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Hossain A, Chowdhury AT, Mahbub M, Khan M, Rahman T, Sharif AB, Hijazi H, Alameddine M. Natural disasters, livelihood, and healthcare challenges of the people of a riverine island in Bangladesh: A mixed-method exploration. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298854. [PMID: 38512936 PMCID: PMC10956832 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bangladesh's islands, because of their geographical location, frequently encounter crises like floods and river erosion, which pose significant threats to the residents' well-being and livelihoods. To delve into the effects of these disasters on livelihood and healthcare challenges, a mixed-method study was undertaken in a riverine-island near a major river of Bangladesh. METHODOLOGY Between February 15th and February 28th, 2023, a cross-sectional study was conducted on an island in Bangladesh. The quantitative method involved conducting a survey of 442 households, with a total of 2921 participants. Additionally, 10 in-depth interviews and 10 key-informant interviews were conducted using semi-structured guidelines. Qualitative interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a thematic analysis. Triangulation was employed in this study through the integration of qualitative and quantitative analysis, resulting in the presentation of findings that offer an in-depth comprehension of the phenomenon being investigated. RESULTS River erosions and floods are common and recurring natural disasters that significantly impact the lives of the riverine island inhabitants. These disasters often disrupted their livelihoods, forced many residents to endure substandard living conditions or relocated during flood events. The island faced a low diagnostic prevalence of chronic diseases (e.g., 5.1% of adults were hypertension and 2.5% are diabetes) because of the absence of diagnostic facilities and a shortage of certified doctors. A significant number of chronic illness people in the community turned to alternative medicine sources (39.3%) such as homeopathy, Kabiraj, and Ayurvedic medicine, especially it gets increased during periods of natural disasters. Moreover, reproductive aged women revealed that 79.4% of them gave birth at home, with 6.0% of these home deliveries resulting in miscarriage or infant death. The destruction of crops, unstable job opportunities, an inadequate educational system, and a deficient healthcare delivery system exacerbated the hardships faced by the population affected by these disasters. CONCLUSION The failure to seek treatment for chronic diseases and undiagnosed diseases is a significant health issue among the aging adults on the island. Island residents face the challenge of establishing effective prevention strategies for the well-being of older adults especially at the period of natural disasters. It is crucial for the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to collaborate to prevent the negative effects of floods and river erosions. This should include efforts to enhance the quality of education, healthcare services, job opportunities, and financial assistance for rebuilding homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Hossain
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Human Concern USA, Carmel, Indiana, United States of America
| | | | - Masum Mahbub
- Human Concern USA, Carmel, Indiana, United States of America
- Human Concern International, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Mahmuda Khan
- Human Concern USA, Carmel, Indiana, United States of America
- Human Concern International, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Taifur Rahman
- Department of Public Health, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Azaz Bin Sharif
- Department of Public Health, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Heba Hijazi
- Human Concern USA, Carmel, Indiana, United States of America
- Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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Naja F, Hassan H, Radwan H, Kellany F, Ismail LC, Hashim M, Rida WH, Abu Qiyas S, Alameddine M. Intention to quit and its correlates among dieticians residing in the United Arab Emirates during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295904. [PMID: 38166028 PMCID: PMC10760856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic precipitated increased workload, stress, and burnout on healthcare providers on the frontlines of the pandemic, dieticians were no exception. Such unprecedented occupational risks and stressors contributed to a higher intention to quit, potentially leading to workforce shortages, and hindering the delivery of quality care, especially for patients with chronic conditions. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence factors associated with the intention to quit among dieticians in the United Arab Emirates during a public health emergency. METHODS The study utilized a cross-sectional design with an online survey sent to dieticians between January and May 2021. The final version of the questionnaire included four sections: A sociodemographic section, intention to quit, work-related practices and challenges, as well as the resilience scale using the 25 items- Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale© (CD-RISC). Descriptive statistics as well as simple and multiple logistic regression analyses were carried out to explore factors associated with the intention to quit among dieticians. RESULTS Study results revealed that a quarter of dieticians intend to quit their jobs. Higher odds of intention to quit among dieticians were significantly associated with male gender, younger age, having a chronic condition, being non-resilient, feeling unappreciated, using online platforms for dietary counseling, reporting increased workload, and working from home or in a blended format during the pandemic. CONCLUSION This study revealed a high intention to quit among dieticians during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified a few correlates for the intention to quit that could support the development of evidence-based interventions. Such interventions should address through targeted programs the challenges faced by male dieticians, younger dieticians, as well as dieticians with Chronic health conditions. Furthermore, the findings of this study showed that promoting resilience among dieticians is crucial in reducing their intention to quit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Naja
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Haydar Hassan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hadia Radwan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fares Kellany
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Leila Cheikh Ismail
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mona Hashim
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Wafa Helmi Rida
- Public Health and Prevention Department, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salma Abu Qiyas
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Health Care Management, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Bani-Issa W, Abu Talib M, Timmins F, Brenner M, Alameddine M. Developments in empowering and supporting women's role in scientific research in the United Arab Emirates. J Adv Nurs 2024; 80:4-7. [PMID: 37309056 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wegdan Bani-Issa
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Manar Abu Talib
- Research Outreach Department, College of Computing and Informatics, Office of Research & Graduate Studies, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fiona Timmins
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maria Brenner
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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AbuShihab K, Obaideen K, Alameddine M, Alkurd RAF, Khraiwesh HM, Mohammad Y, Abdelrahim DN, Madkour MI, Faris ME. Reflection on Ramadan Fasting Research Related to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being): A Bibliometric Analysis. J Relig Health 2023:10.1007/s10943-023-01955-9. [PMID: 38110843 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01955-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
There is a large body of research on Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF) and health in Muslim communities, that can offer insights to promote the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which encompasses good health and well-being. Based on recent bibliometric evidence, we hypothesized that RIF research is highly relevant to SDG 3, particularly Targets 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, and 3.5. Therefore, this bibliometric study quantified RIF literature supporting SDG 3 and associated targets over the past seven decades and explored themes and trends. All types of research articles were extracted from the Scopus database from inception to March 2022. Microsoft Excel, Biblioshiny, and VOSviewer were used to qualitatively and quantitatively examine RIF research trends supporting SDG 3 and associated targets. We identified 1729 relevant articles. The number of publications notably increased since 1986, with a dramatic increase in 2019-2020. RIF research predominantly supported Target 3.4 (reducing risk for non-communicable diseases), with research hotspots being diabetes, diabetes medications, pregnancy, physiology, metabolic diseases, and obesity and metabolism. This target was also the most commonly supported by dedicated authors and institutions publishing on RIF, whereas other SDG 3 targets were negligibly addressed in comparison. Our comprehensive bibliometric analysis of RIF literature showed growing support for SDG 3 through positive contributions to half of the SDG 3 targets, although Target 3.4 received the most attention. We also identified knowledge gaps that may shape further research directions on RIF and promote the achievement of SDG 3 in Muslim communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia AbuShihab
- Nutrition and Food Research Group, Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), Sharjah University, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Khaled Obaideen
- Sustainable Engineering Asset Management Research Group, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Service Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Refat Ahmad Fawzi Alkurd
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Department of Nutrition, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - Husam M Khraiwesh
- Department of Nutrition and Food Processing, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Al-Balqa' Applied University, Salt, Jordan
| | - Yara Mohammad
- College of Engineering and Information Technology, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Dana N Abdelrahim
- Health Promotion Research Group, Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), Sharjah University, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed I Madkour
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - MoezAlIslam E Faris
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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Dimassi H, Alameddine M, Sabra N, El Arnaout N, Harb R, Hamadeh R, El Kak F, Shanaa A, Mossi MO, Saleh S, AlArab N. Maternal health outcomes in the context of fragility: a retrospective study from Lebanon. Confl Health 2023; 17:59. [PMID: 38093261 PMCID: PMC10720064 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-023-00558-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The Lebanese healthcare system faces multiple challenges including limited capacities, shortage of skilled professionals, and inadequate supplies, in addition to hosting a significant number of refugees. While subsidized services are available for pregnant women, representing the majority of the refugee population in Lebanon, suboptimal access to antenatal care (ANC) and increased maternal mortality rates are still observed, especially among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. This study aimed to review the maternal health outcomes of disadvantaged Lebanese and refugee pregnant women seeking ANC services at primary healthcare centers (PHCs) in Lebanon. METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted at twenty PHCs in Lebanon, including Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) and United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA) facilities. Data was collected from medical charts of pregnant women who visited the centers between August 2018 and August 2020. Statistical analysis was performed to explore outcomes such as the number of ANC visits, delivery type, and onset of delivery, using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models. RESULTS In the study, 3977 medical charts were analyzed. A multivariate logistic regression analysis, revealed that suboptimal ANC visits were more common in the Beqaa region and among women with current abortion or C-section. Syrians had reduced odds of C-sections, and Beqaa, Mount Lebanon, and South Lebanon regions had reduced odds of abortion. Suboptimal ANC visits and history of C-section increased the odds of C-section and abortion in the current pregnancy. As for preterm onset, the study showed an increased likelihood for it to occur when being Palestinian, having current C-section delivery, experiencing previous preterm onset, and enduring complications at the time of delivery. CONCLUSION This study suggests the need for low-cost interventions aiming at enhancing access to ANC services, especially among pregnant women in fragile settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani Dimassi
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nadine Sabra
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nour El Arnaout
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ranime Harb
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Faysal El Kak
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology, American University of Beirut, Medical Center (AUB) Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abed Shanaa
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Shadi Saleh
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Natally AlArab
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Hijazi H, Alameddine M, Al Abdi RM, Baniissa W, Sindiani A, Al-Yateem N, Al-Sharman A, Al Marzouqi A, Hossain A. Association between inter-pregnancy interval and risk of adverse birth outcomes in subsequent pregnancy: A retrospective study from Jordan. Birth 2023; 50:946-958. [PMID: 37455440 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse birth outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW), are leading causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality. In this study, we aimed to estimate the association between inter-pregnancy interval (IPI) and the risks of adverse birth outcomes in a subsequent pregnancy. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis involving 630 mothers who delivered a singleton live infant at a leading tertiary hospital in northern Jordan from March to August 2021. Outcome variables were preterm birth (<37 weeks of gestation) and LBW (<2.5 kg). Using multivariable logistic regression, the association between IPI and these two adverse birth outcomes was investigated. RESULTS The rates of preterm birth and LBW were 12.4% and 16.8%, respectively. Compared with an optimal IPI (24-36 months), a short IPI (<24 months) was positively associated with preterm birth (aOR: 4.09; 95% CI: 1.48-6.55) and LBW (aOR: 3.58; 95% CI: 1.57-5.15). Infants conceived after a long IPI (≥ 60 months) had increased odds of preterm birth (aOR: 3.78; 95% CI: 1.12-5.78) and LBW (aOR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.67-4.03). Preterm delivery was also significantly associated with the mother's age (aOR: 1.10; 95% CI: 1.04-1.17), history of multiple cesarean births (aOR: 2.67; 95% CI: 1.14-4.29), prolonged rupture of membranes (aOR: 2.46; 95% CI: 1.10-5.52), and perinatal death (aOR: 3.42; 95% CI: 1.10-5.49). A mother's history of prior LBW (aOR: 4.39; 95% CI: 1.08-6.80), hypertensive disorders (aOR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.03-3.89), and multiple cesarean births (aOR: 4.35; 95% CI: 2.10-6.99) was associated with LBW. CONCLUSIONS Both short and long IPIs were related to preterm delivery and LBW. Optimal birth spacing is recommended to improve birth outcomes and must be considered when designing effective family planning programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Hijazi
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rabah M Al Abdi
- Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Wegdan Baniissa
- Nursing Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amer Sindiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Nabeel Al-Yateem
- Nursing Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alham Al-Sharman
- Department of Physiotherapy, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Rehabilitation Sciences Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Alounoud Al Marzouqi
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmed Hossain
