Health Policy Commons^™

Understanding Costa Rica's Response To The Covid-19 Pandemic: Competing Explanations, Lise Charles

The Journal of International Relations, Peace Studies, and Development

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have major impacts on the world, careful study of successful health systems is essential. Costa Rica has been identified as a country that has responded well to the pandemic with the proportion of death rates compared to infection rates being the lowest in comparison to other countries in Central America. This paper examines Costa Rica’s relatively successful response to the COVID-19 pandemic as a case study in good public healthcare management. This study also highlights the importance of theory for addressing urgent, practical development challenges to explore what theoretical frameworks can best explain the …

A Qualitative Investigation Of Individual, Interpersonal, And Institutional Contributions To Postpartum Work-Family Balance, Sidney Smith, Laura Schwab Reese, Kilian Kelly, Tessa Bauman, Madison Wierenga, Anna Bohning, Andrea L. Demaria

Health Behavior Research

Managing personal and professional responsibilities may be challenging during the postpartum period, as employees navigate new roles, responsibilities, and family dynamics. The purpose of this paper was to understand the work/life balance experiences of diverse stakeholders and identify opportunities to improve the work environment. We conducted a series of in-depth focus groups with faculty, staff, and graduate students (n = 22), and in-depth interviews with administrators (n = 10) at a research-intensive university in the United States. A six-phase thematic analysis approach was used to examine the experiences and perspectives of individuals with different roles. Three themes with …

Global Perspectives For Strengthening Health Education: A Mixed-Methods Study, Mohammad Torabi, Wasantha Jayawardene, Dennis Daniels, Tapati Dutta, Nicola Bragazzi, David K. Lohrmann

Health Behavior Research

This study aimed to identify the knowledge, experiences, and attitudes about current practices of health education (HE) among government-affiliated high-profile health administrators in developed and developing nations. Respondents (N = 21) were purposively selected based on their affiliation as a health administrator at the national level, with roles in high-profile decision-making for devising policies/programs and allocating funding or advocating strategies to advance HE. Information was gathered using a web-based cross-sectional survey in 5 languages, consisting of 14 closed-ended and 8 open-ended questions. A majority were males (70%) and spoke English (57%), 45% had postgraduate degrees, and 57% were from high-income …

Towards Public Vaccination Data Resilience During Natural Disaster Using Blockchain-Based Decentralized Application, Riri Fitri Sari, Mokhammad Rizqi Herdiawan, Muhammad Hamzah, Muhammad Aljundi, Jauzak Hussaini Windiatmaja

Smart City

This paper presents a platform development plan for a public vaccination decentralized data base based on Blockchain technology. Vaccination is a medical practice that allows a human body to produce a specific antibody as a means of developing a preventive measure and reducing the risk of contracting a particular disease. Systematic vaccination data recording is an utmost important system that is required particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. The recording mechanism should utilize the state-of-the-art information and communication technology (ICT). For faster vaccination data recording, it is common to use digital technology, making the health care process faster thus decreasing time …

Problems And Suggestions On Covid-19’S Quarantine And Isolation From Perspective Of Spatial Organization, Wei Sun, Fengjun Jin

Bulletin of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Chinese Version)

Quarantine and isolation are effective means to prevent transmission of COVID-19, but the problems arised during the period of quarantine and isolation are worth pondering. This article first streamlines five types of problems during the recent period of quarantine and isolation. Based on a brief review of related research on domestic and international literature, the article argues that it will be a suitable approach to carry out research from the perspective of spatial organization combined with the concept of systems theory. Then, it explores the reasons of the aforementioned problems from the objective laws of spatial organization and systems theory. …

Why We Chose To Partner In A Corporate Practice, Michael Scialabba Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article addresses the changing landscape of dental practice ownership and the growing importance of DSOs. The article discusses the journey of Great Hill Dental Partners from its inception at the advent of the Affordable Care Act in 2009 to become a fully functional, doctor-owned DSO.

