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Introduction: The importance of psychological safety, staff morale, culture and civility (PSMCC) has been highlighted by multiple recent maternity investigations as key to the provision of safe, high quality maternity care [1]. These factors are also crucial for staff retention and recruitment. Concomitantly, the NHS Staff Survey indicates an almost universal decline in staff motivation and engagement since COVID;a trend also noted in our institution [2]. Regular, authentic, individual and group positive feedback could improve PSMCC by creating a culture of kindness and appreciation, reinforcing positive behaviour and improving teamwork. At UHP, an established 'Learning for Excellence (LfE)' positive feedback system is in place, facilitating provision of volitional, authentic feedback to individuals and enabling organisational learning about what works. The aim of this project was to assess the impact of a shift to a more positive, appreciative narrative in maternity using intensive positive feedback from patients and staff. Method(s): A literature review to derive validated questions for incorporation into a questionnaire to assess baseline levels of PSMCC and perceptions of positive feedback receipt. QI methodology and stakeholder focus groups aided the development of the interventions. Once established, the impact of these positive interventions on PSCMM will be assessed. Result(s): There were 103 responses to the baseline questionnaire. 24% staff felt their actions at work were never positively acknowledged;45% felt undervalued. 63% felt they do not receive enough positive feedback, whilst 93% believed that receiving more positive feedback would improve staff morale, wellbeing, culture and care. Discussion(s): Based on these findings, interventions to provide regular, authentic, positive feedback across our maternity unit have been created. These include: 1)motivational board sharing positive feedback stories from patients and staff obtained via LfE, showcasing the kind, compassionate and high quality care delivered;2) Weekly email shots of LfE stories focussing on specific positive behaviours such as teamwork and patient centred care;3) A white board for staff and patients to share positive messages ad hoc;4)Promotion of the LfE initiative to patients thus increasing positive feedback to staff. The impact of these interventions will be assessed shortly and presented in full.Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd
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Background/Aims The COVID-19 pandemic has placed unprecedented pressures on NHS departments, with demand rapidly outstripping capacity. The British Society for Rheumatology 'Rheumatology Workforce: a crisis in numbers (2021)' highlighted the need to provide innovative ways of delivering rheumatology specialist care. At University College London Hospitals (UCLH) we created a rheumatology multidisciplinary team (MDT) clinic to meet rising demands on our service. The aims of the Rheumatology MDT clinic were to: reduce new appointment/follow-up waiting times, increase clinic capacity, incorporate musculoskeletal (MSK) point of care ultrasound, reduce number of hospital visits and add value to each clinic encounter. Methods We ran a 6-month pilot, supported by our outpatient transformation team, incorporating a Rheumatology Advanced Practice Physiotherapist (APP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and MSK ultrasound within a Consultant clinic. The success of the pilot helped secure funding for a further 12 months. Over 18 months we have implemented: APP/Consultant enhanced triage - up to 40% of referrals were appropriate for APP assessment, including regional MSK problems and back pain. This increased capacity for consultant-led appointments. Standardisation of time-lapse between CNS and consultant follow-up appointments to ensure appropriate spacing between patient encounters. Facilitated overbooking of urgent cases afforded by additional capacity provided by the APP. MSK ultrasound embedded in the clinic template. 'Zoom' patient education webinars facilitated by MDT members and wider disciplines e.g. dietetics, to empower self-management and reduce the administrative burden of patient emails/phone calls occurring outside the clinic. Patient participation sessions and feedback to help shape the service. Results During the 6-month pilot we reduced our waiting time for follow-up appointments from 9 months to 2. We now have capacity to book 1-2 urgent cases each week. Pre-MDT the average wait from consultant referral to physiotherapist appointment was 55 days. The MDT allows for same day assessment (reducing 2-3 patient journeys a clinic) and where suitable, facilitates discharge or onwards referral to the appropriate service. A dedicated MDT CNS has shortened treatment times, reduced email traffic between CNS and consultant and allows for same day, joint decision-making resulting in fewer appointments. Zoom webinar feedback has been positive. Patients value the broad expertise of allied health professionals which supports self-management. Embedding ultrasound allows for same day diagnostics, decreased referrals to radiology and reduced hospital visits. Conclusion Our MDT model has reduced waiting lists, decreased treatment delays and cut hospital attendances. Point of care ultrasound allows for same day decision making and abolishes the cost and diagnostic delay associated with referrals to radiology or outsourced providers. Shared decision-making adds value to outpatient attendances, which is reflected in patients' positive feedback. The MDT model maximises the existing workforce skill set by enhancing the APP and CNS role, allowing patients immediate access to their expertise.
