bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Where should health system investments be made to protect the mental health of healthcare workers?
Authors: Williams G 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
This study explores trends and work-related determinants of mental health and wellbeing among health and care workers in Europe since the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim is to determine where investments can best be made to protect and support mental health and wellbeing among health and care workers to improve retention and recruitment.

Methods
Data are analysed from the National Health Service staff survey in England and the Health Service Executive ‘Your Opinion Counts’ survey in Ireland to explore trends in mental health and wellbeing and burnout. Evidence is then taken from a series of European Observatory policy briefs, based on expert-led literature reviews, to explore determinants of poor mental health and wellbeing and to identify potential areas for investment.

Results
Rates of burnout and poor mental health and wellbeing have increased in England and Ireland since the start of the pandemic among all professional groups. Workplace-based factors are important determinants of poor mental health and wellbeing, and can be grouped into: macro-level structural factors such as staff shortages, poor working conditions and low pay; meso-level organisational factors including poor leadership, and insufficient education, training and support; micro-level individual factors such as insufficient self-care or not seeking support. However, determinants at the micro-level, especially seeking support from others, are largely shaped by structural or organisational factors.

Conclusions
Increased financing to address structural and organisational determinants of mental health and wellbeing contributes to improved patient care, better staff experience, lower rates of absenteeism, and enhanced recruitment and retention. It is therefore one of the best health system investments that can be made.
9.Y.1. Breaking down silos: Maximizing the impact of different EU funding schemes in health
Authors:   Organised by: EUPHAnxt, EUPHA-PHMR, Sciensano (Belgium),   Chair persons: Nienke Schutte (Belgium)
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The European Commission (EC) has established various funding schemes to support large health initiatives, such as EU4Health, Horizon Europe, and Digital Europe. These initiatives aim to support research and innovation in order to tackle different health challenges faced by EU member states, improve the health and well-being in European citizens and invest in resilient health systems Funding can come in different forms such as grants, subsidies, loans, prizes, and procurements and is managed by different Directorates General of the European Commission. The EC offers a wealth of financial resources, enabling health scientists to conduct cutting-edge research. However, to make the full potential of the EC funding programmes it is essential to achieve interactions and synergies. Thematic interactions consider the underlying policies of specific actions, striving to connect projects focused on related topics rather than letting them work in isolation, and transferring results from one to another. Implementation interactions involve the sequential or cumulative funding of one or multiple projects. Moreover, the abundance of financial sources poses the possibility for duplication of efforts and redundancy among the various programmes. In addition, complexities in rules and guidelines pose challenges for researchers to fund their long term research projects through cumulative funding. To avoid redundancy and tackle health issues efficiently, it is essential to ensure collaboration and coordination across funding schemes to effectively address both overarching and specific health topics. The aim of this roundtable is to share with the audience the different funding mechanisms provided by the European Commission, explore barriers and challenges to fostering collaborative innovation through the funding programs, and demonstrate best practices for optimizing synergies across different programs. This round table gathers panelists from a variety of backgrounds covering the European Commission, national health institutes, NGOs and SMEs.

Key messages
• The European Commission provides diverse and rich funding schemes supporting health research and innovation to tackle European health challenges.
• Complexities in rules and guidelines pose challenges and combined efforts of both the European Commission and research communities can foster collaborative innovation across the funding schemes.

