Health Policy, Economics and Sociology

The role of logistics services in hospital management

2024-08-05T12:48:15+04:00

Introduction: Hospital logistics is the most important component of the management of a medical institution and includes the management of supplies, waste, medical and non-medical products and many other complex activities. Therefore, logistics is an important part of the hospital budget and affects both customer satisfaction and cost efficiency of the institution. The aim of the paper is to study logistics processes and management approaches in Georgian hospitals and to identify existing challenges. Methodology: As part of a qualitative study, an in-depth survey of key personnel involved in logistics operations was conducted in three medical institutions. Results: The study showed that effective hospital logistics management is a multidimensional process that requires continuous improvement, adaptation to evolving requirements, and integration of innovative technologies and processes. By optimizing logistics operations, healthcare facilities can allocate resources more wisely, enhance the quality of patient care, and ultimately contribute to the overall sustainability and efficiency of the healthcare system. Conclusion: As healthcare continues to evolve, driven by technological advances, demographic changes, and increased patient expectations, the strategic integration of logistics will remain a critical component in delivering high-quality, cost-effective, and patient-centered healthcare services.

The attitude of mothers about prophylactic vaccinations determined by the national immunization calendar in Georgia

2024-11-04T20:09:31+04:00

Introduction: Immunization is the best way to prevent infectious diseases. One of the challenges of the state immunization program in Georgia is to maintain the 95% coverage rate with routine vaccination, which is directly proportional to the population's awareness, especially parents. The study aims to study mothers' attitudes regarding the preventive vaccinations determined by the national immunization calendar and to search for the factors determining this attitude and ways to overcome the identified difficulties. Methodology: a survey of parents and pediatricians was conducted as part of the qualitative research. Results, Discussion: The study showed that public awareness about immunization is not very high and requires targeted activities. There is a close relationship between vaccination side effects and immunization behavior, as it is the side effects that influence parents' decisions, which ultimately affect immunization coverage rates. Conclusion: The fear of vaccination is primarily caused by ignorance, therefore, we must begin to overcome the problem by providing valid information, since the main reason for refusing vaccination is incorrect information and lack of communication

Selecting Infant Food Products: Trust, Value Perception and Buying Behavior

2024-11-25T21:49:07+04:00

Introduction: During the decision-making process, the focus is on communicating values, trust and purchase behavior. The research's purpose is to study parents' decision-making process and motivating factors when choosing baby food products. Methods: both qualitative and quantitative methods were used during the research process, within which in-depth interviews of mothers and pediatricians were conducted. Results: The study found that pediatricians (51%) are the most trusted influencers in the decision-making process, while social media and store advisors are the least trusted (34%). 97% of respondents report that they read the composition of the product and pay attention to the ingredients on the label. During the decision-making process, preference is given to German products (37%), the lowest demand is for products produced in Ukraine (45%). According to the composition and price, popular brands such as Nutrilak and Vinni are distinguished. In most cases (57%) of the brand replacements, the main reason is the allergic reaction of the baby. Conclusion: professionals' recommendations and composition transparency are important factors in the decision-making process. The quality of products produced in Western and Central Europe is perceived as a benchmark due to the high requirements of the production process there and the strict monitoring of quality control.

The Interplay of Sustainable Development Goals on Education and Peace: Enhancing Trauma-Informed Approaches in Informal Learning Environments for Displaced and Vulnerable Populations

