SEARCH · Search PubMed

Results for “Health Information Interoperability”

Search indexed PubMed citations on genomics, clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health. Explore titles, authors and supplied subject terms, then open the PubMed record.

SourceResearch connectionFrom yearThrough year

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

934 records · Page 6Linked to original sources

PubMed2026

Pricing Combination Therapies: A Systematic Review of Value Attribution, Cost-Sharing Mechanisms and Policy Frameworks.

BACKGROUND: Combination therapies are increasingly central to modern pharmacotherapy, particularly in oncology and other high-burden diseases. However, pharmaceutical pricing and reimbursement systems remain largely designed for single-product-single-indication interventions. When multiple patented medicines are used together, especially when owned by different manufacturers, conventional pricing frameworks may struggle to align prices with the value of the combination while preserving incentives for innovation and timely patient access. OBJECTIVE: To identify, describe, and critically assess the methods, models, and policy frameworks proposed in the literature to establish prices for combination therapies, with particular attention to value attribution mechanisms, cost-sharing arrangements between manufacturers, and budget impact considerations. METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and a pre-registered Open Science Framework protocol. Searches were performed in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, EconLit, CRD databases, and grey literature sources for publications up to July 2025. Eligible studies analysed pricing approaches, economic models, reimbursement mechanisms, or policy frameworks relevant to combination therapies, including more recent multi-indication pricing literature. Given the heterogeneity of the literature, findings were synthesized using a structured narrative and thematic approach. RESULTS: Sixty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The literature was dominated by conceptual and policy analyses, with relatively few empirical or implementation-oriented studies. Value attribution emerged as the central methodological challenge in pricing combination therapies. Several complementary approaches were proposed to operationalise value attribution, including adaptations of indication- or pathway-based pricing, manufacturer cost-sharing arrangements, managed entry agreements, and outcome-based reimbursement mechanisms. Empirical evidence suggests that health systems continue to rely primarily on pragmatic and often partial solutions rather than fully specified pricing frameworks. A complementary review of the multi-indication pricing literature indicates that, although the two fields address different pricing problems, they share important methodological and institutional lessons that can inform the development of pricing frameworks for combination therapies. CONCLUSIONS: The literature provides a growing repertoire of conceptual approaches for pricing combination therapies but limited empirical evidence on implementation. Pricing frameworks should place value attribution at their core while combining complementary policy mechanisms adapted to national pricing and reimbursement systems. Lessons from multi-indication pricing provide a valuable foundation but require additional governance mechanisms to address value attribution, multi-manufacturer negotiation, and implementation challenges specific to combination therapies.

Journal Article↗

PubMed2026

Use of Wearable Sensors in Angelman Syndrome: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Wearable sensors are a promising method for collecting clinical trial outcome data for people with Angelman syndrome (AS). However, there has yet to be a systematic probe into the ways in which wearable sensors have been successfully used in AS. The current study aims to provide a quantitative summary of wearable sensors used in AS, including contexts of use and psychometric properties, and to present key narrative highlights. METHOD: Literature searches were performed in three electronic databases: APA PsycInfo, PubMed and Web of Science Core Collection. Data items were categorized into four categories: sample characteristics, study methodological details, wearable sensor characteristics and psychometric properties assessed. Sample characteristics included sample size, age, biological sex, race/ethnicity and cognitive/developmental functioning. Study methodological details were subdivided into study design and setting. Wearable sensor characteristics included sensor type, placement site, means of attachment, assessed construct and sensor-related data loss. Psychometric properties assessed included reliability and validity of sensor-derived data. RESULTS: We identified 16 articles through our systematic review. Wearable sensors were used to study sleep (n = 10, 62.5%), language (n = 2, 12.5%), gait (n = 2, 12.5%), caregiver proximity (n = 1, 6.3%), EEG power (n = 1, 6.3%), and arousal (n = 1, 6.3%) in AS through actigraphs, vocalization recorders, inertial sensors, radio-frequency identification watches, wireless EEG caps, and functional near-infrared spectroscopy caps, respectively. Findings from these studies broadly indicate that wearable sensors are feasible, reliable and valid for assessing a range of behaviours relevant to AS. CONCLUSIONS: Wearable sensors are a promising solution to enhance assessments in AS. However, with the small extant literature characterized by small sample sizes and restricted focus on a few relevant features in AS, there remains ample opportunities to explore the use of wearable sensors in people with AS. Additional studies will better inform clinical decision-making and ultimately improve the lives of people with AS and their families.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Process evaluation of a nurse-led transitional care model (Cardiolotse) within a randomized controlled trial aiming to improve care coordination for patients with cardiovascular diseases in Germany.

