Training Of Healthcare Professionals Research Articles

Análise da tuberculose e hanseníase nos projetos pedagógicos das faculdades de Medicina e a relação espacial dos casos

Abstract Introduction: Medical education is crucial for the training of healthcare professionals. In Brazil, medical training has advanced, focusing on the Unified Health System and primary care. The inclusion of tuberculosis and leprosy in the medical curriculum is essential due to the impact of these diseases on public health. Medical schools should ensure that students learn about these diseases to improve health outcomes in the country. Objective: This study aims to analyze how the topics of leprosy and tuberculosis are included in the pedagogical projects of medicine courses at university institutions in the Southern region of Brazil. Method: A documentary and exploratory study with a qualitative approach was conducted. Pedagogical projects were collected between January and August 2023. The analysis of the pedagogical projects focused on identifying the keywords “leprosy” and “tuberculosis” and evaluating how these diseases were addressed in the documents, both in theoretical contexts and in practical teaching intentions. Content units were identified and grouped into two main categories: Theoretical Learning and Clinical-Practical Learning. Results: The results indicated that references to tuberculosis were more frequent than leprosy in the analyzed pedagogical projects. Most institutions prioritize teaching these diseases in the early years of medical school, with little emphasis during the clinical internship phase. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that the teaching of these diseases tends to be more theoretical, with few references to clinical practice. A spatial distribution of leprosy in Santa Catarina was also conducted, correlating the presence of medical courses in certain municipalities with the number of leprosy cases diagnosed in those areas. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of reviewing and improving the pedagogical projects of medical courses in Santa Catarina to enhance the teaching of leprosy and tuberculosis. This includes incorporating practical approaches and considering the epidemiological relevance of these diseases in the regions where courses are conducted. The study also emphasizes the need to rethink how these topics are taught and how medical students can play an active role in detecting and managing these diseases in the community.

ICF in Bachelor degree programs-the implementation of the ICF in the clinical reasoning process of physical therapists for neurological patients-optimizing the health curriculum for comprehensive patient care.

The International Classification of Function, Disability, and Health (ICF) is known to be a valuable classification model in interprofessional neurorehabilitation, as it can lead to more patient-centered and self-determined treatment. To acquire the competencies implementing the ICF in the field of neurorehabilitation, it is important to anchor essential skills in the basic training of healthcare professionals. The Institute of Physiotherapy at FH JOANNEUM in Graz/Austria developed a concept to help students learn the necessary skills for implementing the ICF in a structured way. In the area of neurorehabilitation, we linked the ICF model with the Clinical Reasoning Model (CR). Competences are acquired over six semesters. Besides the general topics relating to the ICF (such as history, intention, and language) and CR that are taught in the first year, we focus in the later semesters explicitly on transferring these skills to neurorehabilitation. Therefore, we use interprofessional group work and problem-based courses as essential didactic elements for this transfer of skills. This article aims to show how the ICF could be implemented in Bachelor's degree programs for physiotherapy as well as in other healthcare programs. The authors' experiences are described and some best practice examples when working with the ICF in this field are given.

Feasibility, reliability and validity of self-measurement of knee range-of-motion using an accelerometer-based smartphone application by patients with total knee arthroplasty.

