Staff Training Research Articles

Promoting Open Access in Israeli Academic Libraries: What Needs to Change?

A Review of: Hadad, S., & Aharony, N. (2024). Librarians and academic libraries’ role in promoting open access: What needs to change? College & Research Libraries, 85(4), 464–478. https://doi.org/10.5860/crl.85.4.464 Objective – The study aims to explore and examine how Israeli librarians perceive their role and the academic library's role in promoting open access (OA) publishing; identify the barriers, challenges, and difficulties in implementing OA; and determine the factors and needs that are required to promote OA. By examining these aspects, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of OA promotion in Israeli academic libraries, the challenges faced by librarians, and the necessary changes and support required to enhance OA adoption in the country's academic institutions. Design – Qualitative design using semi-structured interviews. Setting – University libraries in Israel. Subjects – One representative from each of the ten existing universities in Israel. The ten participants held positions as administrators of the library system at their institution (50%), directors of disciplinary libraries (30%), or directors of information systems in academic libraries of Israeli universities. Among the subjects, 90% were female. In terms of seniority, 60% of respondents had been employed by their institution for over 10 years, while 40% had been less than 10 years in their current positions. Methods – Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom between April and June of 2020. The interviews were based on items from existing surveys on librarians' attitudes towards open access and changes in academic library practices. The authors used thematic analysis to categorize and code the interview responses. This "bottom-up" approach allowed researchers to identify common expressions and recurring themes. The analysis yielded 1,264 statements classified into three main categories with several sub-categories. To ensure reliability, 25% of the statements were analyzed by a second coder, resulting in a Cohen's Kappa of .86 (.8 and above is rated as “almost perfect”). The researchers ensured trustworthiness of data by adhering to four principles: truth-value, applicability, consistency, and neutrality of data. Main Results – The interview data revealed that, in general, librarians see their role as crucial in advising researchers about OA publishing. They view themselves as responsible for implementing changes related to OA after institutional policies are set. The authors identify a myriad of barriers to overcome if OA is going to grow and become a more accepted practice of publishing for Israeli researchers. These barriers include, but are not limited to, lack of budget for OA agreements, lack of cooperation from university management, researchers' unfamiliarity with OA and fears about predatory journals, the influence of journal impact factors, and lack of personnel and training for librarians. In order to overcome these barriers, librarians believe they need clear national and institutional OA policies, as well as cooperation and collaboration between academic institutions on OA initiatives. Librarians also believe that systematic training for library staff in OA publishing is imperative, along with guidance and incentives for researchers to publish in OA journals. The results also yielded qualitative data about librarians’ current involvement in OA, which include participating in OA agreements through library consortia, operating current research information systems (CRIS), promoting institutional policies, and interfacing with university administration on OA issues. The study also revealed that there is a desire among librarians to establish the library as the central body for OA matters within their institutions. Conclusion – Librarians see their role as crucial in promoting open access (OA) publishing, particularly in advising researchers and implementing changes after institutional policies are set. Overall, the study concludes that while librarians see themselves as playing important roles in promoting OA, they face numerous challenges and require additional support and resources to fulfill this role effectively. The research highlights the need for systemic changes at both institutional and national levels to advance OA adoption in Israeli academic institutions.

Analisis Pending Claim Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial (BPJS) Rawat Jalan pada Rumah Sakit Petrokimia Gresik

This research aims to analyze the causes and impacts of pending claims for outpatient services under the Social Security Administering Body (BPJS) at Petrochemical Hospital Gresik. The study uses a descriptive approach with data collection through interviews with various parties involved in the claim process, including administration, collecting, complication, and finance departments. The results show that the main causes of delayed BPJS claims are incomplete documentation, coding errors, and issues in administrative verification. The impact of pending claims includes disruptions to the hospital's cash flow, hindering operational smoothness and patient care services. This research also provides recommendations for improvement, such as enhancing staff training, evaluating the claims system, and improving coordination between related departments to expedite and simplify the BPJS claim process.

Unveiling the role of DHIS2 in enhancing data quality and accessibility in primary healthcare facilities: Evidence from Ethiopia.