BACKGROUND: Patients with higher age suffering from cardiovascular disease discharged from hospital are at greater risk of readmission within 30 days. We evaluated an innovative care program providing post-discharge support and helping patients to navigate through the healthcare system. This paper reports the findings of the process evaluation of the randomized controlled trial Cardiolotse, a nurse-led transitional care model improving care coordination for patients with cardiovascular diseases in Germany. METHODS: A process evaluation, following the guidelines of the Medical Research Council (MRC) Framework, was performed. Semi-structured interviews with all relevant target groups were conducted to gain more insight about implementation processes. Questionnaires and medical records were used to explore mechanisms of impact and understand how change was produced in the intervention. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis with deductive and inductive categories. Descriptive statistics and subgroup analyses were utilized to explore quantitative data. RESULTS: Overall, the designed training programme was perceived positively by the study nurses, so called Cardiolotsen (CLs). Patients receiving support by the CLs reported positive satisfaction ratings. Interactions between CLs and patients were reported as trustworthy and reliable. A total of approximately 12,500 contacts were made over the course of the intervention. However, changes in satisfaction scores between intervention and control groups in terms of medical treatment or the interaction between medical health providers involved in the treatment could not be determined. Furthermore, data suggested reach issues with respect to office-based physicians, as regular CL contact could not be achieved with 90% of the participating general practitioners and cardiologists. CONCLUSIONS: The CLs served as an important source of support for the participating patients throughout the intervention. At regular intervals, they checked a patient's health status and their adherence to therapies after discharge. However, the process evaluation identified cross-sectoral communication and information exchange between CLs and office-based physicians as an implementation challenge. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was retrospectively registered at German Clinical Trial Register, http://www.drks.de/DRKS00020424 (Trial Registration Number DRKS00020424) on 18 June 2020.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Upscaling Genotyping by Amplicon Sequencing With GBAS-GUI.

Genotyping by amplicon sequencing (GBAS) is a relatively low-cost approach for generating genotypic data compared with established genomic methods, making it highly scalable and particularly suitable for large-scale genetic monitoring projects. However, most existing analytical pipelines are either marker-specific, insufficiently scalable, or lacking efficient data management systems for the long-term integration of genotypic information, limiting the full potential of GBAS. Here, we address this gap by introducing GBAS-GUI (https://github.com/sonnenbe-dot/GBAS-GUI), a pipeline capable of generating GBAS-based genotypic data for a wide variety of loci at scale. GBAS-GUI integrates a graphical user interface with multiple checkpoints to improve accessibility and robustness. It implements multiprocessing architecture and a relational database that links genotypic data with associated sample metadata to enhance scalability and data management. The pipeline further enables marker screening through automated calculation of polymorphism information content (PIC) and implements a strategy to recover homologous genotypic information from paralogous loci with non-overlapping amplicon length ranges. Using multiple empirical datasets, we demonstrate substantial improvements in processing speed, database management and handling artefacts related to co-amplification of unspecific regions and duplicates of the same genomic region. We further show that incorporating the full sequence information captured by an amplicon increases marker information content beyond what is achievable with length-based genotyping alone and expands the analytical versatility of GBAS. Overall, GBAS-GUI provides a robust, scalable and versatile framework that unlocks the potential of GBAS for large-scale population genetic and phylogeographic studies.

Genotyping Techniques↗

PubMed2026

Ten-Year Update of Nurse Practitioner Service Impact on Patient and Health Service Outcomes in Emergency Care Settings-A Systematic Review.

