Research Appraisals
Evidence-based critical appraisals of the latest medical research, systematically evaluated using Oxford CEBM methodology.
Showing 2 appraisals
Scientific reports
Satisfaction with telepsychiatry and mental health stigma among health sciences students in Egyptian universities
Health sciences students have a higher incidence of mental health disorders; however, stigma and barriers have complicated help-seeking. Telepsychiatry may be a solution, but acceptance, satisfaction, and stigma in this population, especially in Egypt, remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the levels of satisfaction regarding telepsychiatry, stigma perceived with respect to mental illness, among health sciences students towards mental health services. It also aims to assess sociodemographic factors associated with these outcomes. This was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study conducted among 799 students from various universities in Egypt. It was conducted between August and November 2025, and the questionnaire involved sociodemographic data, the telepsychiatry satisfaction scale (21 items), and the STIG-9 stigma scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square and t-tests, and linear regression, with significance set at p < 0.05. Overall, participants had a mean age of 21.4 years, while 66.8% of participants were female. In total, 24.0% agreed, and 18.4% strongly agreed to being satisfied with telepsychiatry, with a mean total satisfaction score of 67.84/105. The mean STIG‑9 stigma score was 14.44/27. Linear regression identified sociodemographic variables independently associated with satisfaction and stigma; higher stigma was also positively associated with higher satisfaction. In this cohort of Egyptian health sciences students with prior telepsychiatry experience, satisfaction with telepsychiatry was positively associated with perceived stigma. These findings suggest that addressing socio-cultural stigma may support the acceptability of telepsychiatry and improve engagement with digital mental health services in similar student populations.
13 July 2026
Read appraisal →Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology
Telemedicine for headache disorders in real-world practice: from patient experience to health system impact.
BACKGROUND: Telemedicine has expanded rapidly in neurological care and is increasingly applied to headache management to improve access and continuity of follow-up. However, patient experience and healthcare system impact in real-world practice remain insufficiently explored. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this narrative review is to evaluate clinical effectiveness, patient experience, and healthcare system impact in the management of headache disorders. METHODS: A narrative review of the literature was conducted, including randomized controlled trials, observational studies, real-world evidence contributions, and reviews addressing telemedicine in headache care. Evidence was synthesized thematically, focusing on clinical outcomes, patient acceptance, and implementation aspects. RESULTS: Available evidence supports the clinical effectiveness and safety of telemedicine in selected headache patients, particularly in non-acute settings and structured follow-up pathways. Outcomes assessed using validated instruments (HIT-6, MIDAS, VAS) are generally comparable to in-person visits. High patient satisfaction and willingness to continue telemedicine are consistently reported, mainly due to convenience and time and cost savings. Real-world studies suggest telemedicine may improve access to specialist care and optimize healthcare resource utilization, although challenges related to digital literacy, organizational requirements, and equity remain. CONCLUSIONS: Telemedicine is a valuable component of contemporary headache management when integrated into structured clinical pathways. Beyond clinical effectiveness, patient experience and organizational context are critical for successful implementation. Future research should focus on standardized care models, larger populations, and long-term real-world outcomes.
5 July 2026
Read appraisal →