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Bani Issa W, Hijazi H, Radwan H, Saqan R, Al-Sharman A, Samsudin ABR, Fakhry R, Al-Yateem N, Rossiter RC, Ibrahim A, Moustafa I, Naja F, Alameddine M, Abbas N, Abdelrahim DN, Al-Shujairi A, Awad M. Evaluation of the effectiveness of sleep hygiene education and FITBIT devices on quality of sleep and psychological worry: a pilot quasi-experimental study among first-year college students. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1182758. [PMID: 37680271 PMCID: PMC10482237 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1182758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background College students report disturbed sleep patterns that can negatively impact their wellbeing and academic performance. Objectives This study examined the effect of a 4-week sleep hygiene program that included sleep education and actigraph sleep trackers (FITBITs) on improving sleep quality and reducing psychological worry without control group. Design settings and participants A pilot quasi-experimental design, participants were randomly selected medical and health sciences from a university students in the United-Arab-Emirates. Methods Students were asked to wear FITBITs and log their daily sleep data and completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ). Extensive sleep hygiene education was delivered via lectures, a WhatsApp group, and the Blackboard platform. In total, 50 students completed pre-and post-assessments and returned FITBIT data. Results There was a significant difference in the prevalence of good sleep postintervention compared with pre-intervention (46% vs. 28%; p = 0.0126). The mean PSQI score was significantly lower post-intervention compared with pre-intervention (6.17 ± 3.16 vs. 7.12.87; p = 0.04, Cohen's d 0.33). After the intervention, subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, and daytime dysfunction were significantly improved compared with pre-intervention (p < 0.05). In addition, FITBIT data showed total sleep time and the number of restless episodes per night were significantly improved postintervention compared with pre-intervention (p = 0.013). The mean PSWQ score significantly decreased from pre-intervention to p = 0.049, Cohen' d = 0.25. The correlation between PSQI and PSWQ scores was significant post-intervention (β = 0.40, p = 0.02). Conclusion Our results may inform university educational policy and curricular reform to incorporate sleep hygiene awareness programs to empower students and improve their sleep habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wegdan Bani Issa
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Heba Hijazi
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hadia Radwan
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Roba Saqan
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alham Al-Sharman
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - A. B. Rani Samsudin
- College of Dental Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Randa Fakhry
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nabeel Al-Yateem
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rachel C. Rossiter
- School of Nursing, Paramedicine and Healthcare Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Ali Ibrahim
- College of Business and Economics, United Arab Emirates University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ibrahim Moustafa
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Farah Naja
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nada Abbas
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dana N. Abdelrahim
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Manal Awad
- University Dental Hospital Sharjah, College of Dental Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Faroun H, Zary N, Baqer K, Al Khaja F, Gad K, Alameddine M, Al Suwaidi H. Identification of Key Factors for Optimized Health Care Services: Protocol for a Multiphase Study of the Dubai Vaccination Campaign. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 12:e42278. [PMID: 36541889 PMCID: PMC10131770 DOI: 10.2196/42278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mass vaccination of the global population against the novel COVID-19 outbreak posed multiple challenges, including effectively administering millions of doses in a short period of time while ensuring public safety and accessibility. The government of Dubai launched a mass campaign in December 2020 to vaccinate all its citizens and residents, targeting the population aged >18 years against COVID-19. The vaccination campaign involved a transformation of multiple commercial spaces into mass vaccination centers across the city of Dubai, the largest of which was the Dubai One Central (DOC) vaccination center. It was operational between January 17, 2021, and 27 January 27, 2022. OBJECTIVE The multiphase research study aims to empirically explore the opinions of multiple health care stakeholders, elicit the key success factors that can influence the effective delivery of emergency health care services such as a COVID-19 mass vaccination center, and explore how these factors relate to one another. METHODS To understand more about the operations of the DOC vaccination center, the study follows a multiphase design divided into 2 phases. The study is being conducted by the Institute for Excellence in Health Professions Education at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences between December 2021 and January 2023. To elicit the key success factors that contributed to the vaccination campaign administered at DOC, the research team conducted 30 semistructured interviews (SSIs) with a sample of staff and volunteers who worked at the DOC vaccination center. Stratified random sampling was used to select the participants, and the interview cohort included representatives from the management team, team leaders, the administration and registration team, vaccinators, and volunteers. A total of 103 people were invited to take part in the research study, and 30 agreed to participate in the SSIs. To validate the participation of various stakeholders, phase 2 will analytically investigate one's subjectivity through Q-methodology and empirically investigate the opinions obtained from the research participants during phase 1. RESULTS As of July 2022, 30 SSIs were conducted with the research participants. CONCLUSIONS The study will provide a comprehensive 2-phase approach to obtaining the key success factors that can influence the delivery of high-quality health care services such as emergency services launched during a global pandemic. The study's findings will be translated into key factors that could support designing future health care services utilizing evidence-based practice. In line with future plans, a study will use data, collected through the DOC vaccination center, to develop a simulation model outlining the process of the customer journey and center workflow. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT DERR1-10.2196/42278.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayette Faroun
- Institute for Excellence in Health Professions Education, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Building 14, Dubai Healthcare CityP.O Box 505055, Dubai, AE
| | - Nabil Zary
- Institute for Excellence in Health Professions Education, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Building 14, Dubai Healthcare CityP.O Box 505055, Dubai, AE
| | | | | | - Kareem Gad
- Smart Services, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, AE
| | | | - Hanan Al Suwaidi
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, AE
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Jaafar Z, Ayoub J, Hamadeh R, Baydoun S, Honein-AbouHaidar G, Banna J, Alameddine M, Naja F. A triangulated perspective for understanding CAM use in Lebanon: a qualitative study. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:204. [PMID: 35918687 PMCID: PMC9347103 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03685-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Existing evidence marked a prevalent use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapies in Lebanon that is concomitant with low rates of disclosure to health care providers and limited knowledge among the general public of safety and side effects of CAM use. Objectives To examine the perspectives of Lebanese CAM users, CAM providers, and health care providers (HCPs) regarding their understanding of CAM and of the Push and Pull factors that drive its use. Methods A qualitative research study was conducted using in-depth interviews, targeting Lebanese adults (CAM users; 18-65 years) (n=14), CAM providers such as yoga instructors, owners of CAM product outlets, herbalists, and religious figures (n=13); and HCPs including physicians, nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists (n=14). The topic guide covered, in addition to the understanding of CAM, the Push and Pull factors driving CAM use. The adults were recruited by convenient sampling, and CAM providers and HCPs using a purposive sampling approach. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and translated into English. Analysis was performed using a qualitative thematic approach. Similarities and differences in the perceptions of the participants with regards to factors that influence CAM use were charted and contrasted, using a triangulated approach. Results The three study groups exhibited a similar understanding of CAM, referring to non-conventional therapies used to prevent/treat diseases or to enhance wellbeing. CAM users and CAM providers identified “distrust in HCPs”, “lack of patient-centered care in CM”, and “limitations and side effects of CM” as important Push factors. All study groups highlighted the limited CAM knowledge of HCPs as a main reason for the lack of patient-centered care. All three groups also underscored the affordability and the social and cultural support for CAM as main enablers of its prevalent use. Unlike HCPs who were skeptical about the safety and effectiveness of CAM, CAM users and CAM providers indicated that most of CAM therapies are safe and efficient. Conclusions The triangulation of perspectives (CAM users, CAM providers, and HCPs) in this study allowed a comprehensive appraisal of CAM use and its drivers. Improving the HCPs’ CAM-related knowledge, promoting patient-centered care and fostering an open dialogue between HCPs and CAM providers are among the recommendations of the study. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03685-z.
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10
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AlGurg R, Abu Mahfouz N, Otaki F, Alameddine M. Toward the upscaling of school nutrition programs in Dubai: An exploratory study. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1038726. [PMID: 36419985 PMCID: PMC9676483 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1038726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background School nutrition programs impact the intellectual, social, and emotional development of school children, as well as their future risk of developing Non-Communicable Diseases. While many stakeholders are involved in the development, implementation, and evaluation of school nutrition programs in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, little is known about the complementarity among those stakeholders, and the means to upscale school nutrition programs while ensuring effective, efficient, and equitable implementation. Accordingly, this study aims at exploring the perceptions of a diverse group of stakeholders, positioned at differing levels of the public health and education ecosystems in the United Arab Emirates, in relation to current guidelines and practices around the planning, implementation, and evaluation of school nutrition programs in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Methods The current study relied on a qualitative design, based on semi-structured key informant interviews. A total of 29 interviews were carried out. Those interviewees included leaders and directors from different institutions, decision- and policy- makers, nutritionists and dieticians, school nurses and nurse managers, and school principals and vice principals. All stakeholders were interviewed by the research team. Data was transcribed, and then thematically analyzed using the health systems' model as an analytic framework. Results The thematic analysis of interview data identified five interrelated themes. The first theme relates to the limited coordination across regulatory local and federal entities, and the multiplicity of guidelines issued by the different stakeholders. The challenges around the human and financial resourcing of school nutrition programs constituted the second theme. The third theme was the weakly coordinated implementation efforts. The fourth theme was the need for better performance measurement, and the fifth theme flagged the need for improved inclusiveness for health needs and cultural preferences of the diverse student body in Dubai (given that there are citizens from more than 200 nationalities co-existing in Dubai). Conclusion This study emphasizes that all the involved stakeholders need to better collaborate to upscale the school nutrition program in Dubai. This will require the formation of a unified governing body, which would identify and develop a single stream of resources, and sets in place a reliable, all encapsulating and equitable implementation plan along with an overarching monitoring and evaluation framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem AlGurg
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates,Strategy and Institutional Excellence, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nour Abu Mahfouz
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Farah Otaki
- Strategy and Institutional Excellence, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates,*Correspondence: Mohamad Alameddine
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11
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Al-Yateem N, Timmins F, Alameddine M, Dias JM, Saifan A, AbuRuz M, Subu MA, Rahman SA, Hijazi H. Recruitment of internationally trained nurses: Time for a global model for shared responsibility. J Nurs Manag 2022; 30:2453-2456. [PMID: 36056572 DOI: 10.1111/jonm.13785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nabeel Al-Yateem
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Health and Workforce Studies Research Group, Research Institute for Health and Medical Sciences, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fiona Timmins
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Health and Workforce Studies Research Group, Research Institute for Health and Medical Sciences, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jacquline Maria Dias
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmad Saifan
- Faculty of Nursing, Applied Sciences Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohanad AbuRuz
- Faculty of Nursing, Applied Sciences Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Muhammad Arsyad Subu
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Syed Azizur Rahman
- Department of Health Service Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Heba Hijazi
- Department of Health Service Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Management and Policy, Jordan University of Sciences and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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12
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Bani-Issa W, Radwan H, Al Shujairi A, Hijazi H, Al Abdi RM, Al Awar S, Saqan R, Alameddine M, Ibrahim A, Rahman HA, Naing L. Salivary cortisol, perceived stress and coping strategies: A comparative study of working and nonworking women. J Nurs Manag 2022; 30:3553-3567. [PMID: 35666587 DOI: 10.1111/jonm.13697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study investigated stress levels and coping strategies among working and nonworking women in the United Arab Emirates. BACKGROUND Stress levels in working and nonworking women have previously been studied, but few studies used cortisol to measure stress or examined how coping strategies affect stress levels. METHODS We employed a cross-sectional design with a convenience sample of women aged 20-65 years. Information on women's sociodemographic characteristics, perceived stress (using the Perceived Stress Scale) and coping strategies (using the Brief-COPE) was collected. Participants' morning (07:00-08:00) and evening (19:00-20:00) cortisol levels were measured using unstimulated saliva samples. RESULTS In total, 417 working and 403 nonworking women participated in this study. More nonworking women reported high stress levels than working women (14.1% vs. 4.1%, p = .001). Working women reported more use of informational support and venting to cope with stress compared with nonworking women (94.0% vs. 88.1%, p = .001). More nonworking women had impaired morning (<0.094 mg/dl) and evening (>0.359 mg/dl) cortisol compared with working women (58.1% vs. 28.5% and 41.7% vs. 18.0%, respectively). Compared with working women, nonworking women had 3.25 (95%CI: 2.38, 4.47) and 3.78 (95%CI: 2.65, 5.43) times the odds of impaired morning and evening cortisol, respectively. CONCLUSION Nonworking women exhibited higher levels of stress than working women. There is an urgent need to support nonworking women to manage stress through appropriate awareness campaigns and public health policies. IMPLICATIONS FOR MANAGEMENT Policymakers and community leaders should consider the mental health of nonworking women as a priority in planning public health policies and programmes. Nurse managers must have a voice in reforming public health policy to support early assessment and management of stress among nonworking women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wegdan Bani-Issa
