Helen Chester, Paul Clarkson, Linda Davies, Caroline Sutcliffe, Brenda Roe, Jane Hughes and David Challis
The purpose of this paper is to describe a case study to test the applicability of the discrete choice experiment (DCE) method to assess the preferences of carers of people with…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to describe a case study to test the applicability of the discrete choice experiment (DCE) method to assess the preferences of carers of people with dementia. The focus of enquiry was home care provision.
Design/methodology/approach
A multi-method approach was adopted for this pilot study. A literature review identified key characteristics of home care for dementia. This informed consultations with lay representatives. Key attributes of home care for the DCE were identified and formed the basis for the schedule. In all, 28 carers were recruited by two voluntary organisations to complete the DCE. A multinomial logistic regression model was used to analyse the data.
Findings
Seven attributes of home care for people with dementia were identified from the consultation. The use of the DCE approach permitted the identification of those most important to carers. Despite the modest sample, statistically significant findings were reported in relation to five of the attributes indicating their relevance. A lay involvement in the identification of attributes contributed to the ease of administration of the schedule and relevance of the findings.
Originality/value
This study demonstrated the utility of a DCE to capture the preferences of carers of people with dementia and thereby gather information from carers to inform policy, practice and service development. Their involvement in the design of the schedule was critical to this process.
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Mark Wilberforce, Jane Hughes, Paul Clarkson, David Whyte, Helen Chester, Sue Davies and David Challis
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the implementation and potential value of an electronic referral system to improve integrated discharge planning for hospitalised older…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the implementation and potential value of an electronic referral system to improve integrated discharge planning for hospitalised older adults with complex care needs. This new technology formed part of the “Common Assessment Framework for Adults” policy in England.
Design/methodology/approach
Mixed methods were undertaken as part of a case study approach within an acute hospital in the North West of England. First, qualitative interviews were undertaken with practitioners to explore early experiences using the new technology. Second, routinely collected administrative data were analysed, comparing referrals made using the new technology and those made through the usual paper-based process.
Findings
Qualitative interviews found that an electronic discharge system has, in principle, the potential to improve the efficiency and suitability of integrated care planning. However, the implementation proved fragile to decisions taken elsewhere in the local care system, meaning its scope was severely curtailed in practice. Several “socio-technical” issues were identified, including the loss of valuable face-to-face communication by replacing manual with electronic referrals.
Research limitations/implications
The small number of patients referred during the implementation phase meant that patient outcomes could not be definitively judged. Research into the longer-term implications and value of electronic referral systems is needed.
Originality/value
There is concern that attempts to integrate health and social care are stymied by incompatible systems for recording service user information. This research explores a novel attempt to share assessment information and improve support planning across health and social care boundaries.
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Jane Hughes, Sue Davies, Helen Chester, Paul Clarkson, Karen Stewart and David Challis
The purpose of this paper is to explore the views of people with learning disabilities on issues associated with continuity of care in the transition from full-time education to…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the views of people with learning disabilities on issues associated with continuity of care in the transition from full-time education to adult care and support.
Design/methodology/approach
Data collection was undertaken with people with learning disabilities and staff in two advocacy organisations in one area of England in 2012. In total, 19 participants attended three focus groups. Analysis focussed on continuity of care and was guided by the framework approach to qualitative analysis.
Findings
Teachers, social workers in children’s services and youth workers were identified as making important contributions to the transition process. Information relating to learning and social development was identified as most important to inform transition planning with less priority accorded to health, communication, and self-care and independence. Participants appeared to value principles which underpin continuity of care.
Research limitations/implications
This study provides insights into attributes of continuity of care valued by people with a learning disability. Possibilities of translating these attributes into practice within localities are explored. Findings could be used to inform strategic planning locally to promote service integration thereby contributing to continuity of care within transition planning.
Originality/value
Continuity of care in the transition planning process is highlighted in policy guidance with recognition that both practice and procedures require improvement. This research explores areas for development from the perspective of people with learning disabilities.
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Sue Davies, Jane Hughes, Karen Davies, Elizabeth Dalgarno, Rowan Elaine Jasper, Helen Chester, Amy Roberts and David Challis
The purpose of this study is to examine changes in the nature, form and range of commissioning arrangements for home care.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine changes in the nature, form and range of commissioning arrangements for home care.
Design/methodology/approach
Data from two discrete national surveys of English local authorities with social service responsibilities were used. In the first, undertaken in 2007, responses from 111 of the 151 local authorities (74%) were received; in the second, undertaken in 2017, responses from 109 local authorities (72%) were received. A combined data set of 79 complete cases, 52% of local authorities, was created. Percentage point differences across the two time periods were calculated and tested to identify significant changes and a systematic analysis of the free-text responses regarding intended changes to the commissioning process in each data set was undertaken.
Findings
Findings identified substantial changes in some aspects of the commissioning of home care in the 2007-2017 decade. Collaboration between stakeholders had increased, particularly regarding the identification of future needs. Improved conditions of service and remuneration for home care workers were evident within the commissioning process. Standardised charges for home care (regardless of time and day) had also become more widespread. Initiatives to prompt providers to deliver more personalised care were more evident.