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Cloud classrooms are catching increasing attention in English teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. Via multiple correlation analysis, path analysis, and data collected from randomly selected 230 participants, this study examined the effects of students' emotional perceptions and attitudes towards teaching feedback in cloud classroom learning environments. It was concluded that all emotional perceptions were significantly and positively correlated, and learning motivation caused the most significant effect, followed by interest. Learning motivation could predict the perceived teaching feedback. Students with strong self-confidence had strong learning motivation and interest in English learning. High-score students preferred more profound and euphemistic comments;medium-score students hoped to catch more attention and obtain positive feedback from teachers;poor-score students favored direct and explicit evaluations. This study is helpful to future research into non-verbal and peer feedback in technology-based learning environments.
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This study aims to design and implement an online blockchain-based and real-time parcel monitoring and tracking system for cross-border runners and the customer via an online platform, during and post the COVID-19 pandemic. A blockchain is a distributed ledger system that serves as a transparent, understandable, and trustworthy store of data and analysis on the platform for participants to engage with each other. The result of proposing a blockchain-based tracking system is promising. The result and UAT show positive feedback on the use and features of the blockchain-based tracking system. As the world reacted to the pandemic, many organizations provided monitoring with their deliveries, which is a terrific method for businesses to prevent losing valuable customers. According to the findings of the study, organizations prefer to have blockchain-based tracking systems.
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We previously reported on our experience of an in-person Scottish Photobiology Service (SPS) patient engagement event in 2019 and of its utility in defining what matters to patients with photosensitivity. We identified key issues with delays in referral from primary care, lack of availability of peer support and a need for disease-specific information to raise awareness of photosensitivity for family and employers. Through a follow- up workshop, we identified a workstream of activities planning to address these issues, which were modified by the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic. However, we successfully moved our programme to a virtual platform, and we report on our progress. Twice-yearly virtual TEAMS patient engagement half-day events, attended by patients and staff, provided patients with a forum to discuss with each other issues that they have identified as being important to them. These ranged from the isolation, anxiety and embarrassment associated with photosensitivity, dealing with friends who do not understand their condition, through to coping mechanisms and practicalities, such as sourcing sun protective clothing, dealing with sports activities and photoprotective measures in schools. The virtual events have received extremely positive feedback both in terms of content and utility for patients, as well as the convenience of the virtual format. To supplement these activities, we have also distributed twice-yearly SPS newsletters since 2020, initiated at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure our patients knew we were there for them, despite the challenges of the pandemic and, again, this was most positively received. Regarding delays in referral from primary care, patient feedback indicated that this was mainly due to not being taken seriously, possibly due to a lack of understanding of photosensitivity in community care. We are addressing this by developing a 'photosensitivity red flag' poster for distribution throughout primary care in Scotland to raise awareness of the symptoms to look out for in photosensitivity conditions. Finally, we have also embarked on creating a series of diseasespecific podcasts. These involve an informal discussion between a patient with photosensitivity and a consultant photodermatologist, with a mediator present, to raise awareness of the true impact of a range of photodermatoses on many aspects of life. We demonstrate this ongoing programme of diverse patient engagement and educational activities in photodermatology, to highlight the model of a multifaceted hybrid approach to provide additional support for patients with photodermatoses. Acknowledgments: we wish to acknowledge all our SPS patients, their families and staff for their invaluable contributions.
