Traditional Healthcare Approaches Research Articles

Chronic inflammation: Cross linking insights from Ayurvedic Sciences, a silver lining to systems biology and personalized medicine

Precision in personalized medicine is a crucial subject that needs comprehensive discussion and scientific validation. Traditional healthcare approaches like the Ayurvedic Sciences are often contextually linked with personalized medicine. However, it is unfortunate that this knowledge concerning Ayurveda and personalized medicine is restricted to applying systems biology techniques to 'prakriti' the phenotypic expression and characterization detailed in the literature. There are other significant constructs besides prakruti that interest an Ayurvedic physician, which accounts for crafting precision in evidence-based medicinal practices. There is this influential model of Ayurvedic healthcare practice wherein the physician maps specific personalized characters in addition to prakruti to deduce the host responses to endogenous and exposome conditions. Subsequently, tailored protocols are administered that bring about holistic, personalized outcomes.The review aimed to determine the effective methods for integrating Systems Biology, Ayurvedic Sciences, and Personalized Medicine (precision medicinebased). Ayurveda adopts a holistic approach, considering multiple variables and their interconnections, while the modern reductionist approach focuses on understanding complex details of smaller parts through rigorous experimentation. Despite seeming extremes, ongoing research on lifestyle, gut health, and spiritual well-being highlights the evolving intersection between traditional Ayurvedic practices and modern science. The current focus is on developing the fundamental concept of Ayurveda Biology by incorporating Systems Biology techniques.Challenges in this integration include understanding diverse data types, bridging interdisciplinary knowledge gaps, and addressing technological limitations and ethical concerns. Overcoming these challenges will require interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative methodologies, substantial investment in technology, and cultural sensitivity to preserve Ayurveda's core principles while leveraging modern scientific advancements. The focus of discussions and debates on such collaborations should be breakthrough clinical models, such as chronic inflammation, which can be objectively related to specific stages of disease manifestations described in Ayurveda. Validating patient characteristics with systems biology approaches, particularly in shared pathologies like chronic inflammation, is crucial for bringing prediction and precision to personalized medicine

Delivering Digital Health Solutions that Patients Need: A Call to Action

Digital health solutions have the potential to complement traditional healthcare approaches and deliver improved health outcomes, but there are system-wide challenges that need to be addressed. These include fragmentation of the digital health landscape, regulatory processes that lack the agility to accommodate the fast pace of digital health advances, and inadequate transparency around data sharing and data governance. All of these challenges have led to mistrust, limited understanding and sharing of best practices, a lack of digital education and awareness, and insufficient patient and public engagement and involvement. In this paper, we argue that for digital health solutions to fulfil their potential, there needs to be a significant increase in early, meaningful, and sustained engagement with the people they intend to benefit. The uptake as well as the impact of digital solutions created in partnership with patients for patients are greater and more relevant to the communities they address.

Application of Agile Methodology in Managing the Healthcare Sector

The healthcare sector has gradually embraced effective project management for improved healthcare outcomes. This paper explores the application of the agile methodology for managing the healthcare sector. This study significantly contributes to the healthcare sector by providing insights into the application of Agile methodology, potentially enhancing healthcare management and patient outcomes. In this article, the author reviews ten peer-reviewed articles, analyses the findings, and generates three themes: Agile methodology development and implementation in the healthcare sector, the healthcare sector's readiness factors/levels for applying the agile methodology, and how agile methods improve healthcare outcomes. The findings across the three identified themes reiterate the crucial role of organizational leadership, flexible structures, and advanced technology in enhancing agility within the healthcare sector. Moreover, the studies highlight the potential of agile principles to enhance customer-centricity, customer satisfaction, and overall adaptability in healthcare organizations. The study recommends healthcare institutions priorities Agile competency development through training programs and cultivate a culture of adaptability to support Agile methodology adoption. Furthermore, it suggests quantitative research to validate readiness factors' influence, focusing on patient-centered outcomes and comparative studies between Agile and traditional healthcare approaches to bridge literature gaps.

