DR. MITCHEL A. SKLAR, MD

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This study looked at how families involved in child welfare perceive team meetings compared to the professionals leading them. Out of 1,267 surveys, family members reported feeling less heard and less satisfied with the process than the professionals did, with significant differences in their experiences, particularly regarding how their voices were valued during the meetings. These findings are important because they highlight the need for better communication and involvement of families in decision-making, which could lead to more effective support for children's behavioral health needs. Who this helps: Families in the child welfare system.

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This study looked at how people with opioid use disorder (OUD) felt about taking methadone in tablet form compared to the traditional liquid form. Researchers found that 85.4% of participants preferred tablets or found them just as good as the liquid, and 66.7% noticed benefits like better taste and easier transport. The results indicate that tablets may be just as effective for managing withdrawal symptoms, with over 80% saying they worked as well or better than liquid methadone. Who this helps: This benefits patients who are using methadone for opioid use disorder.

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This study examined how perinatal women (those who are pregnant or have recently given birth) being treated for substance use disorder can benefit from support from their family and friends. The researchers interviewed 40 women and found that, on average, each woman had about 4 drug-free adults in their social circle, with 80% willing to invite someone to join a supportive recovery program. Connecting these women with their loved ones can help overcome challenges in their recovery, leading to better treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits perinatal women in recovery from substance use disorder and their families.

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This study looked at how well a strategy called Leadership and Organizational Change for Implementation (LOCI) helped mental health clinics continue to use measurement-based care (MBC) over time after initial training. The researchers found that while the overall completion rates for MBC and youth symptom improvements did not differ between clinics using LOCI and those that didn’t, clinics using LOCI showed better adherence to MBC practices (24% adherence compared to just 1% at control sites). This matters because sustaining effective mental health practices is crucial for improving outcomes for young patients, and improving how clinics operate could be key. Who this helps: This helps mental health clinics and the young patients they serve.

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This study focused on improving healthcare services for LGBTQ+ individuals who also belong to other marginalized groups. Researchers worked with healthcare providers, staff, and patients from several clinics to develop and prioritize recommendations for better care. They found that ongoing training for providers and creating safe, inclusive environments were key suggestions, along with increasing support for transgender providers. Who this helps: This benefits LGBTQ+ patients and healthcare providers working to offer better and more inclusive care.

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This study looked at how consultation services in Dissemination and Implementation Science (DIS) programs help build skills in researchers at the University of California San Diego. They analyzed 108 consultation notes and found that most support (54%) focused on grant proposals, with other help relating to ongoing projects and implementation science principles. The results show that while consultation services mainly address intermediate-level skills, there is a clear need for better support for foundational and advanced training, which could improve the effectiveness of these programs. Who this helps: This helps researchers and practitioners looking to enhance their skills in implementation science.

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This study looked at a method to keep the diaphragm muscle strong in patients who need help breathing with a ventilator. Researchers tested a non-invasive device that stimulates the phrenic nerve, which controls the diaphragm, in 40 patients. They found that using this device could help maintain diaphragm thickness, which is crucial since up to 60% of ventilated patients can suffer from muscle weakness and atrophy. Who this helps: This helps patients on ventilators by potentially improving their recovery and ability to breathe on their own.

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Researchers at the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center studied how to better collect information on sexual orientation and gender identity to improve care for sexual and gender minority patients. They surveyed staff about their readiness to implement these changes and found significant gaps in leadership support and resources. This research is important because effectively collecting this data can lead to more personalized and effective treatment for patients who may face unique healthcare challenges. Who this helps: This benefits sexual and gender minority patients by ensuring their identities are recognized and considered in their care.

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This study looked at how consultation services in Dissemination and Implementation Science (DIS) capacity-building programs function and what support they provide. Out of 108 consultation notes analyzed, the majority focused on helping with grant proposals (54%) and ongoing projects (25%), with common topics like implementing science principles and study design. The findings show that there is a strong demand for support in these areas and indicate a need for better training frameworks and systems to enhance the overall effectiveness of DIS programs. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and organizations looking to improve their capacity in implementation science.

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This study looked at two methods of providing oxygen to patients with severe breathing problems in the ICU: high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) alone and HFNO combined with a helmet for non-invasive ventilation. They enrolled 200 patients to see if using the helmet would change outcomes like the need for intubation, survival rates, and overall quality of life after six months. The research is important because it helps determine if a larger trial is needed to better understand which method might save more lives and improve recovery. Who this helps: This helps critically ill patients who need support for their breathing.

