Two studies by University of Michigan physicians suggest that inadequate record-keeping in clinics and emergency departments may hinder efforts to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use. Approximately 10% of children and 35% of adults receiving antibiotic prescriptions lacked a specific reason in their record. The studies show higher rates of inappropriate prescribing in adults with Medicaid coverage…
Researchers in the UK conducted a study to explore the association between plasma proteins and cancer risk using observational and genetic approaches on participants from the UK Biobank. They identified 618 protein-cancer associations and 317 cancer biomarkers, including 107 cases detected up to seven years before diagnosis. The study used a multi-omics strategy to reveal…
Physicians finishing medical school may carry over $200,000 in debt, making it difficult to qualify for traditional mortgages. Physician mortgage loans (PMLs) are designed to help doctors access mortgages despite high debt levels. PMLs have features like no required down payment or private mortgage insurance. However, PMLs may come with slightly higher rates and fees….
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are increasingly playing roles in specialty care practices, expanding their skills and income. This shift from primary care to specialties is concerning for some experts, as it may worsen existing shortages in primary care. NPs and physician assistants (PAs) are being hired in specialty practices at a similar rate as in primary…
The newly-established Paediatric Spinal Taskforce aims to involve patients and families in driving service improvements by providing them with a meaningful opportunity to express concerns. Chaired by Mark Connaughton, the taskforce promises to listen, engage, and act on the advice and concerns of all stakeholders involved. The group is addressing concerns around the use of…
Transcarent, a digital platform for self-insured employers, launched WayFinding, an AI-enabled platform providing clinical guidance, benefits navigation and care delivery. The platform helps patients navigate care, make informed decisions on benefits and costs, and connects them to appropriate care providers. After securing $126 million in funding, Transcarent plans to enhance its AI capabilities. CEO Glen…
Kim Botteicher runs a flower shop and nonprofit organization in Bolivar, Pennsylvania, helping people affected by the drug epidemic. Her organization, FAVOR ~ Western PA, supports individuals with substance use disorder by providing housing, jobs, and health care. Botteicher has also made sterile syringes available to prevent diseases among drug users. However, distributing syringes is…
Pregnancy-adjusted screening tools were found to have high predictability rates for sepsis and chorioamnionitis in women during childbirth hospitalizations. A case-control study comparing pregnancy-adjusted and non-adjusted screening tools showed that the former had the highest prediction rate and lowest false-positive rates for sepsis. The study, conducted by Elliot K. Main, MD, and colleagues, assessed the…
Despite multiple failures in the past, HIV researchers are hopeful about a new strategy to develop an effective vaccine. This strategy involves teaching the immune system to produce powerful and protective antibodies through exposure to different vaccine molecules. Studies in mice and monkeys have shown promising results in guiding immune cells to produce antibodies that…
World leaders and the World Health Organization are proposing a new international treaty for pandemic preparedness and response in light of the covid-19 pandemic. The goal is to strengthen global resilience to future pandemics and improve international cooperation. Drafting of the agreement is ongoing, with the hope of adopting a legally binding text at the…
