Quality Of Health Services Research Articles

Consumer self-protection behavior of online meal safety during the COVID-19 pandemic: the impact of risk perception and effect of satisfaction with management safety performance

PurposeThis study aims to assess the effects of risk perception and management subject satisfaction on consumers' online meal food safety self-protection behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses 742 questionnaires collected via a two-stage online survey conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, between December 2021 and January 2022. The entropy method, descriptive statistics, ordered logit model, stepwise regression models, interaction terms and decentralization method were used in the quantitative analysis. Respondents’ written responses to self-protection behavior were categorized into five groups.FindingsLess than half of consumers were aware that online food products carry the risk of SARS-COV-2 (44.48%). Between 30 and 40% of consumers took insufficient or no self-protection measures. Risk perception significantly and positively affected self-protection behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. Consumers' management subject satisfaction has a positive moderating effect on risk perception, with the moderating effect of the satisfaction of online retailers being significant at the 5% level. Risk perception significantly and positively influences consumer self-protection behavior in provinces not affected by the pandemic.Originality/valueThe findings stress the benefits of synergistic interventions by consumers and management subject to food safety measures and the inclusion of tailored interventions during events threatening public health to effectively address food safety. The study offers valuable insights contributing to the improvement of public health outcomes, customer trust and service quality within the online food delivery industry.

Integrating large language models in mental health practice: a qualitative descriptive study based on expert interviews

BackgroundProgress in developing artificial intelligence (AI) products represented by large language models (LLMs) such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT has sparked enthusiasm for their potential use in mental health practice. However, the perspectives on the integration of LLMs within mental health practice remain an underreported topic. Therefore, this study aimed to explore how mental health and AI experts conceptualize LLMs and perceive the use of integrating LLMs into mental health practice.MethodIn February–April 2024, online semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 experts (12 psychiatrists, 7 mental health nurses, 2 researchers in medical artificial intelligence) from four provinces in China, using snowballing and purposive selection sampling. Respondents’ discussions about their perspectives and expectations of integrating LLMs in mental health were analyzed with conventional content analysis.ResultsFour themes and eleven sub-themes emerged from this study. Firstly, participants discussed the (1) practice and application reform brought by LLMs into mental health (fair access to mental health services, enhancement of patient participation, improvement in work efficiency and quality), and then analyzed the (2) technological-mental health gap (misleading information, lack of professional nuance and depth, user risk). Based on these points, they provided a range of (3) prerequisites for the integration of LLMs in mental health (training and competence, guidelines for use and management, patient engagement and transparency) and expressed their (4) expectations for future developments (reasonable allocation of workload, upgrades and revamps of LLMs).ConclusionThese findings provide valuable insights into integrating LLMs within mental health practice, offering critical guidance for institutions to effectively implement, manage, and optimize these tools, thereby enhancing the quality and accessibility of mental health services.

Optimalisasi Pelaksanaan Pemantauan dan Evaluasi Kinerja Penyelenggara Pelayanan Publik (PEKPPP) di Puskesmas Gunung Anyar

Optimizing the implementation of monitoring and evaluation of public service provider performance (PEKPPP) at Puskesmas Gunung Anyar is a crucial effort to enhance public health service quality. This study employs a qualitative approach with a case study method to delve into the subject. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis. Findings indicate the necessity of efficient management information system integration and enhanced human resource capacity. Additionally, active community participation in the evaluation process is crucial to improve responsiveness and accountability of Puskesmas. The research results show that the implementation of monitoring and evaluation at the Gunung Anyar Community Health Center still faces various challenges, including limited human resources, lack of training, and minimal use of information technology. To overcome this obstacle, it is recommended to increase human resource capacity through regular training, develop an integrated management information system, and increase community participation in the evaluation process. Implementation of this strategy is expected to increase the effectiveness of performance monitoring and evaluation, which in turn will improve the quality of health services at the Gunung Anyar Community Health Center. This study provides important insights for policy makers in formulating better policies for managing health services at the Puskesmas level.

