To develop a purification strategy for isolating the most primitive hematopoietic stem cells present in normal human marrow we have combined cell separation techniques with an assay for cells that initiate sustained hematopoiesis in vitro in the presence of irradiated human marrow adherent cells. These "feeders" were established by subculturing 2- to 6-week-old primary long-term marrow culture ...

BACKGROUND Since in an ageing society more long-term care (LTC) facilities are needed, it is important to understand the main determinants of first-time utilization of (LTC) services. METHODS The Andersen service model, which distinguishes predisposing, enabling and need factors, was used to develop a model for first-time utilization of LTC services among the general population of the Netherl...

In this issue of the Health Care Financing Review, we present research that speaks to the importance of psychosocial care and its relationship to the overall well-being and quality of life for people receiving long-term care (LTC) services in nursing homes and community-based settings. The articles address numerous psychosocial processes of care and outcomes within the LTC service spectrum. Thi...

Like many welfare states, France is faced with increasing demand for long term care (LTC) services. Public LTC coverage has evolved over the past 15 years, reaching a coverage depth of 70%. Nonetheless, it does not provide adequate and equitable financial protection for the growing number of frail elderly individuals, who are expected to constitute 3% of the population by the year 2060. Since 2...

OBJECTIVE This survey provides an overview of the development of policies and strategies for quality improvement in European healthcare systems, by mapping quality improvement policies and strategies, progress in their implementation, and early indications of their impact. STUDY DESIGN A survey of quality improvement policies and strategies in healthcare systems of the European Union was cond...