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hadia Radwan
- College of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Arwa Al Shujairi
- Medical Affair Department, GSK Gulf, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Heba Hijazi
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rabah M Al Abdi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Shamsa Al Awar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Roba Saqan
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Services Administration, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ali Ibrahim
- Marketing Department, American University in the Emirates, United Arab Emirates.,Marketing Department, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Hanif Abdul Rahman
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.,University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lin Naing
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
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13
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Hijazi H, Baniissa W, Al Abdi R, Al-Yateem N, Almarzouqi A, Rahman S, Alshammari R, Alameddine M. Experiences of Work-Related Stress Among Female Healthcare Workers During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency: A Qualitative Study in the United Arab of Emirates. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2022; 15:2701-2715. [PMID: 36172543 PMCID: PMC9512021 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s381177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Frontline healthcare workers experienced high levels of psychological distress and emotional turmoil due to the changes necessitated by the COVID-19 public health emergency. Given that workplace stress can negatively influence both quality of work, and job performance, this study sought to explore the lived experiences of work-related stress among female healthcare workers in United Arab of Emirates during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A qualitative phenomenological investigation was performed using a purposive sampling approach. A total of 26 semi-structured interviews were conducted with female healthcare workers who worked directly with COVID-19 patients. Using Giorgi’s descriptive method, the data were analyzed to identify the main themes. Results Three main themes emerged from the data analysis, with nine categories under these themes. The first theme was “sources of work-related stress.” The participants reported a high workload, fear of being infected and transmitting the virus to others, and uncertainty and lack of knowledge regarding COVID-19 to be the main sources of their work-related stress. The second theme was “challenges of working during the pandemic.” The participants related being challenged by changes in the organization of care, the need to use personal protective equipment, a work-life imbalance, and witnessing patients’ suffering. The third theme was “coping strategies.” The participants perceived having sources of social support and using self-adjustment skills to be helpful strategies in terms of coping with the stressful situations they experienced. Conclusion The findings suggest a number of strategies and interventions that could be used at the individual and institutional levels to promote the preparedness and efficacy of healthcare workers during future crises and public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Hijazi
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Wegdan Baniissa
- Nursing Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rabah Al Abdi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Nabeel Al-Yateem
- Nursing Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amina Almarzouqi
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Syed Rahman
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rayya Alshammari
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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14
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Alameddine M, Otaki F, Bou-Karroum K, Du Preez L, Loubser P, AlGurg R, Alsheikh-Ali A. Patients’ and physicians’ gender and perspective on shared decision-making: A cross-sectional study from Dubai. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270700. [PMID: 36048748 PMCID: PMC9436052 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Delivering patient-centered care is a declared objective of many health delivery systems globally, especially in an era of value-based health care. It entails the active engagement of the patients in healthcare decisions related to their health, also known as shared decision making (SDM). Little is known about the role of gender in shaping the perspective of patients on their opportunity for engaging in SDM in the Arabian Gulf Region. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of gender in shaping patients’ perspectives toward their opportunity for SDM in Dubai, UAE. Methods This study utilized a cross-sectional survey consisting of sociodemographic questions and the 9-item Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q-9). A total of 50 physicians (25 females and 25 males), practicing at a large private healthcare delivery network in Dubai, were recruited using convenience sampling. Ten patients of every recruited physician (5 male and 5 female) were surveyed (i.e., a total of 500 patients). Statistical analysis assessed the differences in patients’ perceptions of physician SDM attitude scores by physicians’ and patients’ gender using independent t-test, ANOVA-test, and Chi-square analyses. Findings A total of 50 physicians and 500 patients (250 male patients and 250 female patients) participated in this study. The odd of patients agreement was significantly lower for male physicians, compared to their female counterparts, on the following elements of SDM: the doctor precisely explaining the advantages and disadvantages of the treatment (OR = 0.55, 95%CI: 0.34–0.88, p = 0.012); the doctor helping them understand the information (OR = 0.47, 95%CI: 0.23–0.97, p = 0.038), the doctor asking about preferred treatment option (OR = 0.52, 95%CI: 0.35–0.77, p = 0.001), and the doctor thoroughly weighting the different treatment options (OR = 0.60, 95%CI: 0.41–0.90, p = 0.013). No significant associations were observed between patients’ gender and their perception of their opportunity for SDM. Likewise, no significant associations were observed between the same or different physician-patient gender and patients’ perception of physicians’ SDM attitudes. Statistically significant associations were observed between physician-patient gender and preferred treatment option for patients (p = 0.012). Conclusion Study findings suggest that while there were no differences in patients’ perspective on SDM by the gender of patients, significant differences were observed by the gender of physicians. Female physicians, compared to their male counterparts, were more engaged in SDM, with both male and female patients. Male physician-female patient dyad received the lowest scores on SDM. This could be explained by the cultural, social, and religious sensitivities that infiltrate the physician-patient relationship in the Arab contexts. Despite the multi-cultural nature of the country, some female patients may still experience some discomfort in opening up and in discussion preferences with male physicians. For physicians, striking the right balance between assertiveness and SDM is necessary within the cultural context, especially among male providers. Offering targeted learning and development programs on the importance and practice of SDM is also necessary to ensure equitable opportunity for engagement in SDM for all patients irrespective of the gender of their provider.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Farah Otaki
- Strategy and Institutional Excellence, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Leon Du Preez
- Cardiac Anesthesiology, The City Hospital, Dubai Health Care City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Reem AlGurg
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- * E-mail:
| | - Alawi Alsheikh-Ali
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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15
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Saleh S, Muhieddine D, Hamadeh R, Dimassi H, Diaconu K, Arakelyan S, Ager A, Alameddine M. The determinants of the quality of clinical management among diabetic and hypertensive patients in a context of fragility: A cross-sectional survey from Lebanon. Front Public Health 2022; 10:844864. [PMID: 35958868 PMCID: PMC9357988 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.844864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe management of NCDs is a growing challenge in low- and middle-income settings with the increasing prevalence and the associated demands that such conditions make on health systems. Fragile settings both exacerbate the risk of NCDs and undermine systems capacity. Lebanon is a setting where strategies to address rising NCDs burden have faced particularly acute contextual challenges.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey with patients accessing non-communicable disease across 11 primary care centers within the Greater Beirut and Beqaa areas. Response were received from 1,700 patients. We generated a Clinical Management Index Score as a measure of quality of care, and scores related to a range of socio-demographic characteristics and other context specific variables.ResultsSignificantly higher clinical management index scores (better quality of care) were associated with patients living in the semi-urban/rural context of Beqaa (compared to Greater Beirut), having health insurance coverage, aged above 60, having high levels of educational attainment, and making partial or full payment for their treatment. Relatively lower index scores (poorer quality of care) were associated with Syrian nationality (compared to Lebanese) and with patients suffering from diabetes or hypertension (compared to comorbid patients).ConclusionThe study identified a wide margin for improving quality of NCDs care in fragile contexts with particular gaps identified in referral to ophthalmology, accessing all prescribed medication and receiving counseling for smoking cessation. Additionally, findings indicate a number of predictors of comparatively poor quality of care that warrant attention, notably with regard to Syrian nationality/legal status, lack of health coverage, seeking free health provision and lower educational attachment. Although these are all relevant risk factors, the findings call on donor agencies, NGOs and provider institutions to design targeted programs and activities that especially ensure equitable delivery of services to diabetic and hypertensive patients with compounded vulnerability as a result of a number of these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadi Saleh
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dina Muhieddine
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Hani Dimassi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Karin Diaconu
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Stella Arakelyan
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alastair Ager
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- *Correspondence: Mohamad Alameddine
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16
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Bani‐Issa W, Radwan H, Saqan R, Hijazi H, Fakhry R, Alameddine M, Naja F, Ibrahim A, Lin N, Naing YT, Awad M. Association between quality of sleep and screen time during the COVID-19 outbreak among adolescents in the United Arab Emirates. J Sleep Res 2022; 32:e13666. [PMID: 35670277 PMCID: PMC9348184 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on people of all ages. Adolescents' exposure to online learning is linked to excessive screen time on digital devices, which leads to poor sleep quality. This study aimed to investigate the association between screen time on different electronic devices and sleep quality among adolescents in the United Arab Emirates. This study was based on a self-reported questionnaire, which was administered online to school-aged adolescents (aged 12-19 years). The multicomponent questionnaire collected information on sociodemographic characteristics, sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and screen time (minutes) on TV, TV-connected devices, laptops, smartphones, and tablets on weekdays, weeknight, and weekends using the Screen Time Questionnaire (STQ). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify factors correlated with poor sleep quality. A total of 1720 adolescents were recruited from private and public schools (mean age 14.6 ± 1.97 years). The mean PSQI score was 8.09 ± 3.37, and 74.3% of participants reported poor sleep (cutoff score >5). Mean scores were highest for the sleep latency (1.85 ± 0.97) and sleep disturbance (1.56 ± 0.62) domains. The highest STQ score was observed for smartphones, with a median screen time of 420 min on weekdays and 300 min on weekends. Screen time related to smartphones on weekends (p = 0.003) and increased screen time in bed (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with poor sleep. Our results confirmed the correlation between sleep and screen time in adolescents. The results may inform educational polices that target screen time and sleep among adolescents during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wegdan Bani‐Issa
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates
| | - Hadia Radwan
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates
| | - Roba Saqan
- Research Institute of Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates
| | - Heba Hijazi
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute for Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates,Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of MedicineJordan University of Science and TechnologyIrbidJordan
| | - Randa Fakhry
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates
| | - Farah Naja
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates
| | - Ali Ibrahim
- Marketing DepartmentGriffith UniversityBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Naing Lin
- PAPRSB Institute of Health SciencesUniversiti Brunei DarussalamGadongBrunei
| | - Yuwadi Thein Naing
- Asia Pacific University of Technology and InnovationKuala LumpurMalaysia
| | - Manal Awad
- College of Dental Medicine – Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, Research Institute for Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates
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17
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Saleh S, Muhieddine D, Hamadeh RS, Dimassi H, Diaconu K, Noubani A, Arakelyan S, Ager A, Alameddine M. Outpatient use patterns and experiences among diabetic and hypertensive patients in fragile settings: a cross-sectional study from Lebanon. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e054564. [PMID: 35613758 PMCID: PMC9174831 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Assess and describe the health service use and delivery patterns for non-communicable disease (NCD) services in two contrasting fragility contexts and by other principal equity-related characteristics including gender, nationality and health coverage. SETTING Primary healthcare centres located in the urbanised area of Greater Beirut and the rural area of the Beqaa Valley. DESIGN This is a cross-sectional study using a structured survey tool between January and September 2020. PARTICIPANTS 1700 Lebanese and Syrian refugee patients seeking primary care for hypertension and diabetes. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES The main outcome is the comprehensiveness of service delivery comparing differences in use and service delivery patterns by fragility setting, gender, nationality and health coverage. RESULTS Compliance with routine NCD care management (eg, counselling, immunisations, diagnostic testing and referral rates) was significantly better in Beirut compared with Beqaa. Women were significantly less likely to be offered lifestyle counselling advice and referral to cardiologists (58.4% vs 68.3% in Beqaa and 58.1% vs 62% in Beirut) and ophthalmologists, compared with men. Across both settings, there was a significant trend for Lebanese patients to receive more services and more advice related to nutrition and diabetes management (89.8% vs 85.2% and 62.4% vs 55.5%, respectively). Similarly, referral rates were higher among Lebanese refugees compared with Syrian refugees. Immunisation and diagnostic testing were significantly higher in Beirut among those who have health coverage compared with Beqaa. CONCLUSIONS The study discovered significant differences in outpatient service use by setting, nationality and gender to differentials. A rigorous and comprehensive appraisal of NCD programmes and services is imperative for providing policy makers with evidence-based recommendations to guide the design, implementation and evaluation of targeted programmes and services necessary to ensure equity in health services delivery to diabetic and hypertensive patients. Such programmes are an ethical imperative considering the protracted crises and compounded fragility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadi Saleh