Global Research Trends on Factors Affecting Patient Satisfaction Levels in Hospital Inpatient Wards: A Bibliometric Analysis

ABSTRACT Research on patient satisfaction in hospital inpatient rooms is one of the main focuses in efforts to improve the quality of health services. Understanding the factors that influence patient satisfaction is crucial for policy makers and healthcare practitioners. Although various studies have been conducted, the global map of this research trend is still not clearly depicted. This study aims to fill this gap by conducting a bibliometric analysis of the literature related to patient satisfaction in hospitals, using a visualization approach to provide deeper insights into the dynamics of research in this area. The method used involved data collection of scholarly articles from 2014 to 2024 using Google Scholar's Publish or Perish application. A total of 50 articles were selected based on relevance to keywords such as Patient Satisfaction, Inpatient Room, Satisfaction Factors, Hospital, and Health Services. This data was then analyzed using VOSviewer to visualize the relationship between various elements in the literature through network visualization, overlay visualization, and density visualization. This approach mapped research trends, identified key clusters, and showed collaboration patterns and dominant topics. The results show that service quality and patient satisfaction are the main focus in the literature. Research clusters showed significant attention to basic aspects of healthcare such as hospital care and facilities, while demographic aspects and specific determinants were less explored. Citation analysis showed that articles providing comprehensive reviews or practical models received more attention. In addition, the density visualization revealed the dominance of quality of care aspects, but also showed the potential for further research on topics such as technological innovation and the impact of health policy. The conclusions of this study show that although much research has been conducted, there are still significant research gaps that can be further explored. This study maps global trends in patient satisfaction studies, and provides guidance for researchers to focus on less explored areas, thereby contributing to the improvement of healthcare quality in hospitals. Keywords: Patient Satisfaction, Service Quality, Hospital, Bibliometric Analysis.

Machine learning technology for good health and well-being for sustainable human security in South Africa

The failure to achieve sustainable development in South Africa is due to the inability to deliver quality and adequate health services that would lead to the achievement of sustainable human security. As we live in an era of digital technology, Machine Learning (ML) has not yet permeated the healthcare sector in South Africa. Its effects on promoting quality health services for sustainable human security have not attracted much academic attention in South Africa and across the African continent. Hospitals still face numerous challenges that have hindered achieving adequate health services. For this reason, the healthcare sector in South Africa continues to suffer from numerous challenges, including inadequate finances, poor governance, long waiting times, shortages of medical staff, and poor medical record keeping. These challenges have affected health services provision and thus pose threats to the achievement of sustainable security. The paper found that ML technology enables adequate health services that alleviate disease burden and thus lead to sustainable human security. It speeds up medical treatment, enabling medical workers to deliver health services accurately and reducing the financial cost of medical treatments. ML assists in the prevention of pandemic outbreaks and as well as monitoring their potential epidemic outbreaks. It protects and keeps medical records and makes them readily available when patients visit any hospital. The paper used a qualitative research design that used an exploratory approach to collect and analyse data.

Analysis of Challenges and Opportunities for Improving the Health System in Afghanistan: Innovative Approaches and Sustainable Solutions

This research explores the challenges and opportunities for improving the health system in Afghanistan. The main objective is to identify the major issues within the healthcare system and propose sustainable solutions to enhance the quality of health services. Using a mixed-method approach (qualitative and quantitative), data were collected through semi-structured interviews with experts and a review of credible scientific sources. The findings indicate that a lack of healthcare infrastructure, a shortage of specialized human resources, and management issues are among the primary challenges facing Afghanistan's healthcare system. Additionally, opportunities such as international support and utilizing modern technologies in healthcare have been identified. The study concludes that investment in infrastructure, human resource training, and strengthening international collaborations are essential to improve the healthcare situation in Afghanistan. The study's recommendations emphasize the importance of investments in infrastructure, comprehensive training for health workers, and international partnerships to strengthen service delivery. This analysis provides practical insights for policymakers and international organizations, which could ultimately help build a more resilient health framework in Afghanistan.