The implementation of DHIS2 in healthcare systems has transformed data management practices worldwide. However, its specific impact on data quality, availability, and performance in Primary Health Unit (PHU) facilities in Ethiopia remains underexplored. Therefore, we investigated the contribution of DHIS2 to enhancing data quality, availability, and performance within PHU facilities in Ethiopia. We employed qualitative methods, specifically Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), to gather insights from stakeholders, including healthcare providers and administrators at PHCUs across Ethiopia. Convenience sampling was used for FGDs, while purposive sampling targeted key informants with relevant expertise. Data were systematically analysed thematically, identifying patterns and themes related to DHIS2's impact on data management within PHUs. This approach offered a comprehensive understanding of the system's effectiveness and the factors influencing its implementation, highlighting both successes and challenges in integrating DHIS2 into healthcare practices. Participants from various regions reported significant enhancements in the timeliness, completeness, accuracy, and accessibility of health data following the implementation of DHIS2. While some concerns were raised regarding variations in reporting intervals, the consensus indicated marked improvements in data management processes. DHIS2 standardized data collection methods, enabling healthcare providers to input and access data in real-time. This advancement fostered greater accountability and transparency within the healthcare system. Additionally, unexpected benefits arose, including increased digital literacy among staff, equipping them with necessary skills for effective data management, and the creation of job opportunities, particularly for youth. Ultimately, DHIS2 emerged as a pivotal tool for enhancing data quality and promoting health service equity across Ethiopia. DHIS2 has significantly improved data quality and accessibility in Ethiopia, enhancing healthcare management and accountability across facilities. Healthcare providers should continue to leverage its robust features and prioritize ongoing staff training to improve digital literacy and data management skills. Establishing consistent reporting practices and regular audits will further maintain data integrity and foster a culture of accountability within the healthcare system.

Recommendations for the optimization of student led free vision screening programs

PurposeTo report the summary characteristics of operational models associated with Student Led Free Vision Screening Programs (SLFVSP) and to identify opportunities for program optimization.MethodsAn 81-question mixed methods survey was distributed to SLFVSP leaders nationwide and Medical Student Educators within the American University Ophthalmology Professors (AUPO) Association. Survey responses were analyzed using Mann Whitney U and Fisher’s Exact tests. Themes considering the assets and liabilities of SLFVSPs were summarized using self-reported qualitative data from survey responses. Qualitative and quantitative themes considering were then synthesized into a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats (SWOT) analysis for a collective appraisal of SLFVSP operations. Finally, drivers were identified to generate change ideas to improve SLFVP operations through a collaborative, quality improvement model.ResultsA total of 16 survey responses were included from programs operational for a median of 6 years. Most respondent programs (n = 9) reported year-long operations; no preference between weekday (n = 8) and weekend (n = 7) screening activities was identified. Programs obtained funding from a diverse array of internal and external sources. There was no significant difference in wait time for scheduled appointments compared to a walk-in strategy; overall door-to-door visit times ranged from 15 min to 120 min. Screenings were held in several locations, most commonly in Federally Qualified Health Centers (n = 8) and religious centers (n = 6). Most screening event volunteers were first- and second-year medical students. The qualitative thematic analysis demonstrated that the most commonly self-reported asset was improving access to scarce vision screening services (n = 7) while the most commonly self-reported liability was difficulty recruiting faculty and/or resident for oversight (n = 5). The SWOT analysis revealed while the participant SLFVSPs were bolstered by site experience, community and corporate partnerships for glasses and space to hold vision screening, and institutional support from academic ophthalmology departments, limitations included difficulty with recruitment, space limitations, and poor follow-up care infrastructure.ConclusionCollaborative standardization of SLFVSP operations can promote targeted staff training, organizational stewardship, and consensus building to ensure SLFVSP can offer sustainable vision screening programs that build vision equity at the community level.

Exploring perspectives of type 2 diabetes prevention program coaches and training delivery staff on e-learning training: a qualitative study