The author emphasizes the need for practitioners to consider partnering with DSOs, especially in the face of rising challenges in the dental industry, such as increased administrative demands, reduced reimbursements, and the complexity of digital marketing and compliance. They outline the factors to evaluate when considering a DSO, including culture, support for clinical care, …

Three New Dentists Talk About ‘Getting Involved’, Gabriel Holdwick Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Three new dentists discuss their involvement in organized dentistry and its impact on their professional growth. Dr. Sarah Tomaka and Dr. Danny Miller share their experiences with the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) and their engagement with various committees. They explain how these leadership roles have provided them with expanded networks, personal growth, and a platform to influence the dental profession. They emphasize that getting involved with MDA leadership is highly rewarding and encourage others to participate, suggesting the MDA's Leadership Exploration And Development (LEAD) program as a starting point. The article also provides information on ways to get involved with …

Dentistry And The Law: Can Dental Plan Ratings Be Defamatory?, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article discusses the legal implications of dental plan ratings for dentists. If a dental plan assigns a rating to dentists and publishes it to patients without providing specific information about the rating's basis or an opportunity for dentists to contest it, legal recourse may be limited. Currently, no statutory law regulates such ratings, leaving dentists potentially vulnerable to defamatory ratings. Under Michigan law, dentists could sue for defamation, but proving the rating's falseness and the resulting loss of patients may be challenging. Federal regulation is suggested to ensure fairness, transparency, and protection for dentists subjected to involuntary ratings.

Ada Trustee Report: Does The Ada Have A Long-Term Vision For Oral Health In America?, Michele Tulak-Gorecki Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This trustee report discusses the need for a long-term vision for oral health in America within the context of changing trends in dentistry. It highlights key questions related to evolving member value propositions, improving insurance coverage, expanding collaboration with primary care providers, and establishing dentistry as an essential part of the primary care system. A Board workgroup has been formed to explore potential actions and recommendations. The report underscores the importance of addressing these challenges. It encourages the dental profession to have meaningful conversations and work together to shape a future that aligns with new generations' evolving needs and expectations.

Running For Office 101, William Sullivan Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The pull-out section presents the MDA resources and support available from the MDA for members considering public service. It discusses the importance of having dentists in the Michigan Legislature and provides a guide to encourage dentists to run for public office. Running for public office is a significant decision, and the guide "Running for Office 101," offers information and insights for potential candidates.

J Mich Dent Assoc August 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Monthly, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and feature articles to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists! In this August 2022 issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover story on choosing to partner with a Dental Service Organization (DSO)
• A conversation with three dentists on how and why they are involved with organized dentistry.
• A 10-Minute EBD on the efficacy of vacuum-formed removable orthodontic retainers
• News you need, an Editorial, a report from our ADA Trustee and regular department articles, Dentistry and …

Attitudes Of Major Religious Organizations In Ukraine To Abortion And Reproductive Medicine, Kateryna Karpenko, Alla Guzhva

Occasional Papers on Religion in Eastern Europe

The attitude of the largest religions of Ukraine to reproductive medicine is determined by a variety of practical approaches, which are still in process of change between the rather strict negative official position of major religious organizations of Ukraine, on the one hand, and a rather liberal approach to reproductive medicine in secular legislation of Ukraine. The harsh negative official position of the main religious organizations of Ukraine to surrogacy and abortions is presented in a joint document adopted by the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations. While the diversity of practical approaches of these organizations is represented by …

Advocacy Spotlight: Are You An Advocate?, Vincent Benivegna Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Advocacy is crucial for dentists in Michigan, as they face a unique opportunity to impact Medicaid dental benefits positively. Governor Gretchen Whitmer's budget proposal for 2023 includes a substantial $240 million investment to revamp dental Medicaid benefits, a historic move for the state. The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) has actively engaged with government offices and legislators to ensure this opportunity is not missed. However, despite the MDA's efforts to mobilize members through action alerts, response rates have disappointed. The article emphasizes the importance of consistent advocacy, as it has the power to influence dental practices and the well-being of patients …

Review Of Cannabis Use Among Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander People, Julia Butt, Mandy Wilson, Jocelyn Jones, Simon Lenton

Journal of the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet

The health effects of cannabis use may not always be seen as a high priority for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. However, the impact of cannabis use on physical and mental health can have significant consequences. It is known that the use of high potency cannabis has increased over the last two decades, with a corresponding increased risk to health. In particular, young people are at increased risk of experiencing harms to mental health. Physical harms to health include effects on the respiratory system, cardiovascular system, an increased risk of cancer, and in-utero effects from maternal use. The review …

Oregon's Senate Joint Resolution 12: Understanding The Implications Of A Constitutional Right To Healthcare, Anna Starr, Mpp