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This study developed and validated a new tool, the Implementation Leadership Scale (ILS-X), to measure how leaders in behavioral health settings help implement new practices effectively. Researchers collected survey data from 389 providers in 68 clinics and found that the ILS-X is reliable and accurately captures different aspects of leadership, such as being supportive and having a clear vision. This matters because understanding effective leadership behaviors can improve the success of new programs in healthcare. Who this helps: This helps healthcare providers and clinic leaders improve their practices.

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The study examined the impact of a group support program called the Mama Ambassador Program (MAP) on adolescent mothers and their infants in Uganda. It found that mothers who participated in the program experienced improved mental health, with a reduction of 7.15 points in mental health symptoms, while their babies showed better development in areas like gross motor skills, problem-solving, and social skills at various ages (2, 6, and 12 months). This is important because it highlights how psychosocial support can strengthen both maternal wellbeing and infant development in vulnerable populations. Who this helps: This helps adolescent mothers and their infants by providing necessary support for their health and development.

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This study looked at how different ways of taking methadone—either all at once or split throughout the day—affect people who struggle with both chronic pain and opioid use disorder. After 12 weeks, the researchers found that those who took split doses experienced lower pain levels and less withdrawal symptoms compared to those who took their methadone in one dose. This finding is important because it could lead to better treatment options for managing pain and reducing cravings for opioids. Who this helps: Patients with chronic pain and opioid use disorder.

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This study looked at the relationship between payments from medical companies and the costs and outcomes of joint replacement surgeries (hip and knee) for Medicare patients. Researchers found that although nearly all surgeons received industry payments, these payments only slightly increased the total costs of hip surgeries by $0.50 for every $1,000 of payments and had no measurable effect on knee surgery costs. Ultimately, the payments did not significantly impact patient outcomes like survival rates or readmissions after surgery, showing that patient care and costs may not be heavily influenced by these financial relationships. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers understand that industry payments may not significantly affect the quality of surgical care they receive.

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This study looked at a fast-track MRI protocol called STAT for patients experiencing optic disc edema, which could threaten their eyesight. Researchers found that out of 70 patients, those who used the STAT MRI protocol had similar or better vision outcomes compared to those who went to the emergency department (ED), and the costs were lower for the STAT group. Specifically, patients in the ED had worse vision and more severe conditions when they arrived, but using the STAT protocol did not lead to missing any serious issues. Who this helps: This benefits patients with optic disc edema by providing quicker, cost-effective evaluations without risking their eyesight.

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This study looked at how to improve the use of Measurement-Based Care (MBC) in community mental health clinics, which involves regularly tracking and responding to patients' symptoms. Researchers found that clinics that trained their leaders to support MBC saw a significant increase in its use—23% of youth received MBC compared to just 3% in other clinics. Additionally, these youth experienced greater symptom reductions over six months, showing that better organizational support leads to better mental health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits youth receiving mental health services and the clinicians who support them.

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This study explored how leadership and the work environment in mental health clinics impact the successful use of measurement-based care (MBC) for youth. The researchers found that implementing a strategy called LOCI significantly boosted the quality of leadership and created a better environment for implementing MBC, leading to an improvement in MBC practices over 18 months. For example, the LOCI strategy increased leadership effectiveness and the overall clinic climate in ways that led to better patient care, with large effect sizes indicating meaningful changes. Who this helps: This benefits patients and clinicians in youth mental health services.

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This study looked at how leadership and organizational climate affect the implementation of digital care practices in one organization. Researchers found that strong leadership helped create a supportive environment, which led to better adoption of evidence-based practices. The study shows that clear, consistent communication and commitment from leaders can significantly improve how new health practices are implemented, benefiting both staff and patients through better care. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by improving the delivery of digital care practices.

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The study looked at how well an electronic pillbox worked for patients taking methadone at a community treatment program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Out of 24 participants, 71% chose to use the pillbox, and it helped safely deliver most of their medication. However, 25% of users wanted to stop using it because they lost some take-home privileges. Who this helps: This helps patients on methadone by making it easier for them to manage their medication safely.

