scholarly journals The abrupt transition from face-to-face to online treatment for eating disorders: a pilot examination of patients’ perspectives during the COVID-19 lockdown

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yael Doreen Lewis ◽  
Roni Elran-Barak ◽  
Rinat Grundman-Shem Tov ◽  
Eynat Zubery
Keyword(s):  
Eating Disorders ◽  
Therapeutic Alliance ◽  
Duration Of Treatment ◽  
Related Factors ◽  
General Psychopathology ◽  
Abrupt Transition ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Online Treatment ◽  
Exploratory Factor Analyses ◽  
Online Format

Abstract Background Studies investigating patients’ perspectives towards an abrupt transition from face-to-face to online treatment in eating disorders (EDs) are scarce. The current study aimed to (1) conduct a preliminary assessment of patients’ perspectives regarding this transition, and (2) explore potential demographic, clinical, and treatment-related factors associated with these perspectives. Methods Sixty-three patients with EDs whose treatment was moved to an online format, were surveyed during the COVID-19 lockdown (April–May 2020). A 6-item measure was developed to examine their perspectives toward this transition. Exploratory factor analyses (EFAs) were conducted to confirm the rational-theoretical structure of the measure (Eigenvalue = 3.745, explaining 62.4% of variance). The Cronbach’s alpha value was excellent (α = 0.878). Validated questionnaires were used to measure ED symptoms, general psychopathology, therapeutic alliance, and pandemic anxiety, and their associations with our transition-focused scale and telemedicine satisfaction were examined. Results Mixed views were found regarding the transition, with the majority (68%) stating that they would not choose to continue online therapy given the option. Longer duration of treatment (r = 0.291, p = 0.022), stronger therapeutic alliance (r = 0.293, p = 0.028), and higher COVID-19 anxiety (r = 0.276, p = 0.029) were linked with more positive views towards the transition. Conclusions Analyses suggest that patients’ perspectives towards the transition can be measured using a Likert-type 6-item scale. Findings highlight the various responses to online treatment and indicate a need to identify patients who may face difficulties in the transition to this newly ubiquitous treatment mode. Clinicians should be cognizant of these potential difficulties and consider appropriate modes of treatment in the ongoing pandemic situation.

scholarly journals Patients’ expectations on medicines information

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
A Sevikyan ◽  
I Kazaryan
Keyword(s):  
Storage Conditions ◽  
Community Pharmacies ◽  
Duration Of Treatment ◽  
Pharmacy Staff ◽  
Medicine Price ◽  
Expiry Date ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Medicines Information ◽  
Number Of Patients ◽  
Effective Use

Abstract Background Medicines information is important for patients as it assists them in achieving more safe and effective use of pharmaceuticals. Many patients seek information from community pharmacies' staff. The objectives of this study were to identify specific topics of medicines information which patients expect to receive at community pharmacies. Methods Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 1059 visitors of community pharmacies in Armenia. Previously developed questionnaire was used for interviewing patients. Data were analysed with the SPSS statistical software. Results Most of participants acknowledged importance of receiving from community pharmacies' staff information on therapeutic indications of medicines (91.1%), dosage and method of administration (90.8%), the duration of treatment (86.3%), expiry date (85.7%), adverse reactions (85.0%), contraindications (84.6%), storage conditions (77.5%) and type of activity (76.0%). Importance of receiving information on some specific topics depends on patients' age. Participants' acknowledgement of information on interaction with other medicines, certain categories of users, and potential effects on the ability to drive is decreasing with patients' age increasing (p < 0.001). The opposite trend was observed with attitude to receiving information on medicine price that was mostly valued by elderly patients (p = 0.046). The number of patients who trust the information provided was higher among those who more often received comprehensive responses from pharmacists and pharmacy assistants (p < 0.001). Conclusions Receiving medicines information from the staff of community pharmacies is important for patients, and the majority of them trust to information received. Patients are mainly provided with comprehensive responses to their questions about medicines, and there was dependence between a frequency of receiving comprehensive responses and a level of patients' trust the information provided by pharmacy staff. Key messages Increasing patients’ awareness on their right to get medicines information can be beneficial. Comprehensive responses increase patients trust medicines information provided by pharmacists.