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dina Muhieddine
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Randa S Hamadeh
- Primary Healthcare Department, Lebanon Ministry of Public Health, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani Dimassi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - K Diaconu
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, East Lothian, UK
| | - Aya Noubani
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Stella Arakelyan
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, East Lothian, UK
| | - Alastair Ager
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, East Lothian, UK
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Health Services Administration, University of Sharjah College of Health Sciences, Sharjah, UAE
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences College of Medicine, Dubai, UAE
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18
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Daneshvar E, Otterbach S, Alameddine M, Safikhani H, Sousa-Poza A. Sources of anxiety among health care workers in Tehran during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health Policy Plan 2022; 37:310-321. [PMID: 34791255 PMCID: PMC8690063 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czab136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
By applying multivariate regression to 2020 survey data from four Tehran hospitals, we measure eight recognized sources of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic-related anxiety among 723 healthcare workers (HCWs) with diverse sociodemographic characteristics employed across different hospital areas and positions. The most prominent anxiety source identified is the risk of workplace COVID-19 contraction and transmission to family, followed by uncertainty about organizational support for personal and family needs in the event of worker infection. A supplemental qualitative analysis of 68 respondents in the largest hospital identifies four additional anxiety sources, namely, health, finances, workload, and leadership. This evidence of the multifaceted nature of anxiety sources among HCWs highlights the differentiated approaches that hospital policymakers must take to combat anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Daneshvar
- Institute for Health Care & Public Management, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 48, Stuttgart 70599, Germany
| | - Steffen Otterbach
- Institute for Health Care & Public Management, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 48, Stuttgart 70599, Germany
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- University of Sharjah, College of Health Sciences, University City, Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamidreza Safikhani
- Economics & Health Management, Strategic Council at National Research Network for Policy Making, Tehran, Iran
- Health Economics Association of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alfonso Sousa-Poza
- Institute for Health Care & Public Management, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 48, Stuttgart 70599, Germany
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19
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Al-Adawi S, Alameddine M, Al-Saadoon M, Al Balushi AA, Chan MF, Bou-Karroum K, Al-Kindy H, Al-Harthi SM. The magnitude and effect of work-life imbalance on cognition and affective range among the non-western population: A study from Muscat. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263608. [PMID: 35113951 PMCID: PMC8812942 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The temporal relationship between work-life balance/imbalance, occupational burnout, and poor mental health outcomes have been widely explored. Little has been forthcoming on cognitive functioning among those with work-life imbalance. This study aimed to explore the rate of work-life imbalance and the variation in neuropsychological functioning. The relationship between affective ranges (anxiety and depressive symptoms) and work-life balance was also explored. The target population in this study are Omani nationals who were referred for psychometric evaluation. The study employs neuropsychology measures tapping into attention and concentration, learning and remembering, processing speed, and executive functioning. Subjective measures of cognitive decline and affective ranges were also explored. A total of 168 subjects (75.3% of the responders) were considered to be at a work-life imbalance. Multivariate analysis showed that demographic and neuropsychological variables were significant risk factors for work-life imbalance including age and the presence of anxiety disorder. Furthermore, participants indicating work-life imbalance were more likely to report cognitive decline on indices of attention, concentration, learning, and remembering. This study reveals that individuals with work-life imbalance might dent the integrity of cognition including attention and concentration, learning and remembering, executive functioning, and endorsed case-ness for anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Al-Adawi
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Health Care City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Muna Al-Saadoon
- Department of Child Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | | | - Moon Fai Chan
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Health Management and Policy, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hamad Al-Kindy
- Compensation Board, Directorate General of Khoula Hospital, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
- Muscat Directorate of General Health Services, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Saud M. Al-Harthi
- Muscat Directorate of General Health Services, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
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20
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Kawa N, Abisaab J, Abiad F, Badr K, El-Kak F, Alameddine M, Balsari S. The toll of cascading crises on Lebanon's health workforce. The Lancet Global Health 2022; 10:e177-e178. [DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(21)00493-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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21
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Alameddine M, Bou-Karroum K, Hijazi MA. A national study on the resilience of community pharmacists in Lebanon: a cross-sectional survey. J Pharm Policy Pract 2022; 15:8. [PMID: 35090571 PMCID: PMC8795943 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-022-00406-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Community pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals and are likely to experience the full brunt of public health crises. In Lebanon, the COVID-19 pandemic, added to a severe economic meltdown, have significantly disrupted an already suffering profession. Methods The objective of this study was to determine the level of resilience and its relationship to burnout, job satisfaction, intention to quit, and changes in practice. The study utilized a cross-sectional design to survey community pharmacists using an online questionnaire that included the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale and the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory. All community pharmacists were invited to participate. Multiple logistic regression identified variables significantly associated with the resilience of pharmacists. Results A total of 459 community pharmacists completed the questionnaire. Respondents had a relatively low resilience level (68.0 ± 13.37). They also had higher scores on the client-related burnout (58.06 ± 17.46), followed by the personal burnout (56.51 ± 16.68) and the work-related burnout (55.75 ± 13.82). In this sample, 52.3% of pharmacists indicated that they are dissatisfied with their job and 41.1% indicated an intention to quit in the coming year. According to multivariate analysis, marital status (ß = 0.38; 95% CI 0.16–0.91; p = 0.03), intention to quit (ß = 0.384; 95% CI 0.149–0.987; p = 0.047), workload (ß = 0.275; 95% CI 0.096–0.783; p = 0.016), perception of safety (ß = 0.267; 95% CI 0.078–0.909; p = 0.035), and personal burnout (ß = 0.321; 95% CI 0.152–0.677; p = 0.003) were independent influencing factors for resilience. Conclusions Multiple challenges and crises have culminated to the low job satisfaction, high burnout, and high the intention to quit of community pharmacists. This seriously destabilized the labor market of pharmacists which could negatively affect public safety. Effective interventions are essential to enhance the well-being and job satisfaction of pharmacists during public health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Health Care City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Ali Hijazi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon.
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22
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Al‐Yateem N, Ahmed FR, Alameddine M, Dias JM, Saifan AR, Subu MA, Hijazi H, AbuRuz ME. Psychological distress among the nursing workforce in the United Arab Emirates: Comparing levels before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurs Forum 2022; 57:1314-1320. [PMID: 36210355 PMCID: PMC9874575 DOI: 10.1111/nuf.12808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurses make up the majority of the healthcare workforce. They contribute to the development of healthcare systems and the provision of high-quality, effective, and patient-centered healthcare services. However, nurses need good mental and emotional well-being to provide adequate care and the necessary physical and mental health support for their clients. This study aimed to determine the level of generalized psychological distress among nurses in the United Arab Emirates. As this study was initiated before the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, we were able to compare data gathered before and during the pandemic. METHOD This study used a cross-sectional correlational design. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) was used to measure generalized psychological distress. Nurses' distress levels were measured and compared before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS In total, 988 participants completed the questionnaire. The majority (n = 629, 63.7%) were employed in hospitals and the remainder worked in primary healthcare settings (n = 359, 36.3%). The mean distress score was 27.1 ± 13.7; 42.1% (n = 416) of participants had a severe level of distress, and only 36.4% (n = 360) reported no distress. More participants had severe stress levels before COVID-19 (59.5%, n = 386) compared with during COVID-19 (10.9%, n = 30). CONCLUSIONS Participants' K10 scores suggest that nurses experience significant distress, which may compromise their ability to care for their clients. This study emphasizes the importance of supporting nurses as a preliminary step to improving patient care. Despite the pressure of working during the COVID-19 pandemic, participants' general distress scores were lower during than before the pandemic. Organizational, governmental, and global support and appreciation may have contributed to relieving the distress nurses experienced. This may be a useful ongoing approach for enhancing healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabeel Al‐Yateem
- Nursing Department, College of Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUAE,Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences ‐ Health and Workforce Studies Research GroupUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates
| | - Fatma Refaat Ahmed
- Nursing Department, College of Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUAE
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences ‐ Health and Workforce Studies Research GroupUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates,Health Service Administration Department, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUAE
| | | | - Ahmad Rajeh Saifan
- Clinical Nursing DepartmentApplied Science Private UniversityAmmanJordan
| | - Muhamad Arsyad Subu
- Nursing Department, College of Health SciencesUniversity of SharjahSharjahUAE
| | - Heba Hijazi
- Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences ‐ Health and Workforce Studies Research GroupUniversity of SharjahSharjahUnited Arab Emirates,Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of MedicineJordan University of Science and TechnologyIrbidJordan
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23
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Sahakian T, Daouk-Öyry L, Kroon B, Kooij DTAM, Alameddine M. The neglected contexts and outcomes of evidence-based management: a systematic scoping review in hospital settings. J Health Organ Manag 2021; 36:48-65. [PMID: 34985223 DOI: 10.1108/jhom-03-2021-0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted the necessity of practicing Evidence-based Management (EBMgt) as an approach to decision-making in hospital settings. The literature, however, provides limited insight into the process of EBMgt and its contextual nuances. Such insight is critical for better leveraging EBMgt in practice. Therefore, the authors' aim was to integrate the literature on the process of EBMgt in hospital settings, identify the gaps in knowledge and delineate areas for future research. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH The authors conducted a systematic scoping review using an innovative methodology that involved two systematic searches. First using EBMgt terminology and second using terminology associated with the EBMgt concept, which the authors derived from the first search. FINDINGS The authors identified 218 relevant articles, which using content analysis, they mapped onto the grounded model of the EBMgt process; a novel model of the EBMgt process developed by Sahakian and colleagues. The authors found that the English language literature provides limited insight into the role of managers' perceptions and motives in EBMgt, the practice of EBMgt in Global South countries, and the outcomes of EBMgt. Overall, this study's findings indicated that aspects of the decision-maker, context and outcomes have been neglected in EBMgt. ORIGINALITY/VALUE The authors contributed to the EBMgt literature by identifying these gaps and proposing future research areas and to the systematic review literature by developing a novel scoping review method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Sahakian
- Evidence-based Healthcare Management Unit, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Human Resource Studies, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Lina Daouk-Öyry
- Evidence-based Healthcare Management Unit, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.,Suliman S Olayan School of Business, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Brigitte Kroon
- Department of Human Resource Studies, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Dorien T A M Kooij
- Department of Human Resource Studies, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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24
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Naja F, Radwan H, Cheikh Ismail L, Hashim M, Rida WH, Abu Qiyas S, Bou-Karroum K, Alameddine M. Practices and resilience of dieticians during the COVID-19 pandemic: a national survey in the United Arab Emirates. Hum Resour Health 2021; 19:141. [PMID: 34801030 PMCID: PMC8605460 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-021-00682-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the practices and resilience of most healthcare workers, including dieticians. In addition to offering critical care to COVID-19 patients, dieticians play a major role in preventing and managing conditions known to affect COVID-19, such as obesity and metabolic disorders. The objective of this study was to examine the conditions and changes in the work environment as well as resilience and its correlates among dieticians during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). METHODS A cross-sectional national survey was conducted among dieticians practicing in the UAE (n = 371), using a web-based questionnaire. The questionnaire addressed, in addition to the sociodemographic information, the practice-related characteristics and resilience of participants. For the latter the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale© was used. Descriptive statistics as well as simple and multiple linear regressions were used in the statistical analysis. RESULTS Of participants, 26.4% reported not having access to personal protective equipment and 50% indicated being concerned for their safety and health. Furthermore, considerable proportions of participants were not satisfied (45%) with the support nor with the appreciation (37.7%) they received during the pandemic. One in four dieticians considered quitting his/her job. While 65.8% of participants reported counseling COVID-19 patients, a third did not use any online platform for counseling. The most cited challenge to dietetic practice during the pandemic was 'maintaining work-life balance' (43.1%). The mean CD-RISC score was 72.0 ± 14.0. After adjustment, working in a hospital or public clinic (as opposed to private clinic), having a condition preventing face-to-face counseling, considering quitting job and feeling neutral or dissatisfied with the appreciation were associated with lower resilience scores, while counseling COVID-19 patients was associated with higher scores. CONCLUSIONS Despite the fairly high resilience among dieticians practicing in the UAE during the COVID-19 pandemic, the findings of this study highlighted a few challenges, mainly related to safe practice environment, support for online counseling, and maintaining work-life balance. Concerted efforts of policy and decision makers ought to develop targeted programs for dieticians to ensure their retention and wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Naja
