Healthy Habits for the New Year: Mastering Nutrition and Exercise
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents The start of a new year is the best time to make resolutions and fresh goals, but also to put emphasis on personal well-being. Since we entered the year 2025, most of us have looked for better habits that will last longer than January. This includes understanding nutrition and exercise’s involvement in the prevention of chronic diseases as one of the significant factors of achieving long-term health. The prevalence of chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases is on the rise globally, but in the Caribbean, it is a growing concern. The good news is that easy lifestyle changes can work wonders in avoiding these diseases, and a digital platform like Cellmaflex stands here to aid in streamlining access to health services and make the patient’s experience better. Read the blog to explore the link between chronic diseases and lifestyle habits. Discover how good nutrition, exercise, and adequate hydration can serve to improve health. Common Caribbean Diseases: Addressing Lifestyle Challenges Chronic conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, and other lifestyle-related health challenges are increasing across the Caribbean. According to the National Institutes of Health, hypertension affects approximately 16.6% to 30.2% of the Caribbean population, while diabetes impacts 7.2% to 19.5%. A significant contributing factor to these alarming statistics is the lack of proper nutrition and regular exercise. High consumption of processed and sugary foods, coupled with sedentary lifestyles, has fuelled these alarming trends. However, there’s hope. By adopting healthier habits – balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and adequate hydration – Caribbean communities can mitigate these risks and take control of their well-being. Small, sustainable changes in diet and exercise routines can go a long way in promoting a healthier lifestyle. How Processed Foods Affect Health: An Examination of the Caribbean Diet The Caribbean diet is rich in flavours and culture, but more often than not, it contains processed foods that are not very helpful for long-term benefits. It has been noticed that alarming rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease in this region correlate strongly with increased consumption of high-added sugars, sodium, and trans fats. People opt for such a poor diet because fast food and packaged meals are convenient. Though processed foods are tempting, the outcome in the long run proves disastrous for health. More mindful choices should be made to counter this. A whole, nutrient-filled diet is a very good way to minimise the risks of chronic diseases. This includes reducing sugary snacks, choosing fresh fruits and vegetables, and using whole grains in place of refined grains. The Power of Local Nutrition: Fruits and Provisions for Better Health Among the big virtues of residing in the Caribbean is a good supply of local fruits and provisions. Such natural foods not only taste sweet (although while consuming, moderation is needed) but are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish the whole body. Take mangoes, papayas, bananas, and avocados for instance: they are loaded with vitamins A, C, and E that enhance the strength of the immune system. Provisions such as sweet potatoes, yams, and cassava provide complex carbohydrates that give long-lasting energy while regulating the blood sugar. By including more of the fresh, local foods in the daily meals, people can improve their diet and reap better health without the need for processed alternatives. Fitness Beyond the Gym: Fun and Effective Activities in Trinidad and Tobago What often comes to mind when thinking of fitness is a gym with weights and machines, but there is so much more to fitness than that. A lot of outdoor activities found in Trinidad and Tobago make it possible to become fit outdoors. Engage in a fun workout by getting your heart to dance with the beats in a soca fitness class, or train on the beach while enjoying fresh air and lovely scenery. Another good way of keeping fit and healthy is by hiking through the lush hills of Tobago or by walking around the local parks in Port of Spain. It need not always be a chore; it could be enjoyable and social to keep you motivated. Simple Home Workouts: Staying Active with Limited Resources Not everyone has access to the gym, but this does not necessarily mean you can’t stay fit. With a bit of creativity, you can design a very simple workout routine using minimal equipment. Bodyweight exercises such as squats, push-ups, and lunges can be performed anywhere and with no special equipment. If you want to mix it up, try yoga or pilates at home with the right knowledge of them. Even with limited resources, one can be active and that is a crucial step in the prevention of chronic diseases. Balancing Nutrition and Exercise: How to Build a Sustainable Lifestyle A balanced lifestyle of nutrition and exercise is what would ensure health for a lifetime. Healthy diet services your exercises, while a consistent exercise program maintains a fit body, improves metabolic rate, and improves health in general. The key is to balance. One does not have to go extreme with diets and gruelling exercise routines. Gradual, minor changes are far better. Make the switch to fresh, whole meals instead of processed foods, and add enjoyable physical activities to your daily routine. Whether it is a brisk walk after dinner or a workout session, every little bit counts. With the right tools and mindset, sustainability can be attained in lifestyle. The Role of Hydration: How Water and Natural Drinks Support Fitness and Health Hydration stands as the most important role in fitness and health. Dehydration causes fatigue, cramping of the muscle, and difficulty in physical activities. Drinking plenty of water is vital, but local drinks such as coconut water and herbal teas also give hydration along with additional health benefits. Coconut water is one of the richest sources of electrolytes, especially potassium, (which should be taken in moderation) that maintains fluid balance and ensures proper functioning of the muscles. Fresh fruit juices that have no added sugars can
The Secret Weapon for A&E Efficiency? Cellma, an Advanced Electronic Health Records Software
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents Do you know that, according to the reports from NHS Digital, 26.3 million people visited the A&E departments in the UK in the year 2023-24? And that, 2.1% of the patients waited four hours for the treatment in the year 2023-24? Such statistics and figures look worrisome against the increasingly heavy burden on the A&E departments from crowding, staffing shortage, and antiquated systems at all fronts, pushing the A&E teams to their extreme limits. A&E departments are the heart of emergency care, dealing with everything from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions. But with a sharp increase in patient numbers and resources strained and fragmented, pressure on the department keeps rising. Advanced electronic health records software that supports the fast-paced, critical A&E environment is not an option but a necessity for improving care, optimising workflows, and reducing pressure on staff. This is where our advanced electronic health records software, Cellma, and its module for A&E comes in. Our electronic health records software, Cellma, offers an all-inclusive approach towards optimisation of workflow and efficiency along with outcomes for the patient. UK A&E Crisis in Numbers On average, 45,500 people visit the major hospitals’ A&E departments of England every day, according to a UK parliament report in October 2024. A further 27,000 people on average attend minor A&E facilities like walk-in-centres and minor injuries units each day. The overcrowding and understaffing result in lengthy wait times, which become increasingly challenging for staff and patients. Challenges that Affect the A&E Departments There are many critical issues faced by the A&E department such as: Waiting time: The patients coming to the A&E department in the UK have increased. Therefore, it results in an increase in the waiting time. According to the report of the NHS Digital Report 2023-24, 72.1 percent of the patients waited for more than 4 hours to receive treatment. Data Fragmentation: All the patients’ records, lab test reports, diagnostic images and everything else are kept on the