Patterns of Long Term Care in 29 European countries: evidence from an exploratory study.

Background: The challenges posed by the rapidly ageing population, and the increased preponderance of disabled people in this group, coupled with the rising level of public expenditure required to service the complex organization of long term care (LTC) delivery are causing increased pressure on LTC systems in Europe. A pan-European survey was carried out to evaluate whether patterns of LTC can be identified across Europe and what are the trends of the countries along them.

Methods: An ecological study was conducted on the 27 EU Member States plus Norway and Iceland, referring to the period 2003-2007.

Appropriateness of fresh-frozen plasma usage in hospital settings: a meta-analysis of the impact of organizational interventions.

Background: Transfusions of fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) are a worldwide ever-growing practice. The most advanced health care organizations, to guarantee high-quality standards of interventions and safe procedures, should disseminate scientific evidence for promoting the appropriateness of transfusions and reducing avoidable risks.

Study Design And Methods: We carried out a systematic review of scientific literature searching for studies focused on the implementation of different strategy of organizational interventions aimed at improving clinicians' practice.