Background Despite efforts targeting the growth of healthcare spending within the United States, the current increase in expenditures remains a widespread systemic issue. The overuse of healthcare testing has previously been identified as a modifiable contributing factor. One such test, echocardiography, has seen a continuous increase in its rate of use. This test is frequently ordered by primary‐care physicians. Hypothesis In the setting of a low likelihood of disease, echocardiography does not substantially change cardiac therapy, even if appropriately ordered. Methods We randomly identified 500 patients who received an echocardiogram ordered by a primary‐care physician between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2014. Of these, 239 patient charts were reviewed and the following extracted: primary indication for the test, echocardiogram results, and changes in patient medical management. In addition, appropriateness of the test was assessed using the appropriate use criteria guidelines for echocardiography. Results Nearly 97% of the studies within the ambulatory primary‐care setting were appropriately ordered according to the appropriate use criteria. Among the 239 patients studied, only 52 had abnormalities and only 6 (2.5%) experienced a change in management that corresponded with the initial suspected diagnosis and echocardiographic findings. Conclusions To ensure the greatest value and optimize use of diagnostic testing, it may be necessary to develop a more comprehensive set of guidelines to assist clinicians to readily identify patient populations at low, moderate, and high risk for the presence of disease and provide educational interventions, including feedback regarding individual ordering behaviors.

No abstract

To study the features of modifiable biological and behavioral risk factors of chronic noncommunicable diseases in individuals with different metabolic phenotypes.

Abstract:Background: The Medical Education Partnership Initiative, has helped to mitigate the digital divide in Africa. The aim of the study was to assess the level of access, attitude, and training concerning meaningful use of electronic resources and EBM among medical students at an African medical school. Methods: The study involved medical students at the University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare. The needs assessment tool consisted of a 21-question, paper-based, voluntary and anonymous survey. Results: A total of 61/67 (91%), responded to the survey. 60% of the medical students were 'third-year medical students'. Among medical students, 85% of responders had access to digital medical resources, but 54% still preferred printed medical textbooks. Although 25% of responders had received training in EBM, but only 7% found it adequate. 98% of the participants did not receive formal training in journal club presentation or analytical reading of medical literature, but 77 % of them showed interest in learning these skills. Conclusion: Lack of training in EBM, journal club presentation and analytical reading skills have limited the impact of upgraded technology in enhancing the level of knowledge. This impact can be boosted by developing a curriculum with skills necessary in using EBM.