SAMUEL S. FLEMING, M.D.

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This study looked at how both speaking and nonspeaking children participate during medical visits, analyzing videos of 60 encounters in pediatric palliative care in Australia. Researchers found that nonspeaking children were actively involved in about 38 interactions per hour, while speaking children participated in about 59 interactions per hour. The results show that children are included in medical discussions in various ways, not just through talking, highlighting the importance of recognizing all forms of communication during these visits. Who this helps: This benefits children in medical care, their families, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how laboratories in Australia and New Zealand test for measurable residual disease (MRD) in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) using a technique called multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC). The findings showed that while the labs mostly agreed on the initial testing process, there were differences in how they reported the results, leading to recommendations for standardizing practices. This standardization is important because it helps ensure patients receive consistent and reliable testing results, which can influence their treatment options. Who this helps: This benefits patients with acute myeloid leukaemia and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at a procedure called prophylactic internal iliac artery balloon occlusion (PIIABO) for women with a serious pregnancy condition known as placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). Out of 15 patients, most had significant blood loss during delivery, but 3 were able to keep their uterus. Importantly, there were no complications from the procedure, and all patients and their babies were discharged healthy, showing that this approach can effectively manage PAS while minimizing risks. Who this helps: This benefits women facing placenta accreta spectrum during pregnancy.

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This study examined how well a drug called blinatumomab works in treating adolescent and young adult patients with a type of leukemia called acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The study involved 55 patients and found that blinatumomab led to a 70.8% rate of minimal residual disease negativity, which is a positive indicator for survival, compared to a goal of 60%. Additionally, the patients had a 3-year disease-free survival rate of 88.6% and an overall survival rate of 90.5%, suggesting that this treatment could significantly improve outcomes for these young patients. Who this helps: This helps young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

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This study looked at the number of women applying for specialized surgical training positions in the UK from 2014 to 2019. It found that while women made up about 50% of applicants in fields like pediatrics and ENT, they were much less represented in areas like orthopedic surgery, where only 22% of applicants were women. Importantly, women had a better chance of being accepted into general and urological surgery programs compared to other specialties. Who this helps: This benefits women doctors aiming for surgical careers and the healthcare system seeking a more diverse workforce.

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This study reviewed how acetylcholine testing is used to diagnose certain heart conditions, specifically those related to angina and heart attacks that occur without blocked arteries. Researchers found that acetylcholine testing is highly effective for diagnosing different types of coronary issues, with a major safety profile showing less than 1% complication rates. This matters because it allows doctors to better understand and treat these heart conditions in a more personalized way, which can lead to better health outcomes for patients. Who this helps: Patients experiencing angina or heart attacks without blocked arteries.

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This study explored a computerized test, called CARTcog, to quickly identify cognitive problems in patients receiving CAR T-cell therapy. Out of 89 patients tested, 30 (34%) developed serious cognitive issues related to their treatment, and the CARTcog test successfully flagged these problems most of the time. This early detection can lead to faster interventions, improving patient safety and outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing CAR T-cell therapy by ensuring quicker responses to potential cognitive issues.

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This study looked at using an artificial intelligence tool to help identify different types of acute leukemia using routine lab results from 6,206 patients across 20 medical centers. The AI showed high accuracy for some leukemia types, scoring up to 0.98 for promyelocytic leukemia, but initially excluded a large percentage of patients from its predictions. By improving the AI's methods, researchers managed to lower the number of patients excluded from predictions while increasing accuracy, particularly for adult acute myeloid leukemia. Who this helps: This benefits patients with acute leukemia by improving diagnostic accuracy and ensuring more people receive timely treatment.

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This study looked at how cognitive function changes in patients who receive CAR-T therapy, especially those who develop a condition called ICANS that can affect thinking and memory. Out of 91 patients studied, 35% experienced ICANS, but overall, there was no major lasting decline in thinking abilities over the six months after treatment, with only a minor effect seen in one area of visual-spatial skills. This finding is important because it suggests that most patients' cognitive issues related to ICANS improve within three months after therapy. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing CAR-T therapy and their doctors.