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hadia Radwan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Leila Cheikh Ismail
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mona Hashim
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Wafaa Helmi Rida
- Public Health and Prevention Department, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, UAE
| | - Salma Abu Qiyas
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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25
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Alameddine M, Clinton M, Bou-Karroum K, Richa N, Doumit MAA. Factors Associated With the Resilience of Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Worldviews Evid Based Nurs 2021; 18:320-331. [PMID: 34738308 PMCID: PMC8661653 DOI: 10.1111/wvn.12544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The delivery of health care during the COVID-19 outbreak imposed significant challenges on the global nursing workforce and placed them at a higher risk of occupational burnout and turnover. In Lebanon, the pandemic hit when nurses were already struggling with an economic collapse caused by government failures. Resilience may play a protective factor against adversity and enable effective adaption to the burden of the pandemic. AIMS To determine the level of resilience in the nursing workforce and its relationship to burnout, intention to quit, and perceived COVID-19 risk. METHODS A cross-sectional study was employed among all registered nurses affiliated with the Order of Nurses in Lebanon and working in patient care positions in hospitals. The online survey questionnaire incorporated the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale and the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory. Quartile scores were used to differentiate levels of resilience and burnout. Multiple logistic regression identified variables significantly associated with resilience. RESULTS Five-hundred and eleven nurses responded to the questionnaire. Nurses had a moderate level of resilience (M = 72 ± 13.5). In multivariate analyses, being male (OR = 3.67; 95% CI [1.46, 9.22]; p = .006) and having a master's degree (OR = 4.082; 95% CI [1.49, 11.20]; p = .006) were independently associated with higher resilience. Resilience levels decreased with higher personal burnout (OR = 0.12; 95% CI [0.03, 0.435]; p = .001), work-related burnout (OR = 0.14; 95% CI [0.04, 0.46]; p = .001), and client-related burnout rates (OR = 0.09; 95% CI [0.03, 0.34]; p < .001). Nurses reporting the intention to quit their job had lower resilience scores (OR = 0.20; 95% CI [0.04, 0.88]; p = .033). LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION Nursing stakeholders must introduce programs to regularly assess and enhance the resilience of nurses especially at time of crisis. Such programs would protect nurses from the perils of burnout and enhance their retention during times when they are most needed. Protecting nurses from burnout is an ethical imperative as well as an operational requirement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Health Management and Policy, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Michael Clinton
- Hariri School of Nursing, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Health Management and Policy, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Myrna A A Doumit
- Order of Nurses in Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon.,Alice Ramez Chagoury School of Nursing, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
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26
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Alameddine M, Bou-Karroum K, Ghalayini W, Abiad F. Resilience of nurses at the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic in Lebanon. Int J Nurs Sci 2021; 8:432-438. [PMID: 34567826 PMCID: PMC8450420 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnss.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The study aimed to investigate the level and factors associated with the resilience of nurses practicing at the main COVID-19 referral center in Lebanon. Methods The study utilized a cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected electronically in the spring of 2020 from 265 nurses. The questionnaire included five sections: demographic characteristics, job satisfaction, turnover intentions, exposure to violence, and resilience levels. Multiple linear regression was used to determine factors associated with resilience. Results Results showed that the overall score of resilience among nurses was 66.91 ± 13.34. Most nurses were satisfied with their job (67.8%), and most nurses reported that it is unlikely for them to quit their present work in the coming year (76.2%). Over the last year, three-quarters of nurses (74.7%) reported being ever exposed to a form of occupational violence. The resilience of nurses was directly associated with job satisfaction and male gender and inversely associated with intention-to-quit and exposure to violence (P < 0.05). Conclusions Enhancing the resilience of nurses at the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic improves their job satisfaction and retention and would help support the effectiveness and efficiency of care services. Nurse managers can regularly investigate the resilience of nurses and offer interventions that would strengthen it, especially at times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- University of Sharjah, College of Health Sciences, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Health Management and Policy, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Health Management and Policy, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Firas Abiad
- Rafik Hariri University Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of General Surgery, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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27
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Chan MF, Al Balushi AA, Al-Adawi S, Alameddine M, Al Saadoon M, Bou-Karroum K. Workplace bullying, occupational burnout, work-life imbalance and perceived medical errors among nurses in Oman: A cluster analysis. J Nurs Manag 2021; 30:1530-1539. [PMID: 34327784 DOI: 10.1111/jonm.13432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM To explore whether different profiles exist in a cohort of nurses regarding demographic and occupational outcomes. BACKGROUND Nurses will face many occupational problems, including workplace bullying, work-life imbalance, burnout and medical errors. METHODS A cross-sectional study included 232 nurses working in a hospital in Oman. Data were collected from December 2018 to April 2019 using convenience sampling. Instruments included work-life balance questions, the Negative Acts questionnaire-revised questionnaire, Oldenburg Burnout Inventory and Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index. Cluster analysis, t test, chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests were used for data analysis. RESULTS Cluster 1 (n = 108) was characterized as 'low-risk on medical error, burnout and workplace bullying but high-risk in work-life imbalance' group. Cluster 2 (n = 124) was labelled as 'high-risk on medical error, work-life imbalance, burnout and workplace buying' group. CONCLUSIONS Two groups of nurses in Oman are facing occupational problems differently. Nurses in Cluster 1 need attention to work-life imbalance. However, nurses in Cluster 2 need attention on all occupational problems. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT Findings call on the nursing stakeholders in Oman to identify factors related to occupational problems, to provide consultation services to reduce inter-personnel conflicts, and to review nurses' working hours to avoid burnout and resume a balanced work-life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon Fai Chan
- Department of Family Medicine & Public Health, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | | | - Samir Al-Adawi
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE.,College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Muna Al Saadoon
- Department of Child Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Health Management and Policy, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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28
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Al Balushi AA, Alameddine M, Chan MF, Al Saadoon M, Bou-Karroum K, Al-Adawi S. Factors associated with self-reported medical errors among healthcare workers: a cross-sectional study from Oman. Int J Qual Health Care 2021; 33:6317458. [PMID: 34240130 DOI: 10.1093/intqhc/mzab102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite efforts to improve patient safety, medical errors remain prevalent among healthcare workers. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between self-reported medical errors, occupational outcomes and socio-demographic variables. METHODS The study employed a cross-sectional design to survey healthcare workers at a large tertiary hospital in Muscat, Oman. The survey questionnaire included socio-demographic variables, a self-assessment of medical errors, work-life balance, occupational burnout and work-related bullying. RESULTS A total of 297 healthcare workers participated in this study. In this sample, the average of self-reported medical errors was 5.4 ± 3.3. The prevalence of work-life imbalance, bullying and moderate/high burnout was 90.2%, 31.3% and 19.5%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that gender, nationality, age, profession, occupational burnout and bullying were significantly associated with self-reported medical error. Being male was associated with higher self-reported medical errors compared to female workers (β = 1.728, P < 0.001). Omani workers reported higher medical errors compared to their non-Omani colleagues (β = 2.668, P < 0.001). Similarly, healthcare workers in a younger age group reported higher medical errors compared with those in the older age group (β = ‒1.334, P < 0.001). Physicians reported higher medical error than nurses (β = 3.126, P < 0.001). Among occupational outcomes, self-reported medical errors increased with higher burnout rates (β = 1.686, P = 0.003) and frequent exposure to bullying (β = 1.609, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Improving patient safety has become paramount in the modern age of quality improvement. In this study, medical errors reported by healthcare workers were strongly related to their degree of burnout and exposure to work-related bullying practice. This study makes a unique and tangible contribution to the current knowledge of medical errors among healthcare workers in Oman.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of Medicine Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE.,College of Health Sciences, Univeristy of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Moon Fai Chan
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Muna Al Saadoon
- Department of Child Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Samir Al-Adawi
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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Jue JS, Alameddine M, Gonzále J, Cianci G. Risk factors, management, and survival of bladder cancer after kidney transplantation. Actas Urol Esp 2021; 45:427-438. [PMID: 34147429 DOI: 10.1016/j.acuroe.2020.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Kidney transplantation is associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer; however guidelines have not been established on the management of bladder cancer after kidney transplantation. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic literature review using PubMed was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement to identify studies concerning the prevalence and survival of bladder cancer after kidney transplantation. The risk factors and management of bladder cancer after kidney transplantation were also reviewed and discussed. RESULTS A total of 41 studies, published between 1996 and 2018, reporting primary data on bladder cancer after kidney transplantation were identified. Marked heterogeneity in bladder cancer prevalence, time to diagnosis, non-muscle invasive/muscle-invasive bladder cancer prevalence, and survival was noted. Four studies, published between 2003 and 2017, reporting primary data on bladder cancer treated with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) after kidney transplantation were identified. Disease-free survival, cancer-specific survival, and overall survival were similar between BCG studies (75-100%). CONCLUSIONS Carcinogen exposure that led to ESRD, BKV, HPV, immunosuppressive agents, and the immunosuppressed state likely contribute to the increased risk of bladder cancer after renal transplantation. Non-muscle invasive disease should be treated with transurethral resection. BCG can be safely used in transplant recipients and likely improves the disease course. Muscle-invasive disease should be treated with radical cystectomy, with special consideration to the dissection and urinary diversion choice. Chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors can be safely used in regionally advanced bladder cancer with potential benefit. mTOR inhibitors may reduce the risk of developing bladder cancer, and immunosuppression medications should be reduced if malignancy develops.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Jue
- Department of Urology, Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Health, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, New York, United States; Department of Urology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.
| | - M Alameddine
- Department of Surgery, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States; Miami Transplant Institute, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States; Department of Urology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Gonzále
- Department of Surgery, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States; Department of Urology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - G Cianci
- Department of Surgery, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States; Department of Urology, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States; Miami Transplant Institute, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States; Department of Urology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
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Jue J, Alameddine M, González J, Ciancio G. Risk factors, management, and survival of bladder cancer after kidney transplantation. Actas Urol Esp 2021. [PMID: 33994047 DOI: 10.1016/j.acuro.2020.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Kidney transplantation is associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer; however guidelines have not been established on the management of bladder cancer after kidney transplantation. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic literature review using PubMed was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement to identify studies concerning the prevalence and survival of bladder cancer after kidney transplantation. The risk factors and management of bladder cancer after kidney transplantation were also reviewed and discussed. RESULTS A total of 41 studies, published between 1996 and 2018, reporting primary data on bladder cancer after kidney transplantation were identified. Marked heterogeneity in bladder cancer prevalence, time to diagnosis, non-muscle invasive/muscle-invasive bladder cancer prevalence, and survival was noted. Four studies, published between 2003 and 2017, reporting primary data on bladder cancer treated with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) after kidney transplantation were identified. Disease-free survival, cancer-specific survival, and overall survival were similar between BCG studies (75-100%). CONCLUSIONS Carcinogen exposure that led to ESRD, BKV, HPV, immunosuppressive agents, and the immunosuppressed state likely contribute to the increased risk of bladder cancer after renal transplantation. Non-muscle invasive disease should be treated with transurethral resection. BCG can be safely used in transplant recipients and likely improves the disease course. Muscle-invasive disease should be treated with radical cystectomy, with special consideration to the dissection and urinary diversion choice. Chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors can be safely used in regionally advanced bladder cancer with potential benefit. mTOR inhibitors may reduce the risk of developing bladder cancer, and immunosuppression medications should be reduced if malignancy develops.