Limited knee range-of-motion (ROM) is common following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). It is associated with functional limitations and patient dissatisfaction. Regular knee ROM assessment is important but accurate testing traditionally requires timely access to trained healthcare professionals. Although accelerometer-based smartphone goniometry has shown to provide reliable and valid joint angles, current evidence of its use still positions healthcare providers as end users instead of patients themselves. Therefore, to maximize the impact of smartphone goniometry on post-TKA care, our study aimed to examine the feasibility, reliability, and validity of patients' self-measurement of knee ROM using an accelerometer-based smartphone goniometry application. Patients were given standard instructions with a practice trial before the actual measurements. Passive knee flexion and extension ROM was measured on 2 sessions in 30 patients with TKA using 4 block-randomized methods: (i) smartphone self-assessment, (ii) long-arm goniometry by physiotherapist, (iii) smartphone assessment by physiotherapist, and (iv) extendable-arm goniometry by physiotherapist with placement adjudication. Feasibility was assessed by the number of participants who could independently perform the self-measurement. To assess intra- and inter-session reliability, we computed intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) from random-effects models. To assess intra- and inter-session agreement, we computed mean absolute differences (MADs) and minimum detectable change (MDC). To assess concurrent validity, we designated extendable-arm goniometry as the "gold standard" and compared other methods against it using ICCs and MADs. All patients were able to comprehend and execute the assessment. 87% (n = 26) found the application easy to administer. Smartphone goniometry by patients showed excellent intra- and inter-session reliability (ICCs>0.97) and minimum variability (MAD = 0.9°-3.9°; MDC95 = 3.1°-9.0°). Smartphone or long-arm goniometry by physiotherapists did not outperform patients' self-assessment (ICC = 0.96-0.99, MAD = 0.7°-3.1°; MDC95 = 2.2°-8.0°). Compared against extendable-arm goniometry, smartphone goniometry by patients measured knee flexion and extension ROM with a MAD of 4.5° (ICC, 0.97) and 2.2° (ICC = 0.98), respectively. Our study demonstrates that smartphone goniometry is feasible, reliable and accurate, and can be used with confidence in the self-assessment of knee ROM post-TKA. Future studies should further explore its utility in telemonitored rehabilitation, and its possible integration into mobile health applications to enhance accessibility to care following TKA.

Service Quality In Indian Healthcare Sector

This research paper examines the concept of service quality in the Indian healthcare sector, with a focus on identifying the key dimensions of service quality and the challenges and opportunities for improving service quality. The paper identifies the key dimensions of service quality in healthcare, including tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. The paper also highlights the challenges facing the Indian healthcare sector in improving service quality, such as inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of trained healthcare professionals, and low levels of patient education and awareness. Finally, the paper identifies opportunities for improving service quality, including the use of technology and innovation, public-private partnerships, and increased funding for healthcare.

Influence of Saliva Collection Method on the Detection of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibodies in the Saliva: A Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Background: Although the nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) are considered as the gold standard specimen for the clinical diagnosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), they pose several limitations such as the high risk of exposure, discomfort to the patients, and requirement of trained healthcare professionals. Aim: This study aimed to investigate “saliva” as an alternate source and the influence of the method of saliva collection on the sensitivity of SARS-CoV-2 detection. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, patients were screened for the COVID-19 infection with NPS. Saliva was collected from the same patients by four different methods (expectoration, drooling, gargling, and using salivary swabs) and stored at 80°C. Saliva samples of the patients who were detected positive for SARS-CoV-2 were analyzed for viral load by RT-qPCR and immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels by ELISA. Results: Out of 350 patients screened, 43 patients were included in the study, which were found to be positive for COVID-19 as evidenced by RT-PCR in the NPS (positivity rate-12.2%). Expectorated saliva exhibited 78.5% sensitivity and drooling method showed 22.2% sensitivity, whereas the salivary swab and gargling method yielded 21.42% and 16.66% sensitivity, respectively. Furthermore, the sensitivity of SARS-CoV-2 detection was reduced to 18.1% and 0.0% in the saliva collected by salivary swab and gargling method above the cycle threshold value 25.0 (NPS). Conclusion: Interestingly, salivary IgG showed better concordance with the viral load as compared to the serum IgG (R20.23 vs 0.04, P = 0.044). Expectorated saliva is a better specimen as compared to the drooling, gargling, and salivary swabs for SARS-CoV-2 viral detection for the clinical diagnosis of COVID-19.