BackgroundE-learning can be an effective and efficient mode of training healthcare practitioners. E-learning training for diabetes prevention program coaches was designed and developed with input from end users. Insight from those who deliver the training and coaches who have taken the training can provide critical feedback for further refinement of the e-learning training. The purpose of this study was to understand diabetes prevention coaches’ (i.e., those taking the training) and training delivery staffs’ (i.e., those overseeing the training) perspectives of the coach e-learning training. Individuals wishing to become diabetes prevention program coaches were required to complete and pass the e-learning training to become a certified coach.MethodsA pragmatic paradigm guided the methodology for this study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of diabetes prevention program coaches (n = 8) and diabetes prevention program training staff (n = 3). Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using template analysis. Themes were separately constructed from coach and staff data.ResultsThere were seven high order themes constructed from the coach data: (a) training design, (b) “I didn’t know what to expect from the training”, (c) technology usability, (d) learning, (e) coaches’ backgrounds shaped their training experience, (f) support, and (g) coaches valued the training. Two high order themes were constructed from the staff interviews: (a) streamlining the training delivery, and (b) ensuring coaches meet the diabetes prevention program standard.ConclusionsThis study highlights the importance of exploring perspectives of both those receiving and delivering e-learning training to refine content and processes. Qualitatively evaluating the delivery of e-learning training and modifying the training based on the evaluation results can lead to a more acceptable, efficient, and effective e-learning training. Coaches and staff emphasized the benefits of having high-quality online components, and that the brief training promoted gains in knowledge and improvements in skills. Resultswere used to inform modifications to the coach e-learning training for this diabetes prevention program and can be used to inform other healthcare practitioner e-learning trainings.

Using data from routine health information systems as a public good in Trinidad and Tobago.

This study aimed to explore the use of data from routine health information systems (RHIS) as a public good in Trinidad and Tobago, the challenges faced in doing this and opportunities for strengthening the health information system. For this descriptive qualitative study, purposive sampling was utilized to recruit 19 people who used or produced RHIS data. Online interviews were conducted via Zoom, and all interviews were recorded and transcribed. Pseudonyms were used to protect participants' identity. Transcripts were cleaned and analyzed using Dedoose (v. 9.0.17; Dedoose, Los Angeles, CA, USA). There was significant underutilization of RHIS data as a public good, primarily due to challenges related to data access and quality. Access to the data was stymied by burdensome bureaucratic processes, paper-based recording and storage systems, and ownership and security concerns. Data quality was adversely affected by a lack of standardized data collection forms and processes, staff training, data completeness, and also by technological and infrastructural constraints. Key opportunities for increasing the use of Trinidad and Tobago's RHIS data would include addressing the need for a national electronic health information system, ensuring adequate training for staff involved in data management, and developing a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation plan. Data quality and access must be improved to enable greater use of RHIS data as a public good in Trinidad and Tobago. The planned change from a paper-based to a national electronic data recording and storage system must be expedited, and it should be accompanied by the standardization of processes, and investments in adequate staffing and timely training. Appropriate technological and infrastructural support, as well as an improved data governance system, are also required.

Strategies for Improving Patient Experience and Satisfaction in Healthcare Facilities in USA

Patient experience and satisfaction are critical indicators of healthcare quality and play a pivotal role in shaping care outcomes, trust, and patient retention. This study examines key strategies to enhance patient satisfaction in healthcare facilities in the USA, focusing on communication, technology integration, staff training, environmental improvements, and operational efficiency. Findings reveal that effective communication, combined with empathy and cultural competence, significantly improves patient trust and compliance. Technological advancements like telehealth and patient portals enhance convenience but require addressing digital literacy challenges. Environmental and operational improvements, including noise reduction and workflow optimization, also contribute to positive experiences. The study highlights the need for a patient-centered approach that integrates these elements holistically. However, challenges such as resource constraints and cultural sensitivity require further exploration to ensure equitable implementation. These insights provide actionable recommendations for healthcare facilities to prioritize patient satisfaction as a cornerstone of quality care. Keywords: Patient Experience, Patient Satisfaction, Healthcare Quality, Communication Strategies, Technology Integration, Empathy Training, Environmental Improvements, Operational Efficiency, Patient-Centered Care.

Method for raising personnel awareness of information security using the Gophish software application

In today’s cyberspace, where threats are constantly evolving, phishing attacks require special attention. They are one of the most common social engineering methods used to gain access to confidential information by manipulating users. Such attacks can lead to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational risks. One of the key problems is the lack of staff training in recognizing phishing threats. Traditional training methods do not provide adequate interactivity and realism, which reduces the effectiveness of awareness raising. To address this issue, new approaches are needed that model real-life cyberattack scenarios. The Gophish tool allows you to create personalized phishing campaigns that simulate real attacks and analyze user reactions. Its functionality includes creating email templates, sending messages, and collecting data on user interaction. This allows organizations to identify weaknesses, adjust training programs, and conduct additional training. The results show that using Gophish increases staff awareness of social engineering. Interactive simulations contribute to a better understanding of phishing threats and help users recognize the danger in time. Thanks to the analytics collected, management can quickly implement corrective measures. The development of artificial intelligence and machine learning opens up new opportunities for improving such tools. Future solutions will be able to adapt simulations to specific users, making training even more effective.

