The role of information technology in enhancing educational effectiveness: evidence from higher education institutions
Introduction: Information technology has become a fundamental component in modern higher ed- ucation, significantly influencing teaching, learning, and administrative practices. The integration of information technology offers opportunities to enhance educational effectiveness by improving stu- dent engagement, supporting personalized learning, and facilitating institutional efficiency. Objective: This literature review aims to examine the role of information technology in enhancing educational effectiveness in higher education institutions. It synthesizes existing research to identify key benefits, challenges, and best practices in the adoption of information technology in educational settings. Methodology: A comprehensive review of national and international literature was conducted, focus- ing on studies published in the last two decades. Sources included peer-reviewed journals, books, and conference proceedings related to information technology applications in higher education and their impact on learning outcomes and institutional performance. Findings: The review indicates that information technology integration enhances teaching and learning quality, increases student motivation and autonomy, and supports administrative efficiency. Emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, mobile learning, and digital collabo - ration tools have been shown to further enrich the educational experience. Challenges include infra- structure costs, digital literacy gaps, and potential impacts on social interaction. Conclusions: The evidence from the literature suggests that information technology plays a crucial role in improving educational effectiveness in higher education. Institutions are encouraged to adopt strategic policies, invest in infrastructure, and provide training to maximize the benefits of infor - mation technology integration. Future research should explore long-term impacts of technology-en - hanced learning on student outcomes and institutional performance.
Comparative analysis of health technology assessment and health economic evaluations in Western Balkan countries versus Albania
Health Technology Assessment (HTA) and health economic evaluations are key instruments for evi - dence-based decision making in health systems facing increasing budgetary pressure. HTA supports transparent and rational allocation of limited resources by assessing the clinical, economic, ethical and social value of health technologies. This paper compares the development and practical use of HTA and health economic evaluations in Western Balkan countries and Albania. A narrative review of World Health Organization (WHO) reports and peer-reviewed studies was conducted. Results show that Serbia and Croatia have established early legal and institutional frameworks for HTA, while Bosnia and Herze- govina recognizes HTA in legislation but lacks functional implementation structures. Across the region, health economic evaluations are mainly applied in reimbursement decisions for medicines but are rarely used systematically in broader health policy. Albania remains at the earliest stage of HTA development, with no formal national HTA agency and limited use of standardized economic evaluations. The findings highlight major gaps in institutional capacity, legal frameworks and data availability. Strengthening HTA structures, harmonizing evaluation standards and promoting regional cooperation could significantly im- prove transparency, efficiency and equity of health spending decisions. The study concludes that Albania lags behind neighboring countries in formal HTA implementation and requires urgent policy action to align with European standards.
The ethics of communication with patients: A qualitative analysis of transparency and information
Introduction: Effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients is an essential component of person-centred care and has a direct impact on the quality of care, patient experience, and health outcomes. This material addresses how the communication style of healthcare professionals and their perceptions of patients can influence patient engagement, satisfaction, and adherence to treatment. Patient-centred communication models significantly enhance healthcare professionals–patient interaction and contribute to improved physical and psychological outcomes. This is especially important in mental healthcare, where verbal communication is often the primary means of diagnosis and treatment, making the establishment of a shared understanding with the patient crucial.
Objective: This study explores the importance of effective communication between healthcare profes-sionals and patients by exploring how communication styles and healthcare professionals’ perceptions influence patient engagement, satisfaction, and adherence to treatment, with the ultimate goal of enhanc-ing health outcomes and promoting a person-centred approach, particularly in mental health care settings.
Methodology: This study employed the method of literature review as a qualitative approach to collect, analyze, and interpret existing data. Both national and international sources were examined, including scholarly articles, academic publications, institutional reports, and health policy documents. The aim of this methodology was to provide a clear theoretical and practical framework on the topic and to identify best practices and challenges within the relevant field. The selection of literature was purposeful, focusing on reliable and relevant sources aligned with the study’s objectives.