Abstract 6310: Designing genomic test reports using a user-centered approach for clinicians in Pakistan

Abstract In the developed world, precision medicine and genomics are transforming traditional healthcare approaches. In spite of rapid technological progress being made in genomics, a 'genomic divide' is emerging between developed and developing countries. This is partly because of the limited genomic literacy of healthcare professionals and a scarcity of available genomics workforce that reportedly deters them from proposing genomic testing. We aim to help reduce this 'genomic divide' by proposing a genomic test report design for clinicians in Pakistan, that incorporates user-centered design principles. We tested two commonly used genomic reportswiththat varied in language, content and layout. Report A was a one-page genomic report from the Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, of a patient with suspected hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Report B was a report from FoundationOneCDx, of a breast carcinoma specimen with confirmed findings mentioned. We employed a qualitative descriptive study design, including a survey for trainees, non-specialists, and specialists. The parameters recorded were: subject comprehension, overall visual impression, level of difficulty of the language, and ease of understanding, along with, actionability and degree of trust. A total of 49 medical professionals across 11 institutes in Pakistan participated in the survey, of which 11 were specialists and 38 were non-specialists. We extracted 19 recommendations from the survey and broadly grouped them into three categories: communication style, report content, and layout. About 25% of the respondents commented that they would prefer a short and concise report, 20.8% wanted the language to be ‘doctor-friendly’ and 8.3% preferred data to be presented in tables. All recommendations were incorporated into our proposed genomic test report template. The template displays the results and what they mean for the patient (in layman's terms for ease of access to non-specialists), what possible action is to be taken by the doctor, and details of further information and support regarding the results. We propose the addition of a box on technical methodology at the end of the report template that may help in assisting with refreshing the genomic knowledge of non-specialists. Our findings have shown that in order to design impactful genomic reports for clinicians in Pakistan, we will have to start with a user-centered design approach. This can be instrumental in helping us improve the adoption of genomic testing in clinics around Pakistan. Citation Format: Momal Agha, Faisal Khan. Designing genomic test reports using a user-centered approach for clinicians in Pakistan [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 6310.

Viral Epidemics and traditional health care systems: It's time to act honestly, proactively and collectively

It is in the backdrop of recent COVID- 19 epidemic which is currently stirring the world; a debate erupted regarding the possible utility of traditional health care wisdom in prevention and care of diseases where modern medicine apparently lacks a real cure. Undoubtedly, viral diseases for the mesmerizing dynamism of their causative organisms, top this wish list. Eventually the world seems to be eager to listen about traditional health care approaches to curb viral epidemics if these are found worthy in handling such situations.

Understanding the Adoption and Diffusion of a Telemonitoring Solution in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Qualitative Study.

BackgroundWomen with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) require regular follow-ups and overall management to normalize maternal blood glucose and improve pregnancy outcomes. With the advancements made in the digital field, telemedicine is gaining popularity over traditional health care approaches in different medical fields. As for GDM, telemonitoring solutions seem to improve women’s quality of life and enhance self-management.ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to understand, from patients’ and health care professionals’ (HCPs) perspectives, what drives the adoption and diffusion of a telemonitoring solution (myDiabby) in a context where telemonitoring activities are still not compensated like traditional follow-ups.MethodsThe study was conducted in 12 diabetes services in France using myDiabby for monitoring and managing patients with GDM. A qualitative research approach was adopted for collecting and analyzing data. A total of 20 semistructured interviews were conducted with HCPs working in different health structures in France, and 15 semistructured interviews were conducted with patients who had been using myDiabby. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.ResultsDifferent determinants need to be taken into consideration when adopting an innovative health technology. By drawing on the diffusion of innovation theory, a set of factors associated with the technology (the relative advantages, compatibility, ease of use, testability, and observability of the telemedicine platform) has been identified as affecting the adoption and diffusion of telemonitoring solutions in French diabetes services. In addition, data analysis shows a set of environmental factors (the demographic situation of HCPs, the health care access in rural communities, and the economic and political context in France) that also influences the spread and adoption of telemonitoring systems in French hospitals.ConclusionsEven though telemonitoring activities are still not remunerated as traditional follow-ups, many French HCPs support and encourage the adoption of telemonitoring systems in GDM. As for patients, telemonitoring systems are perceived as a useful and easy way to monitor their GDM. This study contributes to recognizing the value of telemonitoring interventions in managing GDM and considering the expansion of telemonitoring to other chronic conditions.