Evaluating access to National Health Insurance Scheme Services

Access to health insurance is vital for achieving Universal Health Coverage, yet barriers such as high costs, inadequate coverage, and systemic inefficiencies often impede access to necessary health care. This study evaluated access to the National Health Insurance Scheme-provided services among enrollees at the outpatient department (OPD) of Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital (LMUTH) in Lusaka, Zambia, chosen for its role as a pioneering NHIS-accredited facility and its significance as a major publicly funded referral hospital. Data were collected in May 2024 from 270 systematically sampled NHIS enrollees at the OPD of LMUTH using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive analysis revealed a balanced gender distribution, with most respondents aged 35 and above, married, holding tertiary education, and earning a monthly Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) of 20,000 or less. The thematic analysis using NVivo uncovered positive and negative experiences with NHIS services, highlighting issues such as medical service availability, drug shortages, service delays, technological problems, communication challenges, equity in service delivery, and coverage gaps. The key policy implications for improving access to NHIS services include enhancing supply chains, digital infrastructure, coverage to rural areas, staff training, public awareness of the NHIS, and information technology systems.

Assessing Resources Devoted to Electronic Reporting and Automation Among Central Cancer Registries Meeting National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR) Quality Standards

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has emphasized a need for data modernization initiatives (DMIs) to improve the quality and timeliness of cancer surveillance data. To guide such DMI efforts, we need data on the resources required to generate high-quality data. Twenty-one central cancer registries (CCRs) collected data from July 2020 to June 2021. We explored the potential relationship between resources for (1) electronic reporting and automation and (2) the quality of CCR data. We then compared activity-based costs of registries that always (n = 8), sometimes (n = 6), or seldom/never (n = 7) met data quality standards for completeness, timeliness, duplicate rate, and missing values. We found the registries that consistently met data quality standards used more resources on setting up processes to acquire data, training staff, and processing data. Compared to high-quality registries, registries that seldom/never met quality standards spent the most on case finding/data abstraction of non-hospital records. This study provides key findings for resource use, which can guide advancements when implementing electronic reporting and automation to improve CCR operations.

Examining Factors Influencing the Use of Health Management Information Systems Data for Health Facility Planning in Kigoma Ujiji Municipal and Kigoma District Councils, Tanzania

Background: Tanzania has adopted an open-source Health Management Information System (HMIS) to help understand health patterns, make informed decisions, and take action to improve the quality of health services through effective planning. However, generating and utilizing health data in most facilities presents significant challenges. This study examined factors influencing the use of HMIS data for health facility planning in Kigoma Ujiji Municipal and Kigoma District Councils. Methods: This cross-sectional explanatory study was conducted using a qualitative approach in two districts of the Kigoma region—Kigoma and Ujiji district councils. Participants included members of the Council Health Management Teams and staff from six healthcare facilities. The study employed the PRISM framework to explore how technical, organizational, and behavioral factors influence the use of data in health facility planning. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis, supported by NVivo software, was applied to manage and analyze the data. Results: A total of 32 participants were involved in this study. Most reported that health facilities had standard indicators, data collection forms, and established data analysis and reporting procedures, with clear HMIS roles and responsibilities. However, challenges such as poor data quality, insufficient IT resources, inadequate staff training, limited financial support, and unsupportive organizational culture were reported to affect the effective use of data in planning. Conclusions: Poor data quality, inadequate training, inadequate HMIS staff, and poor information culture, motivation, attitudes, and values limited data use. This study calls for health system interventions to address staffing, training, information culture, data quality, and individual attitudes and behaviors to improve the use of data in health facility planning and decision-making.

