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“Development of bone metastases in patients with advanced cancer is associated with skeletal-related events (SREs) such as pathologic fractures, spinal cord compression, the requirement for surgery or palliative radiotherapy to bone, and hypercalcemia of malignancy. Skeletal morbidity may reduce patient mobility, limit functional independence, and impair quality of life (QOL). Proactive management of new or worsening bone pain or motor impairment is crucial because of the potential for rapid progression of symptoms. Administration of bisphosphonate therapy as a monthly infusion to patients with bone metastases prevents or delays

the onset and reduces the frequency of SREs and provides clinically meaningful improvements in AZD1480 price bone pain and QOL. In addition to

administration of therapy, the monthly infusion visit allows a dedicated team of healthcare professionals to regularly assess SREs, response to therapy, adverse events (AEs), QOL, and adherence to oral medications and supplements. The continuity of care that occurs during the monthly selleckchem infusion visit provides oncology nurses with an opportunity to educate patients about effective strategies to manage SREs and AEs. In addition, regular interaction provides oncology nurses with an opportunity to recognize and proactively address subtle changes in the patients’ medical condition. Using a multidisciplinary medical team also eliminates barriers between the various healthcare professionals

involved in patient management. Consequently, the monthly infusion visit can result in effective patient management and improved clinical outcomes in patients with malignant bone disease.”
“Objective: This study describes and analyzes a telehealth strategy for Family Health Teams (FHTs) providing primary care services. This strategy aimed to increase the Poziotinib adherence to the treatment of hypertension. Subjects and Methods: We conducted a before-after study that enrolled 21 professionals and 502 hypertensive patients in two of the Family Health Units connected to our Telehealth Center Network. Seminars addressing the treatment adherence of hypertension were offered by Web conferences, for a period of 6 months, to the FHTs. The adherence to antihypertensive drugs, low salt diet, and physical activity was measured by specific questionnaires. The rates of adherence were assessed before and after a continuing education program (CEP). After the telehealth intervention, 17 professionals and 465 patients were reevaluated. Results: The participation in the question and answer session, after the seminar, was significant. The qualitative evaluation of the sessions by FHTs showed 87.5% of great/good. There was a trend toward a greater critical understanding of the results and targets set for the team, although at insignificant levels.