Strengthening primary health care in Europe with digital solutions.

This article provides an in-depth analysis of digital transformation in European primary healthcare (PHC). It assesses the impact of digital technology on healthcare delivery and management, highlighting variations in digital maturity across Europe. It emphasizes the significance of digital tools, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, in enhancing accessibility and efficiency in healthcare. It discusses the integration of telehealth, remote monitoring, and e-health solutions, showcasing their role in patient empowerment and proactive care. Examples are included from various countries, such as Greece's ePrescription system, Lithuania's adoption of remote consultations, Spain's use of risk stratification solutions, and the Netherlands' advanced use of telemonitoring solutions, to illustrate the diverse implementation of digital solutions in PHC. The article offers insights into the challenges and opportunities of embedding digital technologies into a multidisciplinary healthcare framework, pointing towards future directions for PHC in Europe.

[Teleconsultation: finding its place in primary care]. / Teleconsulta: encontrando su lugar en Atención Primaria.

Teleconsultation is a remote health consultation using information and communication technologies. There are different modalities and specific practical and communication skills are required. Notwithstanding its prominence in Spain, there is little evidence on teleconsultation. This article explores the applicability, barriers, facilitators and future challenges of teleconsultation. While it has the potential to improve access to healthcare, as well as save time and costs for both patients and healthcare professionals, it faces a number of challenges such as the digital divide and resistance to change. To address new challenges and overcome obstacles, it is crucial to gain the trust of patients and professionals. Improving training in the skills required to optimize their use is also essential. Future research should aim to provide robust evidence regarding safety and cost-effectiveness to ensure successful implementation.

AVIP Project (Prosthetic Virtual Friend): Study of clinical-functional outcomes and satisfaction with a mobile application in the perioperative management and follow-up of hip arthroplasty. / Proyecto AVIP (Amigo VIrtual Protésico): estudio de resultados clínico-funcionales y de satisfacción con una aplicación móvil en el manejo perioperatorio y seguimiento de implantes protésicos de cadera.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the clinical, quality of life, and healthcare quality outcomes obtained in a series of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA), who were empowered and monitored using the AVIP application. These results will be compared with a control group followed through a standard protocol. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Randomized clinical trial with parallel groups involving patients with an indication for THA. Clinical variables were measured and compared using the WOMAC and mHHS, pain assessed by the VAS, quality of life with the SF-12 test. Walking capabilities were analyzed using the Functional Gait Assessment Scale, along with satisfaction levels assessed through the SUCE questionnaire, and perceived anxiety levels related to the process. RESULTS: A total of 68 patients were evaluated, with 31 patients in the AVIP group and 33 in the Control group completing the follow-up. Both groups demonstrated improvement in clinical outcomes based on the WOMAC and mHHS hip tests, a reduction in perceived pain, and an enhancement in quality of life according to the SF-12 test. Patients in the AVIP study group exhibited non-inferiority in clinical outcomes and satisfaction compared to the control group, as well as lower anxiety levels and improved walking capabilities after the first month of follow-up. Notably, 82.25% of the follow-up visits for this group were conducted remotely. CONCLUSION: The implementation of a mHealth application like AVIP can be safely offered to selected patients undergoing hip arthroplasty, enabling effective monitoring and providing continuous information and training.

Aplicación de tecnologías móviles (m-Salud) y salud electrónica (e-Salud) en el manejo y en la prevención de la litiasis renal: revisión sistemática / Mobile and eHealth technologies in the management and prevention of nephrolithiasis: A systematic review

Introducción La litiasis renal (LR) es una enfermedad urológica común, que a menudo requiere de cuidados a largo plazo. Las tecnologías de salud móvil (m-Salud) y salud electrónica (e-Salud) tienen el potencial de mejorar el manejo de las enfermedades crónicas e impactar sobre los patrones de la conducta. Para evaluar la aplicabilidad de estas herramientas en la mejora del tratamiento y la prevención de la LR, nos propusimos evaluar los datos actuales sobre el uso, los beneficios y las limitaciones de la m-Salud y la e-Salud en la LR. Métodos Se realizó una revisión sistemática de los estudios de investigación primaria sobre m-Salud y e-Salud en la evaluación y tratamiento de la LR. Dos investigadores independientes examinaron las citas por título y resumen para determinar su pertinencia y, a continuación, se realizó una revisión del texto completo para obtener un resumen descriptivo de los estudios. Resultados Se incluyeron 37 artículos para el análisis. Las principales áreas de interés fueron: 1) botellas de agua «inteligentes» y aplicaciones de dispositivos móviles para el seguimiento del consumo de líquidos, que mostraron un aumento de la ingesta en la mayoría de los estudios; 2) plataformas de seguimiento de stent ureterales, que mejoraron la tasa de stent retenidos a largo plazo; 3) clínicas virtuales para el tratamiento de la LR, las cuales han mejorado el acceso, han reducido costes y han mostrado resultados satisfactorios; 4) plataformas de endoscopia para teléfonos inteligentes, que ofrecieron una buena calidad de imagen respecto a sus costes en entornos de recursos limitados, y 5) información sobre la LR en línea para pacientes, la cual generalmente se caracterizó por ser de mala calidad y/o precisión, particularmente en YouTube®. La mayoría de los estudios eran pruebas de concepto o estudios de intervención de un solo brazo, con una evaluación limitada de la eficacia o de los resultados clínicos a largo plazo. Conclusiones ... (AU)

