Mitigate Health Disparities Research Articles

Hepatitis C Testing Protocols Across Massachusetts Jails, 2022-2023: An Opportunity for Intervention.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV), the most common blood-borne infection in the United States and a leading cause of liver disease, disproportionately affects populations who are incarcerated. Despite the prevalence of HCV infection among people involved in the criminal legal system, HCV testing and treatment policies are not yet standardized. Our study sought to examine the differences in HCV testing and treatment protocols across Massachusetts county jails. In this cross-sectional study, we examined the HCV testing and treatment protocols of the 14 county jails in Massachusetts from November 2022 through February 2023. Of the 12 jails that responded to requests for information, 10 jails used opt-in testing, 1 jail used opt-out testing, and 1 jail had no testing protocol. All 12 jails explicitly inquired about HCV history at intake, but only 3 jails inquired about current HCV treatment. For the 5 jails that had treatment initiation policies, all had barriers to treatment, including mandatory length-of-stay or sobriety requirements. Findings from this study underscore the need for policy changes that require adoption of universal opt-out HCV testing across county jails and standardized HCV treatment protocols, with a focus on linkage to outpatient care and treatment of substance use disorder. This approach can address HCV in populations who are incarcerated and can help mitigate health disparities between incarcerated people and the general public.

Mitigating Health Disparities: Bridging the Digital Divide in Modern Health Care.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of US health care, technological advances promise significant improvements. The ongoing digital divide, however, is a critical factor affecting equitable access to health care. This perspective examines the multifaceted nature of the digital divide and its impact on health literacy, the use of electronic health tools, and disparities rooted in race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. The partnership between healthcare providers and health communication researchers, along with seamless data sharing, emerges as a crucial catalyst for elevating health literacy. To effectively address the digital divide, healthcare providers may find it beneficial to conduct assessments of the evolving health literacy and digital health landscape. An essential paradigm shift involves the customization of digital health solutions by medical providers, aligning them with the diverse needs and preferences of patients. This transformative approach necessitates a departure from static, one-way communication channels, emphasizing the dynamic adaptation of digital health interventions to enhance accessibility and relevance in patient care.

Impact of retirement transition on health, well-being and health behaviours: critical insights from an overview of reviews.

Impact of retirement transition on health, well-being and health behaviours: critical insights from an overview of reviews.

Disparities in statin use following identification of coronary artery calcium.

Disparities in statin use following identification of coronary artery calcium.

Individual plus Policy, System, Environment Framework to Address Racial and Ethnic Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as an Adaptive Challenge in Dietetics

Addressing the lack of diversity within the nutrition and dietetics profession has become a vital key to mitigating health disparities. Research has shown greater racial/ethnic diversity to be efficacious in addressing these challenges due to improved racial concordance and impacts on unconscious bias. Despite efforts to increase diversity within the dietetics profession, it continues to lack proportional representation of Black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). Furthermore, it lags behind other health professionals in addressing this dearth of representation. The stagnation in outcomes from the efforts of the Academy presents a unique opportunity to examine those efforts and develop a framework for action which will cultivate synergistic strategies to impact inclusion, diversity, and equity. The Individual plus Policy, System, Environment (I+PSE) conceptual framework for action provides a blueprint for dietetics practitioners to develop and implement multidimensional strategies using a systems approach to address adaptive challenges and achieve collective impact more effectively. The diversification of the dietetics profession presents an adaptive challenge which a systematic approach would prove beneficial. The I+PSE framework was used to conceptualize the complex challenges of recruiting and retaining BIPOC dietetic professionals, specifically focusing on barriers within the pipeline, practice, and the profession. The examination of each framework construct provides a more targeted multidimensional approach by identifying key barriers and facilitators. The I+PSE framework for action provides the Academy with a means by which to critically examine root causes that are impeding initiatives to cultivate an inclusive and equitable profession.