different systems used by A&E teams. This might be the very point at which critical patient information is either unavailable or, worse still, non-existent. Staffing shortages: The A&E department is always under-serviced. This creates more pressure on staff who face burnout coupled with a high turnover rate. Therefore, this shortage affects quality care delivery, as services might take a longer time while health practitioners experience more stressful situations. Resource Management: Managing beds, diagnostic equipment, or even managing staff during a full shift is a huge role. Inability to do so, due to scarce resources by the department results in longer hours and waiting times for further treatment. Documentation Overload: Manual record-keeping consumes much time that could be spent on direct patient care. Clinicians spend nearly half of their time on administrative tasks rather than on treatment. How Cellma and its A&E Module Helps Cellma is a game-changer in the fast world of A&E, where the decision has to be taken in seconds. Cellma is an advanced electronic health records software that offers the capabilities for improving healthcare services. The A&E module of Cellma, an electronic health records software, is specifically crafted to target the specific demands of accident and emergency services, so that it enhances the facilities in being accurate, more efficient, and patient oriented. The A&E module addresses the issues of the department, providing an inclusive platform that is designed to optimise efficiency, improve patient flow, and reduce administrative burdens for the healthcare and the A&E staff. Here’s how: Live Patient Flow: Cellma’s A&E module updates patients’ statuses in real time, from the time of triage to their discharge. The health care team will, therefore, always know the whereabouts of their patients and focus on those who most urgently require their care. This results in better patient outcomes from real-time monitoring of patients. Integrated EHR: All patient data is accumulated into an easily accessible digital storage, so clinicians can have a full medical history, lab results, and imaging reports of the patients, at their fingertips. This reduces human errors and improves quality of patient care alongside assisting the health care teams to make informed decisions as real-time access is achieved to important information. Streamlined Triage Management: Triage is the core of effective emergency care. Cellma’s A&E module does exactly this by applying certain assessment, real-time triage instruments, and automated patient handover. This focuses on priority patients based on their needs and ensures smooth handover between teams. The doctors can then focus on doing what they do best-saving people’s lives-because their decisions are faster and well-informed. Resource Optimisation with Predictive Analytics: The A&E module of Cellma uses predictive analytics in the management of resources from bed availability to the level of staffing. As it predicts demand, the module ensures that A&E departments can make resource allocation on the right places where needed the most, thus helping to reduce bottlenecks and improve patient flow. Customisable Dashboards: A&E module’s customisable dashboards allow healthcare providers to immediately get an overview for departmental performance in terms of wait times, bed occupancy, and availability of staff. This ensures A&E administrators are always making data-driven decisions. Advanced Communication: Cellma’s A&E module makes it possible for the teams to communicate effectively and securely through messaging and automated alerts. All team members are on the same page, and nothing falls through the cracks. This means better communication, quicker responses, better care, and improved outcomes for patients. MDT Collaboration: Many emergencies call for multi-disciplinary input, and Cellma’s MDT module gives teams the ease to work collaboratively together. Shared updates, managing referrals, and coordinating care in Cellma create a seamless experience from admission to A&E to long-term treatment planning. It, therefore, reduces delay and promotes better patient results. Patient engagement through the Cellma’s patient portal Transparency and communication build trust with the patient and their family. Cellma patient portal helps individuals to gain access to their medical records and treatment regarding referrals and communicate with the healthcare team directly. Thus, it not only informs the patients but also engages them to be in a participative role in their caregiving journey. Whether you want to speed up appointment schedules, improve resource management, or streamline patient tracking, Cellma, an electronic health records
Itchy, Uncomfortable, and Confused? Here’s What You Need to Know About Vaginal Yeast Infections
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents Kinsley had become increasingly uncomfortable – itching, irritation, and the unpleasant discharge had made her quite anxious and embarrassed. She could barely speak about her condition with anyone. One evening, while searching the web for relief from growing discomfort, Kinsley found Cellmaflex, a digital health platform. Cellmaflex enabled her to get a nearby trusted gynaecologist, check patient reviews and make an appointment all while avoiding anxiety of having to make a call. The gynaecologist diagnosed Kinsley with a vaginal yeast infection. Now with clear-cut treatment plan and practical preventive tips, Kinsley felt capable of taking charge of her health. If you have ever faced an uncomfortable, unfamiliar sensation and felt unsure about the cause, you are not alone. This blog is here to guide you through everything you need to know about vaginal yeast infection – what it is, how to recognize the signs, effective treatments, and simple prevention strategies. By the end, you will feel empowered to address these concerns confidently and take charge of your health. What is Vaginal Yeast Infection A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis or vaginal candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of a specific type of yeast called Candida. Candida is a natural part of your body, typically residing in areas like the mouth, digestive tract, and vagina, but it usually coexists peacefully with “good” bacteria that regulate its growth. However, when this balance is disrupted, Candida can multiply rapidly, leading to an infection. Vaginal yeast infections are characterized by burning, itching, redness around the vulva (the external part of the vagina), and noticeable changes in vaginal discharge. Though often mistaken for STIs, yeast infections are not STIs. They are, however, a common form of vaginitis, which is a condition marked by inflammation, pain, and possible infection in the vagina. There are several types of vaginitis, but yeast infections are among the most common. The maintenance of a healthy balance of bacteria in the body is important to keep Candida under control. Any form of disruption in balance caused by multiple factors. Management and prevention of vaginal yeast infections require an understanding of such triggers. According to National Center for Biotechnology Information’s February 2024 report, about 70% of women report having or had vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime, and an estimated 8% of women suffer recurrent infection. What Increases The Risk Of Getting a Yeast Infection Several factors elevate your predisposition to a yeast infection in your vagina. These include: You are undergoing antibiotic treatment with birth control pills or steroids Pregnancy or the post-partum A weakened immunologic defence, such as those health conditions that compromise this defence in your body. This compromises your ability to fight-off infections. Hyperglycemia or in other terms, high blood sugar. Elevated blood sugars can often foster the risk of getting affected by this infection. Lifestyle habits can also contribute to your risk, such as: Prolonged Dampness: Sitting in a wet bathing suit for too long. Sweaty Clothing: Not getting out of soggy or sweaty clothes promptly. Irritants: The use of perfumed tampons or vaginal deodorants. These may interrupt the normal flora of bacteria in the vagina. Knowing about these risk factors may assist in preventing infections. Symptoms of a Vaginal Yeast Infection A vaginal yeast infection usually presents with specific symptoms, which can include: Itching or burning: A constant feeling in the vagina and vulva.Thick, white discharge: It