Introduction Kidney stone disease (KSD) is a common urological condition that often requires long-term care. Mobile health (mHealth) and eHealth technologies have the potential to enhance chronic disease management and behavioral change. To assess opportunities to apply these tools to improve KSD treatment and prevention, we aimed to assess current evidence on the use, benefits, and limitations of mHealth and eHealth in KSD. Methods We performed a systematic review of primary research studies of mHealth and eHealth in the evaluation and management of KSD. Two independent researchers screened citations by title and abstract for relevance, then full-text review was performed for descriptive summary of the studies. Results A total of 37 articles were included for analysis. Primary domains of evidence included: 1) “smart” water bottles and mobile-device apps for tracking fluid consumption, which showed increased intake in most studies; 2) ureteral stent tracking platforms, which improved the rate of long-term retained stents; 3) virtual stone clinics, which have been suggested to increase access, lower costs, and have satisfactory outcomes; 4) smartphone-based endoscopy platforms, which offered cost-effective image quality in resource-limited settings; 5) patient information about KSD online, which was typically characterized as poor quality and/or accuracy, particularly on YouTube. Most studies were proof-of-concept or single-arm intervention designs, with limited assessment of effectiveness or long-term clinical outcomes. Conclusions Mobile and eHealth technologies have significant real-world applications to KSD prevention, intervention, and patient education. A lack of rigorous effectiveness studies currently limits evidence-based conclusions and incorporation in clinical guidelines. (AU)

Mobile and eHealth technologies in the management and prevention of nephrolithiasis: A systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Kidney stone disease (KSD) is a common urological condition that often requires long-term care. Mobile health (mHealth) and eHealth technologies have the potential to enhance chronic disease management and behavioral change. To assess opportunities to apply these tools to improve KSD treatment and prevention, we aimed to assess current evidence on the use, benefits, and limitations of mHealth and eHealth in KSD. METHODS: We performed a systematic review of primary research studies of mHealth and eHealth in the evaluation and management of KSD. Two independent researchers screened citations by title and abstract for relevance, then full-text review was performed for descriptive summary of the studies. RESULTS: A total of 37 articles were included for analysis. Primary domains of evidence included: 1) "smart" water bottles and mobile-device apps for tracking fluid consumption, which showed increased intake in most studies; 2) ureteral stent tracking platforms, which improved the rate of long-term retained stents; 3) virtual stone clinics, which have been suggested to increase access, lower costs, and have satisfactory outcomes; 4) smartphone-based endoscopy platforms, which offered cost-effective image quality in resource-limited settings; 5) patient information about KSD online, which was typically characterized as poor quality and/or accuracy, particularly on YouTube. Most studies were proof-of-concept or single-arm intervention designs, with limited assessment of effectiveness or long-term clinical outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Mobile and eHealth technologies have significant real-world applications to KSD prevention, intervention, and patient education. A lack of rigorous effectiveness studies currently limits evidence-based conclusions and incorporation in clinical guidelines.

The artificial intelligence revolution in primary care: Challenges, dilemmas and opportunities.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can be a valuable tool for primary care (PC), as, among other things, it can help healthcare professionals improve diagnostic accuracy, chronic disease management and the overall efficiency of the care they provide. It is important to emphasise that AI should not be seen as a replacement tool, but as an aid to PC professionals. Although AI is capable of processing large amounts of data and generating accurate predictions, it cannot replace the skill and expertise of professionals in clinical decision making. AI still requires the interpretation and clinical judgement of a trained healthcare professional and cannot provide the empathy and emotional support often required in healthcare.

Condições de trabalho dos agentes comunitários de saúde em um contexto de saúde digital: velhos e novos desafios / Condiciones de trabajo de las agentes comunitarias de salud en un contexto de salud digital: viejos y nuevos desafíos / Working conditions of community health workers in a digital health context: old and new challenges

O uso de ferramentas da saúde digital tem sido intensificado na Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) e nas práticas de agentes comunitários de saúde (ACS). Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar os desafios impostos pelas condições de trabalho dos ACS no contexto da saúde digital. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa com triangulação de métodos envolvendo lideranças sindicais, gestores e profissionais da saúde. Os resultados apontam uma reedição de velhos desafios em torno do trabalho dos ACS, como maior burocratização, controle, divisão social e técnica. Porém, novos desafios emergem em torno da manutenção, da qualidade dos instrumentos e da formação profissional. Conclui-se demarcando a necessidade de uma garantia logística, financeira e política para a implementação da saúde digital no trabalho dos ACS.

El uso de herramientas de la salud digital se ha intensificado en la Atención Primaria de la Salud (APS) y en las prácticas de Agentes Comunitarias de Salud (ACS). El objetivo de este artículo es analizar los desafíos impuestos por las condiciones de trabajo de las ACS en el contexto de la salud digital. Se trata de una investigación cualitativa, con triangulación de métodos, envolviendo liderazgos sindicales, gestores y profesionales de la salud. Los resultados señalan una reedición de viejos desafíos alrededor del trabajo de las ACS, tales como mayor burocratización, control, división social y técnica. Sin embargo, surgen nuevos desafíos alrededor del mantenimiento, calidad de los instrumentos y formación profesional. Se concluye demarcando la necesidad de una garantía logística, financiera y política para la implementación de la salud digital en el trabajo de las ACS.

