Conectar
by Yufeng Li, Athia Haron, Chaofan Lin, Yuan Tang, Andrew Weightman, Glen Cooper
The prevalence of diabetes is expected to be 650 million people by 2030, and diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) is one of its most severe complications. It poses a significant challenge to global health and brings substantial social and economic burdens. Although many studies have explored the mechanisms of DFU development, they are still not fully understood. Due to the high cost of the experimental research, many recent studies have employed the computational modelling approaches to simulate the effects of diabetes on foot tissues from mechanical, thermal, fluid, and cellular perspectives. This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of computational modelling approaches used to investigate various factors influencing DFU, discuss current knowledge gaps and limitations, and outline future research directions. A systematic search was conducted in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases, identifying a total of N = 1631 records up to March 2025, 31 of which studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed in this study. Results showed that DFU-related computational models can be categorized into five types: mechanical stress models, thermal models, vascular and nerve system models, multiphysics models, and cellular-based models. These models explore the formation mechanisms of DFU from different perspectives, including biomechanics, temperature, fluid dynamics, HHμm neural signalling, and cellular responses. However, except for mechanical stress models, the other approaches remain in the early stages of development, and the single physics modelling strategies are unable to provide understanding on the coupled processes with the foot and their effect on DFU. Future research should further develop modelling approaches and couple these together to develop comprehensive understanding of DFU pathogenesis.Pregnancy in women with pre-existing type 1 or type 2 diabetes (T1D, T2D) is associated with increased risk of complications, largely driven by maternal glucose control. Hormonal changes during pregnancy make glucose management more challenging. Physical activity (PA) may improve glucose control and reduce complications; however, little is known about PA patterns in this population and no pregnancy-specific PA guidance exists for women with pre-existing diabetes. Understanding the behaviours and experiences of both pregnant women and the healthcare professionals (HCPs) who support them is needed to inform evidence-based guidance.
This mixed-methods study comprises three sub-studies. The first will recruit 175 pregnant women (75 with T1D and 100 with T2D) who will complete three 7-day monitoring periods, one per trimester. PA will be assessed using wrist-worn accelerometers and exercise diaries, dietary intake via remote food photography, and corresponding continuous glucose monitor and diabetes-related well-being data will be collected.
The second involves a subsample of ~16 women participating in focus groups to explore experiences of being physically active during pregnancy.
The third invites ~100 HCPs involved in diabetes in pregnancy care to complete an online survey, ~10 HCPS will take part in an optional interview about their experiences of providing PA guidance.
The primary outcome is the change in PA across pregnancy. Secondary outcomes include associations between PA, glucose metrics, diet and diabetes-related well-being, and qualitative themes relating to experiences of women and HCP. Quantitative data will be analysed using multilevel modelling and regression analysis, and qualitative data using reflexive thematic analysis.
Ethical approval was granted by the East Midlands Nottingham 1 Research Ethics Committee (25/EM/0190) and University of Exeter Public Health and Sport Sciences ethics committee. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
Surgical site infection (SSI) following transmetatarsal amputation (TMA) is common and associated with significant morbidity. However, there is limited evidence to guide perioperative strategies for SSI prevention in this population. A prospective, cross-sectional survey was conducted among vascular specialists. The questionnaire assessed current practice in SSI prevention for TMA, perceptions of evidence gaps, and willingness to participate in future research. Responses were analysed descriptively. Eighty-four valid responses were analysed, with 64.3% from consultant vascular surgeons and 84.5% from UK centres. Most respondents (84.5%) considered SSI after TMA to be a significant issue. The majority preferred primary closure in clean wounds (78.6%) and commonly used short-course antibiotics and interrupted sutures. Over 70% agreed no clear best practice exists, and 65.5% felt high-quality randomised trials are needed. Ninety-three percent expressed willingness to engage in future studies. Equipoise existed regarding interventions including antibiotic duration, wound adjuncts, and closure techniques. Opinion varied regarding whether TMA and major lower limb amputation should be pooled when undertaking research into SSI prevention. Current practice in SSI prevention for TMA is highly variable. This survey demonstrates broad support for rigorous trials to establish effective strategies and highlights the feasibility of future research in this area.
To explore the lived experiences of nurses and patients co-producing evidence-based care for long-term conditions, and to understand how they make sense of this process within relational, emotional and organisational contexts.