Does the trans-provincial immediate reimbursement reduce health gap between urban and rural floating population? Evidence from China

BackgroundOne of the critical components of public health policy globally is to enhance population health and mitigate health disparities. In 2017, China launched the reform of immediate reimbursement for trans-provincial treatments, aimed at increasing healthcare utilization among the floating population. This study aims to evaluate the impact of this policy reform on the health status of the urban–rural floating population.MethodsThis study utilizes individual-level data from the 2017 and 2018 China Migrants Dynamic Survey (CMDS) and administrative hospital data at the city level. The sample includes 47,803 individuals and 66 cities. Treating the direct reimbursement policy as a quasi-natural experiment, we employ a generalized difference-in-differences model for our quantitative analysis. To control for the effects of urban–rural medical insurance integration—to ensure that both urban and rural residents are covered by the same basic medical insurance policy—our analysis of rural health status from 2016 to 2018 is limited to cities that fully implemented this policy integration before January 1, 2017.ResultsThe policy of immediate reimbursement for trans-provincial treatments has a significant positive impact on the health of the urban–rural floating population. The health benefits of trans-provincial treatments are less pronounced than those of trans-urban treatment, with primary hospitals showing the most notable improvements. Increased household income and consumer spending significantly amplify the health benefits of this policy for the floating population. The effects of the policy are especially pronounced in the female floating population, middle-aged and young adults, individuals with lower levels of education, those desiring long-term residency, and the unmarried groups.ConclusionThis paper presents theoretical evidence that the policy of immediate reimbursement for trans-regional treatments narrows the health disparities of the urban–rural floating population and elucidates the mechanisms of this impact for the first time. These results suggest that in order to achieve health equality between urban and rural residents and equitable access to medical services, China is building a more effective medical security system.

A Call to Action for Health Equity: White Paper by the TCNS Scholars Education Interest Group.

Despite significant initiatives to address adverse social determinants, excess burden of disease and mortality persist among diverse minorities and socially disadvantaged groups. Recent changes to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging programs have affected organizational efforts to increase participation of underrepresented groups. White Paper synthesizes initiatives designed to achieve health and health care equity and provides evidence from studies of different approaches. Distinct differences in approaches and outcomes were found specific to mitigating health disparities from health care inequities. Individual- and organizational-level approaches tend to mitigate inequities in health care delivery but are insufficient in eradicating adverse social determinants of poor health among socially disadvantaged groups. Organizational leaders and health care professionals are called upon to engage in multidisciplinary and multisectoral collaboration to influence public policies at the highest level of government and private stakeholders. Culturally competent approaches are envisioned to target individual-, organizational-, and community/societal-level changes.

Neonatal jaundice due to unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia in Tra Vinh province, Viet Nam: a Hospital-based retrospective cohort study

This study aimed to investigate the incidence of neonatal jaundice caused by unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia in Vietnam. We conducted a retrospective cohort study at Tra Vinh Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital from July 2022 to June 2023. The cohort included 298 neonates who underwent bilirubin and complete blood count tests. The overall incidence of neonatal jaundice was 15.10%. Neonates with infections had a notably higher likelihood of developing jaundice, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.594 compared to their non-infected counterparts. Premature neonates also exhibited a higher incidence of jaundice, with an OR of 3.579 compared to full-term neonates. Our study has uncovered significant findings that shed light on neonatal jaundice’s incidence and risk factors. We found that neonates with infections, premature neonates, and those experiencing respiratory distress are at a higher risk of developing jaundice. These findings underscore the importance of vigilant monitoring of neonatal jaundice and the need for tailored preventive strategies, particularly for at-risk groups. For instance, the higher incidence of jaundice among premature neonates suggests the need for more intensive monitoring and early intervention in this population. This study highlights the necessity of addressing neonatal jaundice with appropriate care interventions to mitigate health disparities and improve neonatal outcomes.

Physical, Mental, and Health Empowerment Disparities Across Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Asthma, and Combined Groups and the Moderating Role of eHealth Literacy: Cross-Sectional Study.

