Applications of data science in healthcare
Cerebral small vessel disease in routinely collected neurology data
White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are commonly seen on brain MRI scans and are often linked to cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD), a condition associated with cognitive decline and stroke risk. While WMHs are frequently observed in older adults, their significance in younger individuals remains uncertain. Analysis of routinely collected data from 1,033 patients referred for suspected central nervous system cancer over 30 months, aimed to assess the prevalence and possible causes of WMHs across different age groups. The findings showed that 89.7% of patients over 80 had WMHs, with 98.1% of these attributed to cSVD. Interestingly, around 20% of patients under 50 also exhibited WMHs, which are typically considered non-specific in younger individuals. The study suggests that these early WMHs could represent an initial stage of cSVD rather than incidental findings, emphasising the need for further research to understand their long-term implications and potential links to neurological disorders.
Preferences for face-to-face contraceptive services
Data from the Reproductive Health Survey for England was used to look at how people prefer to access contraceptive services. Using a large online survey of women and people assigned female at birth, we found that about one in four still want only in-person appointments rather than phone, online, or hybrid options. People who preferred face-to-face care were more likely to be younger or older people, less educated, struggling financially, living with a disability, and not in a relationship, suggesting that completely digital services might not meet everyone’s needs. We argue that maintaining a mix of in-person and remote contraceptive services is important for fair and person-centred healthcare.
Publication: Preference for face-to-face contraceptive service delivery post-COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Why some areas struggle to recruit and keep doctors
This study explored why some parts of the UK struggle to recruit and keep doctors working there. Through interviews with doctors already working in these under-doctored areas (often rural or deprived communities), we found that a mix of personal life choices, career opportunities, and the characteristics of the place itself influence whether doctors move to and stay in these areas. The research highlights that understanding these factors could help improve doctor recruitment and reduce healthcare inequalities in underserved communities.