The use of digital health tools has grown in intensity in Primary Health Care (PHC) and in the practices of Community Health Workers (CHWs). This article aims to analyze the challenges imposed by the working conditions of CHWs in the context of digital health. It is a qualitative study, with triangulation of methods involving union leaders, managers and health professionals. The results indicate the re-emergence of old challenges surrounding the work of CHWs, such as greater bureaucratization, control, social and technical division of work. However, new challenges emerge around maintenance, quality of tools and professional training. In conclusion, there is a need for logistical, financial and political safeguards for the implementation of digital health in the work of CHWs.

Metapresencialidade, Saúde Digital e Saúde Coletiva / Metapresencialidad, Salud Digital y Salud Colectiva / Meta-presentiality, Digital Health, and Collective Health

Neste ensaio, apresento reflexões preliminares sobre tecnologias digitais como novas formas de promoção da saúde no mundo contemporâneo. Primeiro, introduzo os conceitos de tecnologia, realidade, presença, realidade virtual e realidade estendida, por meio do realismo crítico. Segundo, discuto o conceito emergente de metapresencialidade como fundamental para apropriação sociotécnica de tecnologias digitais nos campos da Educação e da Saúde. Terceiro, analiso criticamente a noção de Educação a Distância, em contraste com a ideia de espaços metapresenciais de aprendizagem, no contexto de um modelo inovador de Educação Superior. Em quarto lugar, discuto brevemente a Saúde Digital como conjunto de saberes, técnicas e práticas capaz de superar o dualismo "tecnologias duras" vs "tecnologias leves" na saúde. Finalmente, avalio questões epistemológicas próprias do campo da Saúde Coletiva, com vistas a redefinir a telessaúde como cuidado em saúde mediado por metapresencialidade.

In this essay, I present preliminary reflections on digital technologies as new forms of health promotion in the contemporary world. First, I introduce the concepts of technology, reality, presence, virtual reality, and extended reality, through critical realism. Second, I discuss the emerging concept of meta-presentity as fundamental for the socio-technical appropriation of digital technologies in the fields of Education and Health. Third, I critically analyze the notion of Distance Education, in contrast to the idea of meta-presential learning spaces, in the context of an innovative model of Higher Education. Fourthly, I briefly discuss Digital Health as a set of knowledge, techniques, and practices capable of overcoming the dualism of "hard " vs. "soft" technologies in health. Finally, I evaluate epistemological issues specific to the field of Collective Health, to redefine telehealth as health care mediated by meta-presentiality.

En este ensayo presento reflexiones preliminares sobre tecnologías digitales como nuevas formas de promoción de la salud en el mundo contemporáneo. Primero, introduzco los conceptos de tecnología, realidad, presencia, realidad virtual y realidad extendida, a partir del realismo crítico. Segundo, discuto el concepto emergente de metapresencialidad como fundamental para la apropiación sociotécnica de tecnologías digitales en los campos de la educación y de la salud. Tercero, analizo críticamente la noción de Educación a Distancia en contraste con la idea de espacios metapresenciales de aprendizaje, en el contexto de un modelo innovador de educación superior. En cuarto lugar, discuto brevemente la Salud Digital como conjunto de saberes, técnicas y prácticas capaz de superar el dualismo "tecnologías duras" vs "tecnologías blandas" en la salud. Finalmente, evalúo cuestiones epistemológicas propias del campo de la Salud Colectiva, con el objetivo de redefinir la telesalud como cuidado de salud mediado por metapresencialidad.

Brecha digital en cuidadores de pacientes pediátricos de 0 a 12 años. Diseño y validación de un cuestionario / The digital divide among caregivers of pediatric patients aged 0 to 12 years. Design and validation of a questionnaire

Introducción. Las estrategias sanitarias basadas en tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (TIC) podrían perpetuar la inequidad en salud, especialmente en poblaciones vulnerables. Existen escasas herramientas validadas para evaluar el acceso a las TIC en pediatría en nuestro medio. Objetivos. Construir y validar un cuestionario para evaluar el acceso a las TIC para cuidadores de pacientes pediátricos. Describir las características de acceso a las TIC y evaluar si existe correlación entre los tres niveles de la brecha digital. Población y métodos. Construimos y validamos un cuestionario que luego administramos a cuidadores de niños entre 0 y 12 años. Las variables de resultado fueron las preguntas del cuestionario para los tres niveles de brecha digital. Además, evaluamos variables sociodemográficas. Resultados. Administramos el cuestionario a 344 cuidadores. El 93 % poseía celular propio y el 98,3 % utilizaba internet por red de datos. El 99,1 % se comunicaba a través de mensajes de WhatsApp. El 28 % había realizado una teleconsulta. La correlación entre las preguntas fue nula o baja. Conclusión. Por medio del cuestionario validado, evaluamos que los cuidadores de pacientes pediátricos de 0 a 12 años poseen en su mayoría celular, se conectan por red de datos, se comunican principalmente a través de WhatsApp y obtienen pocos beneficios a través de TIC. La correlación entre los diferentes componentes del acceso a las TIC fue baja.