A qualitative study using the Interpretative Phenomenological Approach.
Semistructured interviews were conducted with 20 participants, comprising 11 registered nurses and 9 adult patients living with at least one Long-Term Condition. Participants were recruited from primary and secondary care settings across the Midlands, England. Data were collected between February and August 2023 and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Approach's iterative and inductive framework.
Five experiential themes were identified: (1) weaving together different knowledges, (2) the relational foundations of co-production, (3) organisational pressures and misalignments, (4) shifting identities and power dynamics and (5) emotional and ethical complexity in co-producing care. Participants described co-production as a deeply relational and negotiated process, shaped by trust, vulnerability and shared decision-making.
Co-producing evidence-based care in Long-Term Condition management involves more than implementing guidelines. It is a relational, emotional and contextual practice that requires shared interpretation of evidence, deep listening and responsiveness to individual lives. Findings suggest a need to reframe evidence-based practice as a co-creative process grounded in relational ethics and contextual awareness.
Findings emphasise the centrality of relational competence and organisational flexibility in enabling co-produced care. Findings call for educational and policy reforms that value emotional labour, professional humility and patient knowledge as essential to evidence-based nursing. Internationally, this work provides a grounded model for integrating person-centred approaches into chronic care delivery and policy.
The study offers a relational model of evidence-based practice that moves beyond protocol-driven care to one shaped through dialogue, empathy and contextual negotiation, offering practical insights for transforming professional roles and health systems globally.
Patient representatives contributed to study design, development of interview guides and interpretation of findings to ensure alignment with lived experiences.
This study follows the SRQR guideline.
To explore the prescribing practices and behaviours of Advanced Practice Nurses (APN) and pharmacist prescribers in Singapore, assess their confidence in key prescribing competencies, examine their use of information sources, and understand their views on the consequences of prescribing errors.
Cross-sectional national survey.
A census survey of all registered APN and pharmacist prescribers in Singapore was conducted from February to May 2024 using a validated 96-item instrument. The survey assessed prescribing practices, confidence in prescribing competencies, use of information sources, and prescribing safety. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.
Ninety-one prescribers (54 APNs, 37 pharmacists) responded (32% response rate), most of whom worked in public medical/surgical settings. Prescribing comprised a median of 75% of their practice. Most time was spent prescribing continued medications, with less on initiating new medicines. Participants reported high confidence in communication, therapeutic partnerships, and working within professional standards. Greatest confidence was seen in educating patients, legal prescribing, and monitoring treatment response. Lower confidence was noted in complementary medicine-related tasks. Professional literature and colleagues were the most valued information sources. Most participants acknowledged the serious consequences of prescribing errors, though many believed such errors would likely be intercepted.
APNs and pharmacists demonstrate strong competencies in safe, holistic prescribing. However, cultural factors may limit patient engagement, highlighting the need to strengthen shared decision-making and collaborative practice.
Refining governance structures, adopting tiered prescriber autonomy, and enhancing training in complex prescribing are essential. Standardising deprescribing, improving access to decision-support tools, and promoting interprofessional collaboration and patient involvement can strengthen care quality and team-based delivery.
This study offers the first national insight into Singapore's Collaborative Prescribing Framework and informs training, policy, and workforce development for non-physician prescribers locally and in similar international contexts.
STROBE checklist.
This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting.
To describe the point prevalence of cognitive impairment in hospitalised adults and evaluate the association with care needs and perceived risks of complications.
Multi-site cross-sectional study on a single day in May 2023.
Trained clinician auditors screened adult inpatients in acute medical, surgical, oncology, geriatric, mental health, convalescent, and rehabilitation wards for cognitive impairment using the 4AT in seven healthcare facilities and recorded need for support with basic activities of daily living, incontinence, and perceived risks of complications (falls, pressure injuries, and malnutrition). Data were summarised and compared across 4AT categories, and the strength of association between 4AT and each outcome was estimated using multivariable regression models.
Data were available for 1145 inpatients on 68 wards (mean age 68 years [SD = 18], 583 [58.9%] female, 449 [39.2%] on acute medical units). Cognitive impairment (4AT of 1 or more) was identified in 482 (42.1%) participants. Participants with 4AT 1–3 had 2.0–3.6 times the odds of need for supervision or assistance with activities of daily living, while those with 4AT 4 or more had 2.9–5.3 times the odds of need for assistance.
