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Healthcare
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Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Chronic Illness Experience: A Health...
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Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Chronic Illness Experience: A Health Psychology Perspective

A special issue of Healthcare (ISSN 2227-9032).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 May 2025 | Viewed by 4433

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Vasiliki Efstathiou

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece
Interests: health psychology; psychodermatology; chronic illness; medication and treatment adherence

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are happy to invite you to contribute to this Special Issue focusing on Health Psychology—a scientific field that integrates biological, psychological, environmental, and sociocultural factors to improve our holistic understanding of physical health and illness. Therefore, the adoption of an interdisciplinary approach is essential in designing and implementing effective and empirically based interventions that promote healthy behaviors, optimize chronic disease management, and enhance patient–provider communication.

This Special Issue seeks to deepen our understanding of the multifaceted elements that are related to physical health and the experience of receiving healthcare, thereby aligning with the journal's scope and objectives. By focusing on health psychology, we hope to draw attention to and highlight cutting-edge research and innovative practices that contribute to health promotion, illness prevention, treatment and rehabilitation, palliative care, health policy, and the improvement of the healthcare system.

Original research papers, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses are all invited and welcomed to this Special Issue. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following: health communication, health promotion and disease prevention, behavioral health interventions, the stress, coping, and adjustments experienced in chronic illness, chronic illness and disease management, pain management, medication and treatment adherence, quality of life, mental health, childhood and adolescent health and illness, women’s health issues, and palliative care and end-of-life issues.

Healthcare is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published by MDPI (based in Basel, Switzerland), with an IF = 2.4 and a Journal rank Q2 (healthcare sciences and services). The journal is covered by many databases, including EBSCO, Scopus, and PubMed.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Vasiliki Efstathiou
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Healthcare is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • health promotion
  • disease prevention
  • chronic illness experience
  • palliative care
  • post-traumatic growth
  • quality of life
  • health communication
  • healthcare professionals’ well-being
  • health behavior change interventions
  • digital health interventions

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (5 papers)

