2023

Parenteral Therapy in Domiciliary and Outpatient Setting: A Critical Review of the Literature (2023)

Posted on by

Type of publication:
Journal article

Author(s):
*Puzovic M.; Morrissey H.; Ball P.A.

Citation:
Archives of Pharmacy Practice. 14(2) (pp 1-12), 2023. Date of Publication: 2023.

Abstract:
The clinical homecare sector is often associated with high-cost drug parenteral (injectable) therapy treatments and has been rapidly growing in the United Kingdom (UK) at a 20% annual rate. It was estimated that this could further rise to 60% if extended to all medicines that are considered to be suitable for care at home. The latest data shows that the homecare medicines services sector continues to grow in number and complexity, with over 500,000 patients and a spend of UK3.2 billion in 2021. Given the extent of the National Health Service (NHS) expenditure and the number of patients involved, it is essential to understand and explore the patients' and HCPs' experiences, views, and perceptions of this therapy. As identified during this literature review, homecare provides opportunities for improved cost savings and improved patient experience, but several issues have already been reported worldwide. Patient education, training, support, and regular supervision, as well as the competency of HCPs to manage these patients, have all been identified as factors that contribute to the success or failure of self-administration of parenteral therapy at home, which might impact treatment outcomes and adherence. This is an area that needs urgent research.

Link to full-text [open access - no password required]

Assessing opinion on lower LDL-cholesterol lowering, and the role of newer lipid-reducing treatment options (2023)

Posted on by

Type of publication:
Journal article

Author(s):
Connolly, Derek L; Zaman, Azfar; *Capps, Nigel E; Bain, Steve C; Fernando, Kevin.

Citation:
British Journal of Cardiology. 30(2):14, 2023.

Abstract:
While statins are the gold standard for lipid-lowering therapies, newer therapies, such as PCSK9 inhibitors, have also demonstrated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction, but with a similar or better
safety profile. Conflicting guidance has contributed to a low uptake. More up-to-date, evidence-led guidance supports greater use of newer therapies, particularly in combination with statins, to reduce LDL-C to levels shown to be effective in trials. The aim of this study was to determine how such guidance can be implemented more effectively in the UK. Using a modified Delphi approach, a panel of healthcare professionals with an interest in the management of dyslipidaemia developed 27 statements across four key themes. These were used to form an online survey that was distributed to healthcare professionals working in cardiovascular care across the UK. Stopping criteria included 100 responses received, a seven-month window for response (September 2021 to March 2022), and 90% of statements passing the predefined consensus threshold of 75%. A total of 109 responses were analysed with 23 statements achieving consensus (four statements <75%). Variance was observed across respondent role, and by UK region. From the high degree of consensus, seven recommendations were established as to how evidence-based guidance can be delivered, including a call for personalised therapy strategies and simplification of LDL-C goals, which should be achieved within as short a time as possible.

Link to full-text [no password required for HTML version]

To set up simulation sessions to assist with the confidence and competence of physiotherapists for on-call training (2023)

Posted on by

Type of publication:
Service improvement case study

Author(s):
*Eleanor Giddings

Citation:
SaTH Improvement Hub, November 2023

Abstract:
To improve physiotherapy staff self perceived competency and confidence in line with the therapy on-call standards of practice by the end of March 2024.

Link to PDF poster