Introduction. Health care strategies based on information and communication technologies (ICTs) may perpetuate health inequity, especially among vulnerable populations. In our setting, there are few validated tools to assess access to ICTs in pediatrics. Objectives. To develop and validate a questionnaire to assess ICT access among caregivers of pediatric patients. To describe the characteristics of ICT access and assess whether there is a correlation among the three levels of the digital divide. Population and methods. We developed and validated a questionnaire and then administered it to the caregivers of children aged 0­12 years. The outcome variables were the questions in the three levels of the digital divide. We also assessed sociodemographic variables. Results. We administered the questionnaire to 344 caregivers. Among them, 93% had their own cell phone and 98.3% had Internet access via a data network; 99.1% communicated via WhatsApp messages; 28% had had a teleconsultation. The correlation among the questions was null or low. Conclusion. The validated questionnaire allowed us to establish that the caregivers of pediatric patients aged 0­12 years mostly own a mobile phone, access the Internet via a data network, communicate mainly through WhatsApp, and obtain few benefits through ICTs. The correlation among the different components of ICT access was low.

Comunicação e saúde: reflexões sobre o Sistema Único de Saúde em Palmas ­ TO e a saúde digital durante a pandemia de covid-19 / Communication and health: reflections on the Unified Health System in Palmas ­ TO and digital health during the covid-19 pandemic / Comunicación y salud: reflexiones sobre el Sistema Único de Salud en Palmas ­ TO y la salud digital durante la pandemia de covid-19

O objetivo deste artigo é refletir sobre o papel da saúde digital no acesso à saúde pública no contexto do Sistema Único de Saúde durante a pandemia de covid-19 em Palmas ­ TO. Para tanto, adotou-se como referencial teórico os pressupostos do campo Comunicação & Saúde e, como forma de análise, o método denominado Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo, que busca compreender os modos de pensar de um grupo social sobre dado tema. Neste caso, trata-se de moradores do condomínio Residencial Parque da Praia, situado em Palmas. Também se procurou entender em que medida essas pessoas estão inseridas no mundo tecnológico ou são excluídas dele, e qual a percepção delas sobre saúde digital, Sistema Único de Saúde, direito à saúde e à comunicação. O grupo se considera relativamente informado sobre esses temas e a maioria faz uso, no cotidiano, das Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação e da internet. Entretanto, observou-se que a saúde digital é uma realidade ainda distante para essa comunidade

The purpose of this article is to reflect on the role of digital health in the access to public health in the context of the Unified Health System during the covid-19 pandemic in Palmas ­ TO. In order to do this, the assumptions of the Communication & Health field were adopted as a theoretical framework and the method called Collective Subject Discourse was used as a form of analysis. This method seeks to understand the ways of thinking of a social group on a given topic. In the case examined here, the group is constituted by residents of the Residencial Parque da Praia condominium, situated in Palmas. We also sought to understand to what extent these people are included in or excluded from the technological world and their perception of digital health, the Unified Health System, the right to health and communication. The group considers itself relatively informed about these topics and the majority of those residents use Information and Communication Technologies as well as the internet in their daily live. However, it was observed that digital health is still a distant reality for this community

El objetivo de este artículo es reflexionar sobre el papel de la salud digital en el acceso a la salud pública en el contexto del Sistema Único de Salud durante la pandemia de covid-19 en Palmas ­ TO. Para hacer eso, se adoptó como marco teórico los presupuestos del campo de Comunicación y Salud y, como forma de análisis, el método denominado Discurso del Sujeto Colectivo, que busca comprender las formas de pensar de un grupo social acerca de un tema determinado. En el caso abordado en este artículo, el grupo es constituido por residentes del condominio Residencial Parque da Praia, situado en Palmas. También buscamos comprender en qué medida estas personas están incluidas en el mundo tecnológico o son excluidas de él, y su percepción sobre la salud digital, el SUS, el derecho a la salud y a la comunicación. El grupo se considera relativamente informado sobre esos temas y su mayoría utiliza las Tecnologías de la Información y las Comunicaciones y la internet en su vida diaria. Sin embargo, se observó que la salud digital es aún una realidad lejana para esta comunidad

The long-term user experience of an m-Health application / A experiência do usuário a longo prazo de um aplicativo m-Health / La experiencia a largo plazo del usuario de una aplicación m-Health

Low user engagement in m-Health applications has been driving the use of retention techniques that aim to ensure a satisfactory long-term user experience. The aim was to understand the experience of hypertensive patients interacting with a mobile health application for 12 months. A qualitative/exploratory study was conducted after 12 months, with the same experimental group of participants as the non-randomized con-trolled clinical trial conducted in 2019. The mean age of the 16 participants was 57 years (SD=8), of which11 were female. All had low socioeconomic and educational levels. Content analysis showed no engagement with the m-health app over time. The main factors contributing to the lack of engagement were; inability of the user to use the app, lack of support and technical problems. When designing m-Health interventions, it is important to understand users' behavioral characteristics, motivations for treatment, level of involve-ment in health care, and ability to use technology