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This study looked at a strategy called LOCI-SL designed to help healthcare organizations effectively adopt proven treatments for substance use disorders. Researchers found that LOCI-SL improved communication and trust among community mental health centers (CMHCs) and state health agencies, which helped in implementing treatment programs. However, challenges like inadequate funding and low Medicaid reimbursements made it difficult to maintain these programs consistently; overall, this strategy showed promise but highlighted the need for better financial support and clear expectations to succeed. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with substance use disorders and the healthcare providers who support them.

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This study looked at a new approach called the Leadership and Organizational Change for Implementation (LOCI) to see if it could help substance use treatment clinics in California and Arizona improve their leadership and the use of effective treatment methods. The researchers tested LOCI in 60 clinics and found that after four months, clinics using LOCI showed better leadership and a stronger commitment to implementing good practices compared to those that didn't use it; specifically, providers involved in LOCI were more engaged in recording their treatment sessions. This matters because effective leadership in treatment settings can lead to better care for patients struggling with substance use. Who this helps: This benefits patients in substance use treatment facilities and the healthcare providers working with them.

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This study looked at how a low-fat vegan diet compared to a portion-controlled diet impacts insulin needs and blood sugar levels in people with type 1 diabetes over 12 weeks. The results showed that those on the vegan diet needed less insulin, with their average daily dose dropping significantly, and their insulin sensitivity improved. In contrast, those on the portion-controlled diet did not experience any significant changes. This is important because it indicates that a low-fat vegan diet could help people with type 1 diabetes better manage their condition and improve their overall health. Who this helps: Patients with type 1 diabetes.

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This study looked at how leaders and practitioners in mental health clinics in Norway influence each other when trying to implement evidence-based treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder. Researchers found that strong leadership led to practitioners being more engaged in their work six months later, and engaged practitioners, in turn, improved leadership effectiveness. This mutual influence shows that both leaders and practitioners play important roles in successfully using evidence-based practices. Who this helps: This helps patients and mental health professionals.

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This study looked at how the Babies and Mothers Alive (BAMA) Foundation partners with the Ugandan government to improve healthcare for mothers and newborns in the Rakai and Kyotera Districts. By using a system called Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), the foundation found that sharing data with local health workers and communities led to better care and more effective healthcare programs. As a result, they were able to increase the sustainability and financial viability of their initiatives, allowing them to help even more families. Who this helps: This helps mothers and newborns in Uganda by improving their access to quality healthcare.

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This study looked at how school-based health centers (SBHCs) in New Mexico can improve healthcare for LGBTQ+ youth by implementing specific guidelines to better support these patients. Researchers will use a method called the Dynamic Adaptation Process to see if these changes lead to better health outcomes, such as fewer barriers to care and increased patient satisfaction. This is important because LGBTQ+ youth often face significant health disparities compared to their peers. Who this helps: Patients, particularly LGBTQ+ youth, will benefit from improved access to supportive healthcare services.

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This study looked at how a natural supplement called Maca-OG can help men with low testosterone and fertility problems. Two men taking the supplement saw positive changes: one increased his testosterone and sperm health, while the other reported better testosterone levels, energy, mood, and sleep. This is important because it offers a natural option for men seeking to improve their reproductive health without traditional hormone treatments. Who this helps: This helps men dealing with low testosterone and fertility issues.

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This study looked at patients with blood cancers (hematologic malignancies) who developed serious breathing problems and were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Researchers found that the nutritional risk index score (G-NRI), which indicates malnutrition, was linked to higher death rates in the ICU: 59% of patients with severe malnutrition died, compared to 46% of those with moderate to no malnutrition. Understanding this relationship is important because it highlights the need for better nutritional support for these patients to potentially improve their chances of survival. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare teams working with patients who have blood cancers.

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This study looked at how leaders in mental health services can influence the success of new treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder by fostering a positive work environment. Researchers found that effective leadership was linked to better acceptance and feasibility of treatment methods among therapists, with implementation climate playing a key role in this relationship. Specifically, strong leadership and a supportive climate improved therapists' views on treatment methods, while the impact was less pronounced for screening tools. Who this helps: This helps mental health professionals and organizations improve treatment delivery for patients with PTSD.

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This study focuses on improving how children in the child welfare system access mental health services by using a review process called after-action reviews (AAR). The researchers aim to make these services more effective by ensuring that meetings include the voices of children and families, leading to better satisfaction and follow-through with mental health treatment. The project will involve caseworkers from different regions, comparing those who use the AAR approach to those who follow the usual practice. Who this helps: This benefits children and families involved in the child welfare system who need mental health support.