has a consistency of cottage cheese.Redness and swelling: The vagina and vulva are inflamed.Skin irritation: There are minute cuts or cracks in the vulvar skin because of fragility.Painful urination: Burning while urinating.Discomfort during sex: Some may experience this. These symptoms can have similarities with other sexually transmitted infections, such as STIs, and other conditions of the vagina. To establish a proper diagnosis or receive the right treatment when experiencing any of these signs, a healthcare provider is required. Why Do People Get Vaginal Yeast Infections When the balance of bacteria in your vagina is disrupted, it facilitates excessive growth of Candida yeast. The most common ways to develop this imbalance: Antibiotics: They not only target bad bacteria but also reduce the good bacteria in your vagina, creating an inbalance that would allow yeast to grow.Hormonal changes: Changes from pregnancy, oral contraceptives, or even menstrual cycles can create an imbalance in Candida.Poorly controlled diabetes: Increased sugar levels in the blood will cause changes in bacteria in the body, including urinary tract.Weakened immune system: Conditions such as HIV/AIDS or treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can weaken the immune function, which makes it difficult for the body to regulate yeast growth. Understanding these causes can help in managing and preventing future infections. How Do Yeast Infections Compare with Other Vaginal Infections Not all vaginal infections are yeast infections. Common distinctions include: Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Typically presents with a thin, greyish discharge that has a strong “fishy” smell.Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection that may present with frothy yellow-green discharge and a foul odour. Accurate diagnosis by a healthcare provider will ensure proper treatment and avoid unnecessary complications. How is a Yeast Infection Diagnosed Your healthcare provider diagnoses a vaginal yeast infection. You’ll need to go in for an appointment and discuss your symptoms. Your provider may need to take a sample of discharge from your vagina to confirm a yeast infection. The combination of your symptoms and the discharge sample will tell your healthcare provider what type of infection you have and how to treat it. Treatments for Vaginal Yeast Infections: Over-the-Counter vs. Prescription Options Over the Counter (OTC) treatments: Antifungal creams or suppositories. Good for mild to moderate infections and are available almost everywhere. Prescription treatments: Oral antifungal drugs. Recommended for severe or recurrent infections. Your doctor may suggest an extended treatment course or multi-drug therapy in case you frequently experience infections. How do I decrease my chance of getting a yeast infection? You can often prevent vaginal yeast infections by making a few lifestyle changes. These changes can include: Not
Boost Efficiency in General Surgery with Cellma, An Advanced General Surgery EHR Software
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents The general surgery department is the heart of healthcare, covering a wide range of procedures, from simple appendectomies to very complex abdominal surgeries. Its role is paramount in saving lives and making better outcomes for patients. However, the complexity of operations in general surgery and patient management requires efficient systems to ensure proper care. Advanced general surgery EHR software like Cellma can reform and improve the functioning of the general surgery department. Cellma helps to streamline surgical workflows, eliminate concerns in ward & bed management, and enhance a workable care system. Cellma empowers surgeons, nurses, and administrative staff to navigate the complexities of modern healthcare with ease and precision. Challenges Faced by the General Surgery Department General surgery provides essential support for various medical needs, including a wide range of elective procedures. This wide scope significantly contributes to the rising demand and workload faced by general surgeons. NHS England’s 2023-24 hospital outpatient activity report reveals that the general surgery department handled over 4.9 million outpatient attendances. This increasing influx of patients adds to the mounting pressure on the department. Furthermore, this ever-increasing demand brings various challenges within surgical workflows as mentioned in the UK Surgical Workforce Census Report 2023 England. The report contains valuable insights by consultants, specialists, associate specialists and speciality (SAS). The report states that: 56% of the HCPs have major issues with theatre access and allocation. Due to their existing system, 47% of HCPs face challenges in balancing clinical responsibilities and managerial duties, which disrupts their ability to deliver work effectively. How Does Cellma Help General Surgery Department? Cellma is the top-of-the-line, fully customisable general surgery EHR software, made to meet unique healthcare needs. Built to tackle workflow challenges and operational stress, Cellma is developed to adapt to the evolving demands of a general surgery department. Cellma provides over 30 modules designed to enhance the outcomes and efficiency of your department. Here’s how integrating Cellma, the robust general surgery EHR software can streamline the general surgery department: Theatre Module: This module helps the surgical team to effectively manage the surgical pathway from emergency, trauma, and elective operations to post-operative follow-ups and care. The module allows the allocation of the theatre for scheduled surgery along with all the necessary details like durations, type, surgeon, date/time of the operation, resources, or special surgical tools required for the operation. A&E Module: Cellma, the general surgery EHR software has a dedicated accident and emergency (A&E) module that ensures appropriate support for emergency care. It provides real-time entries on patient arrival, and triage levels, as well as immediate access to the patient file, thus helping surgeons respond fast and effectively. This module further monitors patient flow in the A&E to avoid bottlenecks and enhance the quality of care. Electronic Patient Record (EPR) Module: The EPR module is the core module of Cellma that centralises patient information for easy access to medical records, test reports, surgical treatment plans, and operational documents needed for effective patient care. The EPR module allows healthcare professionals to readily access surgical data and a medical history without extensive use of paper, which then minimises the risk by human error. Patient Administration and Scheduling (PAS) Module: Cellma, the general surgery EHR software has the comprehensive patient administration and scheduling (PAS) module. The module manages all the processes related to registration, admission, discharge and transfer (RADT) transactions. PAS’s in-built appointment scheduling feature simplifies appointment booking and follow-ups by properly aligning with the surgeon’s work schedule. This module helps reduce waiting periods and patient inconvenience. E-Referral and MDT module: Complex surgeries often involve referral and collaboration with specialists from other fields of medicine, like breast surgeons, vascular surgeons, or others according to the case. Cellma, the general surgery EHR software includes an efficient e-referral module that helps in simplifying the whole process. Through the module, health professionals can send direct referrals to other specialists along with real-time access to all surgical details, and diagnostic reports. Furthermore, the MDT module in Cellma allows the team to access and review as well as amend surgical information together, ensuring high-quality care and better patient outcomes. Wards and Bed Management Module: This module manages the pre-operative and post-operative patients’ ward and bed management. It tracks available beds in real-time, assigns patients to the right wards, and maximises resource utilisation. Surgeons and administrative employees can plan admissions and discharges more efficiently, reduce waiting times for patients, and smooth workflow. Imaging Module: The imaging module is important for diagnosing and tracking issues, either abdominal pain due to gall bladder stone, appendicitis or any other health concerns. Cellma, the general surgery EHR software, stores all the patient imagining records (CT scan, ultrasound, MRI, etc.) in one