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20 pages, 262 KiB  
Article
Barriers and Facilitators to Psychological Safety During Medical Procedures Among Individuals Diagnosed with Chronic Illness in Childhood
by Hannah Roche, Liza Morton and Nicola Cogan
Healthcare 2025, 13(8), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13080914 - 16 Apr 2025
Viewed by 186
Abstract
Background: This study explores barriers and facilitators to psychological safety during medical procedures among individuals diagnosed with chronic illnesses in childhood. Psychological safety in healthcare, detected via neuroception and the autonomic nervous system’s responses to perceived safety or threat, is essential for the [...] Read more.
Background: This study explores barriers and facilitators to psychological safety during medical procedures among individuals diagnosed with chronic illnesses in childhood. Psychological safety in healthcare, detected via neuroception and the autonomic nervous system’s responses to perceived safety or threat, is essential for the well-being and mental health of chronically ill patients, especially those with early diagnoses. Methods: Using Polyvagal Theory as a framework, semi-structured interviews were conducted with six participants (aged 20–64) who experienced chronic disease from a young age. The Neuroception of Psychological Safety Scale (NPSS) guided thematic exploration to understand participants’ experiences. Thematic analysis identified key themes that reflect contributors and detractors to psychological safety during medical care. Results: Four primary themes were developed: (1) knowledge empowerment through information and facilitated inquiry, (2) holistic acknowledgment of psychological and social impacts, (3) the role of parental involvement in healthcare interactions, and (4) the need for an individualised, patient-centred approach. Participants expressed a need for psychological support integrated with their medical treatment and the importance of autonomy and clear communication. Conclusions: Psychological safety is central to medical experiences for chronically ill individuals and requires a patient-centred, psychologically informed approach. Emphasising tailored support, family involvement, and comprehensive mental health consideration can foster more effective care and enhance patients’ long-term well-being. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Chronic Illness Experience: A Health Psychology Perspective)
28 pages, 2200 KiB  
Article
Assessing Patient Satisfaction with Hospital Services: Perspectives from Bihor County Emergency Hospital, Romania
by Aliz Ildiko Bradács, Florica Voiță-Mekeres, Lucia Georgeta Daina, Lavinia Davidescu and Călin Tudor Hozan
Healthcare 2025, 13(7), 836; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13070836 - 7 Apr 2025
Viewed by 271
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The objective of this study is to assess overall patient satisfaction with hospital services, including cleanliness, ward conditions, and food quality. Another key goal is to determine patient willingness to return for future medical services and identify the factors influencing this decision. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The objective of this study is to assess overall patient satisfaction with hospital services, including cleanliness, ward conditions, and food quality. Another key goal is to determine patient willingness to return for future medical services and identify the factors influencing this decision. Moreover, the study explores the relationship between patient satisfaction and continuity of care, as indicated by previous hospitalizations. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate patient satisfaction at the Bihor County Emergency Clinical Hospital in Oradea, Romania. A standardized 40-item questionnaire was developed in accordance with the Framework Agreement on the provision of medical assistance within the Romanian healthcare system. The survey, which was administered over a four-year period (2019–2022), covered seven domains: demographic data, accessibility, hotel conditions, quality of care, patient safety and rights, overall satisfaction, and feedback. A total of 12,802 patients completed the questionnaire, and all statistical analyses were performed using R Studio. Results: This study analyzes patient-reported satisfaction and experiences in a large healthcare facility, based on data from 12,802 participants. Overall, 91% of respondents rated the hospital positively, with 62% giving an excellent score. Spiritual assistance was well received (71%), and 70% of patients expressed willingness to return for future medical needs. Hospital cleanliness and ward conditions were rated highly, with 71% of respondents reporting excellent experiences. Food quality was positively reviewed by 66% of participants. Most patients (95%) confirmed proper hygiene practices by medical staff, and 95% were informed about their diagnosis. However, only 67% were aware of the complaint submission process. The dataset spans 2019–2022, with the highest hospitalizations in 2020 (36%) and obstetrics, cardiology, and general surgery being the most common specialties. Conclusions: This dataset reflects a high level of patient satisfaction across multiple dimensions of hospital services, including cleanliness, quality of care, and patient information. However, areas such as complaint handling and transparency in medication handling require further attention to improve the overall patient experience. The findings underscore the hospital’s strong performance in meeting patient expectations while identifying key areas for continued improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Chronic Illness Experience: A Health Psychology Perspective)
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17 pages, 647 KiB  
Article
A Qualitative Study Exploring the Rehabilitation Experience of Individuals with a Previous Diagnosis of Cancer and/or Sepsis, Their Caregivers, and Health Providers
by Jenna Smith-Turchyn, Christopher Farley, Anastasia N. L. Newman, Jayden Pannu, Bram Rochwerg, Som D. Mukherjee, Marla Beauchamp, Linda C. Li, Hira Mian and Michelle E. Kho
Healthcare 2025, 13(7), 822; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13070822 - 4 Apr 2025
Viewed by 266
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Survivors of cancer have more than double the risk of developing sepsis compared to those with no history of cancer. Those who develop sepsis have lasting side effects reducing their physical function and quality of life. Rehabilitation-related needs and barriers are unknown [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Survivors of cancer have more than double the risk of developing sepsis compared to those with no history of cancer. Those who develop sepsis have lasting side effects reducing their physical function and quality of life. Rehabilitation-related needs and barriers are unknown for individuals with cancer who have had sepsis. The aim of this study was to examine the rehabilitation-related experiences of patients with cancer and/or sepsis, their caregivers, and the healthcare team and the educational needs regarding the rehabilitation of patients with sepsis. Methods: We performed a qualitative descriptive study using interviews and focus groups for data generation. We included adults living in Canada who were English-speaking, currently or