CUIDADOS DE ENFERMAGEM EM SITUAÇÕES TRAUMATICAS

In Brazil, nursing care in traumatic situations was based on the North American models adopted by the Fire Departments and the Mobile Emergency Care Service (SAMU). Due to issues related to legal aspects, in our country, one of the greatest challenges encountered in emergency care units, and one of the reasons that contributed to the support of several structures. METHODOLOGY: This is a descriptive epidemiological narrative review with a qualitative approach. It is a narrative review of the literature, a method that consists of a syntactic analysis of publications, enabling a synthesis of published studies and eliminating gaps that need to be filled by knowledge, through new bibliographic research. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS Nursing professionals, equipped with solid scientific knowledge, play a crucial role in improving the quality of health services, especially in the care of patients in critical situations. This expertise contributes significantly to a better prognosis for patients, demonstrating that evidence-based practice is essential for positive results. CONCLUSION: With the development of this work, it was possible to evaluate the evidence found from literature on nursing care in traumatic situations and their complications. In addition, during this study, we saw the awareness of the nursing team about the importance of medical record notes, which, when well prepared, present valuable elements for the diagnosis of the patient’s needs and for the planning and evaluation of the assistance provided within the scope of nursing care.

Universal Health Care Coverage for Aging Population

The term Universal Health Coverage (UHC) refers to a situation where “all people (both males and females, boys and girls) have access, without financial hardship, to the full range of type of quality health services when and where they need them, now and at times”. The UHC envisages coverage of the full range of essential health care services: from health promotion to (1) ‘Prevention’, (2) ‘Treatment’, (3) ‘Rehabilitation’, and (4) ‘Palliative care’ [aimed at improving quality of life of people (adults and children) and their families confronted with life-threatening illness]. It is pertinent to note that the UHC aligns with the SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) Target 3.8: achieve universal health coverage. The UHC is, thus, global commitment. However, in to deliver this promise, national governments need and inter-governmental organizations need to have health systems that are rooted in the locations communities they serve. Also, such health systems need to be • Need-based, • Efficient, and • Equitable. The author of this review paper argues that Primary Health Care (PHC) is the most effective and cost-efficient way to reach out to people with the UHC, with consideration of “need-based approach”. Further, it is due to this consideration of need-based theory that every country, with its own socio-economic and demographic profile, adopts a different strategy for the purpose of achieving the UHC. Furthermore, national governments decide what to cover, depending on the needs of their populations, including availability of health infrastructure (resources). Investment in the scientifically designed UHC programs has the potential to ensures that health needs of people are (a) ‘Identified’, (b) ‘Prioritized’, and (c) ‘Addressed’. The conceptual framework of the UHC is of increased relevance for aging population (individuals above the age of 65). The author of this work is of the considered research view that objective of achieving the SDG-3.8 target cannot be fully and adequately realized without transforming health care system that has significant impact on functional ability in older age people (or aging population). Objective of this evidence-based review paper is to investigate into significance and implications of the UHC for aging population. Also, it briefly outlines renewed strategies needed for the UHC for aging population. Secondary data (largely ‘qualitative’ in nature) have been used. The method of data analysis is ‘descriptive’, involving non-statistical (mathematical) techniques. The paper briefly concludes that scientifically-designed mechanism for offering the UHC for older people, without financial burden, is crucial. It is important that health financing systems of the national governments are designed to cater to health needs of older people, while protecting them from to access services when they are needed, but also to protect them from financial catastrophe (by abolishing “out of pocket spending”).

Provision of Digital Primary Health Care Services: Overview of Reviews.