Cognitive impairment is very common in adult inpatients and is associated with significantly higher physical care needs.
Hospital care models must support staff to address the higher care needs in people with cognitive impairment to protect a large patient group from hospital-acquired harm.
No patient or public contribution.
This study adheres to the STROBE reporting guidelines.
Cognitive impairment is associated with people with diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFU). However, it is unclear if cognitive impairment is associated with the ulcer itself or other co-existing diabetes-related complications such as peripheral neuropathy. We aimed to investigate cognition in people with diabetes-related peripheral neuropathy and compare those with DFUs to those without DFUs. In this age- and sex-matched, multicentre, case-control, observational study of 89 participants with Type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, we compared 49 participants with DFUs (cases) to 40 without DFUs (controls). Global cognition scores were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment tool. Participants with DFUs had similar characteristics to those without DFUs (all, p > 0.05), except for lower body mass index (p = 0.028). Participants with active DFUs had significantly lower global cognition scores compared to those without DFUs (median [IQR] 24.0 [21.0–25.0], 26.0 [24.0–28.0]; p < 0.001). After adjusting for other diabetes-related complications, lower global cognition was independently associated with a DFU, peripheral artery disease, lower physical activity and no family history of diabetes (all, p ≤ 0.019). People with DFUs had lower cognitive scores than those without DFUs, suggesting that the DFU itself is independently associated with cognitive impairment. Future studies should explore causal pathways and targeted management strategies.
by David A. Green, Jesse M. Maestas, Jessica N. Sanchez, Nathan C. Nieto, Andrew S. Bridges, David K. Garcelon
The San Clemente Island fox (Urocyon littoralis clementae) is classified as a focal species for conservation management by the US Navy. They are considered vulnerable to a variety of vector-borne diseases due to their relatively high population density and low genetic diversity. During the dry (July–November) and wet (December–February) seasons of 2017–2018 we live-trapped 95 foxes and collected ectoparasites to test for the presence of pathogens. We found a significant difference in ectoparasite abundance on foxes between seasons, but no differences associated with sex or age. We found that foxes carried two species of flea (Echidnophaga gallinacea and Orchopeas howardi) and two tick species (Ixodes pacificus and Ixodes jellisoni). No evidence of Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, or Borrelia miyamotoi bacteria were found. This paper is the first account of ectoparasite species identification, quantification, and pathogen testing for the San Clemente Island fox subspecies.Approximately 6%–10% of adults carry food allergy labels. Many such labels are unverified and may be incorrect, contributing to delays in appropriate care, significant dietary restriction, anxiety and unnecessary use of emergency medications. Oral food challenges (OFCs) are the gold standard for confirming or excluding food allergy, but the current model of clinic-based challenges often has long wait times and logistical barriers. This study aims to investigate the feasibility and safety of home-based OFCs compared with standard in-clinic challenges in adults with negative skin-prick testing.
Food Challenge at HOme or in Medical Practice is a pilot multicentre randomised controlled trial enrolling 120 adults with reported food allergy labels and negative skin prick testing to the implicated food. Participants will be randomised 1:1 to undergo an OFC either at home or in-clinic. The study is designed to generate feasibility and preliminary safety data for home-based OFC, measured by the proportion of participants experiencing immune-mediated adverse events (AEs), compared with clinic-based OFC. Feasibility metrics (screening to recruitment ratio, protocol completion), non-immune AEs, protocol adherence and quality of life assessed using the Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire-12 at baseline prior to OFC and 6 months post OFC will also be collected. Statistical analysis will include descriptive statistics, with comparisons between arms using risk differences and relative risks with 95% CIs.
The trial has received ethics approval from the Austin Health Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/111750/Austin-2024). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and scientific meetings. Data will be presented in aggregated, de-identified form.
by Emma Morton, Andrew Kcomt, Erin E. Michalak
BackgroundSelf-management strategies can be used by individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) to cope with symptoms and improve quality of life (QoL). Peer-facilitated psychoeducation has potential to diversify delivery of self-management information by capitalising on the expertise of individuals who live well with BD. This protocol describes the process of co-designing a novel peer-facilitated, QoL-focused, group psychoeducation program for people living with BD, and plans for its pilot evaluation.