Cinsel fizyolojide ve genital anatomide kadın ile erkek arasındaki benzerlik ve farklılıklar

Sexuality, while differing in definitions and perceptions, has existed since the dawn of humanity. It is a multifaceted concept that begins in the antenatal period and continues throughout life, influenced by physiological, psychological, economic, social, and cultural factors, and is essential for reproductive capability and the continuation of the species. Genital organs involved in reproductive function exhibit differences in structure, shape, and position between males and females. Men’s role in reproduction is limited to sperm production and its delivery to the female reproductive system. In contrast, women’s role in reproduction is much more complex, encompassing ovum production, fertilization, the continuation of the pregnancy, and all stages up to the birth of the fetus. Consequently, the differences in sexual physiology and genital anatomy between males and females are highlighted by the complexity and scope of these roles in the reproductive process. This review examines in detail the differences in sexual physiology and genital anatomy between males and females. The structural and functional characteristics of the reproductive systems reflect the gender-specific functions, revealing the complexity of the reproductive process. These insights provide a fundamental basis for evaluating sexual health and for training healthcare professionals. Therefore, anatomical and physiological knowledge is considered a valuable resource for the development of sexual health services. Keywords: genital anatomy, men, sexuality sexual response cycle, woman

Improvised Femoral Nerve Block Model Using Everyday Items: An Affordable Alternative for Medical Training

Background : Nerve blocks have emerged as a revolutionary approach for managing pain and reducing opioid dependence among patients. Performing nerve blocks under ultrasound guidance in the emergency department (ED) is considered an effective and minimally invasive procedure that can be performed by adequately trained ED physicians. However, the cost associated with commercially available nerve block models poses a significant challenge to widespread adoption and training. To address this issue, our research team developed an improvised femoral nerve block model using readily available everyday items. Methods : The prototype femoral nerve block model was constructed using chicken breasts as a simulated anatomical structure, balloons and spaghetti as tactile representations of vessels and nerves, gel as an acoustic interface, and cling wrap for creating a sterile environment. Results : To perform ultrasound-guided nerve blocks, it is necessary to see the fascial plane division clearly while injecting the anesthetic. This clarity was accomplished by using two layers of chicken breasts, each wrapped individually in cling wrap. Additionally, it is crucial to visualize and differentiate the nerve, artery, and vein. This was achieved by filling the balloon with different substances that served as distinct markers for each vessel. Preliminary results demonstrated that the improvised femoral nerve block model effectively simulated the anatomical and tactile characteristics necessary for nerve block training. Conclusion : In conclusion, our low-fidelity femoral nerve block model offers an affordable and accessible option for training healthcare professionals in ultrasound-guided nerve blocks. By utilizing everyday items, we have demonstrated that cost-effective alternatives can be developed to address the financial constraints associated with conventional training models. Further research is warranted to refine and validate this improvised model and explore its potential applications in various medical specialties.

Elements of fatherhood involved in the gestational period: a scoping review.

To identify in the literature and summarize the elements and characteristics of fatherhood involved during pregnancy. Scoping review that used PRISMA-ScR guide to report this review. Searches were carried out in PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo, LILACS and Scopus. Google search engines and public health agency websites assisted in searches of gray literature and Rayyan in screening studies. A total of 406 articles were identified, of which 16 made up the final sample. Five elements make up an involved fatherhood: feeling like a father, being a provider and protector, being a partner and participant in pregnancy, participating in prenatal appointments and feeling prepared to take care of a baby. Fathers want to be involved in prenatal care, but feel excluded from this process. Public policies that encourage paternal involvement and healthcare professional training to better welcome and promote paternal involvement are of paramount importance.

Sex Workers in Canada Face Unequal Access to Healthcare: A Systems Thinking Approach.