Speakers/Panelists
Jinane Ghattas
Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
Agnès Mathieu-Mendes
HaDEA, EC, Brussels, Belgium
Anabela Isidro
Agência de Investigação Clínica e Inovação Biomédica, Lisbon, Portugal
9.Y.2. Leveraging GenAI and Deep Learning for the Analysis of Public Health Data: A Global Perspective
Authors:   Organised by: Conduent,   Chair persons: Dianna Lydiard (USA), Tarun Khatri (Canada)
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The evolution from Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) represents a significant advancement in technological capabilities and applications. Advancements in computing power, algorithmic complexity, and data availability have enabled Gen AI to exhibit broader cognitive abilities such as reasoning, problem-solving, and learning across diverse domains. Private sector investment and innovation is advancing capability in this space at a rapid pace, trending toward a complete paradigm shift towards machines capable of autonomously adapting and learning in dynamic environments, promising profound impacts across industries from education and finance to healthcare and beyond. Yet harnessing the power of GenAI remains out of reach for most public health entities. Questions like “How to start” and “What to do”, let alone concerns regarding cost, security, and ethics, often thwart an agency from endeavoring to even begin their journey to the program improvement they visualize through the lens and promise of AI. Conduent’s longstanding presence and pioneering work in AI across various sectors, has led to a simple, underlying philosophy: we leverage Gen AI technologies to assist and enable humans to improve business processes. Instead of developing Gen AI technologies ourselves, we focus our efforts on making advanced technologies accessible to our clients and enabling them to achieve their outcomes.
This session focuses on accessibility and enablement for public health agencies looking to jump start their journey to AI and evolve their public health programs with the use of Gen AI, covering topics such as: • The evolution of GenAI in the private sector; • Visualizing objectives in public health outcomes and improved business processes; • What to do about data; • Using human intelligence to drive machine learning; • Managing security, ethics, and equity; • Roadmap your Journey to Gen AI.
For Conduent, Gen AI is not intended to replace humans but to harness its potential to support and empower humans in creating innovative, additive opportunities that enhance business process outcomes. In the public health space, its impact is immense and far reaching. Let’s shift from “How do I start” to tackling the questions that improve programs and their outcomes. So how will you optimize your program with Gen AI? Let’s get started.

Key messages
• Private sector Gen AI capability is expanding at a rapid pace yet many public health agencies are struggling just to start. Conduent offers an informed perspective to jump start your Gen AI journey.
• Accessibility and enablement for public health agencies looking to jump start their journey to AI and evolve their public health programs with the use of GenAI.

Speakers/Panelists
Mark Marostica
Conduent Public Health Solutions, Florham Park, USA
Dianna Lydiard
Conduent, Florham Park, USA
Tarun Khatri
Conduent, Burlington, Canada
Impact of the WELLBASED urban programs on health, well-being, and energy poverty
Authors: van Grieken A , Stevens M , Costa-Ruiz B , Martínez J J , Barbagelata M , Pilotto A , Redon J 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The WELLBASED project developed and implemented urban programs across six pilot sites to tackle energy poverty. This study aimed to evaluate these programs’ effectiveness on a broad range of health, well-being, and energy poverty indicators.

Methods
a controlled study was performed in six European pilot sites. Participants in the intervention condition receive the 12-month WELLBASED urban program. Participants were recruited via different methods and provided informed consent to participate in the 18-month study. Self-report questionnaires were completed at baseline, 6-, 12 and 18 months in both research conditions. In the intervention group, monthly health monitoring of e.g. heart rate and blood pressure, and continuous monitoring of indoor CO2, temperature and humidity were performed. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses are performed to assess the impact of the urban programs on health, well-being and energy poverty-indicators

Results
In the baseline sample (n = 1350; n = 661 intervention group, n = 689 control group) the mean age was 49 years (SD 16), 15.6% was &gt;65 years, 65% were women, and 42% was married. At baseline people reported not feeling comfortable warm in winter (58%) or cool in summer (70%), 43% reported damp or leak. Preliminary findings at 6-month follow-up indicate changes in HR-QoL, subjective well-being and depression/anxiety differ strongly per pilot site location (p &lt; 0.01). In summer 2024 all data will be available for analysis.

Conclusions
the comprehensive urban programs developed in the WELLBASED project may support public health to tackle energy and improve health and well-being of vulnerable citizens.
10.Y.2. Unlocking innovation: trustworthy co-creation for tackling complex public health challenges
Authors:   Organised by: Health CASCADE,   Chair persons: Vinayak Anand-Kumar (Germany), Sebastien Chastin (UK)
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Public health interventions often have limited effects, with few achieving large-scale implementation. Moreover, these interventions frequently fail to replicate their effects in real-world settings, possibly due to an overemphasis on generating universal knowledge through theory building and testing in controlled conditions. An alternative approach involves developing interventions within specific contexts, fostering collaborative knowledge generation, and establishing equitable partnerships. Co-creation offers a transformative strategy for addressing complex public health issues by generating real-world solutions. However, utilizing co-creation in public health presents challenges, including a lack of guidance on implementation and evaluation in public health settings. This underscores the need to integrate real-world co-creation with rigorous research to establish a reliable methodology grounded in both scientific evidence and participatory principles.