Patient Experiences of Service Quality and its Impact on Satisfaction at B&B Hospital

Purpose: The research paper attempted to provide the consensus regarding the influence of perceptual service quality on customer satisfaction at B&B hospital in Lalitpur district. Design/methodology/approach: Impact were assessed in 2024 in Lalitput, Nepal by employing 186 samples with the help of convenience sampling method. Sample were selected from existing patients from the B&B hospital. Five-point Likert scalequestion were asked and the validity and reliability of the questionnaire were confirmed. Findings: Measure of central tendency and dispersions, correlation and regression analysis were used through SPSS 25. Study found that the patients perceived better service quality in case of outpatient department of the hospitals, and services of thehospitals were found better based on the patient experience. Conclusion: The study reveals that B&B Hospital meets patient expectations through high service quality, with physician consultation, perceived costs, and physical environment influencing satisfaction, highlighting the need for strategic enhancements. Implications: The study implies that hospitals can boost patient satisfaction and attract more patients by investing in staff training, enhancing communication, creating a comfortable environment, and addressing service costs, thus differentiating themselves through targeted service improvements. JEL Classification: I11, I13, I18

Cloud Infrastructure Transformation in Healthcare: A Comprehensive Analysis of Applications, Benefits, and Implementation Challenges

The rapid evolution of cloud infrastructure in healthcare represents a transformative shift in how medical institutions deliver, manage, and optimize patient care services. This comprehensive article examines the integration of cloud-based solutions across diverse healthcare organizations, analyzing the multifaceted impact on operational efficiency, patient care outcomes, and technological capabilities. Through extensive article research combining quantitative performance metrics with qualitative stakeholder insights, this study reveals significant improvements in electronic health record management, telemedicine capabilities, and artificial intelligence integration, while addressing critical security and compliance requirements. The article demonstrates substantial enhancements in operational efficiency, cost reduction, and healthcare service delivery, with organizations achieving meaningful returns on investment and improved patient care capabilities. While acknowledging implementation challenges such as technical barriers, security concerns, and staff training requirements, the article indicates that cloud infrastructure adoption in healthcare yields considerable benefits and positions organizations for future technological advancement. The article concludes that successful cloud integration is essential for modern healthcare delivery, enabling enhanced patient care coordination, improved diagnostic capabilities, and streamlined operational processes, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and responsive healthcare ecosystem.

Identifying Factors Associated With Heightened Anxiety During Breast Cancer Diagnosis Through the Analysis of Social Media Data on Reddit: Mixed Methods Study.

More than 85% of patients report heightened levels of anxiety following breast cancer diagnosis. Anxiety may become amplified during the early stages of breast cancer diagnosis when ambiguity is high. High levels of anxiety can negatively impact patients by reducing their ability to function physically, make decisions, and adhere to treatment plans, with all these elements combined serving to diminish the quality of life. This study aimed to use individual social media posts about breast cancer experiences from Reddit (r/breastcancer) to understand the factors associated with breast cancer-related anxiety as individuals move from suspecting to confirming cancer diagnosis. We used a mixed method approach by combining natural language processing-based computational methods with descriptive analysis. Our team coded the entire corpus of 2170 unique posts from the r/breastcancer subreddit with respect to key variables, including whether the post was related to prediagnosis, diagnosis, or postdiagnosis concerns. We then used Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) to rank-order the codified posts as low, neutral, or high anxiety. High-anxiety posts were then retained for deep descriptive analysis to identify key themes relative to diagnostic progression. After several iterations of data analysis and classification through both descriptive and computational methods, we identified a total of 448 high-anxiety posts across the 3 diagnostic categories. Our analyses revealed that individuals experience higher anxiety before a confirmed cancer diagnosis. Analysis of the high-anxiety posts revealed that the factors associated with anxiety differed depending on an individual's stage in the diagnostic process. Prediagnosis anxiety was associated with physical symptoms, cancer-related risk factors, communication, and interpreting medical information. During the diagnosis period, high anxiety was associated with physical symptoms, cancer-related risk factors, communication, and difficulty navigating the health care system. Following diagnosis, high-anxiety posts generally discussed topics related to treatment options, physical symptoms, emotional distress, family, and financial issues. This study has practical, theoretical, and methodological implications for cancer research. Content analysis reveals several possible drivers of anxiety at each stage (prediagnosis, during diagnosis, and postdiagnosis) and provides key insights into how clinicians can help to alleviate anxiety at all stages of diagnosis. Findings provide insights into cancer-related anxiety as a process beginning before engagement with the health care system: when an individual first notices possible cancer symptoms. Uncertainty around physical symptoms and risk factors suggests the need for increased education and improved access to trained medical staff who can assist patients with questions and concerns during the diagnostic process. Assistance in understanding technical reports, scheduling, and patient-centric clinician behavior may pinpoint opportunities for improved communication between patients and providers.