Despite Canada's universal health system, sex workers across the country face an alarmingly high number of barriers when they seek to healthcare services. This has resulted in unmet healthcare needs and substantially poorer health outcomes than the general Canadian population. The objective of this study was to use a systems thinking approach to gain an in-depth understanding of the barriers sex workers face and how access could be improved. The analysis was conducted using a systems thinking methodology, which incorporates systems tools and inquiry processes. The methodology comprised 2 domains of inquiry: (1) Problem Landscape, (2) Solutions Landscape. Systems tools and methods, such as causal loop diagrams, iceberg diagram, and systems mapping, investigated the problem landscape for understanding the interconnected nature of the issue, alongside review of both published and gray literature. An environmental scan explored the current solutions landscape. These methods connected through systemic inquiry processes, including ongoing review and application of diverse perspectives, boundary judgments, interrelationships; enabled gaps and levers of change to be determined. The main barriers sex workers face are stigma, criminalization, accessibility, and cost of healthcare. The stigma of sex work stems from otherization, paternalism, and moralistic, faith-based beliefs. The barriers unique to sex work are stigma and criminalization; both of which surface as avoidance, dislike, and/or fear of medical professionals. Five gaps each with a lever of change to improve access were identified: (1) Stigma - Collectivization and external collaboration, (2) Criminal status of sex work - Decriminalization, (3) Lack of adequate education - Improved healthcare professional training and anti-discriminatory health policies, (4) Lack of support - Increased community-based healthcare services, (5) Cost of healthcare - Universal coverage of "secondary" healthcare components. Through reducing the stigma surrounding sex work, making changes that improve the healthcare services that sex workers receive, and collaboration between involved parties, sex workers can be prevented from falling through the cracks of the Canadian healthcare system; lessening the health inequities sex workers face and improving their health outcomes.

Diabetes and current Indian scenario: A narrative review

Abstract Health needs assessment plays a critical role in identifying priorities and allocating resources to enhance health outcomes and reduce disparities. This write-up focuses on the health priority of diabetic care in India and highlights the challenges faced in its management. The prevalence of diabetes in India is alarmingly high and is projected to increase in the future, making it a significant concern. Key challenges include lack of awareness among the population, poor diagnosis, limited access to quality care, medication adherence issues, and physicians’ limited time and knowledge. Insufficient awareness hampers prevention efforts and understanding of associated complications. Diagnosis and access to quality care remain major challenges, particularly in rural areas, due to various factors such as treatment costs and underdeveloped healthcare infrastructure. Medication adherence is a significant issue influenced by high costs, complex treatment regimens, and limited transportation options. Healthcare professionals face knowledge gaps and time constraints, affecting the optimal management of diabetes. The scarcity of trained professionals exacerbates the situation. The write-up also discusses current policies and programs in India for diabetes care, including the CARRS diabetes care delivery model, the Diabetes Tele Management System, and doctor training programs. While these initiatives aim to improve care, their effectiveness is not extensively evaluated. The conclusion emphasizes the need for increased awareness, improved diagnosis and access to care, medication affordability, enhanced healthcare professional training, and effective policy implementation to address the challenges in diabetic care in India.