Workshop
This Pecha Kucha-style workshop will explore the essence of an evidence-based co-creation methodology developed through rigorous research by the European-funded H2020 Marie Sklodowska-Curie Innovative Training Network, Health CASCADE, and its partners. Emphasizing the significance of fostering innovative solutions to public health challenges, the workshop will provide key considerations for designing co-creation projects. It will also examine the role of enabling technologies in optimizing hybrid intelligence for effective co-creation, highlighting their contribution to collaboration enhancement. Perspectives from co-creators will be presented to offer unique insights into their experience of the co-creation process. Additionally, the workshop will elucidate the adaptation of co-creation processes within the Danish context, exploring collaborative efforts across sectors and shedding light on cross-sectoral cooperation intricacies. A moderated panel discussion will conclude the workshop, facilitating deeper engagement with the presented topics. Delegates will gain insight into applying co-creation in health promotion and behaviour change research, navigating prevalent challenges through Health CASCADE’s systematic approach, and discovering strategies for fostering effective and inclusive co-creation. They will also acquire strategies and resources to overcome potential obstacles, fostering more effective and inclusive approaches to complex public health challenges.

Key messages
• Co-creation presents a powerful approach to addressing complex public health challenges by fostering collaboration, creativity, and inclusivity across diverse stakeholders and communities.
• Effective and trustworthy implementation of co-creation requires an understanding of its principles and methods, enabling technologies, and strong partnerships across sectors and institutions.
15 years of the Colorrectal Cancer Screening Programme. Decreasing inequalities
Authors: Idigoras Rubio I , Portillo I , Sainz de Rozas I , Ijalba M , Aguilar D 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Screening Programme approved in 2008 by the Regional Parliament and carried out in 2009 a pilot study inviting to residents 50-69 years old (586,700), through a biennial Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), colonoscopy in FIT positive. The Programme Coordinating Centre sends FIT by post and involves Primary Care and Endoscopy departments in process and results control. In 2013, 100% coverage was reached, and in 2023 more than 80% were invited more than 6 times. However, inequalities in participation were detected: by age, gender, deprivation and vulnerability. Since 2014, different strategies have been carried out in order to decrease with the commitment of authorities, researchers and associations.

Objectives
To describe strategies and results to decrease inequalities in participation

Results
From the pilot participation rate increased (p &lt; 0.001) 58.1% to 72.0% in 2023. Inequalities by gender (69.4 men vs 74.4% women) and deprivation index were detected (55.7/1000 lower vs high 41.0/1000). The non-adherence to colonoscopy was 5% along the period. Training, and communication campaigns developed. 2016-2017 special recruitment for imprisoned and mental health patients increasing participation rate (9.3 to 97.1%). In 2021 and ongoing: thanks to Resilience Funds (European Union), strategies were implemented: SMS specific by sex, research health literacy, studying CRC behavior by sex in FIT sensitivity 85.4% (CI95% 84.2-86.7) in men and 80.9% (CI95% (79. -82.6) in women p &lt; 0.001

Conclusions
The governance and involvement of professionals, researchers and patient associations crucial to decrease inequalities. The Basque Programme achieved one of the highest participation rate. Investment in reducing barriers will probably impact on the reduction of incidence and mortality.

Key messages
• A population based CRC Screening Programme reduces incidence and mortality on participants.
• Intervention to increase participation reduces inequities and is crucial on Public Health policies.
Tobacco Industry CSR activities in Poland between 2020-2023
Authors: Dera P , Banach M , Majchrzak J , Balwicki Ł 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The tobacco industry has undergone a significant transformation in its approach towards Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities. Once primarily associated with controversy and criticism due to the health risks associated with tobacco consumption, many tobacco companies have begun to embrace CSR initiatives as a means to mitigate these concerns and demonstrate their commitment to broader societal well-being.

Methods
Methods were based on the Global Tobacco Industry Interference Index. Between 1 January 2020 and 31 March 2023 scoping review of legal basis, Polish media websites, Polish government and local government websites, also social media of tobacco industry companies has been done by four reviewers searching separately.

Results
Between 2020 and 2023 several tobacco companies supported public schools (organized workshops, offered internships, and demonstrated the production processes). In 2022, the National Revenue Administration signed an agreement with Philip Morris Polska, among other companies, under the Cooperation Program. The objective of the Program is to initiate collaborative measures that promote compliance with tax regulations. At the end of 2021, the National Revenue Administration took patronage over the Business Center Club social campaign entitled ‘Coming together to fight the illicit trade in tobacco products’. Moreover, in March 2023 the General Police Headquarters started cooperation with BAT and JTI in the field of combating illegal production and trade in tobacco products, as well as disclosing and eliminating tobacco products from illegal sources from economic circulation.