Study on the Impact of Diversified Service Strategy: Case of Haidilao

In today's competitive market environment, it has become a trend for enterprises to seek diversified development. The diversification strategy aims to have a positive impact by expanding business areas and services to reduce corporate risks and improve market competitiveness. This paper takes Haidilao as an example to study the effect of the implementation of diversified service strategy from 2017 to 2023. Besides, the research shows that diversified service strategy has improved the financial performance of Haidilao enterprises. However, through comprehensive analysis by SWOT method, it can be seen that the implementation of diversification strategy is not smooth sailing, and many enterprises are faced with various challenges in the practice process, such as increased management difficulty, dispersed resources, and difficult to guarantee service quality. The study provides relevant theoretical reference and decision-making information for the catering industry. Through the implementation of diversified service strategy, Haidilao has achieved results in improving financial performance and market competitiveness, but it also faces problems such as cost increase, core business may be neglected, and service quality is difficult to control uniformly. Therefore, the optimization scheme of optimize staff allocation, strengthen staff training)and optimize resource allocation is proposed in this paper. This successful experience has important guiding significance and reference value for the whole catering industry in the aspects of business development, brand building, customer management and strategic planning.

The Influence of Online Tax Services on Service Delivery at Kenya Revenue Authority – Nakuru Station

Purpose: This study examined the influence of Online Tax Services on service delivery at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Nakuru Station. Methods: Utilizing a descriptive case study research design, the study targeted a population of 504 staff and customers at the station. A sample size of 287 was derived using Yamane’s (1967) formula. Results: The findings reveal a moderate positive correlation (Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.538) between Online Tax Services and service delivery, indicating that improvements in the availability and functionality of these services are associated with better service delivery outcomes. Regression analysis further confirms that Online Tax Services significantly impact service delivery, with an unstandardized coefficient of 0.317 and a standardized coefficient of 0.271. This suggests that enhancing these services results in a moderate improvement in service delivery. Respondents also noted the benefits of reduced processing times, increased accuracy of tax assessments, and improved taxpayer compliance. However, concerns about staff training and readiness indicate a need for further capacity-building efforts to fully optimize the benefits of digitization. Conclusion: The study concludes that while Online Tax Services positively influence service delivery, additional focus on staff engagement and system reliability is essential for sustained improvements.

The Complementarity of Programme Logic and Critical Systems Heuristics: Critical Systems Practice for the Evaluation of Emergency Relief in Australia

ABSTRACTThe research aim was to improve the outcomes of Australia's Emergency Relief programme by applying the multiperspective multimethodological critical systems thinking and practice. Emergency Relief was designed as a short‐term intervention to assist people facing a financial crisis; however, it was evident and considered problematic that many beneficiaries had an ongoing reliance on the programme. The application of programme logic, the prevailing best practice approach to social services design and evaluation in Australia, demonstrated its strength by revealing opportunities to improve service delivery models through staff training, referral systems, colocation and case management. The application of critical systems heuristics revealed that unintended adverse consequences could result from ‘payment by outcomes’ commissioning and welfare conditionality. The research makes a methodological contribution to systems and evaluation literature by demonstrating the complementarity of programme logic and critical systems heuristics, and the strength in the multiperspective multimethodological approach of critical systems thinking and practice.

Assessing the Impact of Digital Transformation on Access, User Experience, and Knowledge Management in Academic Libraries

This study investigates the impact of digital transformation on access, user experience, and knowledge management in academic libraries. Findings indicate significant improvements in resource accessibility and user satisfaction with digital tools, although challenges remain in interface design and digital literacy. The introduction of AI-driven knowledge management systems has enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of information retrieval. Despite progress, issues such as budget constraints and the need for inclusivity in digital tools highlight areas for continued development. This research emphasizes the need for further investments in technology, staff training, and inclusive practices. .