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Hitti E, Hadid D, Melki J, Kaddoura R, Alameddine M. Mobile device use among emergency department healthcare professionals: prevalence, utilization and attitudes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1917. [PMID: 33479264 PMCID: PMC7820016 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81278-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Mobile devices are increasingly permeating healthcare and are being regularly used by healthcare providers. We examined the prevalence and frequency of mobile device use, and perceptions around clinical and personal usage, among healthcare providers (attending physicians, residents, and nurses) in the Emergency Department (ED) of a large academic medical center in Lebanon. Half of the target population (N = 236) completed the cross-sectional electronic questionnaire. Mobile device usage for personal matters was uniform across all providers, with the highest usage reported by medical students (81.3%) and lowest by attendings (75.0%). Medical formulary/drug referencing applications were the most common application used by providers followed by disease diagnosis/management applications, 84.4% and 69.5% respectively. Most respondents agreed that mobile devices enabled better-coordinated care among providers and were beneficial to patient care. Most respondents also agreed that mobile device use assisted in quickly resolving personal issues and reduced their feeling of stress, yet the majority did not feel that personal usage improved performance at work. Study findings revealed that although healthcare providers value mobile devices' positive impact on coordination of care, the reverse spillover effect of personal issues into the workplace enabled by mobile devices might have some negative impact on performance of staff at work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eveline Hitti
- Department of Emergency Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dima Hadid
- Department of Emergency Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jad Melki
- Department of Communication Arts, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rima Kaddoura
- Department of Emergency Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, American University of Beirut, PO Box 110236, Riad El Solh, Beirut, 1107-2020, Lebanon.
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE.
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Landry MD, Alameddine M, Jesus TS, Sassine S, Koueik E, Raman SR. Correction to: The 2020 blast in the Port of Beirut: can the Lebanese health system "build back better"? BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:1117. [PMID: 33272277 PMCID: PMC7713174 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05966-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE.,American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Tiago S Jesus
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Elie Koueik
- Order of Physiotherapists in Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
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Khalil M, Alameddine M. Recruitment and retention strategies, policies, and their barriers: A narrative review in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Health Sci Rep 2020; 3:e192. [PMID: 33033753 PMCID: PMC7534515 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding factors affecting recruitment and retention of health workers in rural and remote communities is necessary for proper policy development and the equitable achievement of Universal Health Coverage. AIM Review and synthesize the literature on interventions used to retain health workforce in rural and remote areas by low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). METHOD We carried out a narrative review of literature (peer-reviewed and gray) on the distribution and retention of health workers in rural and remote areas in the LMICs of the EMR. Out of the 130 retrieved articles, 21 met the inclusion criteria and were studied using WHO's Global Recommendations For Increasing Access To Health Workers In Remote And Rural Areas Through Improved Retention (education, regulation, financial, and personal/professional) as the analytical framework for extractions. RESULTS There is a dearth of literature on retention in rural areas in the EMR and a complete absence of evaluation studies for implemented intervention. Various LMICs in the EMR have implemented interventions across one or more of the WHO four categories, especially educational and regulatory interventions. Limitations in the number and quality of published studies, fragmented data, over-representation of certain cadres in research and policies, and poor governance were chief barriers to the design, implementation, and evaluation of health workforce retention policies in rural and remote areas. The main challenges for EMR countries are in policy implementation and evaluation. Strengthening data governance and health information systems would improve evidence-based policies and enhance retention in rural and remote areas. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for a focused research agenda supported by regional collaboration to guide policymakers on factors, challenges, and best practices that need to be considered for improving the distribution and retention of the health workforce by cadre, gender, and region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merette Khalil
- Department of Universal Health Coverage and Health Systems DevelopmentEastern Mediterranean Regional Office, World Health OrganizationCairoEgypt
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- College of MedicineMohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health SciencesDubaiUnited Arab Emirates
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health SciencesAmerican University of BeirutBeirutLebanon
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Alameddine M, Bou-Karroum K, Kassas S, Hijazi MA. A profession in danger: Stakeholders' perspectives on supporting the pharmacy profession in Lebanon. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242213. [PMID: 33196652 PMCID: PMC7668569 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lebanon boosts one of the highest pharmacists to population ratios globally (20.3/10,000). Yet, workforce analysis elicited serious concerns with the distribution, practice environments and regulation of Lebanese pharmacists. Recent workforce data shows that the profession has been majorly destabilized with hundreds of pharmacists closing their pharmacies or losing their employment. Proper planning for the future of the pharmacy profession in Lebanon necessitates a deeper understanding of the current challenges and the necessary policy and practice recommendations. The aim of this study is to examine stakeholders’ perspectives on the current pharmacist workforce challenges and the necessary measures to support the profession. Methods The research team carried out a series of semi-structured interviews with twenty-one key stakeholders within the pharmacy profession in Lebanon. We categorized stakeholders according to their experience as policy makers, practitioners, academicians, and media experts. The interview guide included questions about workforce trends, labor market challenges and recommendations for improvement. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically. Results Four major themes emerged from this study: the oversupply of pharmacists in Lebanon, the demand supply imbalance, poor regulation of the pharmacy practice, and the difficult practice environment. There was a consensus among interviewees that the oversupply of pharmacists is due to the poor workforce planning and weak regulatory framework, combined with the easy integration of foreign-trained pharmacists into the labor market. The lack of coordination between the educational and practice sectors is further widening the demand-supply gap. Interviewees further revealed that the regulatory policies on pharmacy practice were outdated and/or weakly enforced which increases the risk of unethical practices and erodes the image of pharmacists in the society. With respect to the practice environment, there is an ongoing struggle by Lebanese pharmacists to maintain profitability and exercise their full scope of practice. Conclusion The poor pharmacy workforce planning and regulation is significantly weakening the pharmacy profession in Lebanon. A concerted effort between the various stakeholders is necessary to enhance workforce planning, regulate supply, optimize the integration of pharmacists into work sectors of need, and improve the financial and professional wellbeing of pharmacists in Lebanon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Health Care City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sara Kassas
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Ali Hijazi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
- * E-mail:
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Landry MD, Alameddine M, Jesus TS, Sassine S, Koueik E, Raman SR. BMC health services research title: the 2020 blast in the port of Beirut: can the Lebanese health system "build back better"? BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:1040. [PMID: 33183285 PMCID: PMC7659403 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05906-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The August 2020 explosion in Lebanon resulted in casualties, injuries, and a great number of internally displaced persons. The blast occurred during an economically and politically complex time in the country. Given multiple and competing post-explosion reconstruction priorities, in ths editorial we briefly examine the requirements for a build back better scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE.,American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Tiago S Jesus
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine - NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Elie Koueik
- Order of Physiotherapists in Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
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Jamal Z, Alameddine M, Diaconu K, Lough G, Witter S, Ager A, Fouad FM. Health system resilience in the face of crisis: analysing the challenges, strategies and capacities for UNRWA in Syria. Health Policy Plan 2020; 35:26-35. [PMID: 31625558 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czz129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Health system resilience reflects the ability to continue service delivery in the face of extraordinary shocks. We examined the case of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and its delivery of services to Palestine refugees in Syria during the ongoing crisis to identify factors enabling system resilience. The study is a retrospective qualitative case study utilizing diverse methods. We conducted 35 semi-structured interviews with UNRWA clinical and administrative professionals engaged in health service delivery over the period of the Syria conflict. Through a group model building session with a sub-group of eight of these participants, we then elicited a causal loop diagram of health system functioning over the course of the war, identifying pathways of threat and mitigating resilience strategies. We triangulated analysis with data from UNRWA annual reports and routine health management information. The UNRWA health system generally sustained service provision despite individual, community and system challenges that arose during the conflict. We distinguish absorptive, adaptive and transformative capacities of the system facilitating this resilience. Absorptive capacities enabled immediate crisis response, drawing on available human and organizational resources. Adaptive capacities sustained service delivery through revised logistical arrangements, enhanced collaborative mechanisms and organizational flexibility. Transformative capacity was evidenced by the creation of new services in response to changing community needs. Analysis suggests factors such as staff commitment, organizational flexibility and availability of collaboration mechanisms were important assets in maintaining service continuity and quality. This evidence regarding alternative strategies adopted to sustain service delivery in Syria is of clear relevance to other actors seeking organizational resilience in crisis contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeina Jamal
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU, UK
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh/Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Karin Diaconu
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU, UK
| | - Graham Lough
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU, UK
| | - Sophie Witter
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU, UK
| | - Alastair Ager
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU, UK
| | - Fouad M Fouad
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh/Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
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Adderley H, Chan J, Alameddine M, Kelly C, Salih Z, Lim K, Fox R, Tetlow C, Arundell D, Wong H, Harries M, Armstrong A, Thorp N. Permanent Hair Loss Associated with Taxane Chemotherapy Use in Breast Cancer: a Retrospective Review at Two Tertiary UK Cancer Centres. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2020.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Alameddine M, AlGurg R, Otaki F, Alsheikh-Ali AA. Physicians' perspective on shared decision-making in Dubai: a cross-sectional study. Hum Resour Health 2020; 18:33. [PMID: 32381007 PMCID: PMC7206665 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-020-00475-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shared decision-making (SDM) is an integral part of patient-centered delivery of care. Maximizing the opportunity of patients to participate in decisions related to their health is an expectation in care delivery nowadays. The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions of physicians in regard to SDM in a large private hospital network in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. METHODS This study utilized a cross-sectional design, where a survey questionnaire was assembled to capture quantitative and qualitative data on the perception of physicians in relation to SDM. The survey instrument included three sections: the first solicited physicians' personal and professional information, the second entailed a 9-item SDM Questionnaire (SDM-Q-9), and the third included an open-ended section. Statistical analysis assessed whether the average SDM-Q-9 score differed significantly by gender, age, years of experience, professional status-generalist versus specialist, and work location-hospitals versus polyclinics. Non-parametric analysis (two independent variables) with the Mann-Whitney test was utilized. The qualitative data was thematically analyzed. RESULTS Fifty physicians from various specialties participated in this study (25 of each gender-85% response rate). Although the quantitative data analysis revealed that most physicians (80%) rated themselves quite highly when it comes to SDM, qualitative analysis underscored a number of barriers that limited the opportunity for SDM. Analysis identified four themes that influence the acceptability of SDM, namely physician-specific (where the physicians' extent of adopting SDM is related to their own belief system and their perception that the presence of evidence negates the need for SDM), patient-related (e.g., patients' unwillingness to be involved in decisions concerning their health), contextual/environmental (e.g., sociocultural impediments), and relational (the information asymmetry and the power gradient that influence how the physician and patient relate to one another). CONCLUSIONS SDM and evidence-based management (EBM) are not mutually exclusive. Professional learning and development programs targeting caregivers should focus on the consolidation of the two perspectives. We encourage healthcare managers and leaders to translate declared policies into actionable initiatives supporting patient-centered care. This could be achieved through the dedication of the necessary resources that would enable SDM, and the development of interventions that are designed both to improve health literacy and to educate patients on their rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, P.O. Box 505055, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Reem AlGurg
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, P.O. Box 505055, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Farah Otaki
- Strategy and Institutional Excellence, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alawi A Alsheikh-Ali