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This study looked at the impact of low muscle mass, known as sarcopenia, in older patients (50 years and up) undergoing major surgery for head and neck cancer. Out of 251 patients, about 35% showed signs of pre-sarcopenia, and 16% had sarcopenia. Those with sarcopenia faced more complications, stayed in the hospital longer (about 0.32 days more), and had a higher risk of death compared to those without it, highlighting the importance of assessing muscle health before surgery. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and healthcare teams working with older patients undergoing head and neck cancer surgery.

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In this study, researchers looked at older adults undergoing significant surgery for head and neck cancer to assess how common cognitive impairment (CI) and delirium are after surgery. They found that nearly half (47%) of the 274 patients showed signs of cognitive impairment, and 6% experienced delirium afterward. Cognitive impairment was linked to a higher risk of developing delirium, which in turn led to longer hospital stays. Who this helps: This information helps doctors better manage care for older patients during and after major surgeries.

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This study looked at a program called Access to Tailored Autism Integrated Care that helps children with autism who also have mental health needs. The program was tested by 36 primary care providers at seven clinics, and the results showed that providers found it easy to use and helpful, but they needed more specific support to implement it fully. Overall, the program shows promise for improving mental health support for autistic children in regular doctor visits, which is important for their overall well-being. Who this helps: This benefits children with autism and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a program called LOCI that aims to improve leadership and the workplace environment in mental health clinics in Norway. They found that after implementing LOCI, therapists reported better leadership and a more positive work climate, with substantial improvements noted at various times over 20 months. This matters because strong leadership and a supportive environment can lead to better treatment for patients with PTSD. Who this helps: Patients receiving mental health care, especially those with PTSD.

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This study looked at how people with mental health issues transition from inpatient care (like hospitals) to outpatient care (like therapy clinics) in different settings across the U.S. The researchers found several important factors that influence these transitions, including the availability of community resources, how well different agencies work together, and the training of healthcare providers. Improving these areas can lead to better support and outcomes for patients when they move from one type of care to another. Who this helps: This helps patients moving from hospital to outpatient care, as well as healthcare providers involved in these transitions.

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This study looked at how first-level leaders in mental health clinics experienced a program called the Leadership and Organizational Change for Implementation (LOCI) strategy, which helps them implement evidence-based practices for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Out of 11 leaders interviewed, most found the LOCI strategy helpful in improving their leadership skills and the way they introduced these new treatment methods, although two leaders felt it was less beneficial. These findings are important because they show that with the right support and tools, leaders can effectively foster better treatment practices in their clinics. Who this helps: This benefits mental health clinic leaders and ultimately the patients receiving treatment for PTSD.

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This study looked at blood metabolites in patients with sepsis to find out which ones might predict survival. Researchers analyzed blood samples from 60 sepsis patients and identified 13 key metabolites linked to survival, including lactate and bilirubin, with a 28-day mortality rate of 42%. Using advanced machine learning techniques improved their ability to identify these important metabolites compared to traditional methods, paving the way for better understanding and potentially improving patient care. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers understand sepsis better, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies.

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This study focuses on improving the delivery of oxygen to children in hospitals in Western Uganda, where current methods are often unreliable and costly. Researchers will implement a new oxygen system in 20 hospitals over 16 months and measure its effectiveness by comparing the rates of hypoxia (a lack of oxygen) in children before and after the system is introduced. This is important because it aims to provide more consistent access to oxygen, which is crucial for treating respiratory issues in young patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly children with respiratory problems, as well as doctors and healthcare facilities in Uganda.

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This study looked at the trends in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery costs and payments between privately insured patients and those on Medicare from 2007 to 2015. It found that surgery rates rose significantly, with rates going from 9.0 to 20.7 per 10,000 people for private insurance and from 8.4 to 18.2 per 10,000 for Medicare. While the overall costs of surgery increased, Medicare payments actually fell from $31,415 in 2007 to $25,959 in 2015, which means the program is paying less despite rising surgical expenses. Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing spinal deformity surgery and healthcare providers by highlighting the cost disparities in different insurance systems.

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This study looked at how ready primary care clinics in New Mexico are to adopt practices that support LGBTQ+ patients. Researchers found that while clinic staff were open to the idea and understood the importance of having special skills for LGBTQ+ care, there were significant gaps in their knowledge and resources to actually implement these changes. These findings are important because improving care for LGBTQ+ people can help reduce health differences faced by this group. Who this helps: This benefits LGBTQ+ patients seeking more inclusive healthcare.