AIMS: To provide a 10-year update on the best available evidence evaluating the impact of nurse practitioner services on cost, waiting times, patient satisfaction, representation rates, and length of stay in emergency and urgent care settings. DESIGN: Systematic review. DATA SOURCES: The search was completed on January 28, 2025, in Embase (Elsevier), Medline (EBSCOhost), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Cochrane Library (Wiley), Emcare (Ovid), Web of Science Core Collection (Clarivate) and Scopus (Elsevier). The data range (2014-2024) was used to limit the search. METHODS: The search was conducted with results imported into Covidence. In Covidence, two reviewers conducted screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal of articles, and findings were analysed using a narrative synthesis approach. Eligible studies examined nurse practitioner services in emergency or urgent care settings, reporting outcomes of cost, waiting times, patient satisfaction, representation rates, and length of stay. RESULTS: Title and abstract screening were performed on 2329 records. Of these, 236 full-text articles were reviewed, and 17 underwent critical appraisal and data extraction. Narrative analysis of outcome measures yielded mixed results, with both favourable and unfavourable findings reported regarding nurse practitioner services. CONCLUSIONS: Global evaluation of nurse practitioner services in emergency care remains inconsistent. Nevertheless, emerging evidence supports their positive impact, particularly in improving patient outcomes. To effectively inform policy, workforce planning and clinical integration, there is a need for professional benchmarks that provide clear frameworks for the evaluation of patient-centred outcomes and operational impacts in emergency departments. IMPLICATIONS: Evidence related to nurse practitioner services in emergency and urgent care clinics highlights the positive impact of nurse practitioner services on patient wait times and satisfaction; however, there is limited and variable evidence of impact on health care costs and outcomes. IMPACT: This paper recommends that evaluating emergency nurse practitioner services requires homogeneous research using consistent professional benchmarks and evaluation frameworks. REPORTING METHOD: This systematic review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting. TRAIL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO 2025 CRD420250645148.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Community-tailored One Health educational intervention to enhance knowledge and practices for zoonotic disease prevention in rural Thailand: A protocol for a prospective cluster randomised controlled Trial in Chanthaburi, Thailand (Saan Suk trial).

BACKGROUND: Zoonotic infectious disease risk arises at human-animal-environment interfaces where pathogen spillover can occur. Rural communities living in biodiverse settings may experience frequent contact with wildlife and shared environments through livelihoods, food practices, and economic activities. Reducing spillover risk and strengthening pandemic prevention requires both structural and individual-level change. Community-based interventions that promote awareness, risk perception, self-efficacy, pro-environmental behaviour, and safe coexistence with wildlife may support prevention by shifting behavioural determinants of zoonotic disease risk. The Saan Suk intervention was co-developed with rural communities in Thailand using a Human-Centred Design approach and is grounded in the Health Belief Model and One Health principles. The intervention is intended to be feasible, acceptable, and deliverable through Thailand's established Village Health Volunteer (VHV) system. METHODS: This protocol describes a parallel-arm, cluster-randomised controlled superiority trial that will be conducted during July - October 2026, in Chanthaburi Province, Thailand. 24 villages will be equally randomised to the Saan Suk intervention or the current practice (control). In intervention villages, trained VHVs will deliver, once a week over four weeks, a multimodal One Health educational intervention designed to improve knowledge of zoonotic spillover, promote protective behaviours, reduce risky wildlife-related contacts, and support respectful coexistence with wildlife. Trained outcome assessment teams will conduct structured interviews with 42 adult participants per village, yielding a total sample size of 1,008 participants. The sample size was calculated for the primary outcome, accounting for clustering, with 90% power to detect a medium effect size (6 points on the 0-100 knowledge scale) at a significance level of 0.05, accounting for a design effect with an ICC of 0.028. The primary outcome is knowledge of zoonotic spillover, transmission pathways, risk factors, protective and risky behaviours, and safe coexistence with wildlife. Secondary outcomes include attitudes, self-efficacy, preventive and risky behaviours, and reported contacts with major local reservoir hosts. A structured questionnaire was developed, expert-reviewed, and piloted for the outcome assessment. Outcomes will be analysed using mixed-effects regression models with random effects for village and adjustment for relevant pre-specified confounders. Primary analyses will follow the intention-to-treat principle. DISCUSSION: This trial will evaluate whether a co-designed, VHV-delivered One Health educational programme can improve knowledge of zoonotic disease prevention and behavioural determinants in rural communities living in close contact with wildlife and shared ecosystems. If effective and feasible, Saan Suk could inform integration into routine VHV training and community-based zoonotic disease and pandemic prevention strategies. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The Saan Suk trial is registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS). Registration ID: DRKS00038582; date of registration: 11 May 2026.