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, P.O. Box 505055, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Alameddine M, Tamim H, Hadid D, Cheaito MA, Makki M, Maatouk H, Hitti E. Patient Attitudes Toward Mobile Device Use by Health Care Providers in the Emergency Department: Cross-Sectional Survey. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e16917. [PMID: 32229474 PMCID: PMC7157496 DOI: 10.2196/16917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care provider usage of mobile devices is increasing globally; however, there is little understanding of patient perceptions on this behavior in a health care setting. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess patients' attitudes toward mobile device usage by health care providers in the emergency department and to identify predictors of these attitudes. METHODS The study was carried out at the emergency department of a large academic tertiary care medical center in Lebanon. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted by administering a questionnaire to medically stable adult patients who presented to the emergency department with an emergency severity index of 3, 4, or 5 between January 2017 and March 2018. The questionnaire collected relevant patient demographic information and included questions related to their mobile device usage along with those evaluating attitudes for the use of mobile devices by health care providers with respect to six major domains: role in health care, distraction potential, impact on communication, empathy, privacy, and professionalism. The attitude toward mobile device usage by health care providers in the emergency department was the main outcome variable. A stepwise logistic regression model was used to assess the association between the outcome variable and the demographic and attitude-related independent variables. RESULTS Among the 438 eligible patients, 338 patients responded to the questionnaire for a response rate of 70.0%. Overall, 313/338 (92.6%) respondents agreed that mobile devices improve health care delivery, whereas 132/338 (39.1%) respondents were opposed to their usage by health care providers in the emergency department (95% CI: 34.0-44.4). The majority (240/338, 71.0%) of patients agreed that mobile devices are a source of distraction to health care providers in the workplace. Females (odds ratio [OR]=1.67, 95% CI: 1.00-2.78) as well as all patients (OR=2.54, 95% CI 1.36-4.76) who believed that mobile devices were a source of distraction, reflecting a lack of professionalism (OR=2.77, 95% CI 1.59-4.82) and impacting the provider's ability to relate to the patient (OR=2.93, 95% CI 1.72-4.99), were more likely to agree that mobile devices should not be used in the emergency department. CONCLUSIONS Patients' negative attitude toward mobile device use in the emergency department is largely driven by patient gender (females), patient perception of the distraction potential of the devices, and their negative impact on the health care provider's empathy and professionalism. The findings of this study shed light on the importance of encouraging stakeholders to impose a digital professionalism code of conduct for providers working in acute health care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani Tamim
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dima Hadid
- Department of Emergency Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad-Ali Cheaito
- Department of Emergency Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maha Makki
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hadi Maatouk
- Department of Emergency Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Eveline Hitti
- Department of Emergency Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Hassan Al Marzouqi AH, Alameddine M, Sharif A, Alsheikh-Ali AA. Research productivity in the United Arab Emirates: A 20-year bibliometric analysis. Heliyon 2019; 5:e02819. [PMID: 31872101 PMCID: PMC6911954 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite increased attention on science and research in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), little is known about the national state of research productivity and how it evolved over time. Methods Using the world's largest bibliometric database (Scopus), we reviewed research productivity in the UAE (1998-2017) in various disciplines and normalized it to population size and gross domestic product. We summarized the quality of research using conventional metrics of research quality and compared the performance of the UAE to its geographic region and to other countries of similar population size and economic standing. Results Over the past 20 years, there was a 16-fold increase in the number of research publications from the UAE, and a 6- and 3-fold increase when normalized to population size and gross domestic product, respectively. Growth was observed across all disciplines, with an increasingly diverse research portfolio, and was coupled with a slight increase in the quality of publications. The crude productivity in the UAE was higher than that observed for the gulf cooperation council or Arab region, but lower when normalized to gross domestic product, or when compared to two countries outside the Arab region with remarkable research growth. Conclusions Over the past 20 years, the UAE witnessed a significant increase in research productivity, coupled with a slight increase in quality and diversity of research. Accounting for the UAE's economic standing, and compared to other countries with excellent research output, the UAE has significant potential for further growth with increased resources for research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed H Hassan Al Marzouqi
- Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.,College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Amer Sharif
- Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alawi A Alsheikh-Ali
- Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Saleh S, Farah A, El Arnaout N, Dimassi H, El Morr C, Muntaner C, Ammar W, Hamadeh R, Alameddine M. mHealth use for non-communicable diseases care in primary health: patients' perspective from rural settings and refugee camps. J Public Health (Oxf) 2019; 40:ii52-ii63. [PMID: 30307516 PMCID: PMC6294037 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdy172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 85% of deaths in Lebanon and contribute to remarkable morbidity and mortality among refugees and underserved populations. This study assesses the perspectives of individuals with hypertension and/or diabetes in rural areas and Palestinian refugee camps towards a population based mHealth intervention called 'eSahha'. Methods The study employs a mixed-methods design to evaluate the effectiveness of SMSs on self-reported perceptions of lifestyle modifications. Quantitative data was collected through phone surveys, and qualitative data through focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis were performed. Results About 93.9% (n = 1000) of respondents perceived the SMSs as useful and easy to read and understand. About 76.9% reported compliance with SMSs through daily behavioral modifications. Women (P = 0.007), people aged ≥76 years (P < 0.001), unemployed individuals (P < 0.001), individuals who only read and write (P < 0.001) or those who are illiterate (P < 0.001) were significantly more likely to receive and not read the SMSs. Behavior change across settings was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion While SMS-based interventions targeting individuals with hypertension and/or diabetes were generally satisfactory among those living in rural areas and Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon, a more tailored approach for older, illiterate and unemployed individuals is needed. Keywords e-health, refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadi Saleh
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon.,Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Angie Farah
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nour El Arnaout
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani Dimassi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Christo El Morr
- School of Health Policy & Management, Faculty of Health, School of Health Policy and Management, York University, 4700 Keele St., Toronto ON, Canada
| | - Carles Muntaner
- Social & Behavioural Health Sciences Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Walid Ammar
- Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Public Health, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Randa Hamadeh
- Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Public Health, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon.,Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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El Arnaout N, Chehab RF, Rafii B, Alameddine M. Gender equity in planning, development and management of human resources for health: a scoping review. Hum Resour Health 2019; 17:52. [PMID: 31296235 PMCID: PMC6625080 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-019-0391-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender equity remains a challenge across various labor markets with the health market being no exception. Despite the increased influx of women into health professions, horizontal and vertical occupational gender inequities persist. MAIN BODY The objective of this scoping review is to map the studies on gender equity in healthcare systems in terms of workforce planning, development, and management, as well as to identify the barriers and facilitators for integrating gender equity into healthcare systems. We reviewed the literature on the topic using nine electronic and two grey literature databases with the search strategy combining medical subheadings and keywords for each of the following four concepts of interest: "gender equity," "human resources for health," "healthcare setting," and "management processes." The scoping review included studies focusing on the examination of gender equity at the level of the health workforce. Out of 20,242 studies identified through the database search, the full text of 367 articles was assessed for eligibility and 110 were included in the qualitative analysis. The data of those studies was abstracted and analyzed into themes. Results do not only reveal a global dearth of studies focused on this important topic, but also the concentration of such studies in a few countries around the globe, mainly in North America and Europe. Four out of each five studies included in this review focused on physicians, followed by nurses (14%). In terms of design, an overwhelming majority of studies utilized quantitative designs (75%), followed by qualitative designs and database analyses. Studies were categorized into four pre-determined main themes: facilitators and barriers, workforce planning, HRH management, and HRH development. CONCLUSION Future research is needed to better understand poorly covered sub-themes such as mentorship, professional development, and training, as well as recruitment and retention among others. It is also equally needed to fill in the gaps in professional groups, study type, methodology, and region. While the review unearthed a number of well-studied themes, significant aspects of the topic remain untapped especially in developing countries and at the level of health professionals other than physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour El Arnaout
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, 1107 2020 Lebanon
| | - Rana F. Chehab
- Department of Nutrition Science, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
| | - Bayan Rafii
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, 1107 2020 Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, 1107 2020 Lebanon
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Alameddine M, Bou Karroum K, Hijazi MA. Upscaling the pharmacy profession in Lebanon: workforce distribution and key improvement opportunities. Hum Resour Health 2019; 17:47. [PMID: 31234863 PMCID: PMC6591915 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-019-0386-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The critical role pharmacists play in the healthcare system necessitates close monitoring of their supply, distribution, and competencies. This is especially relevant considering the global increase in the demand for pharmacists. In Lebanon, the pharmacy profession is facing several challenges related to the unplanned supply of pharmacists. The aim of the study is to analyze the Order of Pharmacists registration database and generate workforce distribution over the last six decades. METHODS This study entailed a detailed database analysis of a deidentified subset of the Order of Pharmacists in Lebanon registration records for years 1954-2018. The analysis generated workforce distribution in terms of growth in number, distribution by gender, age distribution, geographic location, workforce status, sector of employment, and employment position. A descriptive analysis was carried out with cross-tabulations to identify distribution across selected variables. RESULTS The pharmacy profession in Lebanon witnessed significant growth over the period of analysis. The "Community" was the most common employment sector (63%), followed by "Pharmaceutical Sector" (24%) and "Hospitals" (5%). The high ratio of pharmacists to 10 000 population (20.3) was contrasted by a low ratio of hospital pharmacist per hospital and per 100 hospital beds (1.9 and 1.7, respectively). The high pharmacist to population ratio is indicative of an oversupply of pharmacists precipitated by poor workforce planning. While oversupply did not result in high unemployment, it may have negatively affected the income of pharmacists and their adherence to the professional and ethical requirements of their job. Despite the large number of pharmacists in Lebanon, findings elicit concerns over the adequacy and safety of pharmacists' services in hospitals with a low ratio of hospital pharmacists to 100 hospital beds. CONCLUSION This study unearthed several opportunities and concerns related to planning the supply, distribution, regulation, and the professional scope of practice of pharmacists in Lebanon. A concerted multi-stakeholder effort to address some of the identified challenges will not only improve the professional status of pharmacists but will also enhance the safety and efficiency of pharmaceutical care in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, 1107 2020 Lebanon
| | - Karen Bou Karroum
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, 1107 2020 Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Ali Hijazi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box: 11 5020, Beirut, Lebanon
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Alameddine M, Soueidan H, Makki M, Tamim H, Hitti E. The Use of Smart Devices by Care Providers in Emergency Departments: Cross-Sectional Survey Design. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2019; 7:e13614. [PMID: 31199328 PMCID: PMC6592497 DOI: 10.2196/13614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of smart devices (SDs) by health care providers in care settings is a common practice nowadays. Such use includes apps related to patient care and often extends to personal calls and applications with frequent prompts and interruptions. These prompts and interruptions enhance the risk of distractions caused by SDs and raise concerns about service quality and patient safety. Such concerns are exacerbated in complex care settings such as the emergency department (ED). OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to measure the frequency and patterns of SD use among health care providers in the ED of a large academic health center in Lebanon. The perceived consequences of care providers using SDs on provider-to-provider communication and the care quality of patients in the ED were assessed. Additionally, factors associated with the use of SDs and the approval for regulating such use were also investigated. METHODS The study was carried out at the ED of an academic health center with the highest volume of patient visits in Lebanon. The data were collected using a cross-sectional electronic survey sent to all ED health care providers (N=236). The target population included core ED faculty members, attending physicians, residents, medical students, and the nursing care providers. The regression model developed in this study was used to find predictors of medical errors in the ED because of the use of SDs. RESULTS Half of the target population responded to the questionnaire. A total of 83 of 97 respondents (86%) used one or more medical applications on their SDs. 71 out of 87 respondents (82%) believed that using SDs in the ED improved the coordination among the care team, and 71 out of 90 (79%) respondents believed that it was beneficial to patient care. In addition, 37 out of 90 respondents (41%) acknowledged that they were distracted when using their SDs for nonwork purposes. 51 out of 93 respondents (55%) witnessed a colleague committing a near miss or an error owing to the SD-caused distractions. Regression analysis revealed that age (P=.04) and missing information owing to the use of SDs (P=.02) were major predictors of committing an error in the ED. Interestingly, more than 40% of the respondents were significantly addicted to using SDs and more than one-third felt the need to cut down their use. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study make it imperative to ensure the safety and wellbeing of patients, especially in high intensity, high volume departments like the ED. Irrespective of the positive role SDs play in the health care process, the negative effects of their use mandate proper regulation, in particular, an ethical mandate that takes into consideration the significant consequences that the use of SDs may have on care processes and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- American University of Beirut, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Health Management and Policy, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hussein Soueidan