Conclusions
In Poland, which currently has no specific regulation constraining tobacco industry lobbying, implementation of the provisions of WHO FCTC Article 5.3 is needed to limit interactions between the government and the tobacco industry. Government and public schools should not accept any support from the tobacco industry.

Key messages
• The government should have regulatory measures to manage its interactions with the tobacco industry, emphasizing the importance of refraining from accepting industry assistance.
• Implementation of WHO FCTC Article 5.3 of is needed to limit interactions between the government and the tobacco industry.
Scientific policy advice during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic – a comparison of 25 democratic countries
Authors: Dicks T , Centeno Beltran C , Toffeleit L , Busetto L , Semmler I , Ciesek S , Drosten C , Schäfer M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic required rapid and effective policy responses from governments worldwide, especially in the realm of public health. Due to the global impact of the pandemic, it is important to compare country-specific approaches. A systematic analysis of the role and institutionalization of different bodies of scientific policy advice during the pandemic was conducted to gain insights into scientific policy advice structures and to inform future solutions.

Methods
We contacted the governments of 35 democratic countries about the role and institutionalization of bodies of scientific advisory advice during the pandemic. Data collection took place between September 2023 and March 2024. We analyzed primary data provided by the governments by qualitative systematic document analysis.

Results
We received feedback from 25 countries within the research period (including 19 European countries). The results were divided into three main categories: (1) temporality, (2) structure, function, & composition, and (3) transparency. Further sub-categories emerged that helped to compare and classify the countries’ approaches, such as initiation, financing, selection, expertise, and diversity of members, systematics of documentation. For example, some used existing structures from ministries, research institutions or the private sector while others were entirely newly established. National bodies of scientific policy advice mostly developed ad hoc, were temporary, and showed several differences between countries.

Conclusions
Different types of bodies of scientific policy advice were identified in terms of e.g. initiation, function, expertise, and institutionalization. The results demonstrate a significant variation regarding the role and impact of scientific policy advice during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Our study can help to identify essential aspects of scientific policy advice and to formulate recommendations for future health crises.

Key messages
• The innovative methodological approach and the data which was collected from 25 countries give new insights into an important field of research.
• National bodies of scientific policy advice mostly developed ad hoc, were temporary, and showed several structural differences between countries.
Factors for sustainable cross-sector collaboration for health equity: a Dutch qualitative study
Authors: Coolen C M , Vendrig-de Punder YMR , Hugen C , Jambroes M , Kamphuis CBM , Ruijer E 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Cross-sectoral collaboration between healthcare and the social domain is necessary to address the complexity of health inequity. However, this collaboration is often unsustainable in the long-term, for example due to temporary budgets and professionals changing jobs. We explored the factors that facilitate or restrain sustainable cross-sectoral collaboration by applying an interdisciplinary theoretical lens combining insights from relevant frameworks from governance, interprofessional learning and health policy. Following, we applied the framework in an ‘Integrated Community Approach’ in two Dutch cities (Utrecht and Amersfoort).

Methods
A qualitative research was conducted, involving 32 semi-structured interviews with professionals involved in an ‘Integrated Community Approach’ in the two Dutch cities in 2022 and 2023. Participants worked at various levels of the municipality, or as a local professional in the medical or social domain in the community. Thematic analysis and a deductive approach were employed- based on the theoretical framework.

Results
We identified nine components as important for sustainable cross-sectoral collaboration. Whether these components acted as facilitator or barrier varied between participants, depending on their position and organizational context. The nine components could be summarized into three main mechanisms: 1) the foundation for collaboration, which is dependent on having a shared vision and the competencies to engage residents; 2) a pre-condition, which is having support at management level and having the right resources; 3) support, which is provided by data and flexibility.

Conclusions
Long-term cross-sectoral collaboration is important, complex and depends on various interconnected factors. To improve cross-sectoral collaboration in the long term, it is necessary to disentangle each theme and conduct in-depth analysis of each one individually to facilitate deeper understanding of the context and problem.

Key messages
• Collaboration between medical and social sectors is challenging, yet significance is clear. While the start is evident, sustaining the ‘how’ is unclear.
• The opportunities and obstacles of cross-domain collaboration vary among stakeholders, influenced by both their organization and position within it.