Theoretical underpinnings of interventions that effectively promote physical activity in adult men

The aim of this systematic review and qualitative content analysis was to investigate the theoretical underpinnings of interventions that effectively promote physical activity (PA) in adult males. This was done with a focus on gender-sensitivity and behavior change theory. In total, 26 studies, involving evaluations of 12 programs, were included. Out of these 12 programs, five overlapping intervention types could be distinguished. The results indicate that all programs mainly operate through actions and messages, while reducing the threats that traditional health care approaches pose to men’s masculine capital. Thereby, they are successful in recruiting a substantial number of men as participants even for settings or activities which are considered to have a feminine element to it. To initiate and maintain behavior change, most interventions refer to behavior change theory, but many of them lack theoretical purity. Instead, deliverers focus on well-defined and evidence-base behavior change techniques, which facilitate conscious and deliberate planning of engagement in PA. Nonconscious impulsive processes as well as operant conditioning are mostly ignored. This review in combination with a qualitative content analysis contributes to strengthening the theoretical foundation of future interventions meant to stimulate health-enhancing PA in adult men.

Health coaching as a lifestyle medicine process in primary care

Lifestyle medicine is a relatively new approach to managing lifestyle-related disease. Health coaching is an integral part of lifestyle medicine that can be used to facilitate behaviour change in key lifestyle areas. The aim of this article is to familiarise general practitioners with the emerging discipline of health coaching and show its effectiveness in primary care. The recognition that the traditional healthcare approach is not fully effective at supporting health behaviour change in an era of chronic diseases has led to the emergence and growth of a new approach to the prevention and treatment of lifestyle-related diseases - the practice of health coaching.

Providing integrated health and social care to vulnerable populations in the community

Background: Primary care professionals in deprived neighborhoods often see patients with multiple health and psychosocial problems. Health literacy of these patients is often low and self-management limited, due to the multiplicity of problems and a lacking sense of control. Traditional healthcare approaches seem unable to manage the accumulating physical, mental and social problems of these patients. This results in high healthcare consumption, suboptimal health outcomes, patients with unmet needs and frustrated professionals. For patients with multiple health and psychosocial problems, integrated care from medical and mental health professionals and social services is needed. But many vulnerable patients are not familiar with social services in their neighborhood, and may find it difficult to accept such support. As they often visit the primary care practice, doctors and practice nurses could facilitate access to social care. However, like their patients, they are not always aware of which services are available and the support they can offer. Collaboration of these professionals as a team around patients, and an integrated approach to help patients manage their health and psychosocial problems in relation to each other, could benefit both patients and the healthcare system. This asks for a biopsychosocial vision on health, that goes beyond the dominant medical perspective traditionally hold by primary care professionals. In many countries initiatives are developed to strengthen local integration of medical and mental healthcare and social services. Important issue is the signalling of ‘shared clients’. In this workshop we present two initiatives, one from the Netherlands and one from Finland. We will discuss their merits as well as their options, barriers and conditions for structural implementation and transformation to other regions. Aims and Objectives: This workshop aims to learn from experiences of professionals, managers and researchers involved in the development, implementation and evaluation of collaborations of primary care and social care providers targeting vulnerable populations. For this purpose, two initiatives will be presented and discussed: Overvecht Gezond! (Healthy Overvecht), The Netherlands Parempi Arki (Better everyday life), Finland These projects show similarities in their aims, target populations and development methodologies, but differ in their scale, management structure, policy and legal context. Regarding the latter, Finland is currently preparing a national-level reform to integrate its health and social care systems. In the Netherlands, municipalities have become fully responsible for social care. Format: Introduction: scope of the workshop [Mieke Rijken, chair, 5 min] Overvecht Gezond!: description, experiences, observations [Chantal Leemrijse/Petra van Wezel/Nikki Makkes/Neis Bitter, 20 min] Parempi Arki: description, experiences, observations [Anneli Hujala/Erja Oksman/Risto Kuronen,20 min] Interactive discussion (supported by mobile technology) [30 min] Target audience: Care professionals working in (primary) healthcare or social care, managers of care organisations, patient organisations, financers, policy-makers at local, regional and national level Learnings/Take away: Recognizing ‘shared clients’ is a first step in developing integrated health and social care at local level. ‘Sitting at the same table’ opens the eyes to see the benefits of multisectoral collaboration. A shared health and social care plan is key for providing person-centred care, and facilitates multiprofessional and multisectoral collaboration.

