Author: Josepha Scheffer
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Validation of a questionnaire measuring patient knowledge of atrial fibrillation in an Asian cohort
Abstract BackgroundPoor patient understanding of atrial fibrillation (AF) may contribute to underuse of anticoagulation. There are no validated instruments to measure patient knowledge in Asian cohorts. This study aims to validate a disease-specific questionnaire measuring the level of understanding of AF and its treatment among patients with AF in Singapore. MethodsA 10-item interviewer-administered questionnaire was…
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Retrospective evaluation of healthcare utilisation and mortality of two post-discharge care programmes in Singapore
Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact on healthcare utilisation frequencies and charges, and mortality of a programme for frequent hospital utilisers and a programme for patients requiring high acuity post-discharge care as part of an integrated healthcare model. Design A retrospective quasi-experimental study without randomisation where patients who received post-discharge care interventions were matched 1:1 with unenrolled…
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Inside the Black Box: Examining the Interconnectivity of Components of Integrated Person-Centred Care for Vulnerable Groups Through a Realist Lens
PhD Thesis summary in the International Journal of Integrated Care Abstract Integrated person-centred care (IPCC) for vulnerable groups is complex and multifaceted and cannot be reduced to simple cause-and-effect relationships. The effectiveness varies across settings due to differing contexts and mechanisms. By applying realist research, this dissertation examines the relationships between the context in which…
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Assessment of the scientific rigour of randomized controlled trials on the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy and graded exercise therapy for patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: A systematic review
Abstract Cognitive behavioural therapy and graded exercise therapy have been promoted as effective treatments for patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. However, criticism on the scientific rigour of these studies has been raised. This review assessed the methodological quality of studies on the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy and graded exercise therapy. The methodological quality…
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Integrated specialized atrial fibrillation clinics reduce all-cause mortality: post hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial
Abstract AimsAn integrated chronic care programme in terms of a specialized outpatient clinic for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), has demonstrated improved clinical outcomes. The aim of this study is to assess all-cause mortality in patients in whom AF management was delivered through a specialized outpatient clinic offering an integrated chronic care programme. Methods and…
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Effects of tailored telemonitoring on functional status and health-related quality of life in patients with heart failure
Abstract BackgroundFunctional status and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are important in patients with heart failure (HF). Little is known about the effect of telemonitoring on functional status and HRQoL in that population. Methods and resultsA total of 382 patients with HF (New York Heart Association class 2–4) were included in a randomised controlled trial…
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Understanding changes and stability in the long-term use of technologies by seniors who are aging in place: a dynamical framework
Abstract BackgroundIf technologies are to support aging in place, then it is important to develop fundamental knowledge on what causes stability and changes in the use of technologies by seniors. However, longitudinal studies on the long-term use of technologies that have been accepted into the home (i.e., post-implementation use) are very scarce. Many factors potentially…
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Validation of the Rainbow Model of Integrated Care Measurement Tools (RMIC-MTs) in renal care for patient and care providers
Abstract Introduction Integrated service delivery is considered to be an essential condition for improving the management and health outcomes of people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, research on the assessment of integrated care by patients and care providers is hindered by the absence of brief, reliable, and valid measurement tools. Objective The aim of…
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Theory and Design of the Community for successful ageing (ComSA) program in Singapore: connecting BioPsychoSocial health and quality of life experiences of older adults
Abstract Background Despite the emphasis on holistic health promotion in community programs for older people, few studies explicitly consider how BioPsychoSocial (BPS) health elements are interconnected and function to improve Quality of Life (QoL). The Community for Successful Ageing (ComSA) program in Singapore focuses on Community Development (CD) initiatives for older people, accounting for BPS…
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Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of a Procalcitonin-Guided Decision Algorithm for Antibiotic Stewardship Using Real-World U.S. Hospital Data
Abstract Medical decision-making is revolutionizing with the introduction of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Yet, traditional algorithms using biomarkers to optimize drug treatment continue to be important and necessary. In this context, early diagnosis and rational antimicrobial therapy of sepsis and lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) are vital to prevent morbidity and mortality. In this…