scholarly journals Access to care and worsening eating disorder symptomatology in youth during the COVID-19 pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rebecca Spigel ◽  
Jessica A. Lin ◽  
Carly E. Milliren ◽  
Melissa Freizinger ◽  
Julia A. Vitagliano ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Care ◽  
Eating Disorder ◽  
Access To Care ◽  
Treatment Quality ◽  
Related Factors ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Recovery Study ◽  
And Behaviors

Abstract Background Shelter-in-place orders and social distancing guidelines, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, have limited traditional face-to-face interactions and led to many clinical providers transitioning to the use of videoconferencing platforms. The present study aims to assess how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted adolescents’/young adults’ (AYA) eating disorder (ED)-related care, and how access to, changes in, perceived disruptions to, and quality of care are associated with ED thoughts and behaviors. Methods AYA enrolled in the RECOVERY study, a pre-existing web-based longitudinal study, and completed a COVID-19-specific survey (n = 89). We examined bivariate associations of four markers of care: i) access to care, ii) changes in care, iii) perceived disruption to care, and iv) quality of care. Using multiple logistic regression, we examined the associations of pandemic-related markers of care with changes in ED thoughts and behaviors. We excluded those not engaged in treatment pre-pandemic (n = 16). Results In the remaining 73 participants, reported access to care was high, with 92% of respondents continuing care with at least one ED provider during the pandemic; however, 47% stopped some treatment during the pandemic. Nearly one-third (32%) perceived a disruption in treatment. Quality of care remained high with 67% reporting care to be better than or as good as pre-pandemic. Respondents acknowledged heightened symptomatology: 81% reported increased ED thoughts and 81% reported increased ED behaviors due to COVID-19-related factors. However, none of the markers of care described were significantly associated with ED thoughts or behaviors in regression analyses adjusting for demographic variables and baseline characteristics, except our quality of care measure which was approaching significance (p = 0.07). Conclusions Our findings show the majority of AYA who had care prior to the pandemic continued receiving some element of their multi-disciplinary ED treatment and perceived their care as high quality. None of the markers of care described were statistically associated with increased ED thoughts and behaviors.

scholarly journals Crisis and Continuation: The Digital Relocation of Jain Socio-Religious Praxis during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Religions ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (5) ◽  
pp. 342
Author(s):  
Tine Vekemans
Keyword(s):  
Digital Media ◽  
Long Term Effects ◽  
Religious Activities ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
The Social ◽  
Religious Praxis ◽  
Online Format ◽  
Media Channels ◽  
Selection Of

In early 2020, Jain diaspora communities and organizations that had been painstakingly built over the past decades were faced with the far-reaching consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and its concomitant restrictions. With the possibility of regular face-to-face contact and participation in recurring events—praying, eating, learning, and meditating together—severely limited in most places, organizations were compelled to make a choice. They either had to suspend their activities, leaving members to organize their religious activities on an individual or household basis, or pursue the continuation of some of their habitual activities in an online format, relying on their members’ motivation and technical skills. This study will explore how many Jain organizations in London took to digital media in its different forms to continue to engage with their members throughout 2020. Looking at a selection of websites and social media channels, it will examine online discourses that reveal the social and mental impact of the pandemic on Jains and the broader community, explore the relocation of activities to the digital realm, and assess participation in these activities. In doing so, this article will open a discussion on the long-term effects of this crisis-induced digital turn in Jain religious praxis, and in socio-cultural life in general.

Adapting a Technology-Based Eating Disorder Model for Athletes

2018 ◽  
Vol 12 (4) ◽  
pp. 699-717 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rachael E. Flatt ◽  
Craig Barr Taylor
Keyword(s):  
Eating Disorders ◽  
Health Programs ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Self Help ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Integrate Technology ◽  
Receive Treatment ◽  
Mental Health Programs ◽  
Evidence Based Care

Eating disorders (EDs) are common amongst athletes, yet few receive treatment. Given that athletes have a unique set of risk factors for eating disorders and are faced with additional barriers to treatment, new models outside of face-to-face treatment are necessary to reach the population and provide more affordable, tailored, evidence-based care. One solution is to use digital mental health programs to provide primary or supplemental therapy. Digital programs can provide accessibility and privacy, and recent advancements allow for more personalized online experiences. However, there have been no studies to date that integrate technology-based tools to address the especially high prevalence rates of EDs in athletes. This paper describes how an integrated model that includes online screening linked to guided self-help programs, all adapted specifically for athletes, can be used to provide prevention and intervention of EDs in athletes.

