Remote monitoring of adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus using a mobile application

Background: The prevalence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in childhood is increasing every year. Adolescence is the most challenging age for achieving optimal metabolic control of T1DM. Telemedicine has already been shown to be ­effective in children with the condition, but there are not enough studies in adolescents. The use of mobile apps may be associated with better glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes.Aims: To assess the effectiveness and safety of a model of medical care for adolescents with type 1 diabetes using remote counseling and a mobile application.Materials and methods: Were included adolescents aged ≥14 and 18 years with a T1DM duration&gt; 3 months, a glycated hemoglobin level (HbA1c)&gt; 7%. The duration of the study was 26 weeks. There were 3 face-to-face and at least 4 remote visits using a mobile application. All patients underwent standard examination and anthropometry, study of HbA1c, registration and analysis of indicators, assessment and correction of the treatment. The quality of life of adolescents was assessed at baseline and at the end of the study. Adolescents and physicians were interviewed about program evaluation.Results: 56 patients were included, 7 adolescents withdrew. HbA1c significantly decreased by the 12th week of the study (–0.3%; p = 0.005), by the end of the study the change in HbA1c was –0.5% (p &lt;0.001). There was an increase in the percentage of glucose measurements in the target range (+5.3 pp; p = 0.016) and a decrease in blood glucose variability (-3.1 pp; p = 0.015). There was a significant improvement in both the total assessment of the quality of life by patients (+2.9 points; p = 0.008) and individual components of its indicators: attitude to diabetes (+3.0 points; p = 0.049), attitude to treatment (+4.6 points; p = 0.010) and communication with others (+4.5 points; p = 0.015). The majority of doctors and patients assessed their participation in the study positively. The incidence of adverse events did not change significantly during the study from baseline.Conclusion: Remote counseling using a mobile app is a safe and effective approach for adolescents with T1DM in terms of glycemic control and quality of life, and provides convenience and speed of interaction.

Knowledge, Attitude, Practice (KAP) study regarding antimicrobial use guidelines of ICMR among doctors working in primary, secondary, tertiary healthcare facilities in a tribal area of North Odisha

Background: Antimicrobial resistance occurs with irrational use of antimicrobials, self-medication, and misuse of drug. Using data from ICMR's AMR surveillance, ICMR has developed evidence-based treatment guidelines for the treatment of 10 syndrome and infection.Aims and Objective:To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the use of antimicrobials according to ICMR guidelines among doctors working in a tribal area of North Odisha.Methods: A self-administered 18-question KAP survey tool was provided to total 53 doctors working in primary, secondary, tertiary healthcare facilities.The study systematically was done at the primary health center (in Rangamatia) and then upgraded primary health center (in Kisantandi), then community health center (in Bangiriposi) and finally medical college (PRM Medical College, Baripada) from June to August.Data were collected regarding how they are practicing use of antimicrobials inProphylaxis and treatment of surgical site infections.Use of antimicrobials for upper respiratory tract infectionFor management of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.Results: We discovered that most of the doctor's, i.e., 77% are unaware about the ICMR guideline while 13% know very well. In case of attitude of doctors toward ICMR guideline of antimicrobial use, it is found that majority of them, i.e., 90%, have very good attitude. So while 5% of doctors have no attitude toward the guideline. But when it comes to practice according to ICMR guidelines, a majority of doctors i.e., 58% fared well.Conclusions: Our findings indicate dissonance between knowledge and practices among doctors. So there needs to be much more widened awareness program so that the treatment guideline can be reached near the doctors working in tribal areas.

Non-essentiality of a Dietician in making the Indian Diabetic Diet

Although diet is a crucial component of managing diabetes, it has generally been disregarded by both patients and doctors. The majority of doctors believe it is difficult to give patients a straightforward diet chart based on scientific data. The majority of textbooks fall short of meeting this need for diabetic management. They simply advise consuming the necessary amount of calories from protein, fat, and carbohydrates. The most challenging step is converting the necessary calories into the majority of food items that are readily available in our nation. Typically, doctors either recommend dieticians to their patients or give them a list of general dos and don'ts. There is a dearth of skilled dieticians, particularly at district-level healthcare facilities. An effort has been made to contrast the Indian diet with the advice given in the textbooks. Finally, a straightforward method has been developed to quickly create a diet chart without a dietician's assistance. The information used in this study is taken from literature on nutrition and medicine; neither human subjects nor animals have been used in any experiments.