Nonpharmacological management plays a key role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or both. However, disparities in their physical, mental, and health empowerment outcomes have not been fully explored, particularly in relation to the moderating effect of eHealth literacy. This study aims to assess these disparities and examine how eHealth literacy moderates them to guide the development of tailored nonpharmacological strategies. We analyzed data from 2 waves of the nationally representative "Psychology and Behavior Investigation of Chinese Residents" surveys to identify participants who self-reported asthma, COPD, or both. We assessed 5 physical outcomes (quality of life, physical activity, sleep quality, appetite, nicotine dependence), 4 mental outcomes (anxiety, depression, perceived stress, resilience), and 3 health empowerment measures (social support, self-efficacy, eHealth literacy). Multiple regression with Holm-Bonferroni corrections revealed health disparities and the moderation effect of eHealth literacy. This unfunded study enrolled 1044 participants between June 2022 and August 2023, with data analysis completed within 7 months following data collection. The sample included 254 (24.3%) participants with asthma, 696 (66.7%) participants with COPD, and 95 (9.1%) participants with both conditions. The mean age of the participants was 48.61 (SD 19.70) years, and 536 (51.3%) participants were male. Linear regression showed that individuals with both COPD and asthma had lower health-related quality of life and higher anxiety and depression compared with those with either condition alone (b ranges from -0.15 to 3.35). This group also showed higher nicotine dependence than asthma-only (b=0.88) and lower resilience than COPD-only groups (b=-0.76) (all adjusted P<.05). eHealth literacy significantly moderated the effect of the disease group on all outcomes except physical activity (all adjusted P for interaction <.05). Nine disease pairs showed disparities in both eHealth literacy groups, 4 only in high literacy, and 8 only in low literacy (all P<.05). Individuals with both COPD and asthma had poorer quality of life, greater anxiety and depression, higher nicotine dependence, and lower resilience, underscoring the need for integrated psychosocial and behavioral interventions. Although higher eHealth literacy was associated with improved quality of life, sleep quality, and resilience, it also widened disparities in anxiety and depression. Therefore, while enhancing eHealth literacy may help reduce overall health inequities among patients with chronic respiratory diseases, its potential adverse effects on mental well-being warrant careful attention. Moreover, lower eHealth literacy was linked to more pronounced disparities, indicating that outreach efforts and digital resources should be specifically designed to reach and empower vulnerable populations. Overall, our findings advocate for condition-specific, eHealth-enhanced care pathways that not only foster digital literacy but also integrate comprehensive mental health services, thereby mitigating health disparities among individuals with chronic respiratory diseases.

Examining how social class discrimination is associated with combustible tobacco use, nicotine vaping, and dual use among adolescents in California.

Examining how social class discrimination is associated with combustible tobacco use, nicotine vaping, and dual use among adolescents in California.

Nursing Students' Representations of Sexual Diversity: A Qualitative Analysis of Cultural Competence Development Using Narrative Photography.

To address health disparities among LGBTIQ+ communities, nurses must demonstrate cultural competence. This study aims to explore nursing students' perceptions of sexual diversity to enhance their cultural competence. A descriptive qualitative methodology was utilized with 48 first-year nursing students at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Spain). Students created narrative photographs with reflective quotes to illustrate their understanding sex, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The thematic analysis of 62 images and reflections identified five themes: Recognizing diversity by expanding my cultural knowledge, Developing my cultural awareness, Gender and sexuality as cultural construction, Empathy as a bridge for transcultural care, and Becoming an ally. The findings indicate that students possess a strong understanding of LGBTIQ+ health issues and a commitment to fostering inclusive health care settings. The study highlights the necessity of integrating LGBTIQ+ health content into nursing curricula to improve cultural competence and mitigate health disparities.

(012) HOLDING BACK HEALTH: THE IMPACT OF RESTROOM AVOIDANCE ON URINARY HEALTH IN TRANSGENDER AND GENDER-DIVERSE INDIVIDUALS

Abstract Introduction Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals often experience significant barriers to using public restrooms due to discrimination, harassment, and fear of violence. These challenges are rooted in societal stigma and policies that restrict access to gender-affirming restrooms. Such barriers may lead transgender people to avoid using public restrooms entirely, often resulting in prolonged periods of urinary retention. Holding in urine for extended durations is a behavior associated with an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder dysfunction, and other adverse health outcomes. Despite these risks, limited research exists exploring the specific health implications of restroom avoidance in transgender populations, highlighting an urgent need for focused study in this area. Objective This narrative review aims to analyze existing literature on the health effects of urinary retention and bathroom avoidance. Specifically, it seeks to assess the frequency of restroom avoidance in transgender populations, identify contributing factors, and evaluate the subsequent impact on urinary health. By addressing this understudied issue, the review aims to inform policies and advocacy efforts to reduce bathroom-related health disparities within transgender communities. Methods A comprehensive search of peer-reviewed articles was conducted using PubMed, GoogleScholar, and Scopus databases. Keywords included “transgender,” “restroom avoidance,” “urinary health,” “health effects,” “UTIs,” and “bladder dysfunction.” Qualitative and quantitative studies examining restroom-related behaviors and their health outcomes were included. Articles discussing systemic discrimination of transgender people and its role in health disparities were also reviewed. Articles were screened and selected based on PRISMA guidelines. Data were extracted and synthesized, focusing on prevalence, risk factors, and reported health consequences. Results The review identified 15 studies meeting inclusion criteria comprising qualitative and quantitative research articles. Across studies, restroom avoidance rates ranged from 60% to 90% among transgender individuals, with fear of harassment, violence, and non-inclusive restroom policies cited as primary reasons. Five studies reported a significant association between restroom avoidance and increased UTI prevalence in TGD populations. Four studies documented symptoms of bladder dysfunction, including urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence, linked to prolonged urine retention. Additionally, two studies, including the largest survey of transgender adults to date, reported that over 30% of respondents restricted eating or drinking to avoid using restrooms, further exacerbating health risks. Mental health impacts, such as anxiety and distress associated with restroom avoidance, were frequently noted as comorbid issues across multiple studies. Conclusions The results highlight the significant role of systemic discrimination in shaping health outcomes for transgender individuals, with restroom avoidance behaviors acting as a factor in the development of mental and physical health outcomes, including urinary disease. These findings are particularly concerning for transgender youth, who spend a significant portion of their day in school. Bathroom avoidance, and as a result, urinary retention, can increase their vulnerability to health issues during critical developmental years. These results highlight the need for urgent interventions, including the implementation of inclusive restroom policies, to mitigate health disparities and promote the well-being of transgender communities. Disclosure No.

The Convergence of Technology and Healthcare: A Public Health Perspective

The public health landscape is being profoundly reshaped by the rapid convergence of information technology (IT) and healthcare. This paper explores the multi-faceted implications of emerging technology, including AI, big data analysis, telemedicine and wearable devices, for public health efforts. Author examines how these advancements facilitate enhanced disease surveillance, personalized health interventions, and improved access to care, particularly for underserved populations. Furthermore, we address the critical considerations surrounding data security, ethical implications, and digital equity. By adopting a comprehensive public health perspective, we analyze the potential of IT to revolutionize preventative care, promote population health, and mitigate health disparities. This analysis highlights the importance of strategic implementation of new technologies, in order to maximize beneficial outcomes for public health.

Abstract 4946: Liver disease risk: Cyanotoxins in water and food sources in Guam

Abstract Liver cancer is the third most common cancer among males in Guam, where incidence rates are 2.6 times higher than the U.S. average. Rates of liver cancer among Pacific Islanders are even higher in comparison with incidence among Micronesians and CHamorus at 4.6 and 2.8 times greater respectively. Chronic liver disease, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), cirrhosis, which serve as risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), account for a significant health burden in Guam’s Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) population. This health disparity has consistently plagued the community for decades and its cause remains unknown. Emerging evidence implicates microcystins (MCs), liver-damaging toxins produced by cyanobacteria, as a potential environmental contributor to liver disease and HCC prevalence. MCs are widespread in tropical freshwater and marine ecosystems and can bioaccumulate in human biospecimens (serum, saliva, and urine). In preliminary studies, MCs have been detected in residents of Guam and Hawaii. This study served to more comprehensively quantify sources of MCs in food and water sources on Guam while also examining the correlation between MC levels in human biospecimens and primary sources of drinking water and produce. This study analyzed water and produce samples from residents of Guam who participated in a previous University of Guam Liver Study and consented to follow-up research (CHRS#: IRB-21-110). Participants completed detailed surveys regarding their drinking water sources (tap, filtered, or store-bought), village of residence, and the top three fruits and vegetables they consumed. Each participant provided samples of their tap and drinking water, while produce consumption patterns guided the collection of local and imported produce. MCs in water and produce samples were quantified using the Abraxis Microcystins-ADDA SAES ELISA, a sensitive assay for detecting microcystin congeners. Tap water samples were more frequently MC-positive compared to filtered water. Detectable levels of MCs were found in both locally sourced produce and imported produce, highlighting multiple routes of exposure. A moderate positive correlation was also observed between participants’ serum MC levels and the MC content of their water samples. Although MC concentrations in water and produce were generally minute, the potential for bioaccumulation is significant, particularly given the elevated levels detected in serum samples. These findings suggest that chronic exposure to MCs through tap water and produce consumption may contribute to liver disease disparities in Guam’s AAPI communities. Further research is warranted to examine how these environmental toxins may contribute to the etiology of liver disease in this community, providing critical insights to inform public health interventions aimed at reducing exposure and mitigating health disparities. Citation Format: Ella Marie Macatugal. Liver disease risk: Cyanotoxins in water and food sources in Guam [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 4946.

Abstract 3738: Triangulating the metabolic crossroads: understanding the complex interplay between metabolic dysregulation and obesity cancer risk

Abstract Obesity is on the verge of surpassing tobacco use as the leading modifiable cause of cancer in the U.S., contributing to over 40,000 new cancer cases annually. With obesity rates rising, especially in younger populations, its association with increased cancer risk is becoming more evident. There is an urgent need to understand the mechanisms underlying the relationship between obesity related metabolic dysregulation and cancer risk, including factors that may mitigate health disparities. Recent advances in molecular oncology and metabolic research provide opportunities in understanding the intricate connections between metabolic dysregulation, obesity, and cancer. This session will describe a novel triangulation approach, synthesizing evidence from randomized controlled trials, mechanistic animal studies, and large-scale secondary data analyses to build a comprehensive understanding of these relationships from the NCI-sponsored Metabolic Dysregulation and Obesity Cancer Risk Consortium (MeDOC). MeDOC is guided by team science and transdisciplinary approach to advance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms that connect obesity, metabolic dysregulation, and cancer risk to identify markers that will enhance cancer risk prediction and identify targets for intervention. Both obesity and metabolic dysregulation contribute to a cascade of derangements in adipocyte function, growth factors, inflammation, gut microbiome, immune function, sex hormones, lipid and glucose metabolism which, in turn, can disrupt several downstream signaling pathways related to cancer initiation and progression. These derangements occur systemically and within the tumor microenvironment itself. Through 5 individual projects and 6 collaborative projects in human and animal studies, we are currently evaluating the role of A-FABP (adipocyte fatty acid binding protein), ceramides, inflammation, gut mediated metabolites, gut microbiome dysbiosis in cancers of the colon, breast, and liver, facilitated by the coordinating center. Methodological triangulation will be emphasized throughout, demonstrating how randomized trials provide causal inference, animal studies reveal mechanistic insights, and secondary data analyses establish population-level patterns and clinical relevance. Experts from the MeDOC Consortium will review current understanding, describe the ongoing human and animal studies and big data analytic methods to establish robust causal frameworks. Open discussion will include our early career members to engage the community to identify emerging areas. Chairperson: Marinella Temprosa Hallmarks of metabolic dysregulation and their role in obesity cancer risk: Bing Li Harmonization of Animal Studies: Liza Makowski Design of Randomized and Observational Studies: James Hebert Transdisciplinary Collaboration Discussion: Neli Ulrich Citation Format: Marinella Temprosa, Bing Li, Liza Makowski, James Hebert, Cornelia Ulrich. Triangulating the metabolic crossroads: understanding the complex interplay between metabolic dysregulation and obesity cancer risk [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 3738.

The dynamic impact of community social vulnerability on COVID-19 outcomes: A census tract-level analysis of Fulton County, GA.

COVID-19 case and death rates have been variable across geography and time; an understanding of community social vulnerability and variation in COVID-19 outcomes is needed to better respond to acute public health needs and prioritize post-pandemic recovery. We analyzed records of confirmed COVID-19 cases (N = 106,037) and deaths (N = 2,107) in Fulton County, Georgia, from 3/4/2020 to 11/11/2021. We developed the Social Vulnerability Index-Plus (SVI+) as a composite measure of 19 census tract-level social and health indicators summarizing community vulnerability. Ecological analyses included linear regression estimates of differences in weekly COVID-19 case and death rates per 100,000 population by SVI + across 201 census tracts. Multilevel analyses included log-binomial regression estimates of relative risk of individual-level death among confirmed cases according to the SVI+. Calendar periods included Pre-Vaccine (03/2020-12/15/2020), Post-Vaccine/Pre-Delta variant surge (12/16/20-06/30/21), and Post-Vaccine/Delta variant surge (7/1/21-11/21). We observed a positive association between SVI + and both COVID-19 census tract-level case and death rates. Analyses by calendar period indicated that the strongest association between SVI + and both case rates, and death rates was in the Post-Vaccine/Delta variant surge period. Analyses of individual-level death among cases showed a positive association between SVI + and COVID-19 death after accounting for age, race, and sex. SVI + and individual-level death were positively associated in all calendar periods. Even after vaccine availability, communities with higher social vulnerability experienced worse COVID-19 outcomes. The findings reiterate the importance of addressing social determinants by increasing public health efforts in vulnerable communities to mitigate health disparities in future pandemics.

150 Evaluating ChatGPT’s role in enhancing mental health care for Hispanic LGBTTQI+ young adults: A comparative study

Objectives/Goals: Evaluate the effectiveness of ChatGPT as a complementary tool for addressing the mental health needs of Hispanic LGBTTQI+ young adult patients. We will also explore the experience of clinical healthcare providers with the integration of ChatGPT as a complementary tool in psychotherapy with Hispanic LGBTTQI+ young adults. Methods/Study Population: In this mixed-method study, we will create hypothetical clinical cases that reflect common mental health challenges experienced by LGBTTQI+ Hispanic population. These cases will be presented to three groups: 1) ChatGPT app, 2) clinical mental health care providers, and 3) clinical mental health care providers collaborating with ChatGPT. Each group will provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan based on the case information. A panel of experts will evaluate each plan using a standardized rubric to provide a score on clinical accuracy and on the ability to address specific needs of Hispanic LGBTTQI+ patients. Statistical analysis will be used to evaluate the differences in the scores of each domain and qualitative content analysis to evaluate the experience of clinical mental health care providers using ChatGPT. Results/Anticipated Results: The results will provide evidence of the effectiveness of ChatGPT as a supportive tool in mental health care. We anticipated that the combination of a clinical mental health care provider and ChatGPT to develop a diagnosis and treatment plan would produce better outcomes than either ChatGPT or the clinical mental health care provider working independently. We will also expect to find a positive attitude toward the integration of ChatGPT applications, viewing them as useful tools that complement traditional psychological interventions for Hispanic LGBTTQI+ young adults. The study will provide evidence of the effectiveness of ChatGPT to complementing clinical practice involving Hispanic LGBTTQI+ young adults. Those results in a preclinical phase are preconditions to a more applied intervention. Discussion/Significance of Impact: We aim to improve the quality of life for LGBTTQI+ Hispanics by developing innovative psychological treatments enhanced by AI apps. By developing innovative treatments, we are addressing and mitigating health disparities within the LGBTTQI+ Hispanic community in Puerto Rico and contributing to a broader effort of inclusivity and health equity.

Concept of digital health literacy revisited: Using text network and topic model analysis

BackgroundThe rapid integration of ICT into healthcare has elevated the critical role of digital health literacy (DHL). However, the conceptual relationship between DHL and electronic health (eHealth), along with the impact of transformative events such as the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the COVID-19 pandemic, remains inadequately investigated.ObjectiveThis study seeks to analyze research trends in DHL across four distinct historical periods to uncover key themes and their temporal evolution.MethodsA comparative analysis of 2645 abstracts from Scopus publications (1977–2022) was conducted, segmented into four periods: (I) emerging era (1977–2006), (II) establishment era (2007–2016), (III) diffusion era (2017–2020), and (IV) post-pandemic era (2021–present). Text network analysis identified core keywords, and Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) extracted dominant topics and their temporal evolution.ResultsSince 2006, DHL research has exhibited consistent growth, underpinned by transformative advancements during the Fourth Industrial Revolution and further amplified by a significant surge in scholarly engagement in the post-pandemic era. Importantly, during the diffusion era (Period III), a divergence in the trajectories of “digital health literacy” and “electronic health literacy” emerged.Text network analysis revealed a progression toward greater uniformity in node sizes over time, coupled with an increase in the complexity and intricacy of connections between nodes. These findings indicate a growing diversity and nuanced understanding of concepts associated with DHL. Moreover, research in the post-pandemic era (Period IV) emphasized the critical role of DHL in addressing health disparities and advancing equitable access to healthcare.ConclusionThe study reveals the dynamic progression of DHL research, catalyzed by technological advancements and global health crises. Strengthening DHL, particularly among vulnerable populations, is crucial for mitigating health disparities in a rapidly digitalizing world. Future research should prioritize the development of targeted interventions and examine DHL's impact across diverse sociocultural contexts.

Pediatric Resident Perspectives on How to Teach About Neonatal Health Inequities: A Multisite Exploratory Study.

Pediatric Resident Perspectives on How to Teach About Neonatal Health Inequities: A Multisite Exploratory Study.

Concept paper: Strategic healthcare administration and cost excellence for underserved communities (SHACE-UC)

Crafted by a visionary MBA graduate, the Strategic Healthcare Administration and Cost Excellence for Underserved Communities (SHACE-UC) model is a pioneering approach aimed at transforming healthcare delivery in underserved areas. This model seeks to bridge the gap between the need for high-quality patient care and the financial and logistical constraints often present in these communities. By applying advanced business management principles, SHACE-UC aims to enhance healthcare accessibility, quality, and sustainability in regions that are traditionally marginalized. The Strategic Healthcare Administration and Cost Excellence for Underserved Communities (SHACE-UC) model is a revolutionary concept designed by a visionary MBA graduate to revolutionize healthcare delivery in underserved areas. SHACE-UC is built on the premise of bridging the gap between the imperative for high-quality patient care and the prevalent financial and logistical constraints in such communities. By leveraging advanced business management principles, SHACE-UC is poised to elevate healthcare accessibility, quality, and sustainability in regions traditionally marginalized from adequate healthcare services. The SHACE-UC model is a comprehensive approach that integrates strategic healthcare administration with a focus on cost excellence. It recognizes the unique challenges faced by underserved communities and offers tailored solutions to address them effectively. Through meticulous planning and execution, SHACE-UC aims to optimize resource allocation, streamline processes, and enhance operational efficiency within healthcare facilities serving these communities. Key components of the SHACE-UC model include strategic planning, resource optimization, technology integration, and community engagement. By adopting a proactive approach to healthcare management, SHACE-UC endeavors to preemptively address the needs of underserved populations, thereby mitigating health disparities and improving overall health outcomes. Furthermore, SHACE-UC prioritizes collaboration with local stakeholders, including healthcare providers, community leaders, and policymakers, to ensure the alignment of initiatives with the specific needs and cultural nuances of the target communities. This participatory approach fosters trust, promotes inclusivity, and enhances the sustainability of interventions implemented under the SHACE-UC framework. In summary, the Strategic Healthcare Administration and Cost Excellence for Underserved Communities (SHACE-UC) model represents a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery. By harnessing the power of business management principles, SHACE-UC offers a transformative solution to address the healthcare challenges faced by underserved populations. Through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, SHACE-UC is poised to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the health and well-being of communities that have long been neglected in the healthcare landscape. Keywords: Healthcare, Cost, Community.