CONFRONTING PAKISTAN'S OVERPOPULATION ISSUE FOR LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS

CONFRONTING PAKISTAN'S OVERPOPULATION ISSUE FOR LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS

Workforce Development in Integrated Care: An International Framework

Introduction: Integrated care aims to improve access, quality, and continuity of services for ageing populations and people experiencing chronic conditions. There are several descriptions in the literature recommending training in integrated care for health and social care professionals. One underdeveloped area is a global consensus of the key competencies and a global framework describing what these competencies and models of training look like. This study utilized a consensus building approach (Modified Delphi Study) with global experts with experience in delivering and designing workforce training in integrated care to ascertain which competencies are important to include in the framework and the best ways to implement these competencies. 
 Aims, Objectives, and Methods: The purpose of this study was to analyze the interactions between integrated care education leaders globally to explore what competencies are needed to practice integrated care across a broad range of health and social care settings and to identify the most effective models to implement these competencies. Meticulous and well-informed planning, and the development and implementation of an international competency framework will allow education providers and curriculum developers to incorporate these competencies and proposed models into existing training and curricula.
 A four-step methodological process was used. First, a potential list of competencies and key features of education and training in integrated care were identified based on a systematic scoping review. Second predefined criteria were used to identify the global panelists with experience in delivering or research in education in integrated care to reach consensus on the level of importance of the competencies and key themes. Thirdly, two anonymous iterative Delphi rounds were conducted followed by analysis and consensus of the results. A key focus of the study was determining how the experts engaged people and community in the delivery and design of the education program.
 Results and key findings: Components of training needs to include active involvement of people with lived experience of care in the design, delivery, and evaluation of the training. Other components include incorporating models to train health and social care professionals together to work within and across teams. Incorporating advanced collaboration and shared decision-making skills; a focus on comprehensive assessment of patient and family needs and a focus on primary and community care were some of the key findings of this study. 
 Conclusion: Existing competencies and models of training to build capacity for integrated care are not comprehensive and none has been developed through a formal global expert consensus technique. Higher education providers and workplaces may use the results of our study to highlight areas where they need to seek additional expertise, to develop and incorporate new and more advanced competencies into workforce training. Further work is needed to refine and test the competencies to ensure feasibility and usefulness, and to ensure curriculum developers and workplaces are appropriately supported and trained to implement them. The competencies can be used to shape job descriptions, orientation programmes, supervision, performance reviews and to design curricula and training on integrated care.

Perception of Paternal Postpartum Depression among Healthcare Professionals: A Qualitative Study.

The pathway to parenthood constitutes a fundamental and transformative stage in every individual's life. While postpartum depression in mothers has been increasingly studied and acknowledged, paternal postpartum depression (PPD) has garnered only moderate research attention. This study aims to delve into the comprehension and knowledge of healthcare professionals who may encounter men suffering from postpartum depression. Within the framework of this qualitative research, we conducted six semi-structured interviews with various healthcare professionals. The data were subjected to interpretative phenomenological analysis, revealing the following themes: (1) the professionals' uncertainty in the face of paternal PPD; (2) the context and timing of healthcare professionals' involvement appeared unsuited for detecting paternal PPD; (3) the experiences of fathers were found not to be shared with healthcare professionals due to their inhibitions and avoidance reactions; (4) the social representation of the role of fathers influenced professionals in their considerations of this aspect. Strengthening the training and confidence of healthcare professionals in France would lead to an enhancement in the screening and management of paternal PPD. Additionally, the healthcare system should better organize postnatal support to enable caregivers to be more available during the peak of depression occurrence.

Navigating Unprecedented Challenges: A Narrative Review of Socio-Emotional Learning Competencies and Emotional Intelligence Among Nurses and Nursing Students in the COVID-19 Era

This narrative review examines the importance of social and emotional learning (SEL) competencies and emotional intelligence (EI) among nurses and nursing students, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Emotional intelligence and Socio-Emotional Learning are interconnected concepts encompassing the effective perception, understanding, management, and utilization of emotions. EI encompasses skills such as self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and interpersonal effectiveness, while SEL is an educational framework designed to cultivate specific social and emotional skills in students. SEL programs aim to foster competencies such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Within the healthcare environment, the proficiency of nurses and nursing students in EI not only impacts their personal well-being but also exerts a substantial influence on patient outcomes and the overall quality of care. The integration of SEL into the training of healthcare professionals holds the potential to augment their capacity to establish positive patient relationships, effectively manage stress, and deliver compassionate care. This study seeks to describe the influence of SEL competencies and emotional intelligence on students and nurses during and after the COVID-19 crisis. Recognizing the important nature of incorporating SEL competencies and emotional intelligence into the education and practice of nurses and nursing students is crucial for fostering psychological resilience, nurturing positive relationships, and ensuring the provision of high-quality care, particularly amidst unprecedented challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Keywords: emotional intelligence, socio-emotional learning, COVID-19, nursing

A Train-the-Trainer Simulation Program Implemented Between Two International Partners.