O baixo envolvimento dos usuários em aplicativos m-Health vem impulsionando o uso de técnicas de retenção que visam garantir uma experiência do usuário (UX) satisfatória a longo prazo. Objetivou-se compreender a experiência de pacientes hipertensos interagindo com um aplicativo de saúde móvel (m-Health) durante 12 meses. Realizou-se estudo qualitativo/exploratório após 12 meses, com o mesmo grupo experimental de participantes do ensaio-clínico controlado e não-randomizado realizado em 2019. A idade média dos 16 participantes foi de 57 anos (DP=8); 11 eram do sexo feminino, com baixos níveis socioeconômicos e educacionais. A análise de conteúdo não mostrou nenhum envolvimento ao longo do tempo usando o aplicativo m-Health. Os principais fatores que contribuíram para a falta de envolvimento foram: incapacidade do usuário de usar o aplicativo, falta de suporte e problemas técnicos. Ao propor intervenções que utilizem m-Health, é essencial conhecer características comportamentais dos usuários, motivações para o tratamento, nível de envolvimento nos cuidados com a saúde e sua capacidade de usar tecnologias

La baja participación de los usuarios en las aplicaciones de m-Health ha impulsado el uso de técnicas de retención que tienen como objetivo garantizar una experiencia de usuario satisfactoria a largo plazo. Se pretendió comprender la experiencia de pacientes hipertensos interactuando con una aplicación de salud móvil durante 12 meses. Se realizó un estudio cualitativo/exploratorio después de 12 meses, utilizando los participantes del ensayo clínico controlado no aleatorizado que se llevó a cabo en 2019. La edad media de los 16 participantes fue 57 años (SD=8); 11 mujeres, con niveles socioeconómicos y educativos bajos. El análisis de contenido no mostró compromiso a lo largo del tiempo utilizando la aplicación m-Health. Los principales factores contribuyentes fueron: incapacidad del usuario para utilizar la aplicación, falta de apoyo y problemas técnicos. Cuando se proponen intervenciones con m-Health, es esencial conocer las características de comportamiento de los usuarios, sus motivaciones para el tratamiento, nivel de implicación en el cuidado de la salud y capacidad para utilizar tecnologías

Entrando en el manejo 2.0 de la cistinuria con una herramienta médica digital para monitorizar el pH de la orina: un estudio prospectivo y aleatorizado / Entering into 2.0 cystinuria management with a medical digital tool to monitor urine pH: A prospective, randomized study

Introducción y objetivos Las personas con cistinuria pueden experimentar eventos recurrentes de litiasis debido a la relativa insolubilidad de la cistina en el pH fisiológico de la orina, lo que resulta en deterioro de la función renal. El pHmetro Lit-Control® es un dispositivo médico que permite la automedición precisa del pH de la orina. El objetivo principal de este estudio fue comparar la usabilidad del pHmetro Lit-Control® con las tiras reactivas para la automonitorización domiciliaria del pH urinario por parte de pacientes con cistinuria, y su satisfacción general con cada herramienta.Pacientes y métodosSe incluyeron 28 pacientes (9 mujeres y 19 varones, de 19 a 76 años), que fueron asignados aleatoriamente a monitorizar su pH urinario con tiras reactivas (n=17) o el pHmetro Lit-Control® (n=11).ResultadosDespués de 6 meses de uso, la satisfacción con los 2 métodos fue similarmente alta, pero los pacientes calificaron (en una escala de 0 a 10) mejor el pHmetro en términos de facilidad de aprendizaje (media± DE, 8,11±0,60 vs. 7,06±1,18; p=0,038), facilidad de preparación (8,22±0,67 vs. 7,25±1,18; p=0,034) y facilidad de uso (8,22±0,67 vs. 7,25±1,39; p=0,062). En general, los pacientes no alcanzaron los objetivos de alcalinización (pH entre 7,0 y 8,0).ConclusionesEl pHmetro Lit-Control® demostró ser un dispositivo fácil de usar que puede facilitar el control del pH urinario en los pacientes con cistinuria. Queda justificado un estudio prospectivo para evaluar la correlación entre la monitorización del pH de la orina, una estrategia de tratamiento por objetivo y la recurrencia de los cálculos de cistina. (AU)

Background and objectives Individuals with cystinuria can experiment recurrent lithiasis events due to the relative insolubility of cystine at physiological urine pH, resulting in renal function decline. The Lit-Control® pH Meter is a medical device that accurately allows urine pH self-monitoring. The main objective of this study was to compare the usability of the Lit-Control® pH Meter with the reactive strips for self-monitoring of urinary pH at home by patients with cystinuria, and their overall satisfaction with each tool.Patients and methodsWe included 28 patients (9 females and 19 males, age 19-6 years), who were randomly assigned to monitor their urine pH with reactive strips (n=17) or the Lit-Control® pH Meter (n=11).ResultsAfter six months of use, the satisfaction with the two methods was similarly high, but the patients rated (0-10 scale) the pH meter better in terms of ease of learning (mean±SD, 8.11±0.60 vs. 7.06±1.18; P=.038), ease to prepare (8.22±0.67 vs. 7.25±1.18; P=0.034), and ease of use (8.22±0.67 vs. 7.25±1.39; P=.062). Overall, patients did not reach the alkalinization goals (pH between 7.0 and 8.0).ConclusionsThe Lit-Control® pH Meter demonstrated to be an easy-to-use device that can facilitate urinary pH control by cystinuric patients. A prospective study is warranted to assess the correlation between urine pH monitoring, a treat to target approach, and the recurrence of cystine stones. (AU)

NEmecum: herramienta digital de ayuda a la prescripción y dispensación de fórmulas de nutrición enteral y preparados infantiles / NEmecum: digital tool for assisting in the prescription and dispensing of enteral nutrition formulas and infant preparations