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This study looked at how effective and safe a new treatment combination of venetoclax and azacitidine is for patients with high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (HR MDS) who haven't received treatment before. The results showed that nearly 30% of patients achieved complete remission, and about 71% were expected to survive at least one year. This matters because it offers a promising new option for patients with limited treatment choices and poorer survival rates. Who this helps: This helps patients with high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes seeking effective treatment options.

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This study compared a low-cost mobile app called EM3D with an expensive handheld 3D scanner (EinScan) to see how well they could create 3D images of people's ears for digital ear prosthetics. The findings showed that the EM3D app was about 2.5 minutes faster, and it produced images that were very accurate—only 2.27% of the scans were outside the acceptable error range. This is significant because it means that using smartphones could make ear prosthetics more accessible and affordable, especially for people in remote areas. Who this helps: This helps patients needing ear prosthetics and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the combination of venetoclax and traditional chemotherapy in older patients with a type of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Out of 85 patients with a median age of 71, 75% responded positively to the treatment, with an average survival time of 19.3 months. Notably, the results were even better for those newly diagnosed, with an 88% response rate and an average survival of 33.1 months. Who this helps: This research benefits older patients with AML by providing an effective treatment option.

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This study looked at a new oral form of arsenic trioxide (ATO) to treat patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), aiming to make treatment easier compared to the current method of daily IV infusions. Researchers found that the levels of arsenic in the patients' blood from the oral version were similar to those from the IV version, meeting the safety and effectiveness standards required. This is important because it suggests that the oral formulation can be a more convenient option for patients, potentially improving their quality of life during treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia.

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This study looked at how to better monitor neurological complications from CAR T-cell therapy in patients who have sensory impairments, like vision and hearing issues, or who speak different languages. The researchers adapted a scoring system called the ICE score for five patients, and they found that these changes made it easier to track issues related to treatment. This is important because it shows that personalized approaches can improve care for patients facing additional challenges after therapy. Who this helps: This helps patients with sensory impairments and language barriers undergoing CAR T-cell therapy.

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This research paper looks at different methods used to separate and select sperm to reduce DNA damage. The study found that using specific techniques improves the chances of fertilizing an egg with healthy sperm by ensuring that sperm have intact DNA, which is crucial for a successful pregnancy and live birth. This matters because healthier sperm can lead to better outcomes in fertility treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing fertility treatments.

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This study looked at older teens and adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who were treated with a specific chemotherapy protocol. It found that 24% of these patients developed avascular necrosis (AVN) – a painful condition affecting bones, mostly in the hips and knees. Many of these patients experienced chronic pain or had trouble moving, and 64% needed surgery to help with their condition. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients who may undergo treatment for leukemia, as it highlights the risk of AVN.

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This study looked at how well a specific chemotherapy treatment works for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), particularly those with a mutation called FLT3. It found that 88% of patients achieved complete remission after the chemotherapy (with a very low mortality rate of only 1.7%) and that patients without adverse-risk factors had better survival rates compared to those with them. The results indicate that while the treatment is generally safe and effective, patients with more severe forms of AML still do not respond as well. Who this helps: This benefits patients with FLT3-mutated AML and their doctors by providing effective treatment options and outcomes.

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This study focused on how patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) are treated in rural areas of Australia compared to cities. Researchers found that patients in regional Victoria face significant challenges, such as limited access to specialized care and clinical trials, which affects their treatment quality. By partnering with local health services, the study highlights the need for improved resources to ensure that patients in rural areas receive care on par with those in cities. Who this helps: This helps patients living in rural areas who are dealing with MDS and AML.