place. Surgeons can analyse and compare imaging results in real time either in preoperative planning or intraoperative discussion. With Cellma’s annotation tool functionality, surgeons can mark the anatomical area of a procedure enhancing surgical decision-making and diagnostic precisions. Lab Module: Most patients with surgical planning require lab tests for the appropriate surgical measures. Cellma’s lab module incorporates the direct results of the laboratory in the EPR to let providers view real-time diagnostic test results. Utilising automatic workflows, test results are noted on the patient records right away as they are generated. This minimises delays and prevents human errors. E- Pharmacy Module Cellma’s e-pharmacy module supports outpatient services including ordering, filling, dispensing, to administration components. It allows healthcare providers to electronically process prescriptions. Providers can select medications and supplements, adjust dosages, and provide specific instructions as per surgeons, all of which are shared directly with the pharmacy. Empowering Patients with Cellma’s Patient Portal The patient portal of Cellma enhances patient engagement by encouraging active participation in their healthcare journey. It enables them to schedule their appointment, refer to their test reports, and fill out the pre-visit questionnaire related to surgery, past medical history or any details needed to be shared before the appointment. The portal sends alerts to patients, which improves commitment to appointments and communication with hospital staff. This ensures better health outcomes and stronger patient engagement. Cellma is an integrated general surgery EHR software, that covers every surgical care aspect: appointment, pre/post-assessment, follow-up care, and
Your Essential Guide to HSV-2: Herpes Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents Late one evening, Alicia noticed that there was some unusual discomfort and small sores in her genital area. She was worried but did not feel like making a phone call, so she went to Cellmaflex, a digital health platform. She was able to find a specialist near her, read their reviews, and book an online appointment with just a few taps on her phone. Alicia was diagnosed with genital herpes caused by HSV-2 during her consultation. Thanks to the doctor’s guidance and the very smooth experience of Cellmaflex, she received all the support and treatment that she needed to manage her condition effectively. If you have ever wondered about genital herpes, how to recognise its symptoms, and how to live a healthy life after diagnosis, then this blog is for you. We are going to explore everything you need to know about HSV-2, including, genital herpes symptoms, causes, treatments, and prevention tips, so you can take charge of your health with confidence. How Common is Herpes? Global prevalence of genital herpes caused by HSV-2 is reported to affect about 519.5 million people, or 13.3% of those aged 15–49 years. Women are infected by HSV–2 almost twice as often as men, mainly because of the better efficiency of sexual transmission from men to women. What is HSV-2? HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2) is a viral infection most commonly spread through sexual activity. It causes genital herpes, which manifests as outbreaks of sores and ulcers in the genital area that can recur. Unlike HSV-1, which usually causes oral cold sores, HSV-2 usually strikes the genital and rectal areas. This virus lies dormant in your body between outbreaks but is activated periodically to cause a recurrence of herpes symptoms. Age, Gender, and Lifestyle Factors Contributing to HSV-2 Transmission HSV-2 can infect anyone, but some factors predispose individuals to infection such as: Age: Young adults, especially between the late teens and early 20s, are more likely to be infected because of higher sexual activity. Gender: Women are more prone to getting infected with HSV-2 because the tissue in their genital area is thinner and more delicate. Lifestyle Choices: Having multiple sex partners, unprotected intercourse, and unawareness of STI may result in a considerably increased risk to acquire HSV-2 Common Causes and Risk Factors of HSV-2 HSV2 is transmitted directly from virus contact during sexual activities involving vagina or anus or even oral and other forms. Main risk factors are: No protection such as condoms in sexual life increases the chance of acquiring it. More than two sexual partners. Compromised Immune System. HIV/AIDS, or medications causing weakening of the body’s immune system, make people more prone. Symptoms of HSV-2 Genital herpes symptoms, though variable from one person to another, may include in common terms: Painful blisters or sores which often appear in the genital or anal areas: These are small liquid-filled blisters that rupture soon to become open sores which can take days to recover. They are painful which makes sitting or movement in any direction unbearable. Itching or Burning Sensations: Most people feel a tingling, itching, or burning sensation in the affected area before the sores appear. This is called the prodromal stage and often presents as an early warning sign of an impending outbreak. Flu-Like Symptoms: During the first infection, flu-like systemic symptoms may be accompanied by mild fever, fatigue, swollen groin lymph nodes, and muscle or body aches. These all are indicative of the body’s immune response against the virus. Painful Urination: When sores form near the urethra, urination can become painful, accompanied by a burning sensation. This discomfort is due to urine passing over open sores, which can irritate the already inflamed tissue. It is worth noting that many individuals infected with HSV-2 do not experience the herpes symptoms, so one can easily pass the virus on to others without knowing. Triggers of HSV-2 Outbreaks Some things can reactivate latent Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2, resulting in an outbreak. Triggers differ for everyone, but common ones include: Diet: Eating foods high in arginine (nuts, seeds, and chocolate) may promote viral replication. For some people, these foods act as dietary triggers, making an outbreak more likely. This is balanced by consuming lysine-rich foods, such as dairy or certain fruits. Stress and Fatigue: Mental or physical stress compromises the immunity and makes an environment open to reactivate the virus. Severe mental strain, inadequate rest, or chronic tiredness often go with a recurrence of symptoms. Environment: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can be stressful to the body and predispose it to outbreaks. In addition, any form of illness, for example, colds or flu, or hormonal imbalances such as those caused by menstruation, may compromise immunity and trigger symptoms. Untreated HSV-2 complications: both medical and emotional complications Untreated HSV-2 will result in severe complications to one’s health, both medically and emotionally: Recurring Breakouts: Untreated HSV-2 may eventually result in more frequent, worse breakouts, taking a longer time to recover from. This may continue indefinitely, causing discomfort and an impact on daily life. Neonatal Herpes: A pregnant woman with an active HSV-2 infection will risk transmitting the virus to her baby during delivery. Neonatal herpes can lead to severe complications for the newborn, such as neurological damage or life-threatening conditions. Emotional Impact: The stigma associated with HSV-2 can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or social isolation. Most people feel the emotional burden of living with a chronic condition and its potential effect on relationships. Effective Treatments for HSV-2 Although there is no cure for HSV-2, a number of treatments are available, which can control the symptoms well, reducing the number and severity of the outbreaks: Antiviral Drugs: The cornerstone of treatment for HSV-2 is the use of medications prescribed by the healthcare provider. These drugs reduce viral activity, shorten the duration of outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission to others. Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle will drastically reduce the chances of outbreaks. A balanced diet, relaxation techniques to
Advanced Orthopaedic Solution for Modern Healthcare: Streamline Operations with Cellma