Zoonoses↗

PubMed2026

Effectiveness of psychosocial and lifestyle interventions in promoting behaviour change and improving cognitive outcomes in older people with memory concerns: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Older adults with mild cognitive impairment or subjective cognitive decline have a greater dementia risk, particularly those from minority ethnic and socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. Psychosocial and lifestyle interventions targeting modifiable risk factors offer hope for reducing risk, yet behavioural mechanisms remain unclear. This systematic review examines these mechanisms and associated outcomes. METHOD: We searched PubMed, Embase (Ovid), PsycINFO (Ovid), Web of Science, and Scopus for randomised control trials testing interventions that aimed to improve lifestyle and cognition in older adults with memory concerns. We explored behavioural mechanisms using the COM-B model and synthesised intervention effectiveness, overall and within underserved groups. We prioritised lower risk of bias studies. RESULTS: 26 studies described 23 randomised controlled trials (14 multidomain, 9 single domain interventions). Certainty of evidence that behaviour change was associated with cognition was low. Moderate-certainty evidence indicated that interventions providing a socially supportive environment and combining nutritional education and counselling for 6 + months improved diet. Physical activity improved primarily in interventions incorporating education, structured training, and enablement strategies (e.g., tailored programmes, providing tools). Interventions simultaneously targeting capability, opportunity and motivation showed greater overall effectiveness. Few studies recorded ethnicity (13%) or sociodemographic status (9%), and none explored their impact. CONCLUSIONS: Non-pharmacological interventions can help this population improve their lifestyles if they feel capable, equipped and motivated, highlighting the value of careful design and implementation. There is scarce evidence on how these interventions work for underserved populations. Future research should explore this to inform tailored interventions and develop equitable dementia prevention strategies.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Hemotropic mono- and coinfections in Colombian ruminants: descriptive occurrence and host-related factors associated with coinfection in cattle.

Hemotropic pathogens such as Anaplasma, Babesia, Mycoplasma, and Trypanosoma are endemic to cattle and can cause coinfections, complicating disease dynamics and control. However, the host-related factors influencing these infections under tropical conditions remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of hemotropic monoinfections and coinfections in ruminants tested for hemotropic pathogens and to identify host-related factors associated with coinfection in cattle under field conditions in Colombia. A total of 104 animals were included: 91 cattle, 10 buffaloes, and 3 goats. Among the cattle, 34 (37.4%) exhibited monoinfections, 47 (51.6%) had coinfections, and 10 tested negative. In buffaloes, seven (70%) presented monoinfections, and two (20%) presented coinfections; in goats, one had a monoinfection, and one had a coinfection, most frequently involving Mycoplasma spp. The predominant coinfection patterns were Anaplasma + Mycoplasma and Mycoplasma + Trypanosoma, particularly in Bos indicus cattle. Bivariate and multivariable analyses revealed that breed was the strongest predictor of coinfection, with animals of less common breeds showing 93% lower odds (aOR = 0.07; 95% CI: 0.02-0.30; p < 0.001). Bos taurus individuals also tended toward lower odds of coinfection in the multivariable model, although this trend did not reach statistical significance. Our findings demonstrate a high frequency of hemotropic coinfections in cattle, particularly those involving Mycoplasma spp., and highlight the influence of host-related factors on infection dynamics. These results underscore the importance of integrating demographic and genetic information into surveillance and prevention strategies to improve the management of hemotropic infections in tropical livestock systems.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Near and distance vergence facility provides complementary clinical information in concussion-related convergence insufficiency.

PURPOSE: To compare near and distance vergence facility testing in adolescents and young adults with concussion-related convergence insufficiency and evaluate changes following office-based vergence/accommodative therapy (OBVAM). METHODS: This secondary analysis of the CONCUSS randomized clinical trial evaluated vergence facility at near (40 cm) and distance (4 m) using a 12Δ base out/3Δ base in prism flipper. Participants aged 11-25 years with concussion-related convergence insufficiency were randomized to immediate or 6 weeks delayed OBVAM. Vergence facility was assessed at baseline, outcome time 1 assessment (after 12 therapy sessions for the immediate group and 6 weeks of watchful waiting for the delayed group), and outcome time 2 assessment (after both groups completed 16 therapy sessions). Agreement between near and distance vergence facility classifications was evaluated, and treatment-related changes were compared between groups. RESULTS: Of the 106 enrolled participants, 102 completed all study visits. At baseline, the near and distance vergence facility classifications demonstrated substantial discordance. Among 101 participants with both measures available, 49 demonstrated reduced distance vergence facility despite normal near vergence facility, whereas only two showed the opposite pattern (Cohen's κ = 0.12; p < 0.0001). Vergence facility improved following therapy in both treatment groups, with larger early improvements in the immediate-treatment group. CONCLUSIONS: Near and distance vergence facility testing provided complementary rather than interchangeable clinical information in adolescents and young adults with concussion-related convergence insufficiency. Both measures improved following vergence/accommodative therapy, supporting consideration of both testing distances in clinical assessment.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of pediatric Behçet's disease: Systematic literature review informing the ISSAID/PRES recommendations.