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This study focused on a new method called CellCap that analyzes how individual cells react to different treatments or changes (called perturbations). The researchers found that CellCap effectively reveals the unique ways cells respond to these changes, showing detailed relationships that earlier methods missed. This is important because understanding these responses can lead to better insights in cellular behavior and improve medical research. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors by providing better tools for understanding cell behavior in health and disease.

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This study looked at different ways to decide who should receive treatment first, focusing on a new method called RATE. The researchers found that RATE is effective at identifying individuals who will benefit the most from treatments like aspirin for stroke patients, showing better results compared to existing methods. This matters because better treatment prioritization can lead to improved patient outcomes and more efficient use of healthcare resources. Who this helps: This helps patients who need urgent treatment, particularly those at risk of strokes.

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This study explored a new method for reconstructing the outer ear, called auricula, for patients who had large bone defects due to cancer treatments. Researchers used subperiosteal implants in three patients, and all had successful surgeries without complications. Two of these patients received ear prostheses within 4 to 7 months and were satisfied with the results, showing this technique could improve patients' appearance and quality of life after serious surgeries. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients who undergo ear reconstruction surgery.

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This study looked at how environmental pollutants, like pesticides and certain chemicals, might be hurting sperm quality and men's ability to have children. It found that many studies over the past 40 years report a drop in sperm quality, linking this decline to exposure to these toxicants, even though some studies didn't find clear connections. Understanding these effects is important because they could impact reproductive health for many men. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly men concerned about fertility issues.

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This study looked at two doses of a medication called subcutaneous blinatumomab for adults suffering from a tough type of blood cancer known as relapsed or refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Out of 88 patients, 75% of those on the lower dose (250 µg/500 µg) and 79% on the higher dose (500 µg/1000 µg) achieved complete remission or significant improvement. These findings matter because they indicate that blinatumomab can effectively treat this challenging illness while maintaining a manageable safety profile. Who this helps: This helps patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

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This study looked at how to check if machine learning models used in healthcare are still accurate over time, specifically for cancer patients receiving treatment. Researchers analyzed data from over 24,000 patients and found that their predictions about hospital visits and emergencies within 180 days of starting treatment were affected by changes in patient characteristics and treatment practices over the years. The study demonstrates that it's crucial to regularly update and validate these models to ensure they remain effective and reliable. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers who rely on machine learning models for patient care decisions.

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This study looked at a rare kidney problem called lysozyme-induced nephropathy (LyN) in a patient with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). The 80-year-old man had severe kidney damage that was identified through a kidney biopsy, which revealed that his kidney issues were caused by the accumulation of lysozyme. Unfortunately, even with aggressive treatment for his leukemia, he developed severe kidney disease and eventually chose to end his life due to the progression of his health issues. Who this helps: This information is important for doctors treating patients with CMML and related kidney problems.

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This study focused on the education and ongoing training of professionals who work in assisted reproductive technology (ART), especially embryologists. The researchers found that providing a structured training program and continuous performance monitoring is crucial for ensuring these specialists are up-to-date with the latest advancements, which ultimately leads to better care for patients. This is important because improved training can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the services offered to those undergoing fertility treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing fertility treatments.

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This study looked at how often adults with schizophrenia in the U.S. stop or switch their antipsychotic medications between 2017 and 2019. It found that 16.8% of patients on low-weight gain risk (WGR) medications discontinued them, compared to 12.5% and 12.0% for medium and high WGR medications, respectively, and more patients using oral medications (16.8%) stopped treatment than those using long-acting injections (6.4%). It highlights the need for better treatment options since patients are more likely to stay on medication when using injections, which can help reduce relapses and the overall burden of the illness. Who this helps: This helps patients with schizophrenia who struggle with medication adherence.

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This study looked at how well a simple drawing test, where patients draw a clock, can help detect cognitive problems caused by a condition called immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) in patients receiving CAR-T therapy for blood cancers. Out of 54 patients studied, 14 (26%) developed ICANS, and the results showed that changes in the clock drawing scores were linked to the severity of cognitive issues. This matters because using the clock drawing test alongside standard assessments could make it easier to monitor and address these cognitive problems in patients. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing CAR-T therapy and their doctors.