Hatfield Graduate Journal of Public Affairs

Problems persist throughout the U.S. healthcare system including exorbitant costs, poor health scores, high rates of uninsured, and lack of access to services among marginalized groups. Among many proposed solutions is a constitutional provision to healthcare. Largely based in ethics, healthcare as a right is also expected by many to improve health outcomes. However, while constitutional provisions for healthcare are found in countries around the world, empirical research results are limited and mixed at best. In the wake of social justice movements and resurgence of vibrant conversations about human rights, and with international pressure mounting for the U.S. to follow …

Headquarters Report: Without Mda Advocacy, Michigan Dentistry Would Look Very Different, Karen Burgess Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Headquarters Report reflects on the impactful advocacy efforts of the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) over the past three years. Highlighting various scenarios, the report envisions a different landscape for dentistry in Michigan without MDA advocacy. The article emphasizes the critical role played by MDA in addressing issues related to COVID-19, regulations, funding, public protection, and dental policies. The advocacy initiatives have not only protected dental professionals but have also ensured the best interests of the public, contributing to a resilient and thriving dental community in Michigan.

Yes, The Mda Stands For Something, Michael G. Maihofer Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In the President's address, Dr. Maihofer responds to concerns about the MDA's relevance, outlining four key points that emphasize its commitment to ethical dentistry, continuous education, advocacy, and adapting to changing professional needs. He highlights the MDA's role in opposing dental therapy, advocating for tax repeals, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Dr. Maihofer encourages member participation, emphasizing the collective strength of the MDA community. The address expresses gratitude to various contributors, including predecessor Dr. Steve Meraw, President-elect Dr. Vince Benivegna, the Board of Trustees, MDA staff, volunteers, and his wife, Denise.

A Pilot Study To Examine Retailer Compliance Before And After Tobacco 21 In New Jersey, Mary Hrywna, Christopher Ackerman, Cristine D. Delnevo

Health Behavior Research

Despite rapid diffusion of Tobacco 21 (T21) laws in the last several years, research examining T21 compliance remains limited. This pilot study examined retailer compliance with carding before and after T21 as well as sales violations after T21 in New Jersey. A 19-year-old buyer made alternating cigar and cigarette purchase attempts in 15 licensed tobacco retailers weekly for five weeks before and 10 weeks following the T21 effective date for a total of 222 visits. We analyzed carding pre and post T21 and sales violations post T21, by store and product type. Failure to card declined post T21 (81.3% to …

A Pandemic Of Separation Of Powers Violations In Texas: The Interrelationship Of The Texas Disaster Act And Texas Gov’T Code Section 22.0035, Ron Beal

St. Mary's Law Journal

This Article is on the interrelationship of the Texas Disaster Act and Texas Government Code Section 22.0035. The author demonstrates that the Governor of Texas and the Texas Supreme Court have grossly violated the separation of powers on a continuing basis since March 29, 2020 by Governor Abbott issuing Executive Order 13, which prohibits the granting of bail to anyone awaiting trial, and the Texas Supreme Court’s unwillingness to invalidate that order administratively or judicially. Finally, the Article addresses the nearly one thousand district and county court judges who are constantly violating the separations of powers by failing to invalidate …

A Geographically Targeted Approach For A Preceptor Tax Incentive Using Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Areas (Hpsas), Julia Mattingly, Sarah Belcher, Samuel C. Kessler

Commonwealth Policy Papers

Years before the COVID-19 pandemic brought on a health care shortage in Kentucky, its rural areas were already struggling to obtain and attract primary care medical practitioners. Even though the number of medical school graduates in the U.S. has steadily increased throughout the years, there is a general disinterest in rural or small-town practice, and legislators throughout the country have pondered ways to address this issue plaguing communities. Versions of Preceptor Tax Incentive legislation in Kentucky have been proposed in the General Assembly to address care shortages in the state, however, all have been unsuccessful at truly targeting rural areas …

Resource Utilization Among Informal Caregiver Of Lung Cancer Patients Undergoing Treatment, Charlotte T. Lee, Clarelle L. Gonsalves, Jenny Gao-Kang, Wyatt G. Pickrell, Ruth F. Barker

Patient Experience Journal

The objective of this study is to explore patient and caregiver factors that shape the use of available resources to support caregiving for lung cancer patients undergoing treatment. A mixed-method study was conducted at one regional cancer centre within the Province of Ontario, Canada, using concurrent triangulation design. Adult patients with lung cancer (n=46) and their caregivers (n=42) (37 patient-caregiver dyads) were invited to complete a one-time study survey. Informal caregivers (n=20) also participated in a one-time semi-structured interview. Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation were used to examine patterns of resource utilization and associations among study variables. Content analysis was …

Review Of Diabetes Among Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander People, Katherine Ride, Samantha Burrow

Journal of the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet

Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic disease condition globally. Type 2 diabetes in particular, has reached epidemic proportions, with the greatest burden falling on socially disadvantaged groups and Indigenous peoples.

