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Guzman-Serratos JL, Martinez-Ramirez RD, Gutierrez-Jimenez I, Vargas-Amésquita A, Aceves-Avila FJ, Ramos-Remus C. Analysis of the image and corporate identity of the Colegio Mexicano de Reumatologia: Is it time to redefine it? REUMATOLOGIA CLINICA 2024; 20:326-333. [PMID: 38991826 DOI: 10.1016/j.reumae.2024.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES The Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología (CMR) is a corporation whose brand has two elements-image and identity-that differentiate it from other corporations. We evaluated aspects of CMR's corporate image and identity. SUBJECTS AND METHODS To assess corporate image, we designed a survey using proof-of-concept and discrete-choice-experiments approaches. It assessed which definition (orthopedist, rheumatologist, or rehabilitator) was most meaningful in four pain scenarios in healthy adults from the country's Western region. We used discourse analysis and five readability indices of the CMR website to assess corporate identity. RESULTS In total, 700 respondents were included. For every rheumatologist chosen in the hand scenario, respondents chose 1.13 orthopedists and 0.70 rehabilitators. For every rheumatologist chosen in the knee scenario, respondents chose 2.36 orthopedists and 0.64 rehabilitators, whereas 0.85 orthopedists and 0.58 rehabilitators were chosen in the arthritis scenario. Only 38% of the respondents preferred the CMR's definition of a rheumatologist to describe a rheumatologist. The younger age group preferred orthopedists to rheumatologists (50% vs. 31%, p<0.001). In the arthritis scenario, the choice of rheumatologist increased from 27% in the elementary school group to 49% in the university group (p<0.001). Mother was the most influential in healthcare seeking. The discursive analysis revealed that the CMR is positioned as a "we" restricted to "colleagues;" the patient did not have agentive representation. The semiotic structure of the CMR's mission/vision was deemed imprecise and lacking in statements of value and purpose; the readability scores indicated that the text was challenging and dry. CONCLUSIONS The CMR's corporate image does not differentiate it from other health providers. CMR's identity seems ambiguous with restricted directionality. It seems pertinent to redefine the CMR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Alicia Vargas-Amésquita
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades, División de Estudios Históricos y Humanos, Departamento de Historia, Universidad de Guadalajara, Mexico
| | | | - Cesar Ramos-Remus
- Unidad de Investigación en Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Mexico.
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Boy K, von Rohr S, May S, Kuhn S, Schett G, Labinsky H, Knitza J, Muehlensiepen F. Pre-assessment of patients with suspected axial spondyloarthritis combining student-led clinics and telemedicine: a qualitative study. Rheumatol Int 2024; 44:663-673. [PMID: 38289350 PMCID: PMC10914903 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-023-05522-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients referred to rheumatologists are currently facing months of inefficient waiting time due to the increasing demand and rising workforce shortage. We piloted a pre-assessment of patients with suspected axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) combining student-led clinics and telemedicine (symptom assessment, symptom monitoring and at-home capillary self-sampling) to improve access to rheumatology care. The aim of this study was to explore (1) current challenges accessing axSpA care and (2) patients' first-hand experiences. METHODS Embedded within a clinical trial, this study was based on qualitative interviews with patients with suspected axSpA (n = 20). Data was analysed via qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Student-led clinics were perceived as high-quality care, comparable to conventional rheumatologist-led visits. Patients expressed that their interactions with the students instilled a sense of trust. History-taking and examinations were perceived as comprehensive and meticulous. Telehealth tools were seen as empowering, offering immediate and continuous access to symptom assessment at home. Patients reported a lack of specificity of the electronic questionnaires, impeding accurate responses. Patients requested a comments area to supplement questionnaire responses. Some patients reported receiving help to complete the blood collection. CONCLUSION Patients' access to rheumatology care is becoming increasingly burdensome. Pre-assessment including student-led clinics and telemedicine was highly accepted by patients. Patient interviews provided valuable in-depth feedback to improve the piloted patient pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Boy
- Center for Health Services Research, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Seebad 82/83, 15562, Rüdersdorf Bei Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sophie von Rohr
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology Friedrich, Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Susann May
- Center for Health Services Research, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Seebad 82/83, 15562, Rüdersdorf Bei Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kuhn
- Institute for Digital Medicine, University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology Friedrich, Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hannah Labinsky
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology Friedrich, Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine 2, Rheumatology/Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Knitza
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology Friedrich, Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Institute for Digital Medicine, University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Felix Muehlensiepen
- Center for Health Services Research, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Seebad 82/83, 15562, Rüdersdorf Bei Berlin, Germany
- AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
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Tamada T, Sugiura H. Addressing therapeutic inertia for asthma biologics: Lessons from the KOFU study. Respir Investig 2023; 61:815-823. [PMID: 37806235 DOI: 10.1016/j.resinv.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Despite evidence-based guidelines and the availability of five biologics in Japan to treat severe asthma, approximately one-third of patients with severe asthma continue to have uncontrolled disease. This lack of appropriate evidence-based treatment is a complex issue resulting from therapeutic inertia, a lack of treatment intensification according to evidence-based guidelines for patients who are considered eligible but not receiving therapy, and is often driven by complex factors involving patients, physicians, and healthcare systems. The KOFU study, the largest cross-sectional Internet Survey for severe asthma in Japan, addressed potential barriers to starting biologic treatment and sought a solution for therapeutic inertia regarding asthma biologics. Although the burden of high medical costs is the largest barrier to initiating biologic treatment for patients, other important barriers were also revealed, including an incorrect perception of asthma severity or a poor recognition of the need for treatment intensification, a lack of proper communication with patients or a lack of confidence in the physicians, initiating biologics together with the complicated process of the insurance systems to ease the burden of high medical costs or strict criteria for the approval of biologics for health care insurance systems. Increased awareness and understanding of these barriers to biologic treatment may facilitate an optimal recommendation process to individualize treatment in patients with severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsutomu Tamada
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Hisatoshi Sugiura
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Improving access to care for rheumatology services