Search

A recent study conducted by the Ifakara Health Institute in Tanzania evaluated the availability and quality of neonatal healthcare indicators in the District Health Information System (DHIS2) from 2015 to 2022. The study found that while many indicators were captured in DHIS2, there were significant data gaps related to maternal and newborn outcomes and complications. Recommendations included strengthening data review processes, implementing quality checks, and enhancing validation procedures to improve data quality and ultimately support better maternal and newborn health outcomes. The study highlights the importance of using DHIS2 data to monitor progress and drive improvements in healthcare quality. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Children's Hospital Colorado describes the success of their Handshake Stewardship program in reducing anti-infective use and costs over a decade. The program involves a collaborative approach between physicians and pharmacists to review prescribed anti-infectives without prior authorization. Results show a significant decrease in anti-infective use, with improvements continuing over time. The study highlights the importance of stewardship initiatives in promoting responsible antibiotic use. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Division of Infectious Diseases discusses the use of bacteremia prophylaxis in pediatric patients with leukemia, focusing on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The study found that levofloxacin prophylaxis is widely adopted for pediatric AML patients with neutropenia, while prophylaxis for pediatric ALL patients is more variable and typically used for those at high risk of bacteremia. The research highlights the variability in antibiotic regimens used for prophylaxis in these patients. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Colorado focused on the accuracy of pathogen diagnostic codes for children with acute hematogenous musculoskeletal infections (MSKIs). Researchers found that discharge diagnostic codes matched microbiology results in 89.3% of cases, with high sensitivity and specificity for Staphylococcus aureus. The study concluded that pathogen discharge codes are reliable indicators of microbiology results for children with MSKIs. The research was supported by the NIH and the Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Boston Children's Hospital focused on infants diagnosed with oropharyngeal dysphagia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after experiencing a brief resolved unexplained event (BRUE). The study found that 34% of infants were diagnosed with GERD, while 1.4% had oropharyngeal dysphagia. Treatment with acid suppression was common, but did not prevent repeat hospitalization. The research highlighted the increased risk of repeat hospital visits associated with GERD and oropharyngeal dysphagia diagnoses. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences conducted a study in rural Odisha, India, to identify the causes and determinants of infant mortality using verbal autopsy and social autopsy methods. The study found that birth asphyxia, pneumonia, prematurity, and low birth weight were common causes of infant mortality. Larger family sizes and lower education status among fathers were significant determinants of infant mortality. The research also highlighted delays in decision-making regarding seeking care for sick infants. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract highlighted the significant disease and economic burdens of stillbirths in India in 2019, with 263,342 reported cases leading to 18.3 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and a monetary loss of INR 6.4 trillion. The study utilized data from various health information systems to assess the impact of stillbirths, emphasizing the need to prioritize this issue in the public health agenda. This information underscores the importance of addressing stillbirths in India to reduce both the health and economic consequences associated with this tragic outcome. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Robert Koch Institute in Berlin, Germany, have highlighted the need for a comprehensive health information system in Europe to address common challenges faced by national health systems. The BRIDGE Health, InfAct, and PHIRI projects were developed to establish a sustainable health information infrastructure across the European Union. These projects aimed to create a health information portal, implement a federated research infrastructure, provide training on capacity building, and promote knowledge sharing between countries. The researchers emphasize the importance of an integrated EU-wide health information system for informed policy decision-making and a coordinated response to health crises. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia assessed the functionality of Performance Monitoring Teams (PMTs) and the implementation of Health Information Systems (HIS) in selected public health facilities. The research found that while some healthcare professionals demonstrated good knowledge and practices in routine health information utilization, there were challenges such as low data quality, non-functional PMTs, and limited use of information for decision-making. Recommendations included comprehensive HIS training for all staff, strengthening mentorship programs, and enforcing Ministry of Health regulations. The study emphasized the importance of addressing data use and quality issues to improve healthcare outcomes at the grassroots level. [Extracted from the article]