Role of Ethno-veterinary Practices (EVP) in reducing antimicrobial resistance in livestock production systems: a field experience

text (including references) A high disease incidence in Indian cross-bred dairy cows leads to high economic losses. Widespread use of antimicrobials and other veterinary drugs in dairy animals cause (a) residues in animal products and (b) a rising number of antimicrobial resistances, both related to consumer's health hazards. The traditional health care approaches have effective solutions for humans, animals and agriculture. The Ethnoveterinary Program of the Trans-disciplinary University of Bangalore documented local ethnoveterinary practices (EVP) in cooperation with the Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University. Using the rapid assessment method [1] 353 out of the 460 documented ethnoveterinary formulations could be assessed as safe and efficacious. One forty medicinal plants were used in these formulations They subsequently mainstreamed in to the livestock primary health care through field veterinarians and farmers. Veterinarians (154) were trained for using EVP to manage 15 clinical diseases in livestock. They were given practical training for identification of the plants and raw drug, preparation of the formulations and the application under field conditions. We have also trained 2700 farmers for managing and preventing certain clinical diseases in dairy animals using EVP. The Field study using the fresh EVP formulation for mastitis on 314 cases in three states (Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu) indicated 97 & efficacy. 240 milk sample collected from the farmers of different milk cooperative from Kerala and Karnataka before and after intervention showed 18 to 49% residue in the milk which indicative EVP-based natural products is an effective alternative to synthetic chemicals in dairy farming. [1]

Parents' and primary healthcare practitioners' perspectives on the safety of honey and other traditional paediatric healthcare approaches

Traditional and complementary healthcare approaches (TCA) are widely used for children, often because of perceived safety. Honey is a traditional remedy for upper respiratory tract symptoms in infants. Health officials currently advise limiting honey use because of the risk of botulism. This paper discusses honey as a traditional healthcare approach for children in a multi-ethnic community, and parents' and primary healthcare practitioners' (PHPs) perceptions of its safety. As part of a larger study exploring beliefs about TCA, this paper focuses on perceived safety and use of honey, using data extracted for detailed analysis. Eleven parent focus groups (n= 92) and 30 interviews with PHPs were conducted. Qualitative data analysis used the Framework approach. London Boroughs of Brent and Harrow TCA, particularly home remedies, dietary and religious approaches were popular for children. Honey was a particularly common TCA, reportedly used by 27 (29%) parents for their children. Honey was believed to be traditional, acceptable, accessible, natural and safe. It was most commonly used for respiratory tract symptoms and administered with hot water and lemon juice. PHPs were more concerned about the safety of TCA than parents. Almost half (40%) of PHPs mentioned the use of honey for children, few perceived it as a 'treatment' or were concerned about botulism. Others were aware of the risks and some reported challenges in communicating risk to parents. TCA are commonly used for children, honey in particular for respiratory tract symptoms. Parents and some PHPs appear unaware of the risk of botulism from honey use in infants. Healthcare practitioners should ask routinely about the use of honey and other TCA, and consider different parental belief systems in ethnically diverse populations. Further research is required on the use and efficacy of honey for infants, to raise awareness of its benefits and risks.

Advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: rethinking models of care

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unique among leading causes of death in western society. Prevalence, associated morbidity and attributable mortality continue to rise. The resultant cost in quality of life to patients, families and to the health care system in general, demands improvements in the prevention and treatment of this common and ultimately debilitating condition. Traditional healthcare approaches to COPD, based on the biomedical model, have focused on the underlying pathophysiology of disease within which patients receive episodic care aimed at treating and preventing acute exacerbations. In contrast, patients living with COPD interpret it from an individually experienced illness perspective impacted by unique contextual factors that influence personal meaning. The psychosocial ramifications that follow the inexorable decline in capacity and independence are powerful forces shaping the experience of patients living with advancing COPD. The dominant role and impact of psychosocial effects on quality of life in advancing COPD require us to rethink our approach to care to more effectively address these more elusive yet chronically troublesome issues.