Journal of evaluation in clinical practice
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Diabetes mellitus is a global serious health problem that has a clear negative impact on economy. The high prevalence of diabetes worldwide urges for prevention and educational programs. Engagement of community pharmacists in offering various diabetes care services enables delivery of quality of care for patients and could play key role in diabetes management. The current study was designed to assess the knowledge towards diabetes among community pharmacists and to investigate their role in diabetes management through identifying different diabetes care services they provide in Asir region, Saudi Arabia. In addition, possible barriers for providing these services were evaluated. ⋯ Community pharmacists of Asir region exhibited moderate knowledge and practices regarding diabetes management. Our results support the need for national advanced diabetes training programs targeting community pharmacists for providing quality of care services for diabetic patients Moreover, strategies to overcome the reported barriers are indispensable.
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To validate codelists for defining a range of mental health (MH) conditions with primary care data, using a mixed qualitative and quantitative approach and without requiring external data. ⋯ We produced a comprehensive set of medical codes lists for 12 MH conditions validated by a combination of clinical consensus panel and quantitative cluster analysis with cross-validation.
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Optimal mobility is crucial for healthy aging, particularly among older adults with balance impairments. This research examines the psychometric properties of the modified Dynamic Gait Index (mDGI) translated into Icelandic, highlighting its suitability for evaluating mobility in this demographic group and within the context of healthy aging. Addressing the scarcity of international psychometric research on the mDGI, this study contributes to the translation of geriatric outcome measures into different languages, enhancing clinical applications and international research. ⋯ The Icelandic version of the mDGI provides reliable and valid measures for evaluating balance and gait in older adults with balance impairments. Its sound psychometric properties support its use in similar demographic settings globally, providing a reliable tool for geriatric care practitioners and researchers worldwide.
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Review Meta Analysis
Evidence-Based Decision Making in Psychological Research: A Network Meta-Analysis.
Network meta-analysis (NMA) was introduced in the 1990s as an extension of standard meta-analysis. Since then, it has been utilized in various scientific fields, particularly in medicine, to evaluate the effectiveness of therapies/interventions/treatments applied for specific outcomes. In recent years, NMA, which offers a highly attractive methodology for researchers, clinicians and decision-makers, has gained popularity as a form of evidence synthesis. Recognized as providing the 'highest level of evidence', NMA is also crucial in conducting research in psychology and psychiatry. With advancements in psychology and psychiatry, specific programmes or interventions have been developed and continue to be developed to address particular problem areas. Due to the variety of these treatment methods, there has not yet been a study focusing on the direct comparison of some treatments. Therefore, the aim of this article is to introduce the NMA method and highlight its potential in evidence-based decision-making, particularly in the field of psychopathology. By doing so, it is anticipated that the perspective of clinicians can be broadened in planning appropriate therapies for psychopathologies. ⋯ In conclusion, NMA holds significant potential for use in psychology, where many treatment options exist, and its use is encouraged among clinicians and researchers in the field.
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Understanding drivers of antibiotic use is key to limiting the development of antimicrobial resistance. Outpatient antibiotic prescribing rates vary substantially across and within states. Kentucky is one of the highest prescribing states, and the southeastern region has rates that are drastically higher than the national average and urban areas of the state. We sought to examine provider perceptions of antibiotic use in this rural area to more effectively guide future interventions and policy. ⋯ This study highlights unique challenges associated with antibiotic prescribing in rural areas. Findings will guide future interventions through adaptation of existing strategies to better serve this vulnerable population.