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This study looked at how long it takes for patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) to achieve complete remission after undergoing intensive chemotherapy, and how this timing affects their chances of surviving long-term. Researchers found that the speed of achieving complete remission is important; for example, patients who reached remission within 30 days had a better survival rate compared to those who took longer. This matters because it can guide treatment plans and help doctors better predict patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with acute myeloid leukemia and their doctors.

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This study looked at the effects of how embryos are developed and preserved during assisted reproduction technology (ART) on the risk of birth defects in children. Researchers found that while over 10 million children have been born via ART since 1978 with mostly good health outcomes, there are still concerns that the way embryos are handled could affect their long-term health, particularly regarding epigenetic changes that might increase the risk of defects. Understanding these risks is important because it could help improve ART practices and ultimately lead to healthier babies born through these methods. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing assisted reproduction as well as doctors working in fertility clinics.

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In this study, researchers tested a new treatment called RO7283420 in patients with relapsed or hard-to-treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML) to see how safe it is and to determine the best dose. Out of 57 patients receiving the treatment, only 4.8% achieved full remission, and 2.4% had partial recovery of blood cell production. While the treatment showed some ability to activate immune cells, high rates of side effects, particularly cytokine release syndrome (61.3%), led to a conclusion that this method might not be effective enough. Who this helps: This research informs doctors and researchers about the potential and limitations of new treatments for patients with AML.

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This study looked at a man who suffered from chronic itching due to a condition called systemic mastocytosis, which affects his skin. The research highlights the severe impact this persistent itch has on his daily life and well-being. Understanding these effects is important because it can guide better treatments to improve the quality of life for people dealing with similar symptoms. Who this helps: Patients experiencing chronic itch from conditions like systemic mastocytosis.

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This study looked at whether putting a special mesh around the stoma during surgery to create an ileal conduit (a way to divert urine) would help prevent parastomal hernias, which can happen in up to half of the patients after surgery. Out of 137 patients evaluated, 47% of those who received the mesh developed hernias compared to 33% in the group that didn’t receive the mesh, showing no clear benefit from using the mesh since the difference was not significant. The lack of improvement suggests that using mesh isn't effective in preventing hernia formation during this type of surgery, which is important for helping patients avoid these complications. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing ileal conduit surgery by providing clearer guidance on treatment options.

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This study focuses on CAR-T therapy, a treatment where patients' immune cells are modified to fight cancer. Researchers found that while this approach can be effective for blood cancers, it can also cause serious neurological side effects, affecting up to 40% of patients. Understanding these side effects is crucial because it helps develop better monitoring and treatment strategies for individuals undergoing this therapy. Who this helps: Patients receiving CAR-T therapy for blood cancers.

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This study looked at how dexmedetomidine, a medication often used in critically ill patients, affects recovery from acute kidney injury (AKI). Researchers analyzed data from nearly 1,900 patients and found that those who received dexmedetomidine took longer to recover from AKI compared to those who did not, with a 53.7% reduced chance of recovery on average. However, patients who received dexmedetomidine had lower chances of dying in the hospital, suggesting that while the drug might slow recovery, it could also contribute to better survival rates. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors treating critically ill patients with AKI by providing insights into the effects of dexmedetomidine.

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This study explored a new technique called TissueMosaic that analyzes gene expression while considering the surrounding tissue environment. Researchers found that TissueMosaic improves the accuracy of identifying genes affected by changes in tissue structure compared to previous methods, providing clearer insights into how tissues respond in different conditions. This matters because it enhances our understanding of disease processes and could lead to better personalized treatments based on tissue behavior. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and researchers working on understanding diseases and developing targeted therapies.