Conclusions: Effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients plays a fundamen-tal role in improving the quality of care and health outcomes. The communication style and attitudes of healthcare professionals significantly influence patient engagement, satisfaction, and adherence to treatment. Emphasizing a person-centred approach strengthens the therapeutic alliance and is especially critical in mental health care, where communication is often the primary tool for both diagnosis and inter-vention. Investing in the development of communication competencies among healthcare professionals is essential to delivering compassionate, individualized, and effective care.
Substance use among Albanian youth: Health consequences, knowledge, and social perceptions
Introduction: The use of psychoactive substances among young people is an increasing challenge in Albania, with serious impacts on their physical, mental, and social well-being. This study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and practical experiences of young people related to drug use, as well as the contributing factors and possible consequences in their personal and academic lives. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and practices of young people in Tirana regarding drug use, and to identify the factors contributing to its use and the effects on mental, physical health, and social/professional life.
Methodology
This study was conducted using a quantitative research method through the collection of data via a structured questionnaire. Participants were selected through random sampling, including young people from various cities in Albania. Data was collected from 517 young individuals aged 18–25 in the city of Tirana. The data were statistically analyzed to identify key trends and correlations between various fac-tors. Data collection was carried out online (anonymously), using the Google Forms platform to ensure quick and efficient information gathering.
Conclusions
The results revealed a significant lack of knowledge about the real risks of drug use, especially concern-ing the most widespread substances such as cannabis. A considerable portion of young people expressed tolerant attitudes toward drug use, influenced by peer pressure, curiosity, and emotional stress. The findings highlight direct impacts on mental health, including symptoms of anxiety, depression, and dete-rioration in sleep and concentration. The social and academic effects include social isolation, decreased academic performance, and strained family relationships. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the need for comprehensive educational interventions, prevention strategies, and psycho-social support for young people in Albania in order to reduce the long-term impact of this phenomenon.
Pharmacogenetics and personalized treatment in chronic congenital anemias: Integrated perspectives and a systematic review
Objective: This comprehensive article explores the emerging role of pharmacogenetics in optimizing treatment for chronic congenital anemias, including β-thalassemia, sickle cell disease (SCD), and rare erythropoietic disorders. It integrates a systematic review with an in-depth clinical analysis of personal-ized medicine strategies.
Methods: A systematic literature review (2015 - 2024) was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, following PRISMA guidelines.
Results: Genetic profiling significantly improves drug selection, dosing, and toxicity management in
congenital anemias.
Conclusion: Pharmacogenetics supports a transformative shift toward personalized therapy in hema-tology by improving efficacy, reducing adverse effects, and enabling the integration of novel targeted treatments.
Stress and depression among nurses: Impact on quality of life in Tirana’s hospital centers
Introduction:
The mental health of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, is an increasingly important issue in modern healthcare systems. Daily exposure to stressful situations, multiple responsibilities, and emotion-al burdens significantly affect the mental well-being of these professionals. However, in many cases, their psychological needs remain underestimated, impacting not only their personal quality of life but also the effectiveness of patient care.
Objective:
The aim of this study is to assess the impact of stress and depression on the quality of life of nursing staff in hospital centers in the city of Tirana. Through a questionnaire distributed across five hospital centers, the study aims to identify the levels of stress and depression, and their correlation with the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of quality of life.
Methodology:
The research method is based on data collection using standardized questionnaires: the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) for stress, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) for depression, and the WHOQOL-BREF for quality of life. Data collection was conducted between February 2025 and May 2025 (over a four-month period). The questionnaire was completed via the Google Forms platform. Responses were gath-ered from 410 nursing staff members working in hospital centers in the city of Tirana.
Conclusions:
The findings of this study demonstrate a strong correlation between high levels of stress and depressive symptoms with a significant reduction in quality of life among nursing staff. The negative effects of these psychological phenomena manifest as persistent fatigue, deterioration of interpersonal relation-ships, and a noticeable decline in professional performance, which directly affects the quality of care provided to patients. The study highlights the need for structured interventions such as psychological support, improved working conditions, and early identification of symptoms, in order to maintain men-tal health and improve the quality of healthcare services.