Articles: pandemics.
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Dtsch. Med. Wochenschr. · Feb 2023
[Clinical and procedural characteristics of patients with acute coronary syndrome during the COVID-19 pandemic 2020 compared to a control group from 2019].
During the COVID-19 pandemic medical treatments including emergencies were often delayed, in part because of fear of an infection with Sars-CoV-2. Even patients with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) were affected by these circumstances. In the present study we provide a systematic comparison of patients with ACS during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to a control group. ⋯ Despite overall comparable numbers of ACS patients those admitted during the COVID-19 pandemic were more frequently diagnosed with NSTEMI and had a larger extent of coronary disease compared to a control group.
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We report here on the process and findings of a research prioritisation exercise for universal health coverage (UHC) in South Africa, conducted during the course of 2019. As plans to roll out National Health Insurance (NHI) gather momentum and we transition into a pandemic recovery phase, we believe that it is now time to revisit these priorities, while recognising that experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic have revealed new system challenges and strengths and introduced new priorities. ⋯ Themes related to leadership and governance were ranked most highly, and with other priorities generated, provide an initial road map of knowledge needs that could guide individual institutions and commissioning by funding bodies. We further reflect on the importance of researcher-decision-maker dialogue and strengthening the contribution of health policy and systems research to policy and practice, especially as new reforms are implemented.
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For many, the lockdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in drastic behavior changes. While the immediate uncertainty and fear surrounding the initial lockdown has subsided, there are still significant changes to our daily lives and work that may have lasting impact on our health and well-being. One such change is the increase in physical inactivity and sedentarism, a result of decreased group activities, organized events, work and school from home mandates, and physical distancing. ⋯ Overall, health care providers are inconsistent and often ineffective at screening and counseling patients on the benefits of regular physical activity. Additionally, there is very little structured curricula for medical learners to address physical inactivity and other lifestyle factors that contribute to the health of our patients. As we adjust to new social practices and behaviors as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical that we emphasize the need for education, screening, evidence-based interventions, advocacy, and effective role modeling on the importance of physical activity for our patients, communities, and our own well-being.