A Comprehensive Review of Intravenous Oncology Drug Preparation in Pharmacy: Safety, Efficiency, Innovations, and Stability

Introduction: Intravenous (IV) administration of oncology drugs is a critical component of cancer treatment, providing rapid and controlled delivery of therapeutic agents. The preparation of these drugs involves intricate processes that require stringent safety protocols, efficient workflows, and innovative technologies to ensure patient safety and therapeutic efficacy. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current practices and advancements in the preparation of intravenous oncology drugs within pharmacy settings, focusing on safety, efficiency, innovation, and drug stability. Safety: Safety is paramount in the preparation of intravenous oncology drugs, given the hazardous nature of chemotherapeutic agents. Adherence to guidelines such as USP <797> and USP <800> is essential to minimize risks of contamination and exposure. Strategies to enhance safety include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), engineering controls like biological safety cabinets (BSCs) and compounding aseptic containment isolators (CACIs), and rigorous training and education for pharmacy staff. Historical incidents, such as the New England Compounding Center contamination, underscore the critical need for strict safety protocols. Efficiency: Efficiency in drug preparation involves optimizing processes to meet high demand while maintaining safety and quality. Current methodologies include prescription verification, com-pounding, quality control, and dispensing. Technological advancements, such as automated compounding devices (ACDs) and pharmacy management software, have significantly improved efficiency by reducing preparation time and minimizing errors. However, balancing efficiency with safety remains a challenge, requiring careful resource allocation, ongoing staff training, and compliance with safety standards. Innovative Technologies: The integration of cutting-edge technologies, such as robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI), has revolutionized the preparation of intravenous drugs. Robotic systems enhance precision and reduce human error, while advanced aseptic techniques and AI-driven systems optimize dosing and workflow. Future trends include the potential use of 3D printing, nanotechnology, and blockchain to further improve the safety, efficiency, and traceability of drug preparation processes. Stability: Maintaining the stability of compounded drugs is crucial to ensuring their efficacy and safety. Factors such as storage conditions, handling procedures, and compatibility with diluents and containers can significantly impact drug stability. Guidelines like USP <797> provide detailed recommendations for maintaining stability. Research on stabilizing agents, improved packaging, and real-time monitoring systems continues to advance the field, addressing stability challenges and enhancing patient outcomes. Conclusion: This review highlights the critical importance of safety, efficiency, innovation, and stability in the preparation of intravenous oncology drugs. Adhering to stringent safety protocols, optimizing workflows, embracing innovative technologies, and ensuring drug stability are essential for improving patient outcomes and enhancing pharmacy practices. Future research should focus on integrating emerging technologies, standardizing protocols, providing ongoing education, and implementing real-time monitoring systems to further advance the field. By addressing current challenges and embracing new solutions, the preparation of intravenous oncology drugs can achieve greater heights in patient safety and treatment efficacy.

Supporting Patients' Use of Digital Services in Primary Health Care in England: Synthesis of Evidence From a Mixed Methods Study of "Digital Facilitation".

General medical practitioners and other staff at primary care medical practices have an important role in facilitating patient access to online services in the National Health Service in England. These services range from online ordering of repeat prescriptions to conducting online consultations with health care professionals. We have defined "digital facilitation" as that range of processes, procedures, and personnel that seeks to support patients in their uptake and use of online services. We report how we have synthesized the evidence from a mixed methods study of digital facilitation in primary care in England. The study's objectives were to identify, characterize, and explore the benefits and challenges of different models of digital facilitation in general medical practices in England and to design a framework for evaluation of the effectiveness and costs of digital facilitation interventions. Our study comprised scoping review of literature, survey of staff in general practices, survey of patients, and ethnography at case study practices plus stakeholder interviews. We compiled a triangulation matrix of the findings from individual work packages through an iterative process whereby each work package's results were first analyzed separately and were then cumulatively combined across work packages in 3 successive workshops. From the resulting matrix, we developed a program theory and an implementation theory and constructed a framework for evaluations of digital facilitation in primary care. The final step of the synthesis process was to discuss the results with national and regional National Health Service stakeholders. Triangulation yielded a combined set of findings summarized within 11 thematic groupings: 3 setting the scene within which digital facilitation takes place, and 8 related to different types of digital facilitation, their implementation, and effectiveness. Some thematic groupings were evident in the findings of all 4 of the research work packages; others were not addressed in all the work packages but were evident from those where they were addressed. Throughout the synthesis, there were no instances where findings from one work package contradicted the findings of another. Findings either reinforced each other or offered complementary or additional insights. The discussion at the stakeholder meeting held at the end of the study resulted in the research team clarifying some findings but not changing any of them. Digital facilitation can take many forms, though much of what is currently done in primary care practices in England is reactive and passive. Clear lines of responsibility, digital tools and platforms that work well for patients and practice staff, and investment in staff time and training are all needed if digital facilitation is to deliver on its promise. We propose a framework for future evaluations of the effectiveness and costs of digital facilitation interventions.