This review focuses primarily on type 2 diabetes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, which is responsible for the majority of cases of diabetes in this population. It provides general information on the social and cultural context of diabetes, and the behavioural and biomedical factors that contribute to diabetes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

This review provides detailed information on:

• the extent of diabetes among Aboriginal and …

Protecting A Woman’S Right To Abortion During A Public Health Crisis, San Juanita Gonzalez

The Scholar: St. Mary's Law Review on Race and Social Justice

As COVID-19 infected our nation, states were quick to issue executive orders restricting various aspects of daily life under the pretense of public safety. It was clear at the outset that certain civil liberties were going to be tested. Among them, the constitutional right to an abortion.

This comment explores Texas’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the limitations it imposed on abortion access. It will attempt to address the legitimacy of the “public health concerns” listed in executive orders issued throughout numerous states and will discuss the pertinent legal framework and judicial scrutiny to apply.

According to the Fifth …

Staff Matters: Is Our Practice Required To Mandate Employee Vaccination For Covid-19?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Staff Matters Column addresses the confusion surrounding COVID-19 vaccination mandates for private dental practices. Following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) vaccine mandate was upheld. However, the CMS rule, clarified through FAQs, applies to specific health care facilities accepting Medicare or Medicaid funding and does not include private dental practices. The article navigates the nuances of the CMS rule, emphasizing its impact on certain health care settings rather than private dental practices, offering clarity on vaccination requirements for dental professionals.

The 2025 Michigan State Oral Health Plan, Ellen Sugrue Hyman Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This feature article explores the 2025 Michigan State Oral Health Plan (SOHP), a comprehensive initiative developed by the Michigan Oral Health Coalition (MOHC) and a statewide coalition, including the Michigan Dental Association (MDA). With a focus on enhancing oral health for all Michigan residents, the SOHP prioritizes addressing economic and racial disparities. The plan, guided by three key goals—Increasing Awareness and Education, Dental-Health Integration, and Access and Infrastructure—aims to improve oral health outcomes. The article discusses the plan's development process, key findings highlighting existing disparities, workforce challenges, and the strategic implementation of the SOHP through collaborative efforts and workgroups.

The Governor’S Budget Awareness For Dentistry, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial highlights the significance of the Governor's proposed budget in February, marking a substantial step forward for oral health awareness in Michigan. The budget allocates funds for long-sought oral health initiatives, including addressing barriers to hospital-based dental care, enhancing Medicaid coverage for adults, and streamlining dental plans. With a focus on workforce availability, the editorial emphasizes the critical role of oral health in employability. The proposed budget, influenced by effective MDA advocacy, reflects a notable achievement in prioritizing dentistry, underscoring the potential for future opportunities.

Advocacy Spotlight: Ada Lobbyist Conference Highlights Critical Advocacy Issues, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The ADA Lobbyist Conference highlighted crucial issues in dentistry, including Medicare reform, teledentistry, workforce concerns, and insurance challenges. State dental associations collaborated on building advocacy partnerships and shared successful grassroots engagement strategies. Medicare reform discussions focused on the ADA's opposition to Plan B inclusion and the impact of constituent outreach. State associations addressed Medicaid reform, emphasizing personal stories to convey the need for change. Teledentistry legislation and insurance company relationships were also key topics. The insights gained will shape the MDA's advocacy strategy for 2022.

Orbital Cellulitis, Aparajitha A, Rajendra R, Anitha T. Girish

Digital Journal of Clinical Medicine

No abstract provided.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Rishabh Jain, Deepa Bhat, Nemichandra S.C

Digital Journal of Clinical Medicine

No abstract provided.

Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis, Shreyans Darla, Mahesh P.A, Vishwa Vijeth

Digital Journal of Clinical Medicine

No abstract provided.