The European journal of general practice
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Factors associated with the appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing in primary care have been poorly explored. In particular, the impact of computerised decision-support systems (CDSS) remains unknown. ⋯ Individual appropriateness for antibiotic prescribing was high among CDSS users, with a higher rate in young general practitioners, previously using the system. CDSS could improve antibiotic prescribing in primary care.
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Reducing avoidable hospital admissions is a global healthcare priority, with optimal primary care recognised as pivotal for achieving this objective. However, in developing systems like China, where primary care is evolving without compulsory gatekeeping, the relationship between patient-perceived primary care quality and hospital utilisation remains underexplored. ⋯ Enhanced patient-perceived quality of primary care in China is associated with a reduction in self-reported overall hospital utilisation, including outpatient visits and hospital admissions. However, better continuity of care may be associated with increased ED visits. Further research is warranted for precise insights and validation of these findings.
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There is a paucity of prognostic models for COVID-19 that are usable for in-office patient assessment in general practice (GP). ⋯ We derived a risk model using readily available variables at GP assessment to predict hospital admission for COVID-19. It performed accurately across regions and waves. Further validation on cohorts with acquired immunity and newer SARS-CoV-2 variants is recommended.
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Primary Health Care (PHC) was the cornerstone of the pandemic response. ⋯ Based on the lessons learnt, building further on the pandemic-accelerated digitalisation, emphasising on quality improvement and patient safety, ensuring providers' well-being, and empowering citizens through health literacy could be key in promoting PHC resilience.
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Worldwide, there are concerns about declining mental health of children and young people (CYP). ⋯ The COVID-19 pandemic did not significantly increase consultation rates for psychosocial problems in CYP. The consultation rates increased, especially in adolescent girls and young women.