scholarly journals Physical Activity in Eating Disorders: A Systematic Review

Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 183 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rizk Melissa ◽  
Mattar Lama ◽  
Kern Laurence ◽  
Berthoz Sylvie ◽  
Duclos Jeanne ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Eating Disorders ◽  
Weight Loss ◽  
Related Factors ◽  
New Approach ◽  
Problematic Use ◽  
Group 2 ◽  
Expression Of Emotions ◽  
Group 1

Abnormally high levels of physical activity have been documented throughout the literature in patients with eating disorders (ED), especially those diagnosed with anorexia nervosa (AN). Yet no clear definition, conceptualization, or treatment of the problematic use of physical activity (PPA) in ED patients exists. The aim of this review is to propose a new classification of PPA, report the prevalence, triggers, predictors, maintainers and other related factors of PPA in ED patients, in addition to proposing a comprehensive model of the development of PPA in AN. A total of 47 articles, retrieved from Medline and Web of Science, met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. As a result, the new approach of PPA was divided into two groups (group 1 and group 2) according to the dimension (quantitative vs qualitative approach) of physical activity that was evaluated. The prevalence of PPA in ED was reported in 20 out of 47 studies, the comparison of PPA between ED versus controls in 21 articles, and the links between PPA and psychological factors in ED in 26 articles, including depression (16/26), anxiety (13/26), obsessive–compulsiveness (9/26), self-esteem (4/26), addictiveness (1/26), regulation and verbal expression of emotions (1/26) and anhedonia (1/26). The links between PPA and ED symptomatology, PPA and weight, body mass index (BMI) and body composition in ED, PPA and age, onset, illness duration and lifetime activity status in ED, PPA and ED treatment outcome were reported in 18, 15, 7, 5 articles, respectively. All of the factors have been systematically clustered into group 1 and group 2. Results focused more on AN rather than BN due to the limited studies on the latter. Additionally, a model for the development of PPA in AN patients was proposed, encompassing five periods evolving into three clinical stages. Thus, two very opposite components of PPA in AN were suggested: voluntarily PPA increased in AN was viewed as a conscious strategy to maximize weight loss, while involuntarily PPA increased proportionally with weight-loss, indicating that exercise might be under the control of a subconscious biological drive and involuntary cognition.

scholarly journals PERCEPTION OF STUDENTS AND TEACHERS REGARDING ACADEMIC FAILURE OF UNDERGRADUATE MEDICAL STUDENTS IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN: A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATORY INVESTIGATION

2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (2) ◽  
pp. 54-58
Author(s):  
Gul Muhammad Shaikh ◽  
Rabia Khan ◽  
Rehan Khan ◽  
Rahila Yasmeen
Keyword(s):  
Medical Students ◽  
Attribution Theory ◽  
Academic Failure ◽  
Undergraduate Medical Students ◽  
Psychological Disturbance ◽  
Related Factors ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Medical Institutions ◽  
University College ◽  
Open Coding

Background: Academic failure adds extra pressure to emotional intelligence of students and this may lead to psychological disturbance. The objective of this study was to explore perception of students and teachers regarding academic failure of undergraduate medical students in Lahore, Pakistan. Materials & Methods: This qualitative exploratory study was conducted at Department of Medical Education, University College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Lahore, Pakistan from January 2018 to October 2018. Sample included nine MBBS students who took their last examination in year 2017 and five teachers, all from University College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Lahore. Sampling was purposive. These nine students included five who graduated without failure and four who experienced two/more failures. Medical students were interviewed via two focus groups, whereas face to face semi-structured, audio-recorded interviews were done for teachers. Interview questionnaires were designed on basis of attribution theory. The fundamental question of study was “What are the reasons behind undergraduate medical students’ failure in annual examination?” with five more questions. The interviews were transcribed in English and sent back to participants for member checking. The interviews were organized in ATLAS.ti software for thematic analysis based on Weiner’s Attribution Theory. Open coding was done after familiarization of data, leading to formation of categories, sub-themes and themes related to our conceptual framework. Results: 160 open codes were condensed to 35 axial codes leading to two themes. Main reasons for students’ failure in examinations perceived by both students and teachers were lack of ability, lack of effort and lack of motivation. Additionally, the students attributed bad luck to academic failure. Other factors included were teachers’ related factors, curriculum related factors and negative students’ attitude. Conclusion: Medical institutions must take into account reasons for academic failure among medical students and address those issues to improve their performance.