Introducción: existe una amplia variedad de fórmulas o preparados de nutrición enteral y fórmulas o preparados infantiles. La consulta de información relacionada debe hacerse en las herramientas propias de cada laboratorio, lo que dificulta la visión crítica y la comparativa entre las mismas. Objetivo: describir el desarrollo de NEmecum como la primera web que permite realizar una búsqueda dirigida e independiente de fórmulas de nutrición o preparados infantiles, analizar el abanico nutricional actual en España y evaluar los datos de uso de la herramienta. Métodos: se desarrolló la estructura de una base de datos que unifica los parámetros de todas las fórmulas y se analizó el abanico nutricional español. Posteriormente, se seleccionaron los principales algoritmos de búsqueda dirigida y se codificó la herramienta digital. Se llevó a cabo una intensa difusión y se evaluó el impacto obtenido. Se analizaron el perfil de usuarios y centros registrados y los datos de uso de la herramienta y se evaluó su usabilidad mediante el cuestionario System Usability Scale (SUS). Resultados: se obtuvo una web responsive de acceso gratuito (http://nemecum.com) que permite realizar búsquedas dirigidas en base a unos filtros de búsqueda preestablecidos. La herramienta permitió analizar detalladamente el abanico nutricional en España, observándose la gran variedad de fórmulas disponibles de similares características. La campaña de difusión consiguió incrementar su uso de forma exponencial y cuenta actualmente con 1.370 usuarios y 79 centros registrados. La usabilidad fue valorada como excelente. Conclusión: el desarrollo de NEmecum supone una herramienta valiosa en la búsqueda y consulta de datos de fórmulas o preparados de nutrición enteral y fórmulas o preparados infantiles. (AU)

Introduction: there is a wide variety of enteral nutrition and infant formulas preparations. When there is a need to find infomation on a product,only the infomation from industy is available. Comparison amomg products becomes then ardous.Objective: to describe the development of NEmecum as the first website that allows a directed and independent search for enteral nutritionproducts and infant formulas, currently available in Spain, and to evaluate the initial use of NEmecum.Methods: the structure of a database that unifies the parameters of all formulas was developed, and the nutritional composition of all formulaswas analyzed. Subsequently, the main search algorithms were selected and the digital tool was codified. Intensive dissemination was performedand the impact was evaluated. The profile of users and registered centers and the use of the tool were analyzed, and its usability was evaluatedusing the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire.Results: a free-access responsive website (http://nemecum.com) that allows searches based on pre-established search filters was obtained. Thistool allows for a detailed analysis available formulas in Spain by observing a wide variety of formulas with similar characteristics. The disseminationcampaign managed to increase its use exponentially, currently reaching 1,370 users and 79 registered centers. Usability was rated as excellent.Conclusion: the development of the NEmecum represents a valuable tool in the search and consultation of the characteristics of enteral nutritionformulas and infant preparations. (AU)

NEmecum: digital tool for assisting in the prescription and dispensing of enteral nutrition formulas and infant preparations / NEmecum: herramienta digital de ayuda a la prescripción y dispensación de fórmulas de nutrición enteral y preparados infantiles.

Introduction: Introduction: there is a wide variety of enteral nutrition and infant formulas preparations. When there is a need to find infomation on a product, only the infomation from industy is available. Comparison amomg products becomes then ardous. Objective: to describe the development of NEmecum as the first website that allows a directed and independent search for enteral nutrition products and infant formulas, currently available in Spain, and to evaluate the initial use of NEmecum. Methods: the structure of a database that unifies the parameters of all formulas was developed, and the nutritional composition of all formulas was analyzed. Subsequently, the main search algorithms were selected and the digital tool was codified. Intensive dissemination was performed and the impact was evaluated. The profile of users and registered centers and the use of the tool were analyzed, and its usability was evaluated using the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire. Results: a free-access responsive website (http://nemecum.com) that allows searches based on pre-established search filters was obtained. This tool allows for a detailed analysis avalaible formulas in Spain by observing a wide variety of formulas with similar characteristics. The dissemination campaign managed to increase its use exponentially, currently reaching 1,370 users and 79 registered centers. Usability was rated as excellent. Conclusion: the development of the NEmecum represents a valuable tool in the search and consultation of the characteristics of enteral nutrition formulas and infant preparations.

Introducción: Introducción: existe una amplia variedad de fórmulas o preparados de nutrición enteral y fórmulas o preparados infantiles. La consulta de información relacionada debe hacerse en las herramientas propias de cada laboratorio, lo que dificulta la visión crítica y la comparativa entre las mismas. Objetivo: describir el desarrollo de NEmecum como la primera web que permite realizar una búsqueda dirigida e independiente de fórmulas de nutrición o preparados infantiles, analizar el abanico nutricional actual en España y evaluar los datos de uso de la herramienta. Métodos: se desarrolló la estructura de una base de datos que unifica los parámetros de todas las fórmulas y se analizó el abanico nutricional español. Posteriormente, se seleccionaron los principales algoritmos de búsqueda dirigida y se codificó la herramienta digital. Se llevó a cabo una intensa difusión y se evaluó el impacto obtenido. Se analizaron el perfil de usuarios y centros registrados y los datos de uso de la herramienta y se evaluó su usabilidad mediante el cuestionario System Usability Scale (SUS). Resultados: se obtuvo una web responsive de acceso gratuito (http://nemecum.com) que permite realizar búsquedas dirigidas en base a unos filtros de búsqueda preestablecidos. La herramienta permitió analizar detalladamente el abanico nutricional en España, observándose la gran variedad de fórmulas disponibles de similares características. La campaña de difusión consiguió incrementar su uso de forma exponencial y cuenta actualmente con 1.370 usuarios y 79 centros registrados. La usabilidad fue valorada como excelente. Conclusión: el desarrollo de NEmecum supone una herramienta valiosa en la búsqueda y consulta de datos de fórmulas o preparados de nutrición enteral y fórmulas o preparados infantiles.