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Introduction: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a higher risk for infection caused by the new coronavirus (COVID-19). The COVID-19 pandemic and social isolation contributed to the adaptation to new health promotion and education tools, including virtual methods. The aim of this study is to analyze the guidelines made through the Renal Health profile on Instagram during the COVID-19 pandemic to patients with CKD. Method(s): This is a quantitative, descriptive study, with the analysis of posts, comments and likes, carried out on the Renal Health (@renal_health) Instagram profile, an educational project based in Brazil, initiated as part of an ISN Clinical Research Program Project, which addresses kidney health, from February 2020 to May 2022, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Result(s): Currently, the Renal Health Instagram profile (https://www.instagram.com/renal_health/) has 1333 publications and more than 10,000 followers. It is a profile administered by a nurse, a nephrologist and a team of public health researchers at the University of Fortaleza, Brazil. A total of 106 posts about COVID-19 were analyzed, covering news about the pandemic, guidelines on prevention and vaccination, association between COVID-19, CKD and transplantation, among others. There were 13,815 likes and 1,068 comments. The most liked post (n = 696) was a photo with a news item: "InCor discharges Covid patient with transplanted lung". Among the comments, it was possible to observe several compliments, reports of patients with CKD and kidney transplants, as well as doubts, which were answered by the team that maintains the profile. The most commented post was also a news item: "Hospital denies transplant to unvaccinated patients", with 146 comments. Conclusion(s): The general population's interest in the association between COVID-19 and kidney disease is evident. It is important to point out the role of the profile as an online educational tool that helps in clarifying doubts about the new coronavirus, in addition to acting as an easy and practical way to acquire knowledge from reliable sources, regarding the risks that patients with kidney diseases have when contracting the virus, as well as many other relevant subjects, always emphasizing the relevance of preventive measures, including vaccination. From the study, it is noticeable that, during the pandemic, there were a large number of clarified doubts, as well as positive feedbacks about the platform. Therefore, the Renal Health profile proved to be an important health education mechanism during the pandemic. No conflict of interestCopyright © 2023
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As part of the National Health Service's response to the COVID-19 pandemic (https://www.england.nhs.uk/outpatienttransformation- programme/patient-initiated-follow-up-givingpatients- greater-control-over-their-hospital-follow-up-care/), and in line with the personalized care agenda (https://www.bad. org.uk/shared/get-file.ashx?itemtype=document&id=7237), 'patient-initiated follow-up' (PIFU) is being implemented across secondary care. This has been introduced by the National Outpatients Transformation Team and the aim of this initiative is to encourage self-management in patients and facilitate shared decision-making, together with supporting clinical waiting list reviews. The expected benefits include flexible personalized pathways and better access to specialist care when needed, thus benefiting general practitioners and the department. It replaces the old-style 'open appointment', which was rigid, without a clear pathway and not accurately recorded, impacting on demand and capacity planning. The British Association of Dermatologists has adapted this guidance and produced a document to support the roll out of this initiative throughout dermatology departments in England.4 It is important that clinicians appropriately assess which patients are suitable for PIFU. Criteria for selection include a low risk of urgent follow-up;confident to take responsibility of their care by understanding the condition, symptoms and when to seek advice;and understanding how to re-access care. Our experiences in setting up and using the PIFU pathway are shared. In our trust, it was first rolled out in dermatology and urology, two specialities with a high number of follow-ups. For dermatology, we included clinics in the main department and across all four community sites. In order to set up this service, engagement was sought with key stakeholders (service managers, administrative teams and clinicians). A Standard Operating Procedure was created to classify the pathway, agreed processes for the administrative and secretarial team, and written information for patients and general practitioners. Education sessions were given on how to use PIFU, assess patient suitability and measure outcomes. From September 2021 to November 2021, 548 patients have been added onto a PIFU and, as of December 2021, 11 have used it to re-access care. A staff survey has been done and has shown overall positive feedback, with 68% having a positive experience and only 8% having a negative experience. Seventy-six per cent of staff feel it is better for patients and doctors/administrators, and 95% would recommend it to other departments. The only negative issues have been an increase in workload for the secretaries who send out the written information. We aim to obtain patient feedback once more have re-accessed care, which we hope to present alongside our experiences on the benefits and challenges of implementing PIFU.