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This study looked at how depressive symptoms varied among Hispanic, Black, and White parents involved in child welfare services who were receiving home visits. Out of 2,109 parents, many struggled with depression, with 40% dropping out of the program before their second evaluation, and Black parents showed no improvement in their symptoms over time. This matters because it highlights the need for better support and integration of mental health services for families in the child welfare system to help them stay engaged and improve their mental health. Who this helps: This research benefits parents involved in child welfare services and the professionals who support them.

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This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way community mental health providers delivered care, especially through telehealth services. It involved 93 providers who shared their experiences, revealing that they generally reacted positively to telehealth, but faced challenges such as difficulties in delivering certain therapies, concerns about confidentiality, and engaging children effectively during virtual sessions. These findings matter because they highlight the need for better support for providers to maintain quality care in a telehealth environment. Who this helps: This benefits mental health providers and their patients, particularly those using telehealth services.

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This study looked at how different types of neurosurgeons used telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic to care for patients remotely. It found that telehealth was more commonly adopted in fields like spine and tumor surgery, with 92% of neurosurgeons finding it efficient and 85% saying it was effective, even though they found it harder to connect with patients. Most patients were happy with their video visits and would recommend them over in-person appointments, indicating that telehealth is likely to continue even after the pandemic. Who this helps: This helps patients and neurosurgeons by providing a convenient way to access care and follow-ups.

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This study looked at a new method for guiding surgery on the spine to prevent serious injuries to the vertebral artery during a specific type of neck surgery called C1-2 posterior fusion. Researchers used a technology called the Machine-vision Image Guided Surgery (MvIGS) system, which helps surgeons during the operation without increasing radiation exposure and reduces surgery time. They found that this system could quickly register preoperative images, helping surgeons navigate better and potentially lower the risk of complications. Who this helps: This aids surgeons and patients undergoing neck surgery.

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This study looked at how changes to work during the COVID-19 pandemic affected burnout and the desire to leave jobs among mental health providers. It found that changes in work led to increased burnout, which in turn made providers more likely to consider quitting; specifically, the study showed a 14% increase in turnover intentions linked to burnout. It also showed that having better support and trust in their organization could help reduce burnout, illustrating the importance of stable work environments to keep mental health providers engaged. Who this helps: This research benefits mental health providers and the organizations that employ them by highlighting the need for support systems to minimize burnout.

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This study explored the use of a high-tech navigation system called the 7D Surgical System during a complex spine surgery involving a second operation (revision) for a patient with a calcified disk. Researchers found that this system successfully registered and guided the surgery, allowing precise placement of instruments at three different levels without needing extra radiation exposure. This is significant because it shows that advanced imaging technology can safely assist surgeons even in challenging cases where normal landmarks might not be visible. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing revision spinal surgeries, providing them with safer and more accurate procedures.

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This study developed and tested a new, simple tool called the Provider REport of Sustainment Scale (PRESS) to measure how well frontline service providers continue to use evidence-based practices in their work. The PRESS consists of just three questions and was found to be reliable and valid across various treatment settings, such as substance use and child mental health services. This matters because it provides an easy way for providers to report on the ongoing use of effective practices, helping improve care delivery. Who this helps: This helps frontline service providers and healthcare organizations by giving them a straightforward way to track the use of effective treatment methods.

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This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic affected mental health providers working in community centers and their ability to use evidence-based practices while transitioning to telehealth. Out of 93 providers surveyed, most felt personal risk from COVID-19 was low, and they viewed telehealth positively, but they faced challenges like altered patient interactions, productivity expectations, and maintaining work-life balance. These findings are important because they show the need for better support for providers to ensure effective care during and after the pandemic. Who this helps: This helps mental health providers and their patients.

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This study looked at how well current tools measure "sustainment," which is how long and effectively a healthcare intervention continues to be used after it's been introduced. The researchers reviewed 11 different measurement tools and found that while some were strong and backed by experts, many had issues like being too complicated or not applicable to different situations. This is important because finding effective ways to measure sustainment can help improve healthcare interventions and ensure they continue to benefit patients over time. Who this helps: This helps healthcare providers and patients by ensuring that effective treatments remain available and in practice.