A Cost-Benefit Analysis of the COVID-19 Asymptomatic Mass Testing Strategy in the North Metropolitan Area of Barcelona.

Background: The epidemiological situation generated by COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of applying non-pharmacological measures in the management of the epidemic. Mass screening of the asymptomatic general population has been established as a priority strategy by carrying out diagnostic tests to detect possible cases, isolate contacts, cut transmission chains and thus limit the spread of the virus.

Objective: To evaluate the economic impact of mass COVID-19 screenings of an asymptomatic population during the first and second wave of the epidemic in Catalonia, Spain.

Association of neurexin 3 polymorphisms with smoking behavior.

The Neurexin 3 gene (NRXN3) has been associated with dependence on various addictive substances, as well as with the degree of smoking in schizophrenic patients and impulsivity among tobacco abusers. To further evaluate the role of NRXN3 in nicotine addiction, we analyzed single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and a copy number variant (CNV) within the NRXN3 genomic region. An initial study was carried out on 157 smokers and 595 controls, all of Spanish Caucasian origin.

[Satisfaction survey of CatSalut-PLAENSA(©). Strategies to incorporate citizens' perception of the quality of the service in health policies].

The aim of this work is to present the strategies, activities and results of satisfaction surveys Plan CatSalut- PLAENSA(©) 2003-2010 that are making progress in improving the quality of health services. Since 2003, CatSalut has at its disposal the plan known as PLAENSA(©) Satisfaction Surveys, a tool for assessment and improvement proposals addressed to the insurance services provided by contracted public entities. The plan follows 3 key strategies: systematic and objective policyholders' satisfaction measurement, related to the services received; release of improvement proposals according to a standardized model, including standardized monitoring, and promotion of equity through propagation among health centres and territories.

[Intermediate hospital care for subacute elderly patients as an alternative to prolonged acute hospitalization].

Objective: We evaluated the rapid discharge of older patients with reactivated chronic diseases from an acute general hospital to an intermediate care hospital.

Methods: A cohort study was carried out. Compliance with predefined quality standards and patient selection were evaluated.

Effectiveness of a short-course in improving knowledge and skills on evidence-based practice.

Background: To assess the effectiveness (change in knowledge and skills measured by the Fresno test) of a short course in Evidence Based Practice (EBP) carried out in a group of family medicine residents

Methods: Before-after study. Participants' were 152 Family Medicine residents in their second year of the training programme. Settings were Primary Care Teaching Units in Catalonia.