Ultrasound elastography.

Physicians have used palpation as a diagnostic examination to understand the elastic properties of pathology for a long time since they realized that tissue stiffness is closely related to its biological characteristics. US elastography provided new diagnostic information about elasticity comparing with the morphological feathers of traditional US, and thus expanded the scope of the application in clinic. US elastography is now widely used in the field of diagnosis and differential diagnosis of abnormality, evaluating the degree of fibrosis and assessment of treatment response for a range of diseases. The World Federation of Ultrasound Medicine and Biology divided elastographic techniques into strain elastography (SE), transient elastography and acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI). The ARFI techniques can be further classified into point shear wave elastography (SWE), 2D SWE, and 3D SWE techniques. The SE measures the strain, while the shear wave-based techniques (including TE and ARFI techniques) measure the speed of shear waves in tissues. In this review, we discuss the various techniques separately based on their basic principles, clinical applications in various organs, and advantages and limitations and which might be most appropriate given that the majority of doctors have access to only one kind of machine.

Evaluating the implementation of the standard treatment guidelines (STGs) and essential medicines list (EML) at a public South African tertiary institution and its associated primary health care (PHC) facilities

BackgroundThe standard treatment guidelines (STGs) and essential medicines list (EML) were a policy option recommended in the National Drug Policy for South Africa in 1996 to address the irrational and bloated medicines procurement list. STGs/EML serve as a tool to promote cost-effective use of medicines; rational prescribing; and improve accessibility to medicines for all citizens. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use and implementation of the STGs/EML by prescribers at a public tertiary institution and its associated Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities in the uMhlathuze subdistrict of KwaZulu Natal. The study aimed to provide feedback and to make recommendations to policy makers to improve the use and implementation of the STGs/EML and to inform National Health Insurance (NHI) policy development.MethodAn observational quantitative descriptive research design was used. A retrospective audit of prescriptions was conducted, and questionnaires were utilized to collect data from prescribers and the facilities to evaluate the utilization of the STGs/EML and the rational use of medicines. All descriptive analyses were presented as counts with percentages, and Fisher’s exact test was used to compare results. The data was summarized, reduced, and analysed using SAS statistics software.Results107 medical doctors (97%) responded to the questionnaire at hospital level and 98 nurses (98%) responded to the questionnaire at the PHC level. Results revealed that the majority of doctors, 94.4%, had access to the latest STGs/EML compared with only 41.8% of nurses. 70.3% and 78.3% of doctor’s and nurse’s prescriptions, respectively, adhered to the guidelines. 94.9% of nurses requested training on the use of STGs/EML as most of them had not received formal training on its use.ConclusionThis study showed suboptimal adherence to STGs/EML by all prescribers, in contrast to previous research amongst nurses when hardcopies were available. Training on the use of the STGs/EML is needed at PHC level and improved monitoring of STGs/EML compliance is necessary. This study may be replicated for a wider population to paint a national picture and to periodically assess the extent of the implementation of the STGs/EML.

Knowledge and Practices in Viral Hepatitis Management and its Challenges: A Survey Among Ayurveda Physicians of Kerala

Ayurveda physicians provide treatment for viral hepatitis patients in Kerala. A survey was conducted to assess the knowledge and practices in viral hepatitis management among Ayurveda physicians (APs) of Kerala.&#x0D; Materials &amp; Methods: An in depth telephonic interview and a questionnaire were administered among APs in Kerala for assessing knowledge about viral hepatitis and its treatment.&#x0D; Results: All the 150 participants were aware about different types of viral hepatitis. Around 90% Aps know about complications of viral hepatitis and mode of transmission. Only 20% screen their patients before performing Panchakarma therapy and para-surgical procedures in their clinic. All physicians depends liver function test for diagnosing and assessing different types of Hepatitis; only 6.6% physicians additionally prescribe Ultrasonogram of abdomen and viral load. Majority physicians reported chronicity for HBV and HCV infections and good outcome/ curable for hepatitis A. Only a few physicians were documenting the cases in their clinics. The lack of structured case proforma for documentation and guidelines for management, research, patient education and time constraints was reported as challenges in the treatment of viral hepatitis by the majority of AP in the current survey. &#x0D; Conclusion: The majority of doctors had a good knowledge of the different types of viral hepatitis and they depended on laboratory examinations for diagnosis and evaluation. The treatment strategies were based on the treatment principles of Kamala and Panduroga in Ayurveda.