2024-11-23T09:38:42+04:00

Introduction: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality education) and Goal 16 (Peace, justice and strong institutions), emphasize the critical need for inclusive and equitable education systems that foster peace and justice. In the context of global conflicts, refugee crises and forced displacement, a significant challenge arises in supporting the mental health and educational outcomes of trauma-affected individuals – especially within informal learning environments. Refugees and displaced individuals often experience severe trauma which can hinder their ability to engage in education effectively. This paper examines the interplay of trauma-informed care with informal educational frameworks as a pathway to account for the distinctive needs of these vulnerable learners. Results: Trauma-informed education, which emphasizes safety, trust and emotional support, provides a framework to mitigate the impacts of trauma while fostering resilience and enhancing learning outcomes. Non-formal education settings often serve as primary educational spaces for refugees; however, they frequently lack the necessary resources and training to implement trauma-sensitive practices. The COPE project (Cooperation in Adult Education for Traumatised Learners), which is a European initiative funded under the Erasmus + program, responds to this gap by equipping educators and volunteers with the knowledge, tools and skillset to incorporate trauma-informed practices where applicable. Through developing pedagogical and psychological guidelines, situational simulation-based training and an e-learning platform, COPE aims to create an accessible, scalable model for supporting trauma-affected learners in non-formal educational settings. Conclusion: Integrating trauma-informed care into informal learning environments not only addresses the educational needs of refugees, but also contributes to broader peacebuilding and social cohesion efforts that align with SDGs.

Distribution and species diversity of rickettsiae in ticks collected in Georgia

2024-12-02T22:30:16+04:00

Introduction: Rickettsial diseases, caused by obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacteria of the genus Rickettsia, are a significant public health concern due to their potential for severe morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and species distribution of Rickettsia spp. in tick populations from various regions of Georgia, providing critical updates to epidemiological data and informing public health strategies. Methods: From 2020 to 2022, 699 pooled tick samples were collected from the Kakheti, Shida Kartli, Samegrelo, and Mtskheta-Mtianeti regions. The samples were homogenised, stored at -80°C, and processed using Qiagen and MagMAX™ CORE Nucleic Acid Purification Kits for DNA extraction. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) targeting the genus-specific 17-kD gene was employed to screen for Rickettsia. Positive samples underwent further analysis with species-specific qPCR assays to identify R. raoultii, R. slovaca, R. aeschlimannii, and R. monacensis. Results: Among the 699 samples, 160 tested positive for Rickettsia DNA. Two samples were excluded from species-specific analysis due to weak positivity. Detected species included R. raoultii (3.2%), R. slovaca (11.4%), R. aeschlimannii (39.2%), and R. monacensis (10.8%). Co-infection with multiple species was observed in 10.01% of positive samples, with 39 samples not containing any of the targeted species. Conclusion: The study highlights the diverse presence of rickettsial pathogens in Georgian ticks and confirms the ongoing prevalence of R. monacensis. These findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and rapid response strategies to mitigate the public health risks associated with rickettsial diseases. Strengthening monitoring and control measures will be crucial in addressing these health threats effectively.

Current approaches and challenges of laser therapy in modern endodontics

2024-12-10T22:07:56+04:00

Introduction: Laser therapy is a rapidly developing field based on innovative technology. The use of laser in dentistry has gained significant popularity because it offers precise, minimally invasive treatment methods that stand out from traditional techniques. Methodology: A theoretical study of the issue and relevant literature were analyzed. Results: Research highlits a wide range of advantages in odontology. It makes spreading and establishing minimally invasive treatment in laser therapy more demanding, increasing the health system's effectiveness. Conclusion: It is essential to understand a number of physical and biological processes, professional training of dentists to use laser therapy correctly and establish modern and current methods.

Pain management services in Georgia

2024-12-16T23:12:35+04:00

Introduction: In many countries of the world, including Georgia, pain that accompanies various diseases (oncological, spinal, joint, post-traumatic, etc.) is associated with major problems. Adequate management of both chronic and acute pain requires significant resources, both material and human. The aim of the study is to study pain management services in Georgia. Methodology: Theoretical material retrieved from relevant literature was processed and analyzed. Results: The study showed gaps in proper pain management among primary healthcare network medical personnel. There are no retraining courses for medical personnel in the field of pain management in Georgia, where they would be introduced to the latest modern approaches to pain management. Conclusion: It is recommended to establish specialized pain management centers in the regions, which will be equipped with appropriate professionals and advanced treatment methods to meet the complex needs of patients with chronic pain. It is necessary to increase the education of medical personnel and eliminate existing gaps in practice. Availability of the minimum number of medications recommended by WHO for pain management in the country.