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Introduction: Psychological distress is common in people with aphasia, it causes avoidable suffering and impacts on healthcare outcomes and length of hospital stays. This pilot aimed to implement and evaluate a stepped psychological care approach for people with post-stroke aphasia in inpatient stroke rehabilitation. Method(s): A pathway was created to trial;[1] assessing mood using the Distress Thermometer [2] establishing goals to either improve or maintain mood, [3] creating an intervention plan in line with levels 1-2 of the stepped psychological care approach including mindfulness, behavioural activation, education, peer-group experience, and opportunities for mood discussion. Between June-September 2021, data was collected for all patients with aphasia admitted to the rehabilitation unit including Signs of Depression Screening Scale (SDSS) scores, and therapy assistant/researcher reflections. Result(s): Data was collected for nine patients;due to missing data five complete data sets were included. The pre-intervention median SDSS=3, and post-intervention SDSS=1. Reflection notes indicated positive feedback from two patients, increased rapport, greater role satisfaction, short term mood improvements within sessions. Several interventions were declined;mindfulness (3 patients), group/peer sessions (2 ), behavioural activation (2) and any mood intervention (3). Mood interventions had to be deprioritised at times due to workload. The COVID-19 pandemic also meant some activities were unavailable. Conclusion(s): This pilot showed that not all patients wanted to engage with specific or all mood interventions at this early rehabilitation stage. Further research is needed to establish which patients benefit from which intervention and at what stage it should be offered.
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Property enterprise has contributed significantly to the prevention and control of COVID-19, and its functions received positive feedback from the urban residents via a survey. Detailed data on confirmed COVID-19 cases in 446 communities in Wuhan were collected and the property fee of each community was used to assess the quality of the property services provided. Both binary logit and ordered logit models were used to measure the impact of property fees on the pandemic prevention and control efficiency of each community. The results showed that a higher property fee corresponded to a better property service and a higher probability that the residential community would be free of COVID-19. Furthermore, where property fees were higher, pandemic prevention and control efficiency increased and the community achieved a lower pandemic risk level. In conclusion, the promotion of high-quality property services is conducive to community disease prevention and control in the case of a pandemic.
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Infection by beta-coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coron-avirus-2) alters the homeostasis of the vascular endothelium, promoting an inflammatory state which causes damage and favors the prothrombotic state. The direct viral cytotoxicity induced by the SARS-CoV-2 leads to endothelial cell death;thus, altering the vessel functions. Moreover, SARS-CoV infection induces endothelial dysfunction (ED) and reduces the levels of nitric oxide (NO);thus, aggravating the vascular injuries, which promotes thrombotic events due to an altera-tion in the homeostasis. NO is a pleiotropic molecule that induces vasodilation, regulates the immune response, inhibits platelet aggregation, and decreases the cellular adhesion to vascular en-dothelium. Moreover, NO acts directly against invasive agents, exhibiting antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activity. High levels of NO result in an increase in the ED, causing an inflammatory amplification that aggravates the disease through undesirable positive feedback. The objective of this review was to present and discuss the involvement of NO on ED in SARS-CoV-2 infections. This review may also highlight new perspectives for therapeutic interventions through the supple-mentation of exogenous NO. The maintenance of homeostatic NO levels could represent a useful approach in the prevention of coronavirus-induced ED.Copyright © 2021 Bentham Science Publishers.
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To highlight how we continued to carry out early phase clinical trials throughout the pandemic and found innovative ways to tackle a number of operational challenges we faced in the past year. The COVID-19 pandemic presented a unique set of challenges to continuing clinical research activity and providing quality care for our research patients. In order to keep essential research going the CRF adapted to new ways of working. The CRF implemented processes to deliver IMPs throughout the national lockdown methodologies to prioritise early phase clinical trials to remain open technological adaptations to our electronic patient record system to enable video appointments the introduction of remote monitoring visits via GOSHLink for secure off site access to study documentation, ensuring our young patients still had a high quality patient experience by introducing personalised play boxes as well as maintaining staff morale and a sense of team spirit. The CRF team also needed to introduce changes. Those staff not redeployed to the clinical service introduced a change to shift patterns incorporating long days to reduce exposure and to ensure adequate cover for the essential on-site visits. All staff trained to cross-cover all prioritised trials that needed on site dosing visits. We received positive feedback from families regarding remote visits as well as the changes within the unit which ensured a safe environment for our patients Despite the challenges faced our adapted way of working has had a number of benefits and will inform our process moving forward.