MethodsContent from two web-based, self-directed psychoeducational interventions was adapted to inform a peer-facilitated group program, using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) framework. The resultant program contains eight weekly two-hour sessions on topics related to QoL in BD, and contains a combination of education, opportunities for peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, and activities that facilitate practice of self-management strategies. A single-arm pilot evaluation of this program is planned: individuals who self-identify as living with BD (~n = 40) will be recruited from the community. Four groups (~n = 10) will be delivered online by peer facilitators. The primary outcome will be feasibility (session attendance). Data will also be collected on fidelity, intervention acceptability, and impacts (QoL, mood symptoms, self-stigma, subjective recovery, self-efficacy, self-compassion, social support). A subset of participants (~n = 12) and peer facilitators (~n = 4) will be invited to participate in a feedback interview post-intervention.
DiscussionRecovery-oriented healthcare frameworks emphasise a focus on patient-valued outcomes and the development on a peer workforce. By evaluating this novel intervention, we hope to lay the groundwork for peer-facilitated programs specific to the priorities of individuals with BD, that may be embedded in clinical settings.
Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT06878937
There is limited research exploring the age-related difference in communication when describing pain experiences. This project aimed to identify key differences between adolescents’, young adults’ and adults’ (i) preferred communication method, (ii) language content and (iii) lexical amount and variety when discussing their persistent pain experience using chatbot technology.
An exploratory concurrent nested mixed-methods design using a comparative analysis.
Participants were recruited through a convenience sampling strategy from two tertiary multidisciplinary pain centres in Australia.
20 adolescents, 20 young adults and 20 adults completed a pain history assessment using the Dolores application. The inclusion criteria for this study were (i) persistent non-cancer pain for at least 3 months, (ii) 10 years of age and over and (iii) adequate expressive and receptive language skills to complete the required tasks in English, as determined by clinicians in the treating team.
Drawn, voice and typed responses provided by participants during the chatbot interaction were analysed using content analysis. Fisher’s exact tests and 2 tests were used to examine differences between age groups. Strong effect size estimates generated from comparative analyses suggested that adolescents were the most likely age group to utilise drawing (p=0.153, Cramer’s V=0.268), preferred typing over speaking (p==0.007, Cramer’s V=0.433). Young adults used the greatest number and variety of words in response to chatbot questions including evaluative language (p=0.097, Cramer’s V=0.296). Adults tended to use more metaphors (p=0.085, Cramer’s V=0.305) and had a strong preference for speaking over typing (p=
The results of this study provide insights into age-related differences in communication and preferences when using technology to communicate about persistent pain. Future research exploring individualised age-related approaches to pain assessment, supported by the findings of this study, in comparison to current standardised assessments administered by clinicians are warranted.
by Samantha Jeffcoat, Adrian Aragon, Andrian Kuch, Shawn Farrokhi, Andrew Hooyman, Russell Johnson, Natalia Sanchez
Studies of locomotor adaptation have shown that adaptation can occur in short bouts and can continue for long bouts or across days. Information about task duration might influence the adaptation of gait features, given that task duration influences the time available to explore and adapt the aspects of gait that reduce energy cost. We hypothesized that information about task duration and frequency of updates influences adaptation to split-belt walking based on two competing mechanisms: individuals anticipating a prolonged adaptation period may either (1) extend exploration of energetically suboptimal gait patterns, or (2) adapt toward a more energy-efficient pattern earlier to maintain an energetic reserve. We tested three groups: N = 19 participants received minute-by-minute updates during a 10-minute adaptation duration (True group), N = 19 participants received no updates during a 10-minute adaptation duration and were misled to expect a prolonged 30-minute adaptation duration (False group), and N = 14 participants received one update halfway through a 10-minute adaptation duration (Control group). We measured step length asymmetry, leg work, and metabolic cost. Our results partially supported our hypothesis but did not confirm the underlying mechanisms. While step length asymmetry did not differ significantly between groups during adaptation, the True group generated a more effortful gait pattern with a greater increase in metabolic cost and higher work with the slow leg. Additionally, the True group showed no association between the different adapted gait variables such as step length asymmetry and metabolic cost, contrary to the Control and False groups. Finally, we observed that the False group showed greater retention of the split-belt aftereffects than the Control and False groups. Thus, adapted locomotor and energetic patterns are influenced by information about task duration, indicating that Information about task duration should be controlled for, or can be manipulated to elicit different efforts during adaptation.This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of delivering a vocational rehabilitation intervention (Return to Work After Trauma—ROWTATE), remotely to individuals recovering from traumatic injuries. The primary objectives were to assess therapists’ training and competence, adapt the intervention and training for remote delivery and assess the feasibility and fidelity of remote delivery to inform a definitive randomised controlled trial.