Originality/value
This paper describes the evolution of commissioning arrangements for home care in localities in response to national policy initiatives. It provides guidance to commissioners in meeting the needs of current service users and emphasises the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, particularly providers, in securing future capacity.
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This viewpoint paper aims to provide recommendations in two key leadership areas to improve belonging and connectedness in remote teams.
Abstract
Purpose
This viewpoint paper aims to provide recommendations in two key leadership areas to improve belonging and connectedness in remote teams.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper synthesises recent academic and contextual literature regarding virtual teams, organisational belonging and generations coupled with the authors’ practical experience as a leader within a multi-national organisation.
Findings
Two focus areas related to leaders as critical actors in organisations and the improvement of leaders’ social skills to drive improved socialisation, connection and belonging in the workplace.
Originality/value
In the changing working landscape of continued remote working, wider workforce demographics and declining organisational engagement this paper contributes to literature by presenting two key areas coupled with practical recommendations for HR professionals, leaders, and organisations to focus on to improve belonging.
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Paul R. Hunter, Helen Hornby and Iain Green
A survey of the bacteriological quality of pre‐packed sandwiches onsale in the UK is reported. A total of 91 sandwiches, of which 46 hadbeen on display at ambient temperature…
Abstract
A survey of the bacteriological quality of pre‐packed sandwiches on sale in the UK is reported. A total of 91 sandwiches, of which 46 had been on display at ambient temperature, were analysed. Total viable counts were high: 38 per cent of all sandwiches had counts greater than 10⊃7. Coliforms were isolated from 37 per cent of the samples and at levels greater than 10⊃7 in 10 per cent. Listeria monocytogenes was isolated from 17 per cent of all sandwiches. Sandwiches that had been on display at ambient temperature had higher total viable counts and were more likely to contain listeria (28 per cent compared to 7 per cent for those stored at chilled temperatures). A small follow‐up study of sandwich ingredients found high counts in salad. The significance to the public health of the high contamination rate by listeria is unclear. Nevertheless, it would seem appropriate to ensure that sandwiches are always adequately refrigerated.
Jane Hughes, Helen Chester, Caroline Sutcliffe, Chengqiu Xie and David Challis
– The purpose of this paper is to present a framework for examining variation in care coordination arrangements for older people.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a framework for examining variation in care coordination arrangements for older people.
Design/methodology/approach
A multi-method approach was adopted combining analysis of secondary data and primary data. There were two stages: the development of the framework and its constituent attributes and indicators; and its validation from two perspectives: a meeting with managers and focus groups with practitioners. It was informed by an existing generic framework; subsequent policy guidance; data from an English national survey; previous research; and international literature.
Findings
The framework comprises 19 attributes each with indicators measuring performance relating to: organisational arrangements influencing service delivery; the performance of core tasks of care coordination; and differentiation within the process to distinguish between responses to different levels of need.
Originality/value
Care coordination arrangements in England are characterised by diversity. This paper provides a framework for evaluating local arrangements thereby highlighting strengths and where improvements are needed. It offers a means to promote programme fidelity. As such it has utility for both service commissioners and providers.
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MUCH has already been said and written upon the subject of the indicator: but in view of the general trend of advanced Public Library administration a little space may with…
Abstract
MUCH has already been said and written upon the subject of the indicator: but in view of the general trend of advanced Public Library administration a little space may with advantage be devoted again to the consideration of its value as a modern library appliance. Passing over (a) the decision of that curiously constituted committee formed in 1879 to consider and report on indicators, and (b) the support which it received in 1880 from the Library Association, it may be said that for the next fourteen or fifteen years the indicator system was the popular, almost the universal, system in vogue throughout the country. Of late years professional opinion as to its value has undergone a remarkable change. The reaction which has set in was brought about chiefly by the introduction of Open Access in 1894, with the many reforms that accompanied it, though much, doubtless, was due to the prevalence of a more exact and systematic knowledge of librarianship, and to the natural evolution of ideas. It is not, however, intended in this paper to compare the indicator with the open access system, but with others suitable to the requirements of a closed library.
Mary Ellen Huls and David A. Tyckoson
The consumption of alcoholic beverages has been a social custom throughout the world since the beginning of recorded history. Various wines, beers, and liquors have been a part of…
Abstract
The consumption of alcoholic beverages has been a social custom throughout the world since the beginning of recorded history. Various wines, beers, and liquors have been a part of almost every culture since ancient times. The modern cocktail originated in Elizabethan England and quickly spread throughout the world. And just as new experiments continually add to the variety of known alcoholic beverages, new books appear describing these drinks and the recipes required to mix them. From yesterday's mulled wine and cider to today's Mai Tai, Margarita, and Tequila Sunrise, bartenders and home party planners refer to these sources when making both traditional and exotic drink recipes. This review is a comparison of thirteen currently available commercial bar guides. While libraries have not traditionally collected in the bar guide genre, every library should have at least one in its collection for use as a reference source or for patrons to use in their homes.
Aarhus Kommunes Biblioteker (Teknisk Bibliotek), Ingerslevs Plads 7, Aarhus, Denmark. Representative: V. NEDERGAARD PEDERSEN (Librarian).