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Introduction Butterfly ward and Caterpillar outpatients within the International and Private Care division at Great Ormond Street Hospital look after children needing a wide range of specialty services including haematology, oncology, bone marrow transplant, immunology, gene therapy, and thymus transplant. It has been a longstanding practice within the division to ensure the delivery of high-quality patient care using collaborative efforts when reviewing incident reports. Methods To strengthen this partnership, we have continued weekly Datix Review Meetings (DRMs) through the coronavirus pandemic. Our aim is to discuss as a multidisciplinary team (MDT) 1 to 2 incidents per week followed by identifying specific learning objectives. Virtual meetings are led by Butterfly ward manager or matron with participation from the ward consultant, pharmacists, ward doctors, nurses in charge, and practice education team who facilitate the distribution of learning. Knowledge disseminated across the MDT takes the form of meeting notes linking to Trust policies, 'Take 3' measures and bite-sized education at safety huddles, 1:1 teaching sessions with ward staff, other written resources, and tailored local inductions. Results Weekly DRMs have contributed to increased patient safety in our clinical areas. It has increased patient satisfaction with positive comments from Friends and Family forms. We have seen better teamwork and communication across the MDT as it has allowed for the sharing of cohesive working strategies, including MDT presence at safety huddles. We have also received positive feedback when onboarding new staff due to the tailored education provided. Discussion & Conclusion Weekly DRMs have promoted discussing incidents without engaging in blame culture. This initiative has put patient safety at the forefront of our practice by strengthening both collective partnerships and individual teams. Ongoing work is being done to drive education in proactive ways with the aim to reduce the number of incidents within our directorate.
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Behavioural therapy is the main form of symptomology management for tics, such as Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and Habit Reversal Therapy (HRT), and is typically administered in person. Due to challenges presented by COVID-19, this was no longer possible, raising questions surrounding the effectiveness of alternative delivery methods. The current study assesses the efficacy of virtually delivered tic therapy in a group setting. Delivered by the Tics and Neurodevelopmental Movements Service (TANDeM) at the Evelina London Children's Hospital, combined ERP and HRT delivered virtually with externalised attention strategies is a pioneering combination and has not yet been explored. Method(s): Sixteen TANDeM patients attended a six-session virtual tic therapy group, each lasting 1 h. The Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) was completed for all patients prior to and following the group, and qualitative feedback was also gathered post-hoc regarding satisfaction and acceptability of the management techniques. Results and Conclusion(s): Patients' post-group YGTSS scores showed a statistically significant improvement compared to pre group scores, and all patients reported better management of tics after having attended the virtual group. 91.6% of attendees returned positive feedback for the virtual aspect, such as it being 'more accessible', and availability of 1:1 practice with clinicians. Twelve of 16 attendees reported learning combined ERP and HRT to manage their tics was the main attraction of the group. The cost-effective virtual group produced a significant improvement in patient outcome, suggesting it is an effective way of delivering tic therapy. The significant difference between pre-and post-group YGTSS scores provides a preliminary basis for delivering combined ERP and HRT alongside externalised attention strategies.
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Introduction: For the academic year 2020-21, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the point-of-care testing devices and clinical skills practical sessions for first year undergraduate pharmacy students, were converted to a blended learning approach, combining traditional in person laboratory practical training with pre-laboratory synchronous remote sessions. The practical sessions consisted of 1) three two-hour synchronous pre-laboratory sessions for all the class held using Zoom, and 2) three two-hour in person laboratory sessions for each student held in groups of three students. The in-person laboratory sessions covered: Urinalysis and blood glucose monitoring, Blood pressure, lipid profile and obesity measurements, and Injection techniques. The aim was to evaluate student perception of practical sessions delivered using a blended learning approach. Method(s): A self-administered questionnaire was developed and validated by an eight-member expert panel consisting of pharmacy academics and pharmacy students in other course years. The questionnaire consists of Likert-type questions (1-Strongly Disagree to 5-Strongly Agree). The questionnaire was disseminated electronically to all (N = 24) first year undergraduate pharmacy students at the completion of the sessions. Result(s): Nineteen students (13 female, age range 18 - 21 years) completed the questionnaire. The majority of students gave positive feedback (score of 4 or 5) about the blended learning approach adopted: 'Allowed me to review material covered in the remote sessions on the virtual learning environment as often as necessary and at my own pace to help me prepare for the in-person laboratory sessions' (n = 18), 'helped me to participate more in the in-person sessions' (n = 18), 'provided me with opportunities to pursue my own learning' (n = 16), and 'stimulated critical-thinking' (n = 14). Sixteen students recommended continuation of the blended learning approach for such practical sessions. Conclusion(s): Students had a positive perception of practical sessions delivered using a blended learning approach and reported that the remote sessions supported the in-person sessions.