A mixed-methods feasibility study incorporating (1) telerehabilitation qualitative literature review, (2) qualitative interviews preintervention and postintervention with therapists and patients, (3) a team objective structured clinical examination to assess competency, (4) usefulness of training, attitudes towards (15-item Evidence-Based Practice Attitude Scale) and confidence in (4-item Evidence Based Practice Confidence Scale) evidence-based practice, intervention delivery confidence (8-bespoke questions) and intervention behaviour determinants (51-items Theoretical Domains Framework) and (5) single-arm intervention delivery feasibility study.
The study was conducted in two UK Major Trauma Centres. The intervention and training were adapted for remote delivery due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Therapists: Seven occupational therapists (OTs) and clinical psychologists (CPs) were trained, and six participated in competency assessment. Seven OTs and CPs participated in preintervention interviews and surveys; six completed post-intervention interviews and four completed post-training surveys. Patients: 10 patients were enrolled in the single-arm feasibility study and 4 of these participated in postintervention qualitative interviews. Inclusion criteria included therapists involved in vocational rehabilitation delivery and patients admitted to major trauma centres. Exclusion criteria included participation in other vocational rehabilitation trials or those who had returned to work or education for at least 80% of preinjury hours. Intervention: The ROWTATE vocational rehabilitation intervention was delivered remotely by trained OTs and CPs. Training included competency assessments, mentoring and adaptation for telerehabilitation. The intervention was delivered over multiple sessions, with content tailored to individual patient needs.
Therapists found the training useful, reported positive attitudes (Evidence-Based Practice Attitude Scale mean=2.9 (SD 0.9)) and high levels of confidence in delivering evidence-based practice (range 75%–100%) and the ROWTATE intervention (range 80%–100%). Intervention barriers identified pretraining became facilitators post-training. Half the therapists needed additional support post-training through mentoring or additional training. The intervention and training were successfully adapted for remote delivery. High levels of fidelity (intervention components delivered: OTs=84.5%, CPs=92.9%) and session attendance rates were found (median: OT=97%, CP=100%). Virtually all sessions were delivered remotely (OT=98%, CP=100%). The intervention was acceptable to patients and therapists; both considered face-to-face delivery where necessary was important.
The ROWTATE intervention was delivered remotely with high fidelity and attendance and was acceptable to patients and therapists. Definitive trial key changes include modifying therapist training, competency assessment, face-to-face intervention delivery where necessary and addressing lower fidelity intervention components.
by Frederick Nchang Cho, Marie Clarie Fien Ndim, Diane Zinkeng Tongwa, Christabel Afor Tatah, Franklin Ngwesse Ngome, Eugine Mbuh Nyanjoh, Andrew N Tassang
BackgroundHuman Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa. In Cameroon, young people are disproportionately affected but underrepresented in HIV testing statistics.
ObjectiveTo explore knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to HIV testing among youth in Kumba, Cameroon, and to identify barriers to inform community-based interventions.
MethodsA cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted using nine focus group discussions (FGDs) with 75 youth (52 females and 23 males) aged 18 - 35 years across four quarters in the Kumba II municipality. Participants were purposively sampled to reflect diverse educational and occupational backgrounds. Data were thematically analysed using Braun and Clarke’s framework with NVivo Version 14.
ResultsParticipants demonstrated high awareness of HIV testing services (90.7%) and transmission via sexual contact (96.0%), though knowledge gaps remained regarding non-sexual transmission and testing procedures. While 93.3% had previously undergone HIV testing, 57.3% reported stigma and 46.7% raised confidentiality concerns as ongoing barriers. Female participants feared being labelled as promiscuous, while males cited social norms that discourage help-seeking. Most participants supported school-based or youth-centred community testing, emphasising the need for privacy and youth-friendly environments. Key motivators for testing included the desire to know one’s status (82.7%), symptom appearance (28.0%), and unprotected sex (17.3%).