Abordaje de la transformación digital en salud para reducir la brecha digital / Approach to digital transformation in healthcare to reduce the digital divide

La transformación digital implica la integración de tecnología en todas las áreas de una organización y un cambio en la forma de operar y de proporcionar valor. En el sector de la salud, la transformación digital debe centrarse en mejorar la salud para todos, acelerando el desarrollo y la adopción de soluciones digitales. La OMS considera la salud digital como un factor clave para garantizar la cobertura sanitaria universal, la protección frente a emergencias sanitarias y un mejor bienestar para mil millones de personas en todo el mundo. La transformación digital en salud debe incluir los determinantes digitales en salud como nuevos factores de desigualdad junto a los determinantes sociales clásicos. Abordar los determinantes digitales de la salud y la brecha digital es esencial para garantizar que todas las personas tengan acceso a los beneficios de la tecnología digital para su salud y su bienestar.(AU)

Digital transformation involves the integration of technology into all areas of an organization and a change in the way of operating and providing value. In the healthcare sector, digital transformation should focus on improving health for all by accelerating the development and adoption of digital solutions. The WHO considers digital health as a key factor in ensuring universal health coverage, protection against health emergencies, and better well-being for one billion people worldwide. Digital transformation in healthcare should include digital determinants of health as new factors of inequality alongside classic social determinants. Addressing digital determinants of health and the digital divide is essential to ensure that all people have access to the benefits of digital technology for their health and well-being.(AU)

Usabilidade da Plataforma Zelo Saúde por cuidadores de pessoas idosas dependentes / Usability of the Zelo Saúde Platform by caregivers of dependent elderly people / Usabilidad de la Plataforma Zelo Saúde por cuidadores de personas mayores dependientes

A Plataforma Zelo Saúde (PZS) é uma tecnologia mSaúde de apoio ao cuidado de pessoas idosas. Este artigo apresenta um estudo de usabilidade que analisou a utilização da PZS por 68 cuidadores/familiares de pessoas idosas dependentes por 10 semanas. Foram preenchidos um formulário pré- e outro pós-uso do aplicativo, e foi feita uma série de perguntas visando ao monitoramento semanal. Para análise dos dados, utilizou-se o software SPSS® v.25. Os resultados indicaram que a plataforma foi simples de usar e de fácil compreensão. A PZS alcançou uma nota média, na avaliação de usabilidade, de 8,9 ± 1,6 na escala de 0 a 10 da System Usability Scale, e possibilitou não só o acesso dos cuidadores/familiares às informações clínico-funcionais, à rotina de cuidados, aos medicamentos em uso, como também a comunicação entre eles e os profissionais de saúde por meio de chat. A plataforma conta também com vídeos educativos, no contexto da atenção básica à saúde e dos serviços de atenção domiciliar, mostrando-se uma ferramenta de apoio ao cuidado de pessoas idosas em seus domicílios

The Zelo Saúde Platform (PZS) is an mHealth technology to support the care of the elderly. This article presents a usability study that analyzed the use of the PZS by 68 caregivers/relatives of dependent elderly people for 10 weeks. Pre- and post-use forms were illed by participants and a set of questions aiming weekly monitoring was answered. For data analysis, SPSS® v.25 software was used. The results indicated that the platform was simple to use and easy to understand. The PZS achieved an average usability score of 8.9 ± 1.6 on a scale of 0 to 10 of the System Usability Scale, and enabled caregivers/family members to access to functional status information, routine care, medications in use, and permitted the communication between them and health professionals through chat. The platform also includes educational videos, in the context of primary health care and home care services, proving to be a tool to support the home care of elderly people

La Plataforma Zelo Saúde (PZS) es una tecnología mHealth (salud móvil) para apoyar el cuidado de las personas mayores. Este artículo presenta un estudio de usabilidad que analizó el uso de la PZS por parte de 68 cuidadores/familiares de personas mayores dependientes durante 10 semanas. Fueron llenados un formulario previo y otro posterior a la utilización de la aplicación, y se formularon diversas preguntas con vistas al seguimiento semanal. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó el software SPSS® v.25. Los resultados indicaron que la plataforma era sencilla de usar y fácil de entender. La PZS alcanzó una calificación media de usabilidad de 8,9 ± 1,6 en una escala de 0 a 10 de la System Usability Scale, y permitió a los cuidadores/familiares acceder a la información clínico funcional, a los cuidados de rutina, a los medicamentos en uso y permitó también la comunicación entre ellos y los profesionales de la salud a través de chat. La plataforma cuenta aun con videos educativos, en el contexto de la atención primaria de salud y de los servicios de atención domiciliaria, demostrando ser una herramienta de apoyo al cuidado en el domicilio de personas mayores