BACKGROUND: Pediatric-onset Behçet's disease (BD) accounts for up to 20% of cases and represents a distinct clinical entity characterized by evolving phenotypes and age-specific patterns of organ involvement. This systematic literature review synthesizes current evidence on pediatric BD, informing forthcoming recommendations by the International Society of Systemic Auto-Inflammatory Diseases (ISSAID) and the Pediatric Rheumatology European Society (PReS). METHODS: A systematic search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Observational studies reporting clinical features, diagnostic criteria, management strategies, and outcomes in BD patients diagnosed before the age of 16 years were included. Proportional meta-analysis was performed to give pooled estimates for organ system involvement. RESULTS: Fifty-two studies, encompassing 2929 patients, met inclusion criteria. Sex distribution was balanced, with a 1:1 male-to-female ratio. The age of onset differed, with 1 year old being the lowest median age of onset and 2 years the lowest median age of diagnosis. The pooled random-effects estimate demonstrated that 50% of patients were HLA-B51 positive (95% CI, 0.5-0.6). Mucocutaneous manifestations were nearly universal (97.8%) and frequently represented the initial feature (80.9%). Musculoskeletal (36%), ocular (35%), neurological (17.9%), gastrointestinal (20%), vascular (15.4%) manifestations showed substantial variability in prevalence. Therapeutic approaches varied widely and were extrapolated from adult practice, with treatment guided by organ involvement and severity. CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric BD encompasses a heterogeneous spectrum of phenotypes requiring harmonized diagnostic frameworks, structured phenotypic stratification, and standardized monitoring to improve long-term outcomes. The relative burden and combination of organ manifestations varied across cohorts, reflecting both biological heterogeneity and differences in study design.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effectiveness of psychologically informed physical therapy, tendon-specific exercise program and routine physical therapy in prolonged unilateral shoulder pain and symptom correlations with imaging: a single-center, randomized, parallel-group, three-arm study (RESPECT).

BACKGROUND: Shoulder complaints are one of the most common musculoskeletal ailments. Patient-specific characteristics such as obesity, depression and physical labor are established risk factors, whereas imaging findings are common and associations between specific imaging findings and symptomatology is limited. General exercises are considered useful in treatment whereas evidence for specific tendon exercises is lacking. Biopsychosocial model is also recommended, but has not been extensively studied concerning shoulder symptoms. This article describes the study protocol designed to evaluate the effectiveness and the cost-effectiveness of routine and specific physical therapy (PT) interventions. Imaging is performed for descriptive, longitudinal and imaging-symptom correlation studies. METHODS: The Rehabilitation of Shoulder Pain: Evaluation and Clinical Trial (RESPECT) is a randomized three-arm parallel-group study involving 300 participants aged 20 to 60 years with prolonged unilateral shoulder pain. Participants will receive either routine PT, physiotherapist-guided tendon-specific exercise program or psychologically informed PT. Bilateral shoulder radiographs, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging will be done at the baseline and at 12 and 36 months. Electronic surveys will be completed at the baseline and at 3, 6, 12 and 36 months. The primary outcome will be patient-specific functional scale (PSFS) at 12 months, analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), adjusted for baseline PSFS. DISCUSSION: RESPECT will provide systematic and controlled data regarding different PT interventions in prolonged shoulder symptoms, which is currently limited. Being one of the most common sources of musculoskeletal pain, improved management could reduce symptom-related burden and prolonged functional impairment at individual and population level. CLINICALTRIALS: gov; Registration number NCT07235969; Registered November 18th, 2025; Version: 1.0.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Oil and gas well development and coccidioidomycosis risk in Kern County, CA, USA: a case-crossover study.

BACKGROUND: Coccidioidomycosis is an emerging fungal disease caused by inhaling Coccidioides spp spores. As spores reside in soil, activities that disturb soil and generate dust can aerosolise and transport the pathogen. The oil and gas industry has been extensively developed in some regions that are endemic for Coccidioides spp and has been associated with dust emissions. Although several adverse health outcomes have previously been associated with oil and gas development, its impact on coccidioidomycosis risk has not been investigated. We aimed to estimate the association between exposure to oil and gas well development (ie, wells in preproduction) and risk of coccidioidomycosis among residents living near new wells. METHODS: In this case-crossover study, we obtained information on reported coccidioidomycosis cases and oil and gas well development between 2007 and 2022 in Kern County, CA, USA. We then compared exposure to preproduction wells within 5 km of each individual's place of residence during both hazard (ie, the 49-139 days before case onset) and control periods using conditional logistic regression. FINDINGS: During the study period, 658 108 (72·4%) of 909 282 of Kern County residents lived within 5 km of at least one preproduction well, and 116 020 (12·8%) lived within 5 km of 23 or more preproduction wells within a single 90-day period. We estimated that the odds of coccidiomycosis incidence were 12·5% (95% CI 5·8-19·6) higher in the 90 days following exposure to at least one preproduction well within 5 km of an individual's place of residence and that the odds of infection increased by 0·7% (0·4-0·9) for each additional preproduction well developed within this distance. INTERPRETATION: These findings support a previously-unrecognised association between the development of oil and gas wells and transmission of coccidioidomycosis, potentially driven by dust generation. Given the prevalence of oil and gas development in the study region, its impact on coccidioidomycosis incidence might be large. FUNDING: National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation.

