Journal of Korean medical science
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Hearing level reference values based on the results of recent audiometry have not been established for the general population of South Korea. This study aimed to evaluate the mean hearing levels of each age group and to measure the annual progression of hearing loss. ⋯ The present study provides reference values for normal hearing levels by age group, and indirectly reveals the progression of age-related hearing loss. Based on the results, physicians will be able to provide appropriate advice regarding hearing levels and the need for monitoring in the elderly.
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J. Korean Med. Sci. · Jan 2025
Impact of Government Healthcare Policy Changes on Consumption and Human Movements During COVID-19: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis in Korea.
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has altered daily behavioral patterns based on government healthcare policies, including consumption and movement patterns. We aimed to examine the extent to which changes in the government's healthcare policy have affected people's lives, primarily focusing on changes in consumption and population movements. ⋯ Enhancing healthcare policies presents advantages and disadvantages. Although such policies help prevent the spread of COVID-19, they also reduce consumption and mobility, extending the time needed to return to pre-COVID-19 levels. Government healthcare policymakers should consider not only disease prevention but also the impact of these policies on social behaviors, economic activity, and mobility.
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J. Korean Med. Sci. · Jan 2025
Gaps and Similarities in Research Use LOINC Codes Utilized in Korean University Hospitals: Towards Semantic Interoperability for Patient Care.
The accuracy of Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes (LOINC) mappings is reportedly low, and the LOINC codes used for research purposes in Korea have not been validated for accuracy or usability. Our study aimed to evaluate the discrepancies and similarities in interoperability using existing LOINC mappings in actual patient care settings. ⋯ This study reveals a significant inconsistency rate of over 15% in LOINC mappings utilized for research purposes in university hospitals, underlining the necessity for expert verification to enhance interoperability in real patient care.
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J. Korean Med. Sci. · Jan 2025
Expert Consensus on Developing Information and Communication Technology-Based Patient Education Guidelines for Rheumatic Diseases in the Korea.
This study aimed to identify key priorities for the development of guidelines for information and communication technology (ICT)-based patient education tailored to the needs of patients with rheumatic diseases (RDs) in the Republic of Korea, based on expert consensus. ⋯ The key priorities identified in this study provide a foundation for the development of ICT-based patient education guidelines for RDs in the Republic of Korea. Future efforts should focus on integrating digital tools into clinical practice to enhance patient engagement and improve clinical outcomes.