With the expansion of global health initiatives focused on healthcare professional training, it is important to ensure that such training is scalable and sustainable. Simulation-based education (SBE) is a highly effective means to achieve these goals. Although SBE is widely used in the United States, its integration globally is limited, which can impact the potential of SBE in many countries. The purpose of this perspective piece is to demonstrate how a train-the-trainer program can help in the development of an international SBE program and specifically what unique issues must be considered in operationalizing this strategy.

BUILDING SUSTAINABILITY IN PUBLIC HEALTH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE PROGRAMS

Abstract While public health experts cannot yet say how to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), public health has a role in slowing ADRD through the implementation of risk reduction strategies, early diagnosis, and better education and training of front-line health care professionals. Efforts to enhance the sustainability of programs, with changes to systems, environments, and policies enhances uptake and increases the lifespan of these interventions, as well as facilitates continuity and integration of efforts across jurisdictions. This approach includes multiple partners from a wide-range of sectors. This presentation will describe public health approach to ADRD including increasing awareness and action on dementia risk reduction, early detection, and coordination with aging services including supporting dementia caregivers. We will discuss innovative approaches of achieving sustainability, including identifying approaches that seek to reach entire populations for widespread and sustained impact utilizing examples from BOLD Programs to develop widespread public health infrastructure.

HELPING KOREAN AMERICAN OLDER ADULTS THROUGH EDUCATION, RESOURCES, AND VOLUNTEERING: A CASE STUDY OF SOMANG SOCIETY

Abstract Many community organizations serving Korean Americans lack culturally or linguistically tailored services for end-of-life care. Subsequently, Korean American older adults often lack understanding of end-of-life care, particularly advance care planning and hospice. Somang Society is a nonprofit organization serving Korean American older adults and their family caregivers with a mission to promote healthy aging, dignity in later life, and a meaningful death. This study details how Somang Society utilizes education, resources, and volunteer programs to increase the awareness of end-of-life issues among Korean American older adults. The organization provides two distinct community education and volunteer trainings regarding (1) end-of-life care planning program and (2) older adults living with dementia and their family caregivers. They provide community education and volunteer trainings in Korean and expect the volunteers to educate others in the community about the importance of healthy aging, dementia, and advanced care planning. As a result, 15,717 Korean American seniors have filed a living will and advance healthcare directives as of February 2023. In addition, Somang Society emphasizes the importance of whole-body donation for training medical students and healthcare professionals. As a result, 2,134 Korean American seniors have donated or registered for the UCI Willed Body Program through Somang Society since 2008. To further disseminate their programming, the organization actively uses social media to educate Korean Americans on these issues. Their YouTube channel analytics indicate the viewers’ positive responses and the potential impact technology usage can have for sharing education with this hard-to-reach population.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF REHABILITATION IN SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES FOR PERSONS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA

Abstract We conducted a systematic review of published literature though April 2023 to identify the experiences and outcomes of persons living with dementia (PLWD) undergoing post-acute care rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities (SNF). A systematic search for studies published in English was carried out in eight databases including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Two reviewers independently screened articles and conducted a quality appraisal of selected studies. Forty-one articles met inclusion criteria. There was heterogeneity of study designs with most articles (n=33) being observational and cross-sectional, while randomized clinical trials (n=3) and qualitative studies (n=5) were less represented. Certain themes emerged from the results regarding patient outcomes and experiences. Measured outcomes demonstrated increased health service utilization, varied functional outcomes, and suboptimal patient care. Patient experiences included significant challenges with health care transitions, gaps in healthcare worker and caregiver knowledge & education, emphasis on alternate models of care, and importance of goal alignment. Overall, this systematic review provides a comprehensive understanding of the outcomes and experiences of post-acute care rehabilitation in SNFs for PLWD. The findings highlight the need for alternative care pathways, improved healthcare transitions, tailored rehabilitation approaches, enhanced dementia training for healthcare professionals, and person-centered goal setting. By addressing these critical aspects, future interventions can be developed to improve the delivery of post-acute care for PLWD and enhance their health outcomes.