Do health care physician need to risk their own lives? Time to change our own attitude towards recommended physical activity

Abstract Background Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death around the world,South Asian population are at higher risk of atherosclerotic coronary artery diseases (CAD) comparatively. There is a recommended physical activity level to prevent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Health care professionals especially doctors are main advisors to prescribe the exercise protocols among general population. Hence we conducted a survey among doctors of Pakistan to identify their physical activity as well as their knowledge and attitude toward recommended physical activity. Methodology An online questionnaire was shared with doctors of various specialties working in private and public healthcare system of the Pakistan. It consisted of consent for participation,followed by information regarding demographic profile, preexisting co-morbid conditions, opinion regarding importance of physical activity to prevent ASCVD (5 point scale), perceived physical activity level (4 point scale), knowledge regarding ACC recommended physical activity level for primary prevention of ASCVD, lifestyle, and barriers in following recommended physical activity level. Collected data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 21.0, participants were categorized into two groups as “cardiologists” and “non-cardiologists” and results were compared between the two groups. Results A total of 159 doctors participated in the survey, out of whom 97 (61%) were cardiologist and remaining 62 (39%) were affiliated with other specialties. Male participants (72.3%) were predominant and mean age was 30.44±23.16 years. More than 60% (61.6%) of the participants were free of preexisting co-morbid condition, most common ASCVD risk factor was positive family history (26.4%) followed by smoking (7.5%) and hypertension (6.3%). According to BMI, 21.4% (34) were obese and 40.3% (64) were overweight. A total of 74.8% (119) of the participants claimed to know about ACC recommended physical activity level but 65.5% (78) were actually aware of recommended 150 min of moderate-intensity or 75 min of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity level. According to the lifestyle activities only 26.4% (42) of the participants were found to follow the ACC recommended physical activity level per week, this proportion was same between cardiologists and non-cardiologists, 25.8% vs. 27.4% respectively. Lack of time from daily routine (71.7%) was found to be most commonly stated reason for physical in activeness followed by overburden/over stress at workplace (33.3%) and lack of resources (14.5%). Conclusion Knowledge and adherence to the ACC recommended physical actively level was poor among both cardiologists and non-cardiologists even after considering it important for the primary prevention of ASCVD. Majority of doctors were overweight and obese.Lake of time and resources and over stressed work life of doctors are the key barriers in following recommended physical activity level. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Workability of dentists working in state children's dental polyclinics

Introduction. A high level of workability of a doctor is an essential part of successful professional activity. The assessment of workability in combination with the study of working conditions, health status and quality of life of a specialist seems to be one of the actual areas of occupational health. The aim of the study was to analyze the workability of dentists providing medical care to children in state children’s dental polyclinics and children’s departments of state dental polyclinics providing medical care to adults in St. Petersburg. Materials and methods. A survey included 120 dentists using a standardized workability questionnaire. Workability was characterized by the level of current workability and workability index. Statistical data processing was carried out using SPSS 17.0 software. Results. The average values of current workability and workability index in the studied group of dentists are in the average (reduced) level - 6.1 ± 1.7 and 33.0 ± 5.3. The majority of doctors indicated the presence of certain health disorders, although 40% noted that their health will allow them to adequately fulfil their professional duties in the next two years. 62% of specialists were characterized by a good level of work motivation. From the total number of specialists, 68% had up to 9 days of disability per year. The group of dental surgeons did not have specialists with excellent work ability, and the proportion of doctors with good workability was half the size of others. 68% of doctors need to improve workability, and 11% need to restore it. Discussion. It is alarming that half of the specialists had a low (threatening) level of current work ability with average levels of current work ability and work ability index. Only 8.3% of doctors consider themselves absolutely healthy and capable of doing work without restrictions. Conclusion. The majority of dentists corresponds to average workability level. Workability indicators and the number of days of disability of dental surgeons are worse than those of orthodontists and pediatric dentists. The majority of doctors need to improve workability.