Journal Article↗

PubMed2026

Unacknowledged Burdens and Clinical Assets of BIPOC Genetic Counseling Students: Qualitative Evidence to Inform Supervision.

As the genetic counseling profession works to diversify its predominantly white workforce, understanding the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) students is central to equity efforts. While BIPOC students bring invaluable cultural and linguistic diversity that improves patient care, they often navigate clinical training environments that lack diversity and psychological safety. This article draws on data from a longitudinal constructivist qualitative study to examine how racial and ethnic concordance (or lack thereof) with patients and clinical supervisors influenced the clinical training, professional development, and well-being of BIPOC genetic counseling students. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 BIPOC genetic counseling students in the United States and Canada. Interviews were recorded using Zoom.us, transcribed using Rev.com, and analyzed in NVivo using reflexive thematic analysis. The analysis led to the construction of three themes: (1)Shared identity with patients is a clinical advantage: Participants leveraged their cultural and linguistic intuition to establish trust and rapport with patients; (2) Identity navigation involves cognitive and emotional labor: Participants shouldered an unacknowledged burden in managing stereotype threat, overcoming feelings of exclusion, and educating supervisors; and (3) Racial/ethnic identity shapes supervisory dynamics: Participants described BIPOC supervisors as providing identity-affirming support, while some white supervisors avoided discussions about identity or committed microaggressions. These results suggest that BIPOC genetic counseling students have clinical assets rooted in biculturalism, yet carry a burden that often goes unacknowledged of managing power imbalances and pressure to assimilate in predominantly white clinical supervision spaces. To promote equitable training, programs should implement supervisor training on culturally responsive identity broaching, establish independent, transparent mechanisms for students to report biases they encounter in clinic, and expand mentorship networks to provide additional support.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Methods for defining equity-stratifying variables: a systematic review of validation studies.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Disease burden is often disproportionally higher among those who are socially disadvantaged by factors defined in the PROGRESS-Plus framework (ie, Place of residence, Race/ethnicity/culture/language, Occupation, Gender/sex, Religion, Education, Socioeconomic status, and Social capital, with "Plus" covering features like age and disability). The accuracy and applicability of case definitions to identify these variables from administrative and clinical health data are unknown. We conducted a systematic review to explore how equity-stratifying variables, as categorized by the PROGRESS-Plus framework, have been defined and validated in epidemiologic studies using administrative health, population-level, or electronic health record (EHR) data. METHODS: Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched from the inception of the databases to 2024 for validation studies of equity-stratifying variables in adults using administrative health datasets, health registries, or EHR data. Titles and abstracts, followed by relevant full-text articles, were screened in duplicate by two reviewers for eligibility. The data sources utilized, algorithms employed, and their associated performance measures were extracted and synthesized from included studies. Given substantial heterogeneity in study design, equity-stratifying variable definition, and performance metrics, meta-analysis was not possible. RESULTS: Of the 9099 unique citations screened, 188 full texts were reviewed and 116 were included in this review. Most studies were published between 2019 and 2024 (n = 64, 55%) and were validation studies of race/ethnicity definitions that used race/ethnicity codes or surname list algorithms (n = 66, 57%). No studies examined religion. Regarding the reported performance measure estimates, the race/ethnicity/culture/language equity-stratifying variables category had the largest variability across sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV), and Cohen's Kappa. Occupation validation studies had the lowest variation in sensitivity and PPV. CONCLUSION: Despite an increasing number of publications reporting on the validation of equity-stratifying variables relevant to the PROGRESS-Plus framework, performance measures varied widely across studies. The significant heterogeneity in equity-stratifying variable definitions and methods used to validate them support the need for further rigorous validation of equity-stratifying variables in administrative and clinical health data. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Disease burden is often higher in people who experience financial hardships, lower level of education, discrimination due to race/ethnicity, and unstable housing. These social factors can be considered health equity factors and are important for understanding health inequalities. Health researchers often use large datasets, such as hospital or electronic health records (EHRs), to study these health equity factors. However, it is not clear how accurately these data sources capture information about people's social circumstances and how these factors are defined. In this study, we reviewed existing research to understand how health equity factors have been defined across health data sources and how accurate they are at measuring aspects of health equity and social disadvantage. Of the more than 9000 studies we identified, we included 116 that met our criteria for this systematic review. Most included studies focused on identifying race and ethnicity, often using codes or surname-based methods. We found that the accuracy of these methods varied widely across studies, meaning results may not always be reliable or comparable. Overall, our findings show that there are inconsistencies in how social factors are defined and measured in health data. This makes it difficult to fully understand and address health inequalities using routinely collected health data. More work is needed to develop and validate better quality and more consistent methods for capturing these important social factors.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effectiveness of tobacco cessation interventions delivered in clinical settings in South Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Despite the burden of tobacco use, access to cessation support in South Asia remains scarce. OBJECTIVE: This review evaluates the effectiveness of tobacco cessation interventions delivered in clinical settings in South Asia. METHODS: Five relevant databases were searched from inception to February 2025. Eligibility criteria included randomized and non-randomized studies evaluating behavioral, pharmacotherapy, and multicomponent interventions delivered in clinical settings in South Asia. Data on study setting and design, participant information, intervention, comparator, and outcomes were extracted. Meta-analyses using random-effect models were conducted where possible. Certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE. RESULTS: Thirty-seven studies were included (22 randomized and 15 non-randomized). Interventions involved pharmacotherapy (n = 6; 16.2%), nicotine replacement therapy (n = 7; 18.9%), behavioral counseling (n = 12; 32.4%), or combined/multicomponent interventions (n = 12; 32.4%). Most studies were conducted in India (n = 26; 70.3%), followed by Pakistan (n = 6; 16.2%), Nepal (n = 3; 8.1%), and two studies (5.4%) were multi-country in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Pooled analyses demonstrated higher quit rates among intervention versus control for continuous abstinence at 0-3 months (RR: 1.21, 95%CI: 1.06 to 1.37) and >3 months (RR: 1.68, 95%CI: 1.1.4 to 2.47), and for point abstinence at >3 months post-intervention (RR: 2.03, 95%CI:1.35 to 3.08). Heterogeneity was high for all analyses (I2 range: 94% to 97%). Combined behavioral and pharmacotherapy interventions were most effective (RR: 1.70, 95%CI: 0.98 to 2.92), although not statistically significant (p = 0.06). CONCLUSION: Tobacco cessation interventions delivered in clinical settings in South Asia are effective, particularly when combining behavioral support with pharmacotherapy. However, evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Toward personalized interventions for preventing depression in primary care: Qualitative and quantitative findings from the e-predictD pilot study.