Digital health is a growing field, and many digital interventions have been implemented on a large scale since the COVID-19 pandemic, mainly in primary health care (PHC). The development of digital health interventions and their application in PHC are encouraged by the World Health Organization. The increased number of published scientific papers on this topic has resulted in an overwhelming amount of information, but there is no overview of reviews to summarize this evidence. This study aims to provide policy makers, health managers, and researchers with a summary of evidence on digital interventions used in PHC. This overview of reviews searched the Web of Science and MEDLINE databases for systematic and scoping reviews on assessments of digital technologies implemented in PHC published from January 2007 to March 2023. Only reviews that addressed digital interventions whose targets were real patients or health care providers (HCPs) were included. A total of 236 records were identified from the search strategy, of which 42 (17.8%) full-text papers were selected for analysis, and 18 (7.6%) reviews met the eligibility criteria. In total, 61% (11/18) of the reviews focused their analysis on specific digital health interventions (client-to-provider telemedicine, provider-to-provider telemedicine, health worker decision support systems, systems for tracking patients' health status, client participation and self-care platforms, and provision of education and training to health workers), and 39% (7/18) of the reviews focused on specific topics related to PHC (preventive care, chronic disease management, behavioral health disorders, the COVID-19 pandemic, multicomponent PHC interventions, and care coordination). Most studies in the included reviews agreed on barriers to implementation, such as software and apps developed without involving end users, the lack of training of HCPs and patients in digital technology use, and the lack of reimbursement and billing strategies for remote consultations. However, they showed several mixed results related to health service quality and patients' clinical conditions and behavior changes. Research in digital health applied to PHC is still concentrated in high-income countries, mainly in North America and Europe. The mixed results related to health service quality and patients' clinical conditions or behavior changes may have been caused by deficiencies in the process of implementing digital interventions. It is necessary to examine the entire impact pathway and the causal relationship among implementation, health service quality, and clinical condition outcomes to support the spread of digital health in PHC settings.

Communication with Health Personnel and Human Rights: A Perspective from People with Mental Disorders

AbstractMental health care has focused on participation, which, in addition to improving recovery processes, constitutes a tool to defend the human rights of people with mental disorders. For this participation, communication is a fundamental element. The objective of the present research was to analyzed the perception of the human rights and communication with healthcare personnel in care processes, from leaders of mutual aid groups or support groups in various contexts of Colombia. It is expected that the generated information can contribute to the evaluation of the quality of mental health services from a human rights and health participation perspective, in contexts similar to the one being analyzed. A qualitative approach has been used, which takes information from six leaders of support groups for mental health, in four regions of Colombia. Said information was analyzed through a thematic analysis, contrasting with the vision of the researchers and with the current theory. It is found that the subject of communication was made up of categories such as Previous ineffective treatments and Perception of a violation of dignity. Communication barriers are pointed out, such as attitudes of mental health professionals, but the influence that the health system and social and political barriers can have on the same communication is recognized. From the perception of leaders of mental health support groups, it is concluded that it is necessary to improve aspects of communication in health personnel. In addition, clinical mental health care could also be a space for the promotion of human rights.

Enablers and barriers of community health programs for improved equity and universal coverage of primary health care services: A scoping review

BackgroundCommunity health programs (CHPs) are integral components of primary health care (PHC) systems and support the delivery of primary care and allied health and nursing care services. CHPs are necessary platforms for delivering health services toward universal health coverage (UHC). There are limited prior studies on comprehensive evidence synthesis on how CHPs strengthen community health systems for the demand and supply of PHC services. Therefore, this scoping review synthesized existing evidence on the interlinkage between CHPs and the community health system and beyond for delivering and utilising PHC services toward UHC.MethodsWe conducted a scoping review of research articles on CHPs. We identified research articles in six databases (PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Embase) and Google Scholar using search terms under three concepts: CHPs, PHC, and UHC. Of the 3836 records identified, 1407 duplicates were removed, and 2346 were removed based on titles and abstracts. A total of 83 articles were eligible for the full-text review; of them, 18 articles were removed with reasons, and the other 16 were included through hand search. Themes were identified and explained using Sacks and colleagues’ “Beyond the Building Block” framework.ResultsA total of 81 studies were included in the final review. Studies described CHPs as foundations for community health system readiness for PHC services, including decentralization in the health sector, community-controlled governance, resource mobilization, ensuring health commodities (e.g., through community pharmacies), and information evidence. These foundational inputs mediate the actions of CHPs by partnership with community organizations and health workforces (e.g., community health workers). CHPs contributed to improved access to health services by providing health services in public health emergencies, affordable and comprehensive care, and modifying social determinants of health.ConclusionsCHPs are platforms for implementing and delivering PHC services close to communities. They help to modify social determinants of health, promote health and wellbeing, reduce care costs, prevent disease progression, and reduce hospitalisation rates. CHPs are integral parts of community health systems and require investment to improve access to PHC services. Gaps and challenges of CHPs include inadequate funding, limited engagement of the private sector, poor quality of health services, and limited focus on non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Further implementation research is needed to mitigate the burden of NCDs. Health systems efforts focus on increasing resources (e.g., financial and human) required in CHPs to ensure the quality of PHC services provided through CHPs toward better service access, and reaching the unreached and achieve equity and universality of PHC services.