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents Orthopaedics is the branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders related to bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Orthopaedics deals with everything from fracture care to degenerative diseases and helps thousands regain movement, improve quality of life, and maintain rehabilitation. Advanced technology is therefore needed for orthopaedic procedures and treatments to meet the increased demand, ensure efficient care, and manage the needs of patients. Cellma, our advanced HIMS, is the ultimate orthopaedic solution that streamlines workflows, improves patient results, and further helps healthcare providers deliver valuable care. Read the blog to learn how Cellma transforms orthopaedic management and hospital’s operations. Orthopaedics in Numbers: A Growing Need Orthopaedic is one of the fastest-expanding specialty around the globe. The need for care also goes beyond operations. According to NHS UK, in 2021-22, trauma and orthopaedics was the second most attended outpatient specialty in the UK, numbering at 6.7 million attendances. This increased to 7.2 million in 2023-24. As of March 2024, over 800,000 patients remain on waiting lists, many enduring prolonged pain and deteriorating conditions. Orthopaedic Departments Experience a Range of Challenges Tremendous patient volumes: Treating millions of patients every year is quite trying for resources. Prolonged waiting periods: Delays in treatment can exacerbate conditions, which then affects patient quality of life. Disconnected workflows: Inconsistencies between systems make it impossible to integrate care between departments. Massive complexity in data handling: High volumes of clinical, operational, and financial data overwhelm the hospital management. How Cellma Changes the Standards for Orthopaedic Solutions Cellma our advanced EMR solution, comprises a range of modules to address the issues in orthopaedic care. From increasing efficiency and communication, ensuring the best experience for the patient and provider alike, every module and feature has been crafted specifically to meet these needs. Patient Administration System (PAS) module: Cellma’s PAS module provides simplifications in patient registration, appointment scheduling, and bed management. It traces the patient’s journey from referral to discharge to ensure orthopaedic departments work effectively. For example, it can conduct real-time booking for the operating theatre slots to avoid delays and optimise resource utilisation. Electronic Patient Records (EPR) module: The EPR module consolidates patient information, providing orthopaedic teams immediate access to medical histories, radiological reports, and treatment plans. With time-based tracking of improvement, comparison of pre- and post-surgical data, and powerful analysis features in a secure, user-friendly interface, the clinician is in command. Imaging module: Orthopaedic care is highly dependent on diagnostic imaging, including X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. Cellma imports images and their findings directly into the patient record, so clinicians can view and analyse the images without having to leave the system they are using. The imaging module saves time and assures accurate treatment planning. Lab Management: Cellma streamlines test ordering, tracking, and result management for patients requiring lab tests, especially orthopaedic patients. For example, preoperative tests for joint replacements will be arranged without any hassle, thus ensuring timely interventions. Document Management: Orthopaedic care generates a lot of paperwork ranging from consent forms to surgical notes. Cellma’s document management module allows for automatic digitisation and organisation of such records while they remain readily accessible with minimal burdens from administration. E-Pharmacy module: Cellma’s e-pharmacy module is a means of simplifying orthopaedic prescription management by connecting the clinician with the pharmacy without an intermediary. All prescriptions of post-operative pain management and rehabilitation medications can be made and monitored electronically to reach the patient on time. Communication Module: Cellma fills the gaps in communication between orthopaedic teams, administrators, and patients. Automated appointment reminders, secure messaging, and alerts keep everyone informed and coordinate more and ensure fewer missed appointments. Theatre Module: Theatre Module forms part of managing surgical procedures of any orthopaedic department. This module provides theatre scheduling support for efficient management by keeping track of the utilisation in the operating rooms and the management of the allocation of surgical staff. Real-time updates on availability of operating rooms ensure optimisation of resources, and integrating the data on surgeries will enable tracking of every procedure from patient preparation through recovery after surgery. It reduces delays and enhances flow while supporting better decision-making for the management of theatres. Multi-Disciplinary Module: The multi-disciplinary module would allow for teamwork since orthopaedic teams can more easily operate cohesively across departments. It also allows surgeons, physiotherapists, radiologists and so forth to gain access to shared patient data so they are in sync with others dealing with the aspects of a patient’s care. This module supports collaborative treatment planning, hence enabling teams to deliver more personalised, effective care, especially for complex cases such as joint replacements and trauma care. Business Intelligence and Reporting Module: With proper reporting tools, Cellma provides the orthopaedic departments an opportunity to gain insight into key metrics such as waiting times, procedure outcomes and resource utilisation. Predictive analytics can enable forecast demand and proactive resource planning. Patient Portal: Cellma’s Patient Portal enables the patient to control personal orthopaedic health. Thus, patients can set appointments; review medical records; inspect the outcome of imaging tests; and track their rehabilitation programme. Transparency increases collaboration and boosts patient satisfaction. Referral Portal: Cellma’s Referral Portal makes it possible to switch between primary care providers and orthopaedic specialists seamlessly without causing delays. Real-time tracking ensures timely consultation by specialists and full care for the patients. The demand for orthopaedic solutions only continues to grow, and at this point in time, that need is more pressing than ever for high-end, integrated technology. Cellma answers all those needs head-on with holistic tools that can optimise workflows, reduce wait times, and improve patient outcomes. Revolutionise your orthopaedic department. See what Cellma can do to change the face of your operations and patient care. Book a free demo today and experience the future of orthopaedic solutions. Book A Free Demo! Recent Blogs Let’s transform healthcare together. Speak with RioMed for a tailored solution. Get in Touch
Don’t Ignore That Stomach Pain—Here’s What You Need to Know About Peptic Ulcer Disease
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents Sloane had been suffering stomach pain for some weeks. She initially assumed this was stress or indigestion that led to such an unrelenting burning sensation that was draining all her energy and filling her with constant anxiety. Determined to get to the bottom line, Sloane booked an appointment online through Cellmaflex. Within minutes, she had scheduled an in-clinic consultation with a specialist, no phone call bookings, no long waits. On Sloane’s visit, the doctor reviewed her symptoms and medical history and took a few tests. The diagnosis? Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD). Armed with this diagnosis, her treatment started right away, due to which Sloane felt relieved to have clarity and thus a plan at long last. Peptic Ulcer Disease is far more common than most people might have thought. To gain a better understanding of it, read this blog for everything you need to know about the disease, including its symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. What is Peptic Ulcer Disease? Peptic ulcer disease causes open sores in your stomach lining or duodenum (the top of your small intestine). The condition causes open sores – called ulcers – develop in the lining of your digestive tract. The prefix “peptic” denotes that it is related to digestion. Pepsin and stomach acid are your stomach’s active ingredients to chemically break down the food consumed so it can be digested. Some of these juices also pass into the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). By design, these juices are very corrosive. The entire length of your GI tract is protected with a mucous lining that insulates it from its contents. This lining is especially thick in your stomach and duodenum. However, in peptic ulcer disease, this protection fails, and digestive juices corrode through the lining. Most peptic ulcers occur in your stomach or duodenum, where the gastric juices are most active. They are less frequently found elsewhere in your GI tract. According to PLOS ONE, peptic ulcer disease (PUD) affects four million people worldwide annually and has an estimated lifetime prevalence of 5−10% in the general population. Age and Gender Factors PUD can strike at any age; duodenal ulcers affect mainly younger adults. The majority of people who are afflicted by gastric ulcers are older than 60. Men are somewhat more susceptible, though more recent lifestyle factors are increasingly causing the condition to afflict more females. What are the Categories of Peptic Ulcers? Peptic ulcer disease most commonly affects your stomach and duodenum. Duodenal ulcers account for almost 80% of peptic ulcers.Stomach ulcers account for almost 20% of peptic ulcers. You can get a peptic ulcer elsewhere in your gastrointestinal tract under unusual circumstances that cause stomach juices to pass through those parts. For example: Oesophageal ulcer: Chronic acid reflux, stomach acid rising into your oesophagus, may eventually erode the mucous lining in your oesophagus enough to cause an ulcer. Your oesophagus lining isn’t as protected against acid as your stomach lining is.Jejunal ulcer: You can develop an ulcer in your middle portion of your small intestine, which is known as your jejunum, as a complication of surgery that connects your stomach to your jejunum (gastrojejunostomy). It is also referred to as a stomal ulcer, marginal ulcer or anastomotic ulcer. Symptoms of PUD Up to 70% of people with peptic ulcer disease do not have noticeable symptoms. The most common ones are upper abdominal pain (epigastric pain) and indigestion (dyspepsia), which can come and go. Indigestion includes burning pain, a feeling of fullness after eating, and discomfort that can last a while. This burning is due to stomach acids damaging the gastrointestinal lining. Some people also experience a gnawing sensation in a specific spot. Oesophageal ulcers tend to present as heartburn, especially at night. Duodenal ulcers usually worsen 2-3 hours after eating, often relieved by eating: the pain is typically located in the midepigastric region. Night time pain also may be caused by duodenal or jejunal ulcers, which have an uncomfortable sensation of lower epigastric pain. Other possible signs and symptoms of peptic ulcer disease include: Distended abdomen Regurgitation or belching Loss of appetite Vomiting Symptoms of Complications Other people may not experience any symptoms before peptic ulcer disease presents other complications. This may happen when ulcers are left untreated for too long. The uncontrolled ulcers will begin bleeding or may continue to wear away your GI tract until an opening is formed. Upper GI bleeding signs and symptoms may range from: Passing blood in your stool Black, tarry stool Coffee ground vomitus Dizziness or faintness Paleness (Pallor) Elevated pulse rate (Tachycardia) Gastrointestinal perforation signs and symptoms may include: Acute, severe abdominal pain Abdomen distended or tender to palpation Fever and chills This can cause ulcers to repeatedly heal and then re-emerge. In some people, untreated peptic ulcer disease leads to widespread scarring and/or swelling in the GI tract, which can impede food movement and also lead to increased risk of gastric cancer. Constriction or obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract may involve any or all of the following: Abdominal bloating, distension, and pain Nausea and vomiting Loss of appetite and weight loss Bowel movements cessation and constipation What Causes Peptic Ulcer Disease? When something damages the protective mucous lining of the stomach or duodenum, it leads to peptic ulcer disease. The two main causes are: H. pylori infection: A common bacteria that induces chronic inflammation and weakening of the lining. Overuse of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): NSAIDs are common over the counter (OTC) pain relievers, including pain medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen which interfere with healing of the lining. Other less common causes include infections, ischemia resulting from reduced blood flow, extreme stress, chemotherapy, and other conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Ulcers may also be caused by chronic acid reflux or gastric bypass surgery in the stomach or oesophagus. What are the Risk Factors for Peptic Ulcer Disease? You are at
Struggling with Constipation? Discover Constipation Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents Tyson had been complaining of constipation for months. He was a 34-year-old busy professional, and this condition: the bloating, aching, and irregular bowel movements, was curtailing his energy and productivity. He had tried over-the-counter medicines without much success before finally he deciding to see a doctor. However, his busy scheduled meant he neither had time for a phone call nor a long wait at the clinic. Fortunately, with Cellmaflex, within minutes, Tyson successfully booked an online appointment with a specialist without any phone call and chose the best available time for himself. Based on the symptoms presented to him, the doctor concluded that Tyson suffered from chronic constipation and prescribed a treatment plan tailored to his case. It was a relief to learn that technology was not just able to make booking easier but could, in fact, also make the healthcare journey simpler. This blog goes through constipation causes, its symptoms, complications, and how it can affect quality of life. Lifestyle determinants, potential treatments, and how Cellmaflex is modernising the face of healthcare. What is Constipation? Constipation is one of the common gastrointestinal problems and is defined as a bowel movement that occurs less than three times a week; these bowel movements may be painful, hard, dry, and difficult to pass. Although occasional constipation is normal, persistent cases can have a more considerable influence on the quality of life of an individual. According to National Library of Medicine, approximately 12% of the global population experiences constipation. And according to the Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Constipation affects between one in six and one in ten people globally at any point in time. Influence of Age, Gender, and Lifestyle Constipation does not discriminate according to age and gender; however, some people are more susceptible than others. Some of the most affected include women, particularly when pregnant or post-partum due to hormonal fluctuations. Older people are also at risk due to slow digestion and other factors of old age. Lifestyle influences, such as a lack of physical activities, inadequate hydration, and poor dieting habits, also contribute to constipation. People who are accustomed to jobs that have extended periods of sitting on a daily basis contribute to constipation. What are the Constipation Causes? Constipation occurs because the colon absorbs too much water, or the large intestine makes the poop turn hard in consistency, making it difficult to be pushed out. Typically, as the food travels up the digestive tract, your intestines absorb the nutrients, and the digested food (waste) that goes from your small intestine to your large intestine is the stuff that becomes your poop. This waste contains water that your colon absorbs so as to make it more solid. In the case of constipation, food moves slowly through your digestive tract. This occurs because the colon has too much time–more than enough time–to absorb water from the waste, thereby leaving the stool dry and hard, and unable to pass without much resistance. Lifestyle causes: Slow movement of stool may result when a patient does not: Drink sufficient fluids. Consume enough dietary fibre. Exercise regularly. Use the toilet when the urge to pass stool arises. Medications:Constipation may be a side effect of some medications, such as pain relievers. Some medicines used to treat the following conditions may also be constipation causes: High blood pressure Convulsions Depression Diseases of the nervous