BACKGROUND: The predictD intervention, delivered by family physicians (FPs), has demonstrated effectiveness and cost-efficiency in preventing depression and anxiety. The e-predictD study aims to design, develop, and evaluate a novel personalized intervention for depression prevention by integrating information and communication technologies (ICTs), risk prediction algorithms, and decision support systems (DSS) for both patients and FPs. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the satisfaction, usability, and acceptability, of a beta version of the e-predictD intervention in primary care settings. METHODS: The e-predictD intervention follows a biopsychosocial approach, including an initial patient-FP interview, specific FP training, and an app. A β-version was tested in a pilot study without a control group over three months. The app integrates a validated depression risk prediction algorithm, decision algorithms, and a monitoring system supporting the DSS. The DSS generates a personalized prevention plan (PPP) from eight intervention modules: physical exercise, social relationships, problem-solving, communication skills, decision-making, assertiveness, sleep improvement, and cognitive restructuring. Patients and FPs discussed the PPP in a 15-minute baseline interview, selecting modules for implementation over three months. Semi-structured interviews gathered feedback. Assessments included depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), quality of life (SF-12), and major depression risk (predictD algorithm). RESULTS: Six FPs from six Spanish cities enrolled 56 non-depressed patients at moderate-to-high risk of depression; 47 (84%) completed follow-up. The app was used for a median of six days (interquartile range: 1-30). Both FPs and patients expressed satisfaction, leading to incorporated improvements. After three months, significant reductions in major depression risk and anxiety symptoms were observed, alongside improved mental quality of life. However, no significant changes were found in depressive symptoms or physical quality of life. CONCLUSION: This pilot study supports the feasibility and acceptability of the e-predictD β-version, despite lower-than-expected app usability. Health improvements were observed, warranting confirmation in a randomized controlled trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03990792.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Age at menopause and subjective cognitive symptoms predict digital cognitive outcomes at the gynecological Well-Woman visit.