ConclusionsDespite strong awareness and high testing uptake, stigma and confidentiality concerns persist among youth in Kumba. To enhance HIV testing rates, community-based strategies should prioritise mobile clinics, peer outreach, and confidential youth-centred services. Strengthening education about HIV transmission and demystifying the testing process may further reduce barriers.
by Stefania Fatone, Amy Gravely, Andrea Giovanni Cutti, Andrew H. Hansen, Steven A. Gard, on behalf of the Residual Limb Shape Capture Group
The aim of this study was to compare diagnostic sockets made by hand casting and standing hydrostatic pressure casting in persons with lower limb amputation. This multi-site, single-masked, randomized crossover trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04141748) involved a prosthetist at each site taking one cast by hand (H) and another using hydrostatic casting (S). The process of casting, rectifying and modifying a diagnostic socket was timed in minutes. Socket comfort score (SCS) was assessed during static fitting of the diagnostic socket before (initial) and after (final) any modifications were made by the prosthetist. Difference scores for comfort and timing were calculated for each pair of casts within prosthetist. Bootstrapping methods were used to determine if the mean difference scores were significantly different from zero. Eighty participants with unilateral lower limb amputation were enrolled, with 75 completing the study. The initial SCS was significantly better in the transfemoral amputation group (TFA, n = 24) for the socket made from hand casting (H: 7.1 ± 1.9, S: 6.5 ± 2.2; p = 0.043). The final SCS was significantly better in the transtibial amputation group (TTA, n = 51) for the socket made from hydrostatic casting (H: 7.5 ± 2.0, S: 8.1 ± 1.3; p = 0.025). Total fabrication time for hydrostatic casting was significantly greater than hand casting (H: 42.1 ± 15.6, S: 48.0 ± 10.7; p = 0.001). It took significantly more time to cast (H: 10.6 ± 5.5, S: 23.7 ± 6.1; pChronic pelvic pain, defined as persistent pain in the structures of the pelvis, is a condition that significantly impacts the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of up to one-third of people worldwide, with substantial associated costs to both the individual and healthcare system/s. The present trial aims to establish the efficacy of e-hypnotherapy over relaxation and waitlist controls on pain, HRQoL and biopsychosocial outcomes, and evaluate cost-effectiveness.
A parallel-group, investigator-blinded, randomised controlled trial will be conducted. Eligible participants will be randomly allocated to either a 7-week online personalised e-hypnotherapy programme (n=44), a 7-week online personalised relaxation control (n=44) or waitlist control (n=44). The primary outcome will be self-reported pain level, and secondary outcomes will include psychological distress, QoL, pain catastrophising, self-efficacy, central sensitisation, somatic symptoms, fatigue and sleep. Cost-effectiveness will also be examined. Longitudinal qualitative interviews will be conducted with participants in the e-hypnotherapy (n=20) and relaxation (n=20) groups to understand meaningful change and barriers/facilitators for ongoing use.
This protocol has received ethics approval in Australia from the Deakin University Research Ethics Committee (DUREC ref. 2024-080). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences related to chronic pelvic pain and mind–body interventions.
Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12623000368639p.
We reviewed how artificial intelligence has been applied to inform care coordination by identifying and/or intervening in patients' unmet social needs.
Scoping review.
PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Scopus databases were searched for articles published by November 2023.
Articles were excluded if they were reviews or protocols, did not explicitly mention artificial intelligence, or did not primarily focus on using it to identify and/or address unmet needs to inform care coordination.
Of 476 articles that underwent title and abstract screening, 102 were assessed for full-text eligibility, and eight were ultimately included. Five articles used both natural language processing and machine learning; two articles used natural language processing; and one article used machine learning. Half (n = 4) of the articles focused on using artificial intelligence to identify/predict social needs, and two each focused on artificial intelligence to examine social resource provision or to indirectly identify social needs or using artificial intelligence to facilitate addressing unmet needs through care coordination.
This review can inform an understanding of facilitators and barriers to the implementation of artificial intelligence in practice, to potentially improve patient care, health outcomes, and population health equity.
Using artificial intelligence to promote care coordination can expand opportunities to identify and intervene on social needs across more patients, with implications for nurses and other health professionals. It can also potentially exacerbate inequities and harm patient trust.
The findings suggest a gap between the practice of incorporating artificial intelligence into integrated care platforms and the available scientific literature. This review can provide healthcare providers and organisations with insights into integrating artificial intelligence into clinical workflows, which may inform decisions about whether or how to implement these technologies in clinical settings.
We followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
No Patient or Public Contribution.
FreshRSS 