scholarly journals Assessment under Covid-19: Exploring Undergraduate Students’ Attitudes towards Their Online Thesis Proposal Presentations vs. Face-to-face

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (4) ◽  
pp. 139-155
Author(s):  
Olga Stognieva ◽  
Victor Popov
Keyword(s):  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Testing System ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Course Assessment ◽  
Teachers And Students ◽  
Students Attitudes ◽  
Business Informatics ◽  
Online Format ◽  
Students Satisfaction ◽  
End Of Course Assessment

This study conducted in an EFL setting investigates students’ perception of the thesis proposal presentation in an online format due to safety concerns during the Covid-19 pandemic. Fifty-five students aged 20-22 years old, level B2-C1 in English, in their fourth year of a Business Informatics Bachelor’s programme at HSE University, Moscow, were surveyed regarding their end-of-course assessment experience, which involved a Skype online presentation, rather than the usual face-to-face presentation. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire consisted of 3 sections and 12 items. A mixed-method approach using quantitative and qualitative data was employed. The findings indicate that emergency transition to the new format did not affect students’ satisfaction or results of the presentation. Overall, students were more than satisfied with the online format, and the results were similar, if not better, than in previous years. To minimise the disadvantages of this format, recommendations for teachers and students were offered. This study might offer new insight on the most appropriate and beneficial oral testing system for students and staff.

scholarly journals Videoconferencing Psychotherapy: a literature review of the perspective of relationships for patients and psychologists (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Francesco Cataldo ◽  
Shanton Chang ◽  
Antonette Mendoza ◽  
George Buchanan
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Therapeutic Alliance ◽  
Therapeutic Relationship ◽  
Active Role ◽  
High Demand ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Patient Relationships ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Relationship

BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, people are being encouraged to maintain social distance. Technology is helping people to reschedule meetings from “face-to-face” interactions to remote videoconferencing. Psychologists are in high demand, due to an increase in stress as a result of COVID. Many seek to both keep treating their current patients, and welcome new ones, given the current high demand for their services. Videoconferencing provides an opportunity to do this. However, shifting treatment from face-to-face to the videoconferencing is not simple as both the psychologist and the patient miss the in-person information and cues, such as body language provides. OBJECTIVE A new theoretical framework is proposed to guide the design of future studies on the impact of the computer as a mediator of psychologist-patient relationships, and the influence of videoconferencing on the whole relationship process. METHODS A literature review has been conducted, screening studies focusing on communication, and the key concepts of therapeutic relationship and therapeutic alliance. RESULTS Studies report that patients are generally satisfied with videoconference therapy in terms of the relationship with their therapists and the establishment of the “therapeutic alliance”. However, psychologists report difficulties in establishing same quality of therapeutic relationship and therapeutic alliance. The analysed studies lead us to interpret data under a different perspective. A new model of relationship is proposed, along with further hypotheses. CONCLUSIONS It is important to consider the computer as having an active role in psychologists and patients’ relationships. CLINICALTRIAL

A multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of eating disorders via videoconferencing in north-east Scotland

2003 ◽  
Vol 9 (1_suppl) ◽  
pp. 37-38 ◽  
Author(s):  
Susan Simpson ◽  
Jane Knox ◽  
Derek Mitchell ◽  
James Ferguson ◽  
John Brebner ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Eating Disorders ◽  
Eating Disorder ◽  
Nutritional Therapy ◽  
Nutritional Knowledge ◽  
Remote Communities ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
North East ◽  
The North ◽  
Number Of Patients ◽  
Therapy Service

summary Until recently many remote communities in Scotland, especially on the northern islands, were unable to access specialist eating disorder services. The Grampian Eating Disorder Service, based in the north-east of Scotland, has developed a video-therapy service that offers specialist psychological and nutritional therapy for sufferers of eating disorders. Twelve patients have been treated via videoconferencing. Patients consistently rated high levels of satisfaction with all aspects of video-therapy, and after their last session 67% preferred video-therapy to face-to-face therapy. A number of patients commented that, compared with face-to-face therapy, they felt more in control and less intimidated in video-therapy. There was also a trend for patients to become more comfortable with video-therapy over the course of treatment. Nutritional knowledge increased for all patients, and the nutritional content of dietary intake also markedly improved over the course of therapy.

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