INTRODUCTION: Women are at increased risk for Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Growing evidence suggests that the menopausal transition may represent a vulnerable window for development of AD-related pathology. Yet, women are diagnosed with AD later than men. Conducting routine cognitive screenings and integrating information about both cognitive symptoms and age at menopause may help address sex-based disparities in detection and prevention. This study investigated whether subjective cognitive symptoms, in combination with age at menopause, were associated with performance on a digital cognitive task in postmenopausal women. METHODS: 183 postmenopausal women (mean age = 63.8, range = 45-85) were recruited after their Well-Woman visit. Participants completed the Screener for Cognitive Problems in Everyday Life (SCoPE) to assess subjective cognitive symptoms, followed by a sensitive measure of objective cognition: the Linus Health Digital Clock and Recall (DCR™). Information was also collected on age at menopause. We examined associations of subjective cognitive symptoms and age at menopause with digital cognitive performance, adjusting for age, education and depression. Model fit was evaluated using adjusted R2, AIC, and BIC. RESULTS: 48.1% of women reported one or more cognitive symptoms on the SCoPE. On objective testing, 73.2% scored in the normal range, 20.8% in the borderline range, and 6.0% in the impaired range. SCoPE total score was negatively associated with objective cognitive performance in adjusted models (B = -.12, p = .03). Age at menopause showed a significant quadratic association with cognitive performance (B = -0.006, p<.001). SCoPE total was not associated with DCR subtests, while age at menopause predicted both Delayed Recall and Clock Drawing. CONCLUSION: Subjective cognitive symptoms and age at menopause were associated with lower performance on a sensitive, objective cognitive test. Findings support routine cognitive screening and suggest that subjective cognitive symptoms as well as age at menopause are associated with cognitive function.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

A Multimethod Evaluation to Assess Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Efficacy of HPVVaxFacts, a Tailored Mobile Web App, for Parents With Unvaccinated Children: Pilot 2-Arm Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Mobile health (mHealth) interventions may improve provider-parent communication on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination to reduce concerns, and increase intention and uptake. HPVVaxFacts (233 Analytics) is a novel, mobile web app delivering tailored education based on the Health Belief Model and Theory of Reasoned Action, addressing parental concerns preclinic visit. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of HPVVaxFacts among parents of adolescents aged 9-17 years. METHODS: We conducted a pilot, randomized controlled trial in 2 urban Tennessee clinics from June to September 2023 comparing 2 groups: tailored education via HPVVaxFacts mobile web app (intervention, n=27), and nutrition education (attention control, n=30). Eligible parents had or were caregivers to a child aged 9 to 17 years unvaccinated against HPV, had a mobile phone, had an upcoming clinic visit, and spoke English. The recruitment strategy was patient intake software-Phreesia (Phreesia, Inc) and eClinicalWorks (eClinicalWorks). Although unblinded, parents could deduce their study arm assignment. Providers were blinded. Feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy (HPV vaccine knowledge, concerns, intentions, and vaccination rates) were assessed using multimethod evaluation. Parents were assessed at baseline and immediately post intervention via surveys. Vaccination rates were assessed at 12 months post intervention via electronic health records. Nineteen parent interviews were conducted up to 9 months post intervention. A clinic staff consultation (n=6) was 1 month post intervention. RESULTS: Of 57 enrolled parents, most were female (52/57, 91%), non-Hispanic White (44/57, 77%), had ≤US $80,000 household income (32/57, 56%), and had some college or less (27/57, 47%). In total, 81% (29/36) of parents viewed HPVVaxFacts. Post intervention, HPV vaccine initiation was higher in the intervention group compared to the attention control group (48% vs 17%; difference 0.24; 95% CI 0.03-0.46; P=.01). Parents in the HPVVaxFacts arm demonstrated a greater reduction in knowledge (ie, knowledge increase; mean change: -0.6 vs 0.1) and concern scores (mean change: -3.4 vs -1.4) than those in the nutrition education arm. However, between-arm differences were not statistically significant (P=.13 and P=.14, respectively). The majority found the study protocol and HPVVaxFacts acceptable. Benefits of HPVVaxFacts include confirming their decision to vaccinate, supporting parent-child discussion on the vaccine, and answering questions preclinic visit or offering questions for the provider. Study protocol delivery and mobile web app instructions were suggested areas for improvement. Barriers for HPVVaxFacts use include content in English only and digital format. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests HPVVaxFacts was feasible and acceptable among parents to provide previsit, tailored information on HPV vaccination. Outcomes offer a positive trajectory but need more exploration. Next steps include a well-powered efficacy trial to determine the impact of HPVVaxFacts on initiation vaccine rates and parental hesitancy factors, as well as to explore an interaction, effect modification, and mediation among different variables.

Humans↗