Constructing high-quality rest facilities to maximise performance and ensure patient safety

IntroductionJunior doctors are working in an increasingly overstretched National Health Service. In 2018, Kettering General Hospital (KGH) was awarded £60 800 of government funds to create high-quality rest facilities and...

Epidemiology of Myopia in Children of the Russian Federation and Analysis of Its Control Methods

The increasing prevalence of myopia is observed all over the world, and Russia is no exception. In this regard, obtaining new data on its epidemiology among children and assessing methods of its control in real clinical practice are highly topical matters.Purpose. The purpose of this work was to assess the current issues of the epidemiology and treatment of progressive myopia in children in various regions of the Russian Federation.Materials and methods. We conducted a prospective multicenter epidemiological observational questionnaire study. This study involved 106 doctors from 53 regions of Russia and 2931 parents of myopic children.Results. 50% of the surveyed doctors noted that the manifestation of myopia is diagnosed in children aged 10–12 years, while 43% noted the same in children aged 7–9 years. According to 74.5% of doctors, the degree of the newly diagnosed myopia ranges from –1.25 to –3.00 diopters, 25.5% of doctors reported that it is below –1.0 diopters. The majority of doctors (73.6%) assess accommodation in myopic children, considering it one of the progression factors. 52.9% of ophthalmologists prescribe optical correction in cases when monocular distance visual acuity amounts to 0.6 (decimal scale) or lower values, while 29.2%, 16% and 1.9% of the surveyed ophthalmologists prescribe optical correction in cases when monocular distance visual acuity amounts to 0.7, 0.8 and 0.9 respectively.The following optical methods for juvenile myopia control are recommended by the doctors: orthokeratology contact lenses (53.8%), spectacles for full correction (51.9%), peripheral defocus-inducing (bifocal) soft contact lenses (18.9%), while 4.7% of the surveyed doctors utilized other methods of myopia control, which were not indicated in the questionnaire.Conclusion. In most cases, manifestation of myopia is diagnosed in children aged 7–12 years. Its degree ranges from –1.25 to –3.0 diopters, which indicates its late diagnosis; optical correction is prescribed mainly in cases when monocular distance visual acuity is 0.6 or lower; most ophthalmologists assess accommodation in myopic children, considering it a progression factor. As methods of myopia control, doctors utilize optical correction, device-assisted therapy and pharmacological treatment of accommodative disorders, while parents prefer methods that require minimum time expenditures.

Transition from Methylphenidate to Atomoxetine: reasons for switching and clinical outcome

AimsAttention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavior disorder originating in childhood comprising of a constellation of features including inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) Guidelines 2018 recommends methylphenidate as a first line pharmacological agent for treatment of children aged 5 years and over with ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, dexamfetamine and atomoxetine are recommended in this order if methylphenidate is not tolerated or if symptoms did not respond to separate 6-week trials. Our aim was to, assess the transition of methylphenidate to atomoxetine, the reasons for switching and its clinical outcome in order to make recommendations to current practice regarding treatment of ADHD.MethodThe study examined a total of 53 children between 0-16 years of age who were being treated for ADHD with atomoxetine at CYPS till September 2018. Data was collected from patients’ files retrospectively by using a proforma based on the NICE guidelines 2018 ADHD: diagnosis and management.ResultOut of 53 patients’ on atomoxetine in September 2018, 49 were included in the study. Results recorded side-effects as the main reason for switching from methylphenidate to atomoxetine. Unwanted side-effects were documented in 71.7% of patients of which 57.9% exhibited more than 1 side-effect with the two commonest side-effects documented being weight loss and decreased appetite. The audit highlighted the fact that the correct dose of atomoxetine was only administered in 17.2% of children with 56.9% of patient's being given a higher dose than recommended. Initial weight was not documented in 19% and hence, ideal dose could not be calculated. Overall, atomoxetine was shown to be an effective treatment. Out of the 40 patients documented to have hyperactivity this symptom was decreased in 82.5% whilst 82.9% were shown to have increased concentration. 35 patients had documented impulsivity and this was decreased in 62.9% of cases. 11 patients had documented anxiety with 72.7% being treated effectively with atomoxetine. 31% of patients’ had documented side-effects with 16% of these being tics. 20% of patient's required augmentation.ConclusionThe results indicate that the majority of doctors at CYPS in Malta adhered to the NICE guidelines 2018 and atomoxetine was proven to be efficacious as a second line drug in the treatment of ADHD. However, better adherence to NICE guidelines is required when it comes to the calculation of appropriate dosage. Our prediction is had dose recommendations according to weight been adhered to there may have been less side-effects documented.