ROLES OF COMMUNITY COLLEGES IN TRAINING THE HEALTH CARE WORKFORCE IN THE AGING SOCIETY

Abstract As population aging advances, the need for health, medical and long-term, care necessarily increases. On one hand, certain occupations mostly with routine tasks are likely to be automated by computers and technology over time. On the other hand, the previously estimated job automation risks clearly suggest that health care occupations are less likely to be automated, compared to other industries. For example, while 12-45% of health care occupations could be replaced by technology, over 80% of simple food preparation and entry-level customer service is projected to be automated within a few decades. Thus, the demand to train the health care workforce for the aging population will continue to be high, despite the advancement in computers and technology. Certain health care occupations such as licensed practical nurses, nurse assistants, medical technicians, and home health aides, do not require bachelor’s degrees. Considering the current and projected health care workforce shortage, education and training of the future health care workforce is a critical issue when preparing for growing older populations in the U.S. This study triangulated data on health care occupations, literature on workforce development, and emerging trends on aging-related health and long-term care needs, and critically analyzed the role of community colleges to meet the demands for health care workforce in the U.S. Results showed that the history, geographic locations, and existing health care programs position community colleges as one of the most effective and efficient health care workforce development institutions. Specific examples of health care professional training programs are also evaluated.

Bridging Healthcare Disparities for LGBTQ+ Community: A Zonal Study on Medical Students' Attitudes and Knowledge in India

BACKGROUND: The LGBTQ+ community has long endured discrimination worldwide. This marginalized group faces significant health disparities resulting from a lack of inclusion in medical curricula, inadequate training of healthcare professionals, and negative attitudes towards their unique health needs. Such factors may contribute to a hesitancy among medical students to provide appropriate care for LGBTQ+ patients. Understanding the regional nuances can further help guide the development of region-specific educational and sensitization programs for healthcare professionals. Thus, this study seeks to assess attitudes and knowledge of medical students and interns towards the LGBTQ+ community in different zones of India (North, South, and West), and understand the variations across regions, and determine any associated demographic factors influencing the same. METHODS: Respondents were invited to participate in this cross-sectional observational study between June and November 2020 through social media platforms. They were requested to complete a self-administered questionnaire distributed via Google Forms, which was divided into three sections: the first collected demographic data, the second comprised 10 true or false knowledge-based questions, and the third contained an additional set of 10 questions using a 5-point Likert scale to assess participants' attitudes. Associations between attitudes, knowledge, and demographic characteristics were assessed using Chi-square tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: A total of 862 responses from three zones - North, South, and West - were included in the study. Responses from the East zone were excluded due to the limited number. Among the respondents, 65.4% exhibited an overall positive attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community. Attitudes and demographics showed a statistically significant association, indicating that respondents under the age of 20, female, and medical students were more likely to hold positive attitudes across all three zones. Regarding knowledge, 56.1% of the participants demonstrated overall satisfactory knowledge levels. Knowledge and demographics were found to have a significant association, specifically concerning age and profession, but not gender. However, the zonal analysis revealed that the significant association between knowledge and demographics was only present in the South zone, while the North and West zones did not show significant associations. These findings suggest that factors other than age and profession may be influencing knowledge levels in the North and West zones. CONCLUSION: The present study provides valuable insights into the attitudes and knowledge of medical students and interns towards the LGBTQ+ community in different zones of India - North, South, and West. Despite certain limitations, such as a lower participation rate among interns and the absence of exploring religious affiliations, the findings show a significant proportion of positive attitudes and satisfactory knowledge towards the LGBTQ+ community, reflecting a growing acceptance and empathy among future healthcare professionals. However, the pronounced zonal differences in the responses must be acknowledged, and highlights the importance of region-specific interventions and targeted educational initiatives to enhance knowledge levels in the North and West zones. It is crucial to update the medical curriculum to incorporate comprehensive LGBTQ+ education and provide training and sensitization that ensures optimum care for individuals regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity.