bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of COVID-pandemic on retirement timing and interest to work alongside pension in Finland
Authors: Tenhunen S 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
The health risks of COVID-pandemic may have made retirement more desirable for those close to the retirement age. At the same time, wide lockdowns may also have emphasized the importance of maintaining social contacts at work. This study examines if the COVID-pandemic reflected to retirement timing and to the interest to work after that in Finland.

Methods
We use register-supplemented survey data (3,350 observations, response rate 68%) of Finnish pensioners who retired from work to old-age pension in years 2019-2021. We use descriptive analysis and logistic regression models to describe the prevalence of the pandemic's impact and to find out if the effects on retirement and interest to work after retirement vary by population groups.

Results
According to preliminary results, for majority (85 %) the pandemic had no effect on their re-tirement decision. However, seven per cent of respondents told the pandemic made them retire earlier, while two per cent postponed retirement. Advancing retirement was more common among high-educated, upper-level employees and those who had retired after statutory retirement age. Three quarters of recently retired Finns told COVID-pandemic had no effect on interest to work after retirement. Ten per cent told the pandemic decreased and four per cent that the pandemic increased their interest to work. Women, upper-level employees and high-educated reported more often their interest to work had decreased because of the pandemic.

Conclusions
From both a societal and individual point of view, it is important to notice how widely the pandemic affected the retirement timing and the interest to participate in working life at the end of the working career. Our results suggest that while for a great majority the pandemic did not have any impact on their retirement decisions or interest to work after retirement, there were small groups of retirees whose retirement timing and working interest were affected.

Key messages
• For the great majority of Finns retiring from work in 2019–2021, the COVID pandemic did not affect retirement timing or their interest to work alongside old-age pension.
• For some, the pandemic affected their retirement timing and interest to work, more often by inducing earlier retirement and decreasing interest to work.
The effects of an interdisciplinary employment program among persons with severe mental disorders
Authors: Hijdra R W , Robroek SJW , Sadigh Y , Burdorf A , Schuring M 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Purpose
This study evaluates the effects of the interdisciplinary employment program ‘Work As Best Care (WABC)’ on employment participation and mental health of persons with severe mental disorders.

Methods
WABC is a ‘work first’ employment program for unemployed persons with severe mental disorders in which employment professionals work closely together with mental health professionals. In a longitudinal non-randomized controlled study, participants of WABC (n = 35) are compared with participants of the control group (n = 37), who received regular employment support. Participants were followed for one year and filled out questionnaires on individual characteristics and health at baseline, after 6 and 12 months. This information was enriched with monthly register data on employment status from 2015 until 2020. Difference-in-differences analyses were performed to investigate changes in employment participation among participants of WABC and the control group. A generalized linear mixed effects model was used to compare changes in mental health (measured on 0-100 scale) between the two groups.

Results
Before WABC, employment participation was 22.0 %points lower among participants of WABC compared to the control group. After starting WABC, employment participation increased with 15.3 %points per year among participants of WABC, compared to 5.6 %points in the control group. Among participants of WABC, no change in mental health was found (β 1.0, 95%CI -3.4;5.5).

Conclusions
To enhance employment participation of persons with severe mental disorders, an interdisciplinary ‘work-first’ approach in which professionals of employment services and mental health services work in close collaboration, is of paramount importance.

Key messages
• An interdisciplinary work-first approach where employment- and mental health services work in close collaboration, is of paramount importance for re-employment of persons with severe mental disorders.
• Having a severe mental disorder should not be an exclusion criterion for receiving support towards paid employment.
Age-friendly practices during the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from a scoping review
Authors: Guzman V , Kinsella E , Pertl M , Foley R , Doyle F 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic called for innovation and leverage of existing age-friendly practices to promote older people's functional ability and enable them to contribute to their communities and enjoy life. Our aim was to explore the evidence available concerning the development, adaptation, and evaluation of age-friendly practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods
A review was conducted in line with the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology. We considered publications of practices across the 8 domains of the World Health Organization (WHO) age-friendly framework. Our search strategy comprised databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus) and grey literature sources.

Results
Preliminary findings identified 37 practices by member organizations of the WHO network. The most targeted domains were community support and healthcare services; communication and information; and social participation; while the least targeted were transportation; housing; and outdoor spaces and buildings. Adaptive strategies often relied on remote delivery of information and services through digital or phone contact. Most practices were led by local authorities in collaboration with community organizations, universities, and healthcare practitioners. Opportunities for older people to contribute to the design and implementation of practices varied widely across settings. Enablers for adaptation or development included pre-existing collaborations between stakeholders, availability of contact details of older people in the community, and availability of human and material resources to implement changes. Challenges included limited literacy and access to digital technologies, and participants’ distrust of remote activities.

Conclusions
Findings emerging from the scoping review provide insights regarding age-friendly practices during COVID-19 and may inform the development of appropriate multi-stakeholder and participatory interventions during future public health crises.

Key messages
• Age-friendly practices may significantly contribute to meet older people’s material, social and affective needs during public health crises.
• Opportunities to leverage age-friendly practices increase with the inclusion of older people’s voices, intergenerational solidarity, multi-stakeholder involvement and strong political will.
Provisions regarding organizational and social work environment and future sickness absence in Sweden
Authors: Nyman C , Alexanderson K , Svedberg P , Friberg E 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Sickness absence is high among healthcare employees in many European countries, including Sweden. In addition to physical workload, the importance of psychosocial work factors for this is emphasized. To promote a good psychosocial work environment, provisions on organisational and social work environment, mandatory to all work sectors, was launched in 2016 in Sweden. We compared sickness absence (SA) due to mental diagnoses two years before and two years after these provisions were introduced, among healthcare employees, employed by the municipality, the region, or private organisations.

Methods
Register microdata were used for analyses of all employees in the healthcare sector in Sweden in 2014 (N = 260,709) and in 2018 (N = 277,901). The odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) of new SA (in SA spells &gt;14 days) and of long-term SA (&gt;90 days) with a mental diagnosis in 2018 compared to 2014 were calculated, using logistic regression.

Results
The ORs of new SA and long-term SA with mental diagnoses among healthcare employees were somewhat higher in 2018 than in 2014 (OR = 1.14; 95% CI 1.11-1.17), (OR = 1.12; 1.07-1.17). The OR for the private sector for a new SA spell was 1.11; 1.02-1.19, and for the regional sector, OR 1.05; 1.01-1.08. The highest probability of long-term SA with mental diagnoses in 2018 compared to 2014 was found among employees in the municipal sector, OR 1.33, CI; 1.11-1.61, and in the private sector, OR 1.15, CI; 1.03-1.29.

Discussion
The mandatory provisions aim to promote good work environment and prevent risks of ill health due to organisational and social conditions at work. We observed a somewhat higher probability of SA with mental diagnoses two years after the provisions were introduced. SA due to mental diagnoses is influenced by many factors of which psychosocial work environment is only one part and maybe longer follow-ups are needed.

Key messages
• Sickness absence due to mental diagnoses among healthcare employees was somewhat higher two years after the introduction of an organisational and social work environment provision.
• Many factors influence sickness absence with mental diagnoses; other factors and longer follow-ups are needed to gain knowledge on possible effects of the work environment provision.
Disability-related policies and practices and sustained employment: A survey and register data study
Authors: Van Ooijen R , Koning PWC , Boot CRL , Brouwer S 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Many OECD countries implemented reforms to promote sustained employment of employees on long-term sick leave. Still, sustained employment remains low, which is worrying as it may affect the health and well-being of this vulnerable group of workers. This study aimed to examine the extent to which a firm's disability policies and practices increase the likelihood of sustained employment of long-term sick-listed employees with remaining work capacity.

Methods
Survey data on firms’ disability policies and practices was obtained from the Dutch Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) and linked to register data covering the employment outcomes of all employees that applied for disability benefits between 2006 and 2010 (N = 6103 employees from N = 366 employers). The dependent variable was sustained employment one year after the disability assessment. Implemented disability policies and practices were measured across seven domains: sick leave prevention, absenteeism management, reintegration management, occupational health and safety services (OHS), reintegration activities with the current/another employer, and positive workplace culture. Multilevel multiple logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results
Sick leave prevention policies (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.3-4.0), absenteeism management policies (OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.0-3.3) and OHS (OR = 1.8, 95 CI 1.1-3.2) were positively associated with sustained employed one year after the disability assessment. No significant results were found for the other domains.

Conclusions
Employees with remaining work capacity in firms with the most comprehensive absence management policies, prevention policies, and OHS are about twice as likely to continue working one year after the disability assessment than firms with the least comprehensive policies. Legislation that encourages firms to invest more in absence management and prevention policies may result in better employment opportunities for this vulnerable group of employees.

Key messages
• Firm's prevention and absence management policies could be highly effective in fostering sustained employment of employees on long-term sick leave.
• Legislation that encourages firms to invest more in disability policies and practices may result in better employment opportunities, health, and well-being of people with partial work disabilities.
Challenges to Implementation of a CHW-led COPD Screening and Referral in rural Uganda
Authors: Ingenhoff R , Robertson N , Bodnar B , Kalyesubula R , Munana R , Knauf F , Siddharthan T 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) ranks as the third leading cause of global mortality. In rural areas of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), COPD screening and diagnostic services remain often inaccessible. This study seeks to comprehend the implementation challenges of a Community Health Worker (CHW)-led program for COPD in Nakaseke, rural Uganda. During September and October 2022, this qualitative study explored the perceptions of Community Members, CHWs, and Healthcare Providers (HCPs) on challenges associated with CHW-delivered COPD screening and referral. In-depth interviews were conducted with eight CHWs and ten HCPs, along with six focus group discussions including 34 Community Members. Research assistants recorded and transcripted interviews verbatim. The thematic analysis was guided by the conceptual framework for implementation outcomes research. The acceptability of the implementation was hindered a lack of awareness about COPD, skepticism regarding the usefulness of COPD screening, and the presence of stigma surrounding the diagnostic process. Additionally, limited adoption was attributed to difficulties in accessibility and the willingness of Community Members to participate in the COPD referral process. The high patient volume, coupled with the complexity and time-consuming nature of the diagnostic and referral procedures, posed significant barriers to successful implementation. To ensure program sustainability, participants recommended increased support for CHWs, the decentralization of COPD care, and the expansion of follow-up services provided by CHWs. CHW-led interventions have great potential to deliver health care services that overcome barriers to treatment and self-management, particularly in settings with limited access to healthcare. However, prior to implementation, baseline assessments are needed to identify potential implementation obstacles and strategies that consider evidence-based approaches tailored to local contexts.

Key messages
• CHW-led interventions are a useful tool to alleviate barriers to COPD treatment and self-management in rural areas of LMICs where access to care is limited.
• Formative assessments of the potential challenges prior to an intervention are required to address and minimize barriers to implementation and sustainability.
Development and implementation of information management standards to contribute to safer better care
Authors: Ryan M , Foley B , Flynn R 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Issue
Good data and information is the foundation to a high-quality healthcare. It is also important for planning and managing services, policy-making and research.

Description
Information management includes the collection, storage, management and maintenance of information at any stage of the data and information cycle. Advances in eHealth have the potential to improve care by providing information when, and where, needed. Ongoing developments, including the establishment of a European Health Data Space, emphasise the need for good information management practices. It is imperative that organisations have the appropriate structures, systems, policies and procedures, according to evidence-based standards, to ensure data collected is of the highest quality and used to its full potential to promote safer better care, improved outcomes and overall wellbeing.

Results
In 2017, ‘Information Management Standards for National Health and Social Care Data Collections’ and a review programme to assess compliance against these standards was initiated by HIQA. To date, compliance with the information management standards has been reviewed in five major national data collections. A common finding was that a system-wide approach to information management was required. In 2022, HIQA began revising the standards given the learning from the review programme. The revision of the standards involves broadening the scope of the standards to include all services and organisations that process health and social care information.

Lessons
It is important that everyone working within health and social care services is aware of their responsibilities in terms of information management. Good information management is critical as eHealth plans progress and large volumes of personal data are processed in Ireland. Information management standards will be key to promoting high quality care, and enhanced planning and management of services, policy making, public health and research.

Key messages
• Good information management is critical to promote safer better care, improved outcomes and overall wellbeing.
• Organisations need appropriate structures, systems, policies and procedures according to evidence-based standards to ensure data collected is of the highest quality and used to its full potential.
Theories used for Social Prescribing in studies - a scoping review
Authors: Evers S , Husk K , Napierala H , Klose L , Gerhardus A 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
General practitioners increasingly engage with patients who have social problems. Social Prescribing (SP) is a pathway for them to connect these patients with appropriate social support and activities in their community. However, there is a lack of adequate evidence for the effectiveness of SP. For the design of high-quality studies for complex interventions, theory-guided development of the intervention and evaluation is essential. Nevertheless, there are differences in the conceptualization and intended mechanisms of SP. Therefore, the question is how theories are used in studies for the development and evaluation of SP.

Methods
A scoping review was conducted according to the JBI manual. Nine databases were searched without date limits. The extracted publications were independently screened by two reviewers. The inclusion criterion was the description of the use of a theory for a specific SP intervention.

Results
The search lead to 4,240 hits, of which 18 full-texts with 11 theories were included. The theories explain how SP works as an intervention (e.g., the Social Cure), inequalities in its effects (e.g., based on Bourdieu), or the implementation process (e.g., Normalization Process Theory). Similar endpoints are explained with different mechanisms by the theories. For example, the aim to improve a person's health is explained in the Social Cure theory through identification with social groups, while the Self-Determination theory describes how increasing intrinsic motivation through SP leads to behaviour change. All studies describe the use of theories for evaluation.

Conclusions
Few studies describe theories for SP interventions. The included theories differ significantly in their explanation of interrelations. The development of theory-guided intervention models for SP should be promoted to improve the evidence base through high-quality studies and to address social problems in general practice as effectively as possible.

Key messages
• The chosen theory for a complex intervention has an integral influence on endpoints and outcomes.
• Despite a proliferation of SP evaluation and research, little is described regarding the use of theory.
Preterm birth and stillbirth rates during COVID-19 pandemic: differences by socioeconomic status
Authors: Zeitlin J , Philibert M , Rihs T A , Draušnik Z , Gatt M , Engiom H M , Racape J , Szamotulska K , Barros H , Gissler M 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were concerns about maternal and newborn health because of increased stress, economic difficulties and restrictions to healthcare. However, preterm birth (PTB) rates declined in some countries in 2020, while stillbirth (SB) rates remained stable or were slightly elevated. Hypotheses for the PTB result include positive consequences of lockdowns (more rest, less pollution, less exposure to infection) or restricted healthcare, leading to fewer indicated preterm births. These effects have not been examined on a population-level by socioeconomic (SES) group.

Methods
The Euro-Peristat network developed a Common Data Model and R scripts to produce aggregated data tables from vital statistics and birth registers. This analysis uses data from 2015 to 2020 on singleton PTB rates and SB rates as well as on mother's educational level (preferred) or area level deprivation/occupation of mother (if education unavailable). SES measures were harmonised into 3 groups (low, medium, high). We computed observed versus expected risks of the outcomes for the year 2020, given linear trends from 2015 to 2019, overall and by SES group; these estimates were pooled using random effects meta-analysis.

Results
19 countries provided data on perinatal outcomes by SES group. The overall pooled mixed effect measure for PTB was -0.04 (95%CI of -0.06 to -0.02), corresponding to a 4% decline in 2020 over expected levels. This estimate was the same in low and high SES groups (-0.04 (-0.07 to 0.02) versus -0.04 (-0.06 to -0.02)). For stillbirth, the overall pooled measure was 0.02 (-0.03 to 0.07), corresponding to an increase of 2%, with higher estimates in the low SES group 0.05 (-0.02 to 0.11) versus 0.2 (-0.3 to 0.7) in the high group, although confidence limits overlapped.

Conclusions
A small decrease in PTB was observed in all SES groups, while results are suggestive of increases in SB rates among women in lower SES groups.

Key messages
• Previous results in some countries of decreased preterm birth rates in the general population in 2020 were confirmed in this European study, with similar associations in all socioeconomic groups.
• Stillbirth rates were not increased in the overall population, but a 5% increase was observed in lower SES groups.