Telehealth service maturity model for the Brazilian scenario (TMSMM.br) / Modelo de madurez de servicios de telemedicina para el escenario brasileño (TMSMM.br) / Modelo de maturidade de serviços de telessaúde para o cenário brasileiro (TMSMM.br)

This article describes a proposed framework called Telehealth Service Maturity Model (TMSMM.br) for evaluating the current stage of telehealth centers in the Brazilian context. The steps included literature review, compilation and interpretation, data collection instrument, survey with center coordinators, model development, and evaluation process. The review resulted in 857 quality aspects for telehealth services, grouped into 12 themes with 34 topics. TMSMM.br consists of defining 3 foundational dimensions (themes, services, stages) and provides a standardized set of 200 requirements ordered across 5 thematic domains (structure, organization, user, operation and community) for 8 services (consultation, consultation, diagnosis, treatment and referral, education and training, social control and communication, healthcare network, and research, development, and innovation). TMSMM.br enables telehealth centers to identify and compare essential characteristics and their maturity stages.

Este artículo describe una propuesta de marco de referencia llamado Modelo de Madurez de Servicios de Telemedicina (TMSMM.br) para evaluar la etapa actual de los centros de telemedicina en el contexto brasileño. Las etapas incluyeron revisión de literatura, compilación e interpretación, instrumento de recolección, encuesta a coordinadores de centros, desarrollo del modelo y proceso de evaluación. La revisión resultó en 857 aspectos de calidad para servicios de telemedicina, agrupados en 12 temas con 34 tópicos. TMSMM.br consiste en la definición de 3 dimensiones estructurales (temas, servicios, etapas) y proporciona un conjunto estandarizado de 200 requisitos ordenados en 5 dominios temáticos (estructura, organización, usuario, operación y comunidad) para 8 servicios (consulta, asesoría, diagnóstico, tratamiento y remisión, educación y capacitación, control social y comunicación, red de atención de salud e investigación, desarrollo e innovación). TMSMM.br ayuda a los centros de telemedicina a identificar y comparar características esenciales y sus etapas de madurez

Este artigo descreve uma proposta de framework denominado Modelo de Maturidade de Serviços de Telessaúde (TMSMM.br) para avaliação do estágio corrente dos núcleos de telessaúde no contexto brasileiro. As etapas incluíram revisão da literatura, compilação e interpretação, instrumento de coleta, inquérito com coordenadores de núcleos, elaboração do modelo e do processo de avaliação. A revisão resultou 857 aspectos de qualidade para serviços de telessaúde, agrupados em 12 temas com 34 tópicos. TMSMM.br consiste na definição de 3 dimensões estruturantes (temas, serviços, estágios) e provê um conjunto padronizado de 200 requisitos ordenados em 5 domínios temáticos (estrutura, organização, usuário, operação e comunidade) para 8 serviços (consulta, consultoria, diagnóstico, tratamento e encaminhamento, formação e capacitação, controle social e comunicação, rede de atenção à saúde, e pesquisa, desenvolvimento e inovação). TMSMM.br colabora para que núcleos de telessaúde possam identificar e comparar características essenciais e seus estágios de maturidade.

[Approach to digital transformation in healthcare to reduce the digital divide]. / Abordaje de la transformación digital en salud para reducir la brecha digital.

Digital transformation involves the integration of technology into all areas of an organization and a change in the way of operating and providing value. In the healthcare sector, digital transformation should focus on improving health for all by accelerating the development and adoption of digital solutions. The WHO considers digital health as a key factor in ensuring universal health coverage, protection against health emergencies, and better well-being for one billion people worldwide. Digital transformation in healthcare should include digital determinants of health as new factors of inequality alongside classic social determinants. Addressing digital determinants of health and the digital divide is essential to ensure that all people have access to the benefits of digital technology for their health and well-being.

Entering into 2.0 cystinuric management with a medical digital tool to monitor urine pH: a prospective, randomized study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Individuals with cystinuria can experiment recurrent lithiasis events due to the relative insolubility of cystine at physiological urine pH, resulting in renal function decline. The Lit-Control® pH Meter is a medical device that accurately allows urine pH self-monitoring. The main objective of this study was to compare the usability of the Lit-Control® pH Meter with the reactive strips for self-monitoring of urinary pH at home by patients with cystinuria, and their overall satisfaction with each tool. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We included 28 patients (9 females and 19 males, age 19-76 years), who were randomly assigned to monitor their urine pH with reactive strips (n = 17) or the Lit-Control® pH-meter (n = 11). RESULTS: After six months of use, the satisfaction with the two methods was similarly high, but the patients rated (0-10 scale) the pH meter better in terms of ease of learning (mean ±â€¯SD, 8.11 ±â€¯0.60 vs. 7.06 ±â€¯1.18; P = 0.038), ease to prepare (8.22 ±â€¯0.67 vs. 7.25 ±â€¯1.18; P = 0.034), and ease of use (8.22 ±â€¯0.67 vs. 7.25 ±â€¯1.39; P = 0.062). Overall, patients did not reach the alkalinization goals (pH between 7.0 and 8.0). CONCLUSIONS: The Lit-Control® pH Meter demonstrated to be an easy-to-use device that can facilitate urinary pH control by cystinuric patients. A prospective study is warranted to assess the correlation between urine pH monitoring, a treat to target approach, and the recurrence of cystine stones.