Experience of tele-psychiatry during COVID-19 amongst doctors working in a mental health trust: A survey

AimsThere is paucity of information about perspectives of psychiatrists about telemedicine practice during COVID-19 pandemic. It was intended to explore the experience of doctors using tele-psychiatry for provision of clinical care during the COVID-19 pandemic in a Mental Health Trust covering four cities in West Midlands, UK.MethodThe study was conducted as an anonymized questionnaire survey. A 10-item questionnaire was designed with items related to the clinical outcomes, challenges and provider satisfaction when using tele-psychiatry. It had mostly yes/no dichotomous responses along with the scope for making additional comments for each question. An online link of the questionnaire was sent via email to doctors of all grades working across the Black Country Healthcare NHS foundation Trust, in the West Midlands. The survey was open between July and October 2020; and monthly reminders were sent.ResultThe questionnaire was sent out to 159 doctors and 34 responded (response rate of 21.3%). Just over 50% had used both telephone and video consultations, whereas 47.1% responders had used telephone only. More than half (55.8%) reported that the tele-psychiatry affected clinical outcomes; and it was considered positive in around half (52.9%). Most (73.5%) of the responders found that limitations or challenges of using technology impacted on delivery of care remotely. However 64.7% psychiatrists were satisfied with the process overall; and 79.4% reported that they would like to use tele-psychiatry in the future as well.Survey captured many observations from the psychiatrists. Positive comments from the psychiatrists included expedited delivery of care, reduced non-attendance rates, as well as successful multidisciplinary meetings. Challenges in specific sub-specialties such as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry or Older Adult psychiatry were reported where complete assessments were not achieved successfully. The process was felt to be appropriate in general for stable or follow-up patients in comparison to new or acutely unwell patients. There was some worry expressed about missing out non-verbal cues which assist with mental state examination.ConclusionInspite of a low response rate, the survey provided some understanding about the experience of doctors practicing tele-psychiatry during pandemic. While technological challenges were acknowledged, tele-psychiatry seemed to have been accepted by a majority of doctors who are also willing to continue it in their future clinical practice. There is a need to explore in a larger sample involving both patients and clinicians about the beneficial effects of tele-psychiatry that can be incorporated in the usual psychiatric practice.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of generic medicines among physicians at multispecialty hospital: An observational study.

Background:Nowadays, brand-name drugs are becoming an out-of-pocket expense which comprises 80% of total health-care expenditures. However, generic drugs are less expensive than brand-name drugs with the same therapeutic effect, but many doctors hold negative views of generics and resist prescribing. This study was designed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of doctors toward generic medicines.Methods:This was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study conducted in a multispecialty private hospital. The study participants were doctors who were practising in a hospital during the study period (January 2017 to July 2017). The questionnaire comprises 35 questions related to demographics, knowledge, attitude, and practice evaluation of generic medicines. Descriptive statistics was applied to represent participant characteristics and response rates.Results:A total of 86 questionnaires were distributed to the doctors and the response rate was 37%. The majority of doctors who participated in this survey perceived that generic medicine is effective, safe, and has same active component, dose, and bioequivalent as the brand medicines. Majority of the doctors (72%) believe that generic drugs were manufactured by poor techniques. However, more than three-quarter of doctors (78%) routinely prescribed generic drugs.Conclusion:Most of the doctors had an honest angle about the efficacy and safety of generic medicine. However, a high proportion of physicians believe that the generic drugs are of poorer quality. To have a better understanding of the generic drug, the doctor must be well informed about the generics products during their academic career that will significantly impact health-care budgets.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Life of Indian Doctors: Time for Introspection?