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Researchers in Maryland tackled the problem of a shortage of places for healthcare students to get hands-on training, which is crucial for building a strong health workforce. They created a regional center to improve clinical education by connecting training programs, developing resources for teachers, and enhancing teaching methods with technology like virtual reality. Their efforts led to increased training opportunities and improved collaboration, showing that this model could be successful in other places too. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare students and the healthcare system as a whole.

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The Australian and New Zealand Hip Fracture Registry (ANZHFR) collects data to improve how older adults are treated when they experience hip fractures. Since starting in 2015, it has gathered information on over 120,000 cases from 107 hospitals, focusing on important aspects like pain management before surgery and recovery outcomes, which helps ensure that patients receive high-quality care. This research is crucial because it enables better treatment strategies and outcomes for seniors, leading to improved recovery and overall health after a hip fracture. Who this helps: Patients with hip fractures and the healthcare providers treating them.

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This study looked at how well a specific test, called the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), can track thinking and memory problems in patients after they receive CAR T-cell therapy and experience a condition known as ICANS. Researchers found that out of the 87 patients studied, 34% developed ICANS and those patients showed significantly worse scores in areas like attention and language during recovery checks compared to those who did not develop ICANS. This matters because it helps identify which patients may struggle with thinking skills after treatment, allowing for better care and support. Who this helps: This helps patients who undergo CAR T-cell therapy, especially those at risk for cognitive issues.

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This study looked at how well older adults who find it hard to walk outside are able to move around and how that relates to their physical abilities and time spent walking outdoors. Researchers analyzed data from 173 adults aged 65 and older and found that their average life-space mobility score was about 64.6 out of 100. They discovered that better walking endurance, speed, and balance were linked to higher mobility scores, but the time spent walking outdoors had a weaker connection. Who this helps: This benefits older adults with mobility challenges and those involved in their care.

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This study looked at how many older adults with hip fractures in hospitals in two countries received oral nutritional supplements (ONS) to help them heal. It found that only 47.3% of these patients were given ONS, and those considered malnourished were significantly more likely to receive it. This matters because providing these supplements can improve recovery outcomes for all older adults with hip fractures, not just those who are already identified as malnourished or frail. Who this helps: Patients recovering from hip fractures.

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This study looked at treatments for patients with a type of leukemia called Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It reviewed standard chemotherapy methods and explored the use of a new drug called blinatumomab, which helps the immune system attack cancer. The findings suggest that using blinatumomab as part of the initial treatment could lead to better outcomes, especially for patients at high risk, while also being less harmful than traditional therapies. Who this helps: Patients with Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

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This study examined a 56-year-old man who developed liver problems, specifically jaundice, eight years after receiving a heart device called an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD). The research found that his liver issues were due to severe tricuspid regurgitation, where blood leaks backward in the heart, caused by the ICD's lead misplacing the tricuspid valve. After replacing the valve and removing the ICD, the patient made a full recovery, highlighting that doctors should consider heart-related causes when patients with these devices show liver dysfunction. Who this helps: This helps patients with implanted heart devices and their doctors.

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This research paper looks at how the treatment of adults with newly diagnosed B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) has improved over the last ten years. Key findings include the success of using treatments inspired by children's therapy, better ways to measure disease risk, and the introduction of immunotherapy for patients. However, adults still face worse outcomes compared to children, with high rates of treatment failures. These insights are important because they help refine initial treatment strategies and personalize care for patients, potentially improving survival rates. Who this helps: Patients diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and their doctors.

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This study looked at the challenges and supports for increasing the number of Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) in Ireland, aiming to make ANPs 2% of the nursing workforce. Researchers found that while there were four main barriers—like not having enough resources and resistance from others in the healthcare system—there were also five key supports, such as having backing from doctors and clarity around the ANP role. This matters because understanding these factors can help improve healthcare services by effectively expanding the role of ANPs. Who this helps: This benefits patients and the healthcare system by ensuring more qualified nurses can provide care.