formerly diagnosed with cancer and/or sepsis, or a caregiver of someone with a current or past diagnosis of cancer and/or sepsis, or a healthcare professional working with this population. Two reviewers used NVivo software for data management and conducted a qualitative data analysis. Results: We included 30 study participants (nine patients, nine caregivers, 12 healthcare professionals; 15 for one-on-one interviews; 15 in the focus groups). We identified three overarching themes relating to rehabilitation: (1) the rehabilitation experience did not meet the patient’s care expectations; (2) barriers to rehabilitation exist on multiple levels; (3) there are important gaps in education on how to improve physical and psychosocial outcomes. We identified two themes related to educational resources: (1) the educational content provided must be specific and meaningful; (2) multi-modal resources are needed to suit diverse partner needs. Conclusions: We identified rehabilitation barriers related to healthcare settings, the pandemic, and workplace culture for those with cancer and sepsis. This study highlights the need to create diverse educational resources on rehabilitation for those with sepsis to improve outcomes and patient/caregiver satisfaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Chronic Illness Experience: A Health Psychology Perspective)
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18 pages, 2769 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Health Promotion in International Schools Using the Schools for Health in Europe (SHE) Rapid Assessment Tool
by Jaime Barrio-Cortes, María Díaz-Quesada, María Martínez-Cuevas, Amelia McGill, Cristina María Lozano-Hernández, Cayetana Ruiz-Zaldibar, María Teresa Beca-Martínez and Montserrat Ruiz-López
Healthcare 2025, 13(6), 633; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13060633 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 379
Abstract
Background: Many schools are committed to the “Five Steps to a Health Promoting School guide” created by the Schools for Health in Europe (SHE) network to avoid chronic disease and promote healthy environments. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate schools’ [...] Read more.
Background: Many schools are committed to the “Five Steps to a Health Promoting School guide” created by the Schools for Health in Europe (SHE) network to avoid chronic disease and promote healthy environments. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate schools’ health promotion policies and practices via the SHE rapid assessment tool. Methods: From February 2019 to June 2019, a cross-sectional survey based on this tool was conducted in nine international schools that are part of a private network operating in multiple countries. The entire school community was offered the opportunity to participate. The survey consisted of 37 questions aligned with the whole-school approach to health promotion and addressed orientation, healthy school policy, the physical and social environment, health skills, community links, and staff well-being using a three-point scale. A univariate analysis was subsequently performed. Results: A total of 929 people responded, 59.7% of whom were women, representing 74 different nationalities (82.5% Europeans). The average age was 25.9 years, ranging from 7 to 77 years. The participants included 57.2% students, 21.3% teachers, 15.3% families, 3.2% management teams, 1% counsellors/psychologists, 1% administrative/service staff, 0.5% catering staff, 0.3% nursing/medical staff, and 0.2% maintenance staff. The findings revealed that 80% of the respondents felt that most of these health promotion needs were being partially or fully addressed, predominantly with medium or high priority. However, 30% of the respondents indicated that the school had not yet assessed the students’ and employees’ health and well-being needs or fully promoted a healthy work-life. Conclusions: The SHE rapid assessment tool serves as an effective initial step in identifying key indicators within the school community, offering insights for future action towards becoming a health-promoting school. These results underscore the importance of addressing social and behavioural determinants of health within different international educational settings to promote positive sociorelational well-being and youth development. By fostering the well-being of children, adolescents, and the educational community, schools play a pivotal role in reducing the risk factors for chronic diseases and supporting psychosocial adaptation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Chronic Illness Experience: A Health Psychology Perspective)
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24 pages, 283 KiB  
Brief Report
The Role of Psychological Health in Cardiovascular Health: A Racial Comparison
by Briana N. Sprague and Kelly M. Mosesso
Healthcare 2025, 13(8), 846; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13080846 - 8 Apr 2025
Viewed by 204
Abstract
Purpose: Modifiable health factors influence racial disparities in cardiovascular health (CVH), yet the role of psychological health in these disparities remains understudied. This study examines (1) the association between negative and positive psychological health measures and CVH and (2) the racial differences [...] Read more.
Purpose: Modifiable health factors influence racial disparities in cardiovascular health (CVH), yet the role of psychological health in these disparities remains understudied. This study examines (1) the association between negative and positive psychological health measures and CVH and (2) the racial differences in these associations among US adults. Methods: Aim 1 included adults aged 34–84 from the MIDUS biomarker substudy (n = 1255). Aim 2 included adults aged 28–84 from the MIDUS parent study (N = 4702). Our outcome was CVH, operationalized as the AHA’s Life’s Essential 8 (LE8) total score, behavior, and health factor subscores. Negative psychological health was operationalized as depressive symptoms (CES-D), stress reactivity (from the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire [MPS]), aggression (from the MPS), pessimism (Life Orientation Test), perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale), and trait anxiety (Spielberger Trait Anxiety Inventory); positive psychological health was operationalized as psychological well-being (“PWB”; Ryff Well-Being Scale [WBS] and MPS), purpose in life (from the WBS), mindfulness (developed by MIDUS), gratitude (developed by MIDUS), and optimism (Life Orientation Test). Results: In covariate-adjusted models, most negative psychological health factors were negatively associated with LE8 total scores and health behavior subscores. Of those, pessimism was the only factor to demonstrate Black–White differences (Black > White, p < 0.001). Positive psychological health factors were less consistently associated with the LE8 total, health behavior, and health factor subscores in covariate-adjusted models. Of these, PWB (Black > White, p < 0.001), gratitude (Black > White, p < 0.001), and optimism (Black > White, p < 0.001) demonstrated significant differences by race. Conclusions: Black–White differences in LE8 are not largely explained by differences in psychological health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Chronic Illness Experience: A Health Psychology Perspective)
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