- American University of Beirut, Evidence Based Health Management Unit, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maha Makki
- American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani Tamim
- American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Eveline Hitti
- American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
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45
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Hijazi MA, Shatila H, El-Lakany A, Aboul Ela M, Kharroubi S, Alameddine M, Naja F. Beliefs, practices and knowledge of community pharmacists regarding complementary and alternative medicine: national cross-sectional study in Lebanon. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e025074. [PMID: 30852542 PMCID: PMC6429928 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to provide patients with evidence-based information in order to ensure effective and safe use of Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) products. OBJECTIVE Assess beliefs, practices and knowledge related to CAM products among community pharmacists in Lebanon. DESIGN, METHODS AND SETTING Using stratified random sampling, a nationally representative survey was conducted among community pharmacists in Lebanon. Through face-to-face interviews, pharmacists completed a multicomponent questionnaire consisting of four sections: (1) sociodemographic characteristics; (2) beliefs related to regulation of CAM products, role of media in promoting their safe use, availability of resources and continuing education; (3) practices including selling CAM products, providing advice for patients and reporting adverse effects and (4) knowledge about specific CAM products, their uses, side effects and interactions. RESULTS A total of 341 pharmacists agreed to participate (response rate: 86%). Only pharmacists with complete data were included in this study (n=310). Pharmacists agreed that CAM products are effective (63.8%) and that they should be exclusively sold in pharmacies (80.3%), but disagreed that commercially marketed CAM products are well regulated (63.5%) and that media plays a positive role in educating users about these products (55.8%). As for practices, 64.5% of pharmacists were always or often advising patients on safe use; however, 74.2% of participants rarely or never reported adverse effects. Regarding knowledge, although the majority of pharmacists were aware of the uses of CAM products, fewer knew about their side effects and their interactions with drugs. After adjustment for covariates, receiving education/training on CAM products during university was the sole predictor of higher knowledge score (ß=0.68, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.07). CONCLUSIONS This study revealed positive beliefs of pharmacists in Lebanon towards CAM products and indicated important gaps in their practice and knowledge. Deliberate efforts to enhance the education of pharmacists are warranted to ensure the safe integration and use of CAM products in Lebanon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Ali Hijazi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hibeh Shatila
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdalla El-Lakany
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maha Aboul Ela
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Samer Kharroubi
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Strategy & Institutional Excellence, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences College of Medicine, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Farah Naja
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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46
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Saleh S, Farah A, Dimassi H, El Arnaout N, Constantin J, Osman M, El Morr C, Alameddine M. Using Mobile Health to Enhance Outcomes of Noncommunicable Diseases Care in Rural Settings and Refugee Camps: Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2018; 6:e137. [PMID: 30006326 PMCID: PMC6064041 DOI: 10.2196/mhealth.8146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rural areas and refugee camps are characterized by poor access of patients to needed noncommunicable disease (NCD)-related health services, including diabetes and hypertension. Employing low-cost innovative eHealth interventions, such as mobile health (mHealth), may help improve NCDs prevention and control among disadvantaged populations. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the effect of employing low-cost mHealth tools on the accessibility to health services and improvement of health indicators of individuals with NCDs in rural areas and refugee camps in Lebanon. METHODS This is a randomized controlled trial study in which centers were allocated randomly into control and intervention sites. The effect of an employed mHealth intervention is assessed through selected quality indicators examined in both control and intervention groups. Sixteen primary health care centers (eight controls, eight interventions) located in rural areas and Palestinian refugee camps across Lebanon were included in this study. Data on diabetic and hypertensive patients-1433 in the intervention group and 926 in the control group-was extracted from patient files in the pre and postintervention periods. The intervention entailed weekly short message service messages, including medical information, importance of compliance, and reminders of appointments or regular physician follow-up. Internationally established care indicators were utilized in this study. Descriptive analysis of baseline characteristics of participants, bivariate analysis, logistic and linear regression were conducted using SPSS (IBM Corp). RESULTS Bivariate analysis of quality indicators indicated that the intervention group had a significant increase in blood pressure control (P=.03), as well as a significant decrease in the mean systolic blood pressure (P=.02), mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c; P<.01), and in the proportion of HbA1c poor control (P=.02). Separate regression models controlling for age, gender, and setting showed a 28% increase in the odds of blood pressure control (P=.05) and a 38% decrease in the odds of HbA1c poor control (P=.04) among the intervention group in the posttest period. Females were at lower odds of HbA1c poor control (P=.01), and age was statistically associated with annual HbA1c testing (P<.01). Regression models for mean systolic blood pressure, mean diastolic blood pressure, and mean HbA1c showed that a mean decrease in HbA1c of 0.87% (P<.01) pretest to posttest period was observed among the intervention group. Patients in rural areas belonging to the intervention group had a lower HbA1c score as compared with those in refugee camps (P<.01). CONCLUSIONS This study underlines the importance of employing integrative approaches of diseases prevention and control in which existing NCD programs in underserved communities (ie, rural and refugee camps settings) are coupled with innovative, low-cost approaches such as mHealth to provide an effective and amplified effect of traditional NCD-targeted care that can be reflected by improved NCD-related health indicators among the population. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03580330; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03580330 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/70mhVEUwQ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadi Saleh
- Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Angie Farah
- Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani Dimassi
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nour El Arnaout
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Joanne Constantin
- Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mona Osman
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Christo El Morr
- School of Health Policy and Management, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Health Management and Policy, College of Medicine, Mohammed bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Ager A, Alameddine M, Witter S, Fouad FM, Diaconu K, Jamal Z, Lough G. In support of UNRWA appeal for health and dignity of Palestinian refugees. Lancet 2018; 391:1260-1261. [PMID: 29619957 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(18)30568-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alastair Ager
- Institute for Global Health & Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU, UK
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Faculty of Health Science, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sophie Witter
- Institute for Global Health & Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU, UK
| | - Fouad M Fouad
- Faculty of Health Science, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Karin Diaconu
- Institute for Global Health & Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU, UK.
| | - Zeina Jamal
- Faculty of Health Science, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Graham Lough
- Institute for Global Health & Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU, UK
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48
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Fouad FM, Sparrow A, Tarakji A, Alameddine M, El-Jardali F, Coutts AP, El Arnaout N, Karroum LB, Jawad M, Roborgh S, Abbara A, Alhalabi F, AlMasri I, Jabbour S. Health workers and the weaponisation of health care in Syria: a preliminary inquiry for The Lancet-American University of Beirut Commission on Syria. Lancet 2017; 390:2516-2526. [PMID: 28314568 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(17)30741-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 02/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The conflict in Syria presents new and unprecedented challenges that undermine the principles and practice of medical neutrality in armed conflict. With direct and repeated targeting of health workers, health facilities, and ambulances, Syria has become the most dangerous place on earth for health-care providers. The weaponisation of health care-a strategy of using people's need for health care as a weapon against them by violently depriving them of it-has translated into hundreds of health workers killed, hundreds more incarcerated or tortured, and hundreds of health facilities deliberately and systematically attacked. Evidence shows use of this strategy on an unprecedented scale by the Syrian Government and allied forces, in what human rights organisations described as a war-crime strategy, although all parties seem to have committed violations. Attacks on health care have sparked a large-scale exodus of experienced health workers. Formidable challenges face health workers who have stayed behind, and with no health care a major factor in the flight of refugees, the effect extends well beyond Syria. The international community has left these violations of international humanitarian and human rights law largely unanswered, despite their enormous consequences. There have been repudiated denunciations, but little action on bringing the perpetrators to justice. This inadequate response challenges the foundation of medical neutrality needed to sustain the operations of global health and humanitarian agencies in situations of armed conflict. In this Health Policy, we analyse the situation of health workers facing such systematic and serious violations of international humanitarian law. We describe the tremendous pressures that health workers have been under and continue to endure, and the remarkable resilience and resourcefulness they have displayed in response to this crisis. We propose policy imperatives to protect and support health workers working in armed conflict zones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fouad M Fouad
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Global Health Initiative, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Annie Sparrow
- Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ahmad Tarakji
- Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), Washington, DC, USA
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Fadi El-Jardali
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Knowledge to Policy (K2P) Center, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Center for Systematic Reviews on Health Policy and Systems Research (SPARK), American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Adam P Coutts
- Department of Sociology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nour El Arnaout
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lama Bou Karroum
- Center for Systematic Reviews on Health Policy and Systems Research (SPARK), American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohammed Jawad
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sophie Roborgh
- Department of Politics and International Studies, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Aula Abbara
- Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), Washington, DC, USA; Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Samer Jabbour
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Baumann A, Hunsberger M, Crea-Arsenio M, Akhtar-Danesh N, Alameddine M. A government policy on full-time nursing employment in Ontario, Canada: An evaluation. Health Policy 2017; 122:109-114. [PMID: 29174410 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of a government full-time employment policy targeting new graduate nurses in the province of Ontario, Canada, by comparing participants with non-participants. METHODS The Policy Impact on Nurse Employment (PINEP) survey was administered in 2014 to nurses who graduated between 2007 and 2012. Backward multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the effect of participation in the policy on key outcomes: full-time employment, retention and perceptions of clinical proficiency. RESULTS A total of 2369 nurses responded to the survey. Policy participants were 1.5 times more likely to be employed full-time and 2.3 times more likely to be retained in their initial position at the time of survey compared to non-participants. Participants also perceived their clinical proficiency to be higher. CONCLUSIONS The evidence is converging around the importance of providing full-time employment to nurses to sustain the workforce, increase clinical proficiency and improve patient outcomes. In Ontario, the government created a policy to stimulate full-time employment for nurses. Results demonstrate that nursing employment has become more stable. Yet more needs to be done particularly in relation to the precarious employment trend.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Baumann
- Nursing Health Services Research Unit, McMaster University Site, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 3500, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Mabel Hunsberger
- Nursing Health Services Research Unit, McMaster University Site, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 3500, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Mary Crea-Arsenio
- Nursing Health Services Research Unit, McMaster University Site, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 3500, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Noori Akhtar-Danesh
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Room 3N28B, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Van Dyck - Room 136-A, PO Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon.
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Alameddine M, Chan J, Alam F. Survival outcomes of all patients treated with breast carcinosarcoma at a UK specialist cancer centre over a 10 year period (2004–2014). Ann Oncol 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdx362.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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