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Introduction: The Annual Pharmacy Symposium organised by the Department of Pharmacy, University of Malta, Malta, brings together academic staff, undergraduate and postgraduate students, collaborators and stakeholders to discuss outcomes of student research projects as oral and poster presentations. The 2021 Pharmacy Symposium was held online for the first time via the Zoom platform due to restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim was to evaluate student perception of the remote modality used. Method(s): A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to students who attended the symposium at the end of the four-day symposium. Students were asked to rate on a five-point Likert scale from 'strongly agree' to 'strongly disagree' with regards to remote environment used and appreciation of the transmission of scientific information in the presentations. Result(s): Out of 370 students who attended the symposium, 19% (n = 72) completed the questionnaire. Forty-four students were female, and the ages of the students ranged from 18 to 51 years. The majority of students (n = 46) were undergraduate students. The majority of students gave positive feedback (scores of 4 or 5) about the symposium: 71 students felt the virtual symposium was well organised, 69 students agreed that the platform used was appropriate, 66 students agreed that the quality of research presented was of a high standard and 57 students agreed that presentations were understandable and stimulating. Fifty-five students felt that the duration of the oral sessions was appropriate, 40 students enjoyed visiting the virtual poster gallery and 38 students found it easy to access the virtual poster gallery. Conclusion(s): The virtual pharmacy research symposium was positively evaluated by students indicating that it is a suitable forum to support students in developing competencies in research dissemination and to appreciate ongoing research by other students.
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Objectives: To identify stakeholders' understanding of drug shortage and the internal process of reporting a drug shortage to the Saudi Food & Drug Authority (SFDA). Evaluate the clarity of the communication channels and the stakeholder's satisfaction. A secondary objective was to explore the impact of COVID-19 on drug shortage in Saudi Arabia. Method(s): A cross-sectional study consisting of three separate surveys targeting: Health care providers, National Unified Procurement Company (NUPCO) registered in Saudi-vigilance, and pharmaceutical companies/storage that are registered in (RSD). Descriptive analysis such as percentages and frequencies was preformed to describe the knowledge and the practice of the targeted stakeholders Results: Drug shortages was defined by healthcare institutions as the unavailability of the product in the agent's stocks and by NUPCO as zero stock, and confirmation by pharmaceutical companies of product unavailability. Positive Feedback on drug availability services;55% supplying agents compliance, 69% drug availability improvement and 89% SFDA contribution to facilitate drug availability. Satisfaction on reporting system was reported by (47%) of healthcare institutions and (43%) of pharmaceutical companies' .COVID-19 pandemic impact on drug shortages: Most pharmaceutical company identified highest impact on different medication groups (39.7%) and antibiotics (22.2%). Most Healthcare institutions identified highest impact on antiviral medications (80%). Conclusion(s): Most of the stakeholders had a positive feedback and satisfaction rate on services of SFDA drug availability department. For the COVID-19, as expected, COVID-19 had a noticeable impact on drug shortages and demands in Saudi Arabia. Copyright © 2022
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Introduction: There is a significant psychiatry workforce shortage in Australia, particularly in rural and remote communities. Given the large distances involved, telehealth - providing consultation via videoconference- has been widely accepted. Psychiatrists were among the highest users of telehealth services in Australia before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the outbreak of COVID-19 resulted in a major transformation to service delivery across Australia. Private psychiatrists and state public mental health services had to rapidly transition to largely telehealth delivery to ensure continuity of care for consumers. In March 2020, additional telehealth item numbers were added to the Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) to encourage physical distancing for those accessing medical services during the pandemic. Objective(s): To provide an overview of the increase in telehealth activity since the COVID-19 pandemic. Method(s): The MBS is the list of services for which the Australian Government will pay a rebate. Key data on MBS telehealth activity since March 2020 was examined. Result(s): The use of telehealth has increased during the pandemic. A survey of Royal Australian and New College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) psychiatrists found that 93% supported retention of telehealth MBS item number numbers following the COVID-19 pandemic, noting increased accessibility for consumers. Positive feedback has been received from consumers. Conclusion(s): During 2020 and 2021, the RANZCP worked with the Australian Government to ensure there were appropriate MBS telehealth services available for consumers. The RANZCP continues to work with the Government as they plan for a longer-term transformation of telehealth services beyond 2021.