system Allergies Diseases of the pelvic floor musculature:The pelvic floor muscles add support for the walls of the torso. The elimination process for stool from the rectum requires relaxation and straining of these muscles. Chronic constipation may be caused by weaknesses or coordination issues with these muscles. Obstruction of the colon or rectum:Damage or alteration of the tissues in the colon or rectum can block the flow of stool. It can also be caused by tumours in the colon, rectum or other tissues nearby. Different aspects:Several diseases may affect the muscles, nerves, or hormones that regulate the passage of stool, thus causing chronic constipation. The following could be responsible: Irritable Bowel Syndrome Diabetes Multiple sclerosis Nerve dysfunction or damage Overactive thyroids, also known as hyperthyroidism Parkinson’s disease Pregnancy In some situations, the constipation causes are unknown. The Symptoms of Constipation Include Having fewer than three bowel movements a week. Having had dry, lumpy or hard stools. Stools being either painful or difficult to pass. Getting cramps or stomach-ache. Feeling bloated and nauseated. Feeling that you did not entirely empty your bowels after that movement. What are the Risk Factors for Constipation? Constipation can happen to anyone at any age. But there are some risk factors, wherein certain characteristics increase a person’s chances of becoming chronically constipated (chronic constipation) Dietary and behavioural risk factors:Some dietary and behavioural habits pose the risk for chronic constipation. Low fibre intake: Fibre helps add bulk to stools and promotes regular bowel movements. Poor fluid intake: Fluids soften the stool so that passing it becomes easier. Inactivity: Exercise causes stimulation of intestinal muscles and aids in the smooth running of the digestive system. Overlooking the urge to go: Very often, overlooking the urge to use the bathroom can cause an imbalance of bowel function, leading to constipation in time. Often, by upgrading diet and lifestyle, most people prevent and control constipation from occurring well. What are the Complications? Chronic constipation complications can be: Swollen tissues around the anus, known as haemorrhoids. Ripped tissues of the anus, also known as anal fissures. Hard stools that build up in the large intestine, called faecal impaction. Exposed tissues of the rectum that have slipped out of the anal opening, popularly known as rectal prolapse. Effective Treatments and Lifestyle Changes Treatment depends on the intensity as well as the causes. These are regular treatments that include: Dietary supplements and changes: Taking more fibre through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps soften the stool and regulate bowel movement. Laxatives: Over-the-counter drugs should not be used for long-term
Boosting Efficiency in Sexual Health Departments with Cellma our Pioneering Electronic Medical Records Software.
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents Sexual health involves an essential dimension of health care, which includes reproductive health, sexual relations, and safe practice. In health facilities, sexual health concerns include sexually transmitted infections (STIs), education on reproduction, family planning, and counselling for sexual health issues. However, running such a sensitive and complex department requires the state-of-the-art technology that can promise confidentiality, precision, and smooth operations. Cellma is our electronic medical records software, the high-tech HIMS, designed especially for healthcare providers as well as patients. When patient records are digitised with automated workflows and modules available in the sexual health field, Cellma is changing departments’ workplace ways in sexual health. Continue reading the blog to discover how Cellma, our electronic medical records software helps in sexual health department management. Relevant challenges with the department facing the sexual health in UK range from patient confidentiality, accurate record-keeping to effectively handling large numbers. Sexual health services are crucial. Numbers and statistics demonstrate the rise in demands for comprehensive sexual health care. According to the UK Government, in 2023, UK saw a spike in the number of reported STI cases. With a 4.7% rise from the previous year, new diagnoses jumped from 383,789 to a hefty 401,800. Gonorrhoea cases jumped up as well, increasing by 7.5%, rising from 79,268 cases in 2022 to 85,223 in 2023. With a 9.4% boost, syphilis diagnoses have reached 9,513 diagnoses up from 8,693. It is a reminder for everyone to stay informed, stay safe, and keep health at the top of the checklist! Common Challenges in Sexual Health Departments Include Patient Confidentiality: Safeguarding patient privacy and sensitive health information is crucial yet challenging in traditional paper-based systems. Resource Limitations: Departments often face staffing limitations, impacting service quality and efficiency. High Patient Volume: A high patient volume requires effective management that ensures the diversification of needs and is apt to not cause long wait times, thus improving the patient experience. Documentation: Manual documentation is a very time-consuming process and also probable to make errors. Digital Management: Most of the cases involve follow-up and follow-through; hence most follow-up is hectic to monitor unless managed digitally. How Cellma Revolutionises Sexual Health Department Management As the leading electronic medical records software, Cellma provides an integrated electronic means of managing patient data, automating workflows, and, respectively, ensuring better communication between healthcare professionals and their patients. Here’s How Cellma Directly Aids the Sexual Health Department Electronic Patient Records (EPR) module: In the Electronic Patient Records module of Cellma, information pertaining to a patient can be stored in one location, thereby keeping it safe. This module allows health care providers to record structured consultations with the patient; their medical histories; made diagnoses; treatment plans; and follow-up notes. This, therefore, is significantly important in an area like sexual health where information must be restricted to just the right personnel only and all those risks that accompany paper records. Only the personnel with appropriate role access can have direct access to patients’ information and the opportunity to review past treatments, test results, and previous consults for truly timely decisions in appointments. Patient Administration System (PAS) module The PAS module in Cellma makes the process of registration fast and efficient; it manages patient appointments, check-in, and waiting lists for departments to take large volumes of patients. As large number of patients pass through some specific points of the day in departments, PAS automates various administrative tasks that free the time of staff to focus on urgent issues relating to the patients. In addition, a patient who requires follow-up can be monitored through PAS to maintain continuity in care. Document Management ModuleSexual health department have tons of paperwork: consent forms, treatment summaries, etc. Cellma’s document management module allows these documents to be administered electronically, from where authorised personnel can access them, upload, retrieve, or even update them without needing any physical storage space; all this would bring down clutter in a room, providing so much transparency and engagement with patients. E-Pharmacy The module streamlines the prescription process for patients who need treatment through medication with STIs or other sexual health-related complaints. The Cellma’s E-Pharmacy module enables doctors to send prescriptions electronically such that the patient may retrieve them at the associated pharmacies. It eases medication processes, saves time, and ensures that the patients may start their treatments promptly. Lab ModuleThis module streamlines the whole process of diagnostic testing with full integration between the patient record and lab results, direct assistance for sexual health departments conducting high volumes of STI screens, HIV tests, and other diagnostics in an orderly workflow from order placement to result entry. Because lab results are automatically linked to the electronic record of a patient as soon as they become available, wait times are lowered and so is the likelihood of lost paper. Results can be immediately accessed by healthcare providers for immediate discussion with patients and thus, prompt and informed decisions regarding treatment. Imaging Module Cellma’s imaging module is designed to be used within the departments of diagnostic imaging for accurate assessments, such as ultrasound or radiology services often required in reproductive health settings. The imaging module integrates directly with the imaging devices and systems and allows the healthcare providers to view and review the diagnostic images right there within the electronic record of the patient. Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) module Cellma’s MDT module enables comprehensive treatment of complicated cases through frictionless collaboration among teams consisting of healthcare providers with different specialties while developing an integrated treatment plan. Sexual health departments often pose a case that requires coordinated care. This module supports case reviews, and easy documentation to enable holistic, time-effective patient care. With streamlined teamwork, the MDT module enhances communication, so there is minimal delay and further improved outcomes for patients. Reporting ModuleSexual health department needs proper data analysis and reporting about current operations. The Reporting and Analytics module within Cellma allows one to know demographics about patients, treatment outcomes, and resource utilisation. This is important in identifying trends, understanding what the patient needs are, and improving service delivery based on data-driven decisions. Patient Portal Patient portal of Cellma empowers patients as they get
Cellma, Our EMR Software for Rheumatology: Streamlining Care and Boosting Patient Outcomes
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents The rheumatology department in any healthcare facility has a very unique challenge. The rising number of patients with chronic joint and autoimmune conditions means that hospitals are severely strained in terms of resource and care coordination. While treatment in medicine is advanced, patients often require the services of multiple healthcare providers: a rheumatologist, physical therapist, and pain management specialist, among others. Consequently, there is constant demand by these chronic conditions for greater efficiency in the sharing of information, seamless tracking of patients, and for flexible scheduling. This is where Cellma, an EMR software, comes in-by offering fully digital solutions designed to streamline rheumatology care. Read the blog to learn how our EMR software, Cellma transforms rheumatology care and hospital’s management and operations. Rheumatology is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting joints, muscles, and bones. Examples of common conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, osteoarthritis, and gout. All these diseases are lifelong; hence, they require long-term medical attention and alteration in treatment plans. Therefore, it is important for the healthcare providers to have ready access to accurate patient records quickly and coordinate care with minimal hassle. According to Versus Arthritis report published in 2024, over 10 million people in the UK have arthritis. That is one in six people living with the pain, fatigue, and reduced dexterity that it can cause. Prevalence estimates are available for many types of arthritis. There are an estimated 10 million people with Osteoarthritis (OA) in the UK, an estimated 5.4 million with knee OA, and an estimated 3.2 million with hip OA. 450,000 adults have a recorded diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis, and 190,000 adults are estimated to have Psoriatic Arthritis. One in three people in the UK has an Musculoskeletal condition – over 20 million people (20,295,706). This includes: 11.6 million women and 8.7 million men of all ages. The Strain on Rheumatology Departments: With such a high prevalence, departments across the UK are overwhelmed with that many patients every day. The demands pose complex lifelong conditions that call for specialised, and often repeated, after-care. These demands stretch the resources thin, and hence, it becomes very challenging for healthcare providers to maintain quality and personalised care for every patient. Factors that challenge the departments include: High patient load management: With the high number of patients, it’s hard to provide immediate care to all the patients in time, leading to lengthy waiting times and possible delayed care. Care coordination: Patients often need medication and therapy along with continuous monitoring, which calls for timely care coordination and proper treatment plan tracking. Access to Detailed Patient Records: Rheumatologists need immediate access to patient histories, lab results, and past treatment responses. However, limited data management tools can limit such access. Follow-Up Adherence: It is a chronic condition, and the patient needs follow-up consistently, but it does become challenging to track when each one of them follows a unique schedule. How does Cellma Help Manage Rheumatology Care? Core modules Cellma provides several modules that are suited to improve efficiency and outcomes. Here is how each module plays an important role in supporting the needs of the rheumatology departments: Electronic Patient Record (EPR) Module: Cellma’s EPR module contains all patient information in a central, electronic location, thus providing the most accessible source of information to authorised healthcare providers. All details ranging from the first assessments up to the ongoing treatment records are logged and stored with complete security. The EPR module captures all the patient data in the whole care pathway regardless of where the services were rendered for a seamless flow of information. With its two-way connectivity, this easily lets the rheumatologist gain and up-date access into the information, so coordinating care can be effectively achieved while having the option of getting information and making wise judgments over the complex condition concerned. Patient Administration System (PAS) Module: Cellma PAS module helps in the simplification of administrative procedures. This module contains patient registration, scheduling of appointments, and admitting/discharge. For the department, where routine follow-ups and specialist consultations are made, the PAS streamlines the process. Patients can also book appointments through a web portal or app from Cellma, making it easier to access and easing administrative burdens on the department. Document Management Module: Most care plans involve several documents that sometimes need to be prepared. Among them are consent forms, treatment plans, diagnostic reports, and care summaries for ongoing care. The Cellma Document Management module brings all the documents together into a digital repository. Through this digital repository, healthcare providers can easily locate their necessary documents without any trouble of hunting through files in paper format. This system minimizes misplaced or lost documents and contributes to operational efficiency and safety in data storage. It saves rheumatologists the task of referring back to earlier treatments in formulating care decisions for chronic care patients. Imaging Module: Imaging module plays a key role in diagnosis and tracking conditions such as musculoskeletal in rheumatology through assessment of joint damage among patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Cellma’s imaging module makes integrating reports and digital images which include X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds with the patient electronic records straightforward. This enables the healthcare providers to observe and analyse the images at their place within Cellma, which improves the time and accuracy of diagnostics. Besides, it allows for imaging across departments and specialists who can collaborate quickly and reach proper assessments with timely intervention. Lab Module: The majority of patients with rheumatology need lab tests for the follow-up of inflammatory markers, renal functions, and other appropriate measures. Cellma’s Lab module incorporates the direct results of the laboratory in the EPR to let providers view real-time critical test results. Utilising automatic workflows, test results such as ESR, CRP, and kidney function are noted on the records of patients right away they are generated. This minimises delays and prevents errors. E-Pharmacy The E-Pharmacy module of Cellma offers prescription
