The decentralization of the NHIS’s implementation to states intended to hasten progress towards universal health coverage, has not effectively addressed healthcare disparities, particularly in Lagos State. The implementation of the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme appears to perpetuate structural violence, evident in increased out-of-pocket expenses, discrimination based on insurance type, and substandard healthcare delivery. The study therefore examined how structural violence has affected the policy outcomes of the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme, with a specific emphasis on junior officers in grade level 01–07 in five selected ministries situated within Lagos State. Both primary and secondary data were collected using questionnaire, interview and literature search. Data gathered were analysed statistically and thematically. The findings of the study indicate that the policy outcome of the scheme has been adversely affected by structural violence, resulting in dissatisfaction, compensation claims for unresolved health issues and a shift in health insurance providers among enrolled junior officers.

This study introduces a model designed to improve the strategic readiness of private hospitals in Amman by incorporating strategic competencies as an independent variable and using a healthcare information system as a mediator. Targeting private hospitals with over 140 beds, the research included a population of 3263 employees across various managerial levels. Data collection methods involved interviews and electronic questionnaires, resulting in a sample size of 344. Statistical analyses comprised exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modeling, and hypothesis testing with SMART PLS 3.3.3 software. The results indicated medium levels of both strategic competencies and healthcare information systems, while strategic readiness was found to be low. Nevertheless, the proposed model showed a direct positive effect of strategic competencies on strategic readiness, with the healthcare information system acting as a significant partial mediator. Evaluation metrics included the arithmetic mean, standard deviation, and path analysis. This model surpasses traditional methods by effectively linking strategic competencies and information systems to enhance strategic readiness, providing a strong framework for improving hospital responses to crises and dynamic changes. The study suggests focusing on enhancing and developing strategic competencies and integrating a comprehensive healthcare information system to optimize hospital operations and increase readiness.

E-cigarettes pose a significant public health concern, particularly for youth and young adults. Policymaking in this area is complicated by changing consumption patterns, diverse user demographics, and dynamic online and offline communities. This study uses social network analytics to examine the social dynamics and communication patterns related to e-cigarette use. We analyzed data from various social media platforms, forums, and online communities, which included both advocacy for e-cigarettes as a safer smoking alternative and opposition due to health risks. Our findings inform targeted healthcare policy interventions, such as educational campaigns tailored to specific network clusters, regulations based on user interaction and influence patterns, and collaborations with key influencers to spread accurate health information.

Background: In healthcare, research is essential for improving disease diagnosis and treatment, patient outcomes, and resource management, while fostering evidence-based practice. However, conducting research in this sector can be challenging, and healthcare workers may face various obstacles while engaging in research activities. Therefore, understanding healthcare workers’ attitudes toward research participation is essential for overcoming barriers and increasing research engagement. In this study, these aspects are examined through the analysis of survey data from a tertiary healthcare institution in Saudi Arabia. Method: Data obtained via a survey conducted between April and November 2022 among the healthcare workers and employees at a tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia were analyzed using descriptive and bivariate statistics. Results: The study sample comprised 713 respondents, 61.71% of whom were female, 58.06% were 26–41 years old, and 72.93% had not undertaken any research as employees or affiliates. A significant association was noted between age group and time constraints (p = 0.004) and lack of opportunity for research (p = 0.00), which were among the identified barriers to research participation. A significant association was also found between gender and barriers to pursuing research (p = 0.012). When the 193 (27.07%) participants who conducted research were asked about the challenges they encountered during this process, gender was significantly associated with difficulties in allocating time for conducting research (p = 0.042) and challenges in accessing journals and references (p = 0.016). Conclusion: The study findings highlight the importance of addressing the barriers and challenges in promoting positive attitudes toward research participation among healthcare workers considering their gender and age. In this manner, healthcare institutions can adopt an environment conducive for professional research engagement.

High-risk pregnancies are a global concern, with maternal and fetal well-being at the forefront of clinical care. Pregnancy’s three trimesters bring distinct changes to mothers and fetal development, impacting maternal health through hormonal, physical, and emotional shifts. Fetal well-being is influenced by organ development, nutrition, oxygenation, and environmental exposures. Effective management of high-risk pregnancies necessitates a specialized, multidisciplinary approach. To comprehend this integrated approach, a comparative literature analysis using Atlas.ti software is essential. Findings reveal key aspects vital to high-risk pregnancy care, including intervention effectiveness, case characteristics, regional variations, economic implications, psychosocial impacts, holistic care, longitudinal studies, cultural factors, technological influences, and educational strategies. These findings inform current clinical practices and drive further research. Integration of knowledge across multidisciplinary care teams is pivotal for enhancing care for high-risk pregnancies, promoting maternal and fetal well-being worldwide.

Diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) are gaining prominence in healthcare systems worldwide to standardize potential payments to hospitals. This study, conducted across public hospitals, investigates the impact of DRG implementation on human resource allocation and management practices. The research findings reveal significant changes in job roles and skill requirements based on a mixed-methods approach involving 70 healthcare professionals across various roles. 50% of respondents reported changes in daily responsibilities, and 42% noted the creation of new roles in their organizations. Significant challenges include inadequate training (46%), and coding complexity (38%). Factor analysis revealed a complex relationship between DRG familiarity, job satisfaction, and staff morale. The study also found a moderate negative correlation between the impact on morale and years of service in the current hospital, suggesting that longer-tenured staff may require additional support in adapting to DRG systems. This study addresses a knowledge gap in the human resource aspects of DRG implementation. It provides healthcare administrators and policymakers with evidence to inform strategies for effective DRG adoption and workforce management in public hospitals.