Restoring trust in vaccination through collective engagement with key populations in Eastern Europe

Abstract Issue/problem COVID-19 vaccination rates remained below 50% in Moldova, North Macedonia, and Serbia, especially among vulnerable populations like pregnant women and those with chronic diseases. This was strengthened by a lack of targeted communication and training for healthcare workers, and COVID-19 fatigue. Strategies to increase vaccine demand and confidence are a global priority, especially among vulnerable populations. Description of the solution From May 2022 to April 2024, the USAID MOMENTUM Routine Immunization Transformation and Equity project employed behavior integration to design a social and behavior change strategy, centering on vaccination as a part of a healthy lifestyle. It was implemented through continuing medical education (CME) and community engagement (CE) workshops with vulnerable populations, supplemented by cross-country learning exchanges. The outcomes provide a framework for public health initiatives aimed at boosting vaccine uptake through innovative, behavior-based methods. Results 1,618 healthcare professionals, able to reach 2.5 to 4.8 million patients, received training in immunization, COVID-19 vaccines, and quality health service, and 99% indicated confidence in applying the knowledge. 265 CE workshops, engaging 4,079 patients, increased awareness and addressed concerns related to vaccination. Of 3,223 patients who were followed up, 47% reported setting an appointment with their doctor regarding vaccination, 27% discussed vaccination with their partners, and 7% proceeded to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Lessons Behavior Integration helped address key barriers to vaccination and informed the design of strategies (i.e. situating COVID-19 vaccination as part of a healthy lifestyle). Establishing trust with healthcare providers and patients through collective engagement improved health behaviors. Focusing on health as a wider priority helped re-establish the significance of vaccination as part of a healthy lifestyle. Key messages • Behavior science and behavior integration helped identify and address barriers, as well as design tailored interventions to improve vaccination demand and confidence. • Collective engagement, focused on integration of COVID-19 vaccination as part of a healthy lifestyle, achieved results through addressing vaccine hesitance from both sides of the equation.

A UTILIZAÇÃO DE BIOMATERIAIS EM PROCEDIMENTOS CIRÚRGICOS ODONTOLÓGICOS

Sustainable practices are necessary in all areas, and in dentistry, this need is becoming increasingly present. Thus, new materials and materials become important in this process. Among these materials, biomaterials stand out. Biomaterials are natural or synthetic materials used in contact with biological systems whose purpose is to repair or replace tissues, organs or functions of the organism, with the aim of maintaining or improving the patient's quality of life. This literature review aims to examine and demonstrate the application of biomaterials, highlighting them as a viable option in dentistry. Currently, in dentistry, three categories of biomaterials stand out: metals, polymers and ceramics, with the use of Nile tilapia skin in dentistry being considered an innovation. Biomaterials must present physical and biological properties compatible with the host's biological tissues, in order to stimulate an adequate response from them. As demonstrated, the use of biomaterials in surgical procedures becomes necessary. Biomaterials, their use and innovations, as highlighted throughout this literature review, emerge as a fundamental tool in promoting quality, efficiency and sustainability in oral health services.