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Background and Aims: The COVID-19 pandemic had affected traditional face-to-face learnings due to manpower shortage in frontline and safe management measures. Stroke patients with respiratory symptoms were also admitted to isolation wards instead of stroke unit. Isolation ward staff may not be familiar with post stroke care. Hence a stroke e-learning platform was developed to facilitate staff learning in the midst of chaos. Method(s): An e-learning platform was designed and developed, using a multi-disciplinary approach, to ensure optimal stroke care and learning opportunity were maintained. The content was developed based on healthcare professionals' and stroke survivors' learning needs across the stroke care continuum. This e-educational learning guide was published and shared with various stakeholders in multiple meeting platforms. The link can be easily accessible through mobile devices. Result(s): The e-learning platform consists of three domains. First domain was infographics development, which was a 1-page recent evidence on stroke care for busy healthcare professionals. Second domain was short voice-annotated presentations ranging from 10 to 15 minutes on stroke care across the continuum. Third domain consists of patient education materials, which includes rehabilitation short video and fact sheets for stroke survivors and caregivers. Many positive feedbacks were received Conclusion(s): This e-learning platform is useful for all healthcare professionals even in the new post-COVID normal era. There are plans to include more educational materials in the future.
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Introduction: In The time of COVID-19, The influx in The use of The online platform has been paramount. The Surgical world is no exception with The first virtual selection process for Core Surgical Training (CST) 2021 applicants. We, The current core trainees from The Kent, Surrey and Sussex (KSS) deanery organised this three-part webinar series for CST 2022 applicants to aid our future colleagues. Material(s) and Method(s): The event poster was circulated among The Surgical tutors, medical education Department across The KSS region, all The foundation schools and to Foundation Trainees Surgical Societies (FTSS) across The UK. It was advertised on Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp and Eventbrite. Google Workspace was used to manage registered participants and Microsoft Teams were used for The webinars. Discussion(s): A total of 526 participants registered. 69.9% of them registered through social media whereas 16.4% and 9.8% through The medical education Department and word of mouth respectively. The first part covering The CST program overview and self-assessment guidance was attended by 96 of them on 16 November 2021. The second part covering interview stations was attended by 29 participants on 14 December 2021. We received positive feedback from 42 and 8 participants following each webinar respectively. We currently have 88 participants registered for our mock interview sessions planned for late January 2022. Conclusion(s): The virtual selection process is here to stay. Well-organised events like this will help The candidates prepare well for their interview as well as helping The current trainees with their teamwork, leadership and organisation skills.
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Aims: To assess The usefulness of simulation sessions with social distancing in managing critical issues on a surgical ward. Method(s): Simulations sessions were run from September 2020 to April 2021 for The foundation doctors and medical students following standard social distancing rules and using mannequins for patients. A feedback questionnaire was sent over to The candidates after each session and The data was analyzed. Result(s): 4 sessions were held with a total of 20 participants. The feedback response rate was 100%. on The Likert scale of 0-10, The majority (Score range 9-10) responded that they were likely to recommend these sessions. 90% were likely to change and improve their daily practice based on their responses.70% rated The sessions as excellent and all The rest as very good no negative response was received. A 100% agreement was seen among all participants on The arrangements to be well coordinated and organised.95% found The training staff very helpful.75% of The participants thought The allocated time was just about right while 15% thought it was slightly short. In response to an open question, The majority of participants appreciated The concept of simulation while following social distancing rules and enjoyed The session as a whole. Conclusion(s): Overallwereceived positive feedback.Although thenumber of participants was limitedineach session butpositiveresponses fromThe participants imply that sessions could be easily carried out with social distancing without compromising The learning outcome. Carrying out more sessions was strongly favored by a vast majority.