International Journal of Medicine and Public Health,2021,11,2,85-89.DOI:10.5530/ijmedph.2021.2.15Published:May 2021Type:Original ArticleImpact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Life of Indian Doctors: Time for Introspection?Trupti Nadkarni, Sukhpreet Patel, Amol Pawar, and Minnie Bodhanwalla Trupti Nadkarni1, Sukhpreet Patel2, Amol Pawar3,*, Minnie Bodhanwalla4 1Department of 0bstetrics and Gynaecology, Nowrosjee Wadia Maternity Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, INDIA. 2Reproductive Medicine and Research Department, Nowrosjee Wadia Maternity Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, INDIA. 3Nowrosjee Wadia Maternity Hospital, Acharya Donde Marg, Opposite KEM Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, INDIA. 4Chief Executive Officer, Nowrosjee Wadia Maternity Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, INDIA. Abstract:Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic is the first of its kind that doctors have encountered in their clinical practice, offering several challenges in all aspects of their lives. The aim of this study was to look into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the personal and professional lives of doctors. Methods: 264 anonymous voluntary responses received within one week of sending 805 requests to Indian doctors in July 2020, through Google forms were included in the study. Results: Of the 264 respondents, 72.3% continued to stay at home with their families as before, 22% practiced self-isolation at home and a small proportion of mainly young doctors stayed in a hostel or other accommodation. Majority of the respondents reported an improvement in family life and interpersonal relationships, eating habits, volume of daily exercise and fitness levels. Regarding the financial situation, more than 70% of doctors were negatively impacted during the pandemic. While a majority of doctors appreciated technological aid in the form of teleconsultation and webinars, most of them questioned their application post COVID-19. Over 40% of doctors experienced some form of discrimination against them during the pandemic. Conclusion: While healthcare professionals face a unique set of obstacles and dilemmas that require special attention, many have also experienced a silver lining amidst this chaos in the form of family life and lifestyle changes. Regardless, COVID-19 has been a game changer for everyone!. Keywords:Coronavirus, COVID-19, Doctors, healthcare professionals, Lifestyle, Mental HealtView:PDF (394.5 KB)

Self-assessment, attitude and perception of interprofessional learning in hospital acquired infection control practices among health professionals in Klang Valley, Malaysia

BackgroundInterprofessional learning (IPL) is a key challenge in Malaysia in incorporating the current profession-specific medical education into the interprofessional learning curriculum. Safe practices would be enhanced with improved collaboration among the health professionals when they learn with, from, and about each other. The main objective of this study was to determine the significant differences in self-assessment, attitude, and perception of interprofessional learning among doctors and nurses in a teaching hospital in Klang Valley, Malaysia. The second objective was to determine if there is any significant difference in the selected demography factors, mean and total scores between doctors and nurses in self-assessment, attitude, and perceptions of IPL aspects.MethodsA total of doctors (39) and nurses (37) were recruited for an interventional study on the interprofessional learning approach on hospital acquired infection control. The participants responded to the University of West England Interprofessional (UWEIP) questionnaire at baseline consisting of four dimensions in IPL aspects; Self-assessment on communication and teamwork skills (CTW), interprofessional learning (IPL), interprofessional interaction (IPI), and interprofessional relationship (IPR). The Cronbach alpha value for the total questionnaire was established at 0.79.ResultsThe majority of doctors scored positive in CTW, IPL, IPR, and neutral in IPI. Nurses’ also recorded the highest positive scores in CTW, IPL, and IPR, and neutral in IPI. Negative scores were found in CTW and IPI. A significant difference was revealed between doctors and nurses in IPL attitude; p = 0.024 and there was no significant difference in other dimensions (p > .05). Results also found a significant difference between participants’ and non-participants of IPL training sessions; p = 0.009.ConclusionsThis study revealed the infusion of interprofessional learning training among the health professionals displayed better self-assessments, attitudes, and perceptions towards collaborative practices.