Challenges And Strategies For Implementing Performance-Based Capitation In Indonesian Community Health Center : A Scoping Review

This study examines the implementation and challenges of performance-based capitation (KBK) at Community Health Centers (Puskesmas) in Indonesia, as a part of the National Health Insurance Program, aiming to improve the efficiency and quality of primary health services. Despite its potential, the implementation of KBK faces various challenges including inadequate human resources, limited infrastructure, and insufficient monitoring systems. The study uses a scoping review framework based on the Public Health Care Monitoring Conceptual Framework by WHO, analyzing 11 selected studies from 2021 to 2024. Findings indicate that internal factors such as management capacity, health worker competence, and organizational culture significantly impact the effectiveness of KBK. External factors like local government support, funding policies, and infrastructure availability also play crucial roles. Technological barriers, particularly in remote areas, hinder optimal policy implementation. The study emphasizes the need for clear regulations, consistent policy dissemination, and effective monitoring to ensure successful KBK implementation. Recommendations include strengthening leadership, training health workers, improving infrastructure, and enhancing digital health technology utilization. These strategies aim to optimize resource allocation, enhance service access, and improve patient satisfaction in Indonesia’s primary health care system.

Effectiveness Of Team-Based Training Programs In Hospitals

The Effectiveness of Team-Based Training Programs in Hospitals aims to evaluate the effectiveness of team-based training programs in developing the competencies of health workers in hospitals. The research is based on the importance of collaboration between health professions to improve quality of care, but is often hampered by communication and coordination gaps. The research methodology involved systematically evaluating the training program qualitatively, measuring changes in trainees' competencies, and exploring participants' perceptions and experiences. The main objectives of the study were to evaluate the effectiveness of the program in developing health worker competencies, measure changes in participant competencies, explore participant perceptions and experiences, and provide recommendations for future program improvements. It is expected to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of team-based training programs and identify areas that require improvement. This will be used to improve future training programs, with the ultimate goal of improving health worker collaboration and the quality of health services for patients. The implications of this study include contributions to human resource development in healthcare and the promotion of a culture of collaboration between healthcare professionals. The research findings from the study on the Effectiveness of Team-Based Training Programs in Hospitals indicate several positive outcomes. First, participants reported improvements in communication, particularly in emergency situations, where teams responded more swiftly and effectively. The program also led to enhanced coordination between shifts, reducing errors in patient care and improving the overall quality of services provided

The economics of mental ill-health in the EU/EEA

Abstract This presentation will provide an overview of the challenges and costs of mental ill health in 29 EU/EEA countries and an economic assessment of options to address current policy gaps. Nearly 20% of people in the EU/EEA experience mental ill health, with a particularly high prevalence among vulnerable groups such as people on low incomes or young people. However, in the majority of cases, and particularly for those with milder forms, these conditions go undiagnosed. Even when diagnosed, access to quality health services is sub-optimal, mainly due to financial issues or waiting times. The European Union and its Member States have identified mental ill health as a major public health threat, but there are still significant policy gaps and a lack of evidence on the most effective and cost-effective interventions to implementation. Building on its methodology for identifying and evaluating better public health policies for better lives, the OECD has recently extended the scope of its economic work to mental health. This presentation will start by providing an estimate of the health and economic burden of mental ill health in EU/EEA countries and will present evaluations of best practices in this field recently introduced by EU Member States. The talk will not only present the results of the analyses but will also use the identified case studies to discuss the approach used and some of the methodological issues involved in carrying out economic analysis for a set of diseases with high burden but relatively low mortality.

Health services consumption and barriers in the health care of persons of Roma origin in Bulgaria