A study from the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment in Bilthoven, Netherlands, focuses on the European Core Health Indicators (ECHI), a set of 88 indicators that offer insight into European public health and healthcare. The research emphasizes the importance of maintaining and updating the ECHI set to remain relevant and aligned with technical and policy developments. The study calls for sustainable funding, governance, and formalized activities to ensure the continued effectiveness of the ECHI set. For more information, readers can refer to the Journal of Health Monitoring, 2024,9(4):1-9. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by investigators at Northwestern University focused on the distribution of specialties providing surgical management of cleft-related speech disorders in children aged 3 years and older from 2004 to 2021. The study found that plastic surgeons performed the majority of procedures for secondary management of velopharyngeal incompetence (VPI), followed by otolaryngologists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons. The type of procedure selected for VPI management varied significantly based on the provider's specialty, with otolaryngologists more likely to perform sphincter pharyngoplasty. This research has been peer-reviewed and offers valuable insights into the surgical care of children with speech disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Pretoria delves into the complexities of HIV prevention for adolescents and young persons (AYPs). The study emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive science-to-program and systems approach to HIV prevention to empower AYPs to make informed choices and safeguard their health. The research advocates for a multifaceted approach that bridges the gap between scientific evidence and program implementation within a robust healthcare system to ensure that no young person is left behind in the fight against HIV. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Moratuwa focused on the low adoption of Health Information Systems (HIS) in Sri Lanka compared to developed countries. The research aimed to identify factors influencing the acceptance of HIS among public healthcare staff by surveying 170 medical professionals. The study found a positive relationship between the actual use of HIS and factors such as perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude, and prior use of HIS by supervisors. The findings suggest the applicability of an extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) in the public healthcare system of a developing country, providing valuable insights for HIS practitioners and policymakers in the healthcare sector. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, examined the morbidity and mortality rates of neonates with Down syndrome compared to those without the condition across different gestational age groups. The study found that neonates with Down syndrome had higher rates of complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis, pulmonary hypertension, and unplanned readmissions within 30 days, as well as longer hospital stays and higher in-hospital mortality rates. The researchers concluded that further research is needed to identify barriers to discharge and causes of death in order to improve therapies and interventions for neonates with Down syndrome. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Institute of Tropical Medicine conducted a study on healthcare provision for displaced people in transit at the Ukrainian border with Moldova and Poland. The study analyzed data from INTERSOS clinics and found that noncommunicable diseases were the primary reason for seeking healthcare, with mental and behavioral disorders also prevalent. The research highlighted the diverse healthcare needs of forcibly displaced populations, emphasizing the importance of addressing this diversity in humanitarian aid programs. Accessing data on healthcare needs during transit can help in preparing and planning healthcare services for displaced populations in host countries. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers have submitted a patent application for a "Health Information Platform" to provide credibility and trustworthiness to users in a wellness platform. The platform aims to offer search results related to medical diseases or conditions, with sections on various topics that can be expanded to display additional information and recommendations. The system utilizes generative machine learning models and allows for user-selected filters based on demographics or symptoms. Pfizer Inc. is the assignee of this patent application, which was filed on June 26, 2024, and made available online on January 2, 2025. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the assessment of primary healthcare capacity in Northwest Ethiopia using a mixed-method approach guided by the Primary Health Care Progression Model. The study found that the governance, input, and population health and facility management domains scored low at health facilities in the central Gondar zone. The research emphasizes the need to strengthen these domains comprehensively to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030 or beyond. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences conducted a literature review on mycetoma in Somalia, a chronic inflammatory disease affecting subcutaneous tissue, skin, deep tissues, and bones. The review found only 11 published articles on mycetoma in Somalia since 1927, with a total of 175 reported cases. The researchers highlighted the need for ongoing research, international collaboration, improved healthcare accessibility, and making mycetoma a notifiable disease in Somalia to address the true burden of the disease and implement preventive measures. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Boston Medical Center examined the phenomenon of patients leaving children's hospitals against medical advice (AMA). The research found that approximately 0.08% of inpatient encounters ended in leaving AMA, with non-Hispanic Black patients having higher odds of leaving AMA compared to non-Hispanic white patients. Leaving AMA was associated with increased odds of 14-day hospital readmission. The study highlights the importance of understanding the factors contributing to leaving AMA in pediatric care. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Ethiopia by JSI Research & Training Institute examined the impact of Health Information System (HIS) interventions on maternal and child health service utilization. The study found that intervention sites showed greater improvements in key HIS performance indicators and maternal and child health service utilization indicators compared to control sites. The findings suggest that scaling up performance monitoring teams is crucial in linking HIS performance with improved maternal and child health services. Further investigation is needed for outcome indicators that showed no or lower improvement. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the State University of New York (SUNY) Buffalo have conducted a study on HIV/AIDS, focusing on the implementation of pharmacy-based PrEP delivery in Nigeria. The study addresses challenges such as stigma, limited clinic hours, and accessibility, especially for vulnerable populations. Stakeholders in Nigeria were engaged to adapt a successful Kenyan model, with key recommendations including training pharmacy providers, increasing awareness, ensuring confidentiality, and integrating program data into the Health Management Information System (HMIS). The research aims to develop a refined pharmacy-delivered PrEP framework for pilot testing and potential scaling across Nigeria. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the University of Texas McGovern Medical School in Houston, Texas, explored the relationship between social determinants of health and pediatric low-value care (LVC) in children's hospitals. The research found that the odds of LVC increased with higher Childhood Opportunity Index (COI) quintiles, with certain measures showing a greater prevalence of LVC in areas with lower opportunities. The study concluded that there is a need for broad de-implementation efforts to reduce high volumes of LVC and prioritize interventions for children with lower opportunities. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Aga Khan University in Karachi, Pakistan, explored the implementation of a social health insurance program in Khyber-pakhtunkhwa. Key stakeholders, including hospital managers and clinicians, were interviewed to identify challenges and successes in the program. The research highlighted strengths such as a comprehensive benefits package and digitization efforts, while also pointing out barriers like low reimbursement rates and documentation issues. The study emphasized the need to revisit reimbursement rates, address documentation challenges, and strengthen quality assurance mechanisms for the program's success. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Utah School of Medicine focused on identifying clinical presentations that could serve as early indicators of sepsis in pediatric patients visiting the emergency department. The study analyzed data from the Pediatric Health Information Systems (PHIS) database and found that fever and dehydration were common symptoms preceding sepsis hospitalizations. The researchers suggest that the Symptom Disease Pair Analysis of Diagnostic Error (SPADE) methodology could be used to improve diagnostic performance measures in pediatric hospitals. For more information, readers can access the full article titled "Harbingers of sepsis misdiagnosis among pediatric emergency department patients" in the journal Diagnosis. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine explored the use of aprepitant as an abortive therapy in pediatric patients with Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome (CVS). The research analyzed 1775 patients, with 96 receiving aprepitant during their hospitalization. The study found that aprepitant did not significantly impact the 7-day readmission rate for CVS, suggesting the need for further prospective studies on the role of aprepitant in managing CVS in pediatric patients. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers in the Division of Pediatric Surgery focused on the management of complicated appendicitis in children. The study found that the risk of recurrent appendicitis or complications following nonoperative management is highest in the first 50 days after the initial admission. This information can aid surgeons in making decisions about the timing of interval appendectomy. The study included 2,826 patients with complicated appendicitis, with 71.4% undergoing appendectomy and the remaining 28.6% managed nonoperatively. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Michigan examined the nephrotoxic effects of intravenous ganciclovir in pediatric hematopoietic cell transplant recipients. The research found that ganciclovir was associated with an increased risk of renal replacement therapy in these children. The study suggests that caution and close monitoring should be exercised when using ganciclovir in this population, and further research is needed to explore ways to mitigate the risks of nephrotoxicity. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Zhejiang University in China have conducted a study on the resurgence of diphtheria in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, an area prone to conflict and disasters. The study, funded by the Department of Health Information System in KPK, identified 291 confirmed cases of diphtheria across 28 districts, emphasizing the need for improved diagnostic services and targeted public health initiatives. The research suggests that a comprehensive approach is necessary to prevent diphtheria from becoming an uncontrolled epidemic in the region. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Harvard Medical School examined the use of ketamine in hospitalized children and young adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) from 2016 to 2022. The research found that ketamine was used in 4.3% of hospitalizations, with its use increasing over time. Ketamine was associated with longer hospital stays, increased readmission rates, and more days on parenteral opioids, but early initiation of ketamine was linked to shorter hospital stays and fewer days on opioids. The study suggests the need for further research to determine which patients would benefit most from ketamine use and if early initiation should be standard practice. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the American University of Beirut conducted a qualitative study on the challenges of providing continuity of care for individuals with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in humanitarian settings, particularly focusing on Syrian refugees and vulnerable Lebanese in Lebanon. The study identified various health system weaknesses and challenges, such as governance, financing, health workforce shortages, inconsistent supplies, and limited health information systems, which hindered the management, longitudinal, informational, and interpersonal continuity of NCD care. The researchers recommended aligning and strengthening health system inputs, supporting governance, exploring new funding mechanisms, enhancing workforce training, improving medication supply chains, and developing referral and information systems to improve continuity of care for individuals with hypertension and diabetes in Lebanon. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh examined the efficacy of prophylactic defibrotide in preventing sinusoidal obstructive syndrome (SOS) in high-risk pediatric patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The research found that prophylactic defibrotide did not reduce the incidence of SOS and was associated with higher ICU admissions, longer hospital stays, increased mortality, and higher total costs. The study suggests the need for alternative prophylactic strategies and emphasizes the importance of prospective trials to refine SOS prevention protocols in pediatric HSCT patients. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the University of Illinois College of Medicine focused on venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk in critically ill children in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The research aimed to develop and validate a risk assessment model (RAM) tailored for this patient population using data from the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS). The study identified several independent risk factors for VTE, with central venous line (CVL) being the most significant predictor. The RAM showed promising results in predicting VTE risk and may help guide thromboprophylaxis use in children in the PICU. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia examined the use of dexrazoxane in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment. The research found a significant increase in dexrazoxane utilization, leading to reduced cardiac ICU care requirements and ACE-inhibitor use. The study observed a shift towards initiating dexrazoxane early in treatment, resulting in improved outcomes for pediatric AML patients. Future research will focus on longitudinal measures of cardiac function and survival rates beyond six months. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the use of routine health data to monitor the effectiveness of malaria interventions through a scoping review. It highlights the importance of programmatic data collected through health management information systems (HMIS) in assessing health intervention effectiveness and impact on health outcomes. The review found that routine HMIS data can be used to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of malaria interventions, aiding countries in achieving their national strategic goals and targets. The study focused on studies and analyses conducted in the past decade, showcasing a range of analytical approaches used to assess intervention effectiveness. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University Health Network in Toronto, Canada, conducted a study on the efficacy of virtual training for health information systems (HIS) implementation. The study focused on the adoption and sustained use of HIS, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on virtual education. Through surveys and interviews with participants, the study identified key themes such as dynamic facilitation techniques, practical learning activities, and accessible training resources. The findings aim to inform the development of inclusive virtual training programs for healthcare providers. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Abigail Wexner Research Institute in Columbus, Ohio, compared the cost-effectiveness of non-operative management (NOM) with antibiotics versus upfront laparoscopic appendectomy for pediatric uncomplicated appendicitis over one year. The research found that NOM was both less costly and more effective than surgery, yielding higher quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) at a lower cost. This study provides valuable insights into the treatment options for pediatric appendicitis, suggesting that NOM may be a cost-effective alternative to surgery. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons suggests that using antibiotics alone to treat children with uncomplicated appendicitis is a cost-saving alternative to surgery. The research, based on data from over 1,000 patients, found that nonoperative management with antibiotics was both safe and cost-effective. While the study focused on patients in the Midwest region, further research is needed to explore outpatient nonoperative management and same-day discharge after laparoscopic appendectomy. [Extracted from the article]

The research conducted by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health focuses on the implementation of novel long-acting PrEP methods for HIV prevention, specifically the monthly dapivirine vaginal ring. International stakeholders' perspectives were gathered to develop costed plans to support and accelerate the rollout of these methods. The study identified key cost-related themes for planning, implementation, financing, costing, and budgeting, aiming to expedite the systematic and sustainable delivery of PrEP methods. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed costed rollout plan template (CRPT). [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Boston focused on the risk of postoperative pneumonia in children with neurologic and neuromuscular complex chronic conditions (NNCCCs). The study analyzed data from 63,732 inpatient surgical encounters at 45 children's hospitals and found that the prevalence of postoperative pneumonia was 1.1%, with varying rates across different types of surgeries and hospitals. The research highlighted the need for further investigation to reduce the risk of postoperative pneumonia in children with NNCCCs, especially those with multiple chronic conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Peking University in China have developed a protocol for a cohort study to monitor the safety and uptake of the adjuvanted human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, HPV-16/18-AS04, in China. The study will utilize electronic health records from 2010 to 2020 and focus on female residents aged 9-45 years, tracking potential immune-mediated diseases and pregnancy-related outcomes. The research aims to provide valuable insights for future real-world studies and complement observations from clinical trials and post-marketing studies. This study is registered under CTR20210523 and can be accessed in Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Peking University are conducting post-marketing surveillance studies in China to evaluate the effectiveness of the 4-valent and 9-valent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines on serious HPV-related cervical disease. The study aims to assess the impact of HPV vaccination on high-grade cervical lesions in Chinese women who received either vaccine. The research is supported by Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC and seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of this methodological approach for assessing HPV vaccination outcomes in different regions of China. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Yale University School of Medicine conducted a study on inguinal hernia repairs in infants and children, focusing on the effectiveness of laparoscopic versus open repair techniques. The study found that laparoscopic unilateral inguinal hernia repair in infants 6 months and younger decreased the need for subsequent surgical repair. However, open repair of bilateral hernias was shown to be more durable and decreased the need for a second hernia operation in all age groups. This research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into surgical approaches for hernia repairs in pediatric patients. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Haramaya University conducted an implementation research project in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Regional Health Bureau to improve data quality in public health facilities in eastern Ethiopia. The study utilized an onsite training-mentoring intervention, which resulted in significant improvements in data accuracy, content completeness, timeliness, and report completeness. The research emphasized the importance of health workers' knowledge in ensuring data quality and recommended continued efforts to maintain high standards in the routine health information system at lower levels of the sector. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center examined trends in the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus since the publication of the 2014 Pediatric Hydrocephalus Guidelines. The research found that there has been a significant shift in the management of hydrocephalus over the past decade, with an increase in the use of endoscopic third ventriculostomy and protocolized shunt surgery. The study also noted an improvement in outcomes, such as a decrease in the shunt revision-to-placement ratio and an increase in the use of antibiotic-impregnated catheters. Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of clinical practice guidelines on patient care and surgical practices. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China focused on hemoglobin concentrations in early pregnancy and their impact on adverse pregnancy outcomes in Western China. The research included data from over 450,000 Chinese females aged 15 to 49 years and found that higher hemoglobin concentrations were associated with increased risks of gestational diabetes mellitus, gestational hypertensive disorders, and preterm birth. The study recommended interventions for early pregnancy anemia and monitoring females with high hemoglobin concentrations to reduce adverse outcomes. The findings suggest a need for further research and potential interventions in this area. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at An-Najah National University conducted a study on the outcomes of nephrostomy and double J stent in malignant ureteral obstruction in Palestinian practice. The study included 62 patients with stage 2 to stage 4 cancer who underwent either double J stenting or percutaneous nephrostomy. Postoperative complications were common in both groups, and further research is needed to determine optimal interventions for improving outcomes and quality of life for these patients. The study highlighted the challenges in managing malignant ureteral obstruction and the need for larger prospective studies in this area. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the Cleveland Clinic evaluated surgical management options for cholesteatoma in children using a national database. The study found that tympanoplasty (TM) and tympanoplasty with canal wall-down tympanomastoidectomy (TM-CWD) had lower total surgical procedures compared to tympanoplasty with canal wall-up tympanomastoidectomy (TM-CWU). TM was associated with a lesser rate of recommendation for hearing aids, while TM-CWD had a lower rate of recidivism and recurrence. The research was peer-reviewed and can be accessed through Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. [Extracted from the article]

Recent research from Children's Mercy Hospitals in Kansas City, Missouri, highlights findings in diastolic heart failure in pediatric patients. The study, conducted between 2016 and 2021, found that isolated diastolic heart failure comprised 0.5% of critically ill pediatric patients, with a 5% mortality rate. Comorbidities and interventions were associated with increased mortality, while milrinone and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors were linked to decreased risk of mortality. The research emphasizes the importance of pharmacologic interventions in managing diastolic heart failure in pediatric patients. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons focused on the epidemiology, cost, and outcomes of emergency department visits for children with clinically significant cardiovascular diseases. The research found that a majority of these visits resulted in hospitalization, with a significant number requiring intensive care unit (ICU) level of care. Factors such as age, number of noncardiac chronic conditions, and type of cardiovascular disease were associated with increased odds of admission, ICU transfer, and mortality. The study highlights the need for further research to inform appropriate emergency department management for children with cardiovascular conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Northwestern University conducted a study on children with new tracheostomy and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) to understand hospital resource use during their transition period. The study found that low-resource days (LRDs) were common, with factors such as younger age, Asian race, early tracheostomy, and longer hospital stays associated with increased LRD occurrence. The research aims to explore care models for children with IMV dependence during the postacute phase. The study was published in Pediatrics and can be accessed online. [Extracted from the article]