Abstract Introduction Persons of Roma origin often face serious inequities concerning their state of health and their access to good quality health services. The aim of the study is to analyze the health services consumption and barriers in the health care of persons of Roma origin in Bulgaria. Methods The cross-sectional study was conducted and a semi-structured face to face interview were applied in 2022. Adult citizens of Roma origin were covered as follows: residents of Knezha - a total of 59 people and households from the towns of Knezha and Kotel - 18 families (50 persons). The cities are representative of settlements of medium size with separate neighborhoods of Roma origin. Data processing was performed by SPSS v.24. Results Over two thirds of the covered persons of Roma origin do not have health insurance. In each household an average of 1.8 uninsured people was found, but in some of the families almost all of the elderly members are not insured. Due to lack of health insurance in 14% of the households were reported a refusal to provide health care by general practitioners (GPs) and specialists in out-hospital care. 82.1% of Roma women have never had a mammography and 71.4% a smear test. In 83.3% of the households required direct payment for the provision of health services, which corresponds to the high share of informal payments in health care in Bulgaria (34 % in 2023), but among the Roma population this share is significantly higher. The households have to pay for specialized out-hospital care (66.6%), GPs (22.2%), and for emergency assistance (5,6%). 44.4% of the families have used the services of emergency care in the last one year. While in one third of the families an adult member was hospitalized in 27.8% of them there is a need for hospital treatment, which is unrealized. Conclusions The Roma population in Bulgaria is characterized by an unfavorable health profile and the health services provided to the persons of Roma origin are inadequate to their needs. Key messages • Persons of Roma origin in Bulgaria often face serious inequities concerning their state of health and their access to good quality health services. • Improving the socioeconomic status of people of Roma origin will increase their opportunities for health insurance and going to improve their access to health services.

Factors influencing antenatal care attendance in the eight contact era policy: a case of selected maternal health service facilities in Blantyre, Malawi

BackgroundMaternal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa and Malawi remains high. Effective antenatal care (ANC) services can reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. However, attendance to ANC clinics and the quality of services provided remain a challenge. Malawi adopted the 2016 WHO antenatal care model and there is a need to assess factors that influence antenatal care attendance. The main objective of this study was to assess factors influencing attendance in the era of the eight ANC contact policy in Blantyre.MethodsThis was an exploratory qualitative design in which 28 respondents participated using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions for the data collection process. The study sites included two healthcare facilities, namely Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital and Bangwe Health Centre, and a rural community (William Village Bangwe Rural) in Blantyre district. The 28 study participants included 11 ANC attendees, which comprised seven women in their final trimester and four postpartum women who attended ANC during their pregnancy, five midwives running the ANC clinics, and 12 non-users of ANC. The recordings were transcribed verbatim. The data were organized using Microsoft Excel and Microsoft word and analyzed using inductive content analysis.ResultsThe factors promoting ANC attendance in the context of the eight ANC contact policy include; motivation from health workers, family, and spouses and the women’s perceptions of ANC particularly the role it plays in preventing, detecting, and treating illness, but also preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes. On the other hand, the hindering factors to ANC attendance included lack of knowledge of the new ANC visit guidelines, financial constraints, quality of health services provided, attitude of healthcare workers, inadequate availability and training of healthcare workers, perceived poor quality of ANC services and personal beliefs.ConclusionIt is essential to provide comprehensive training to healthcare workers in the antenatal department regarding the new WHO ANC recommendations. This will help improve the quality of services at the antenatal clinics, including ensuring the availability of all necessary resources to encourage attendance. Additionally, promoting comprehensive spousal support, encouraging participation in activities, and adequately planning scheduled visits can help overcome financial barriers and further support antenatal attendance.

EFEKTIVITAS PROGRAM JAMINAN KESEHATAN NASIONAL (JKN) BPJS KESEHATAN DALAM MENINGKATKAN KUNJUNGAN PASIEN DAN PELAYANAN KESEHATAN DI KLINIK MATA PANDAAN

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the National Health Insurance (JKN) BPJS Kesehatan program in increasing patient visits and health services at Pandan Eye Clinic. The research method used is quantitative with a descriptive and analytical approach. Data was collected through documentation studies, interviews, and observations. The results of the study show that the JKN BPJS Kesehatan program has increased patient visits and the types of health services at Pandaan Eye Clinic. JKN BPJS Kesehatan patients are also satisfied with the health services they receive. In conclusion, the JKN BPJS Kesehatan program has been proven effective in increasing access to and quality of health services at Pandan Eye Clinic.

Study of near misses among health care professionals in United Arab Emirates: Towards a comprehensive strategy for quality health services

Study of near misses among health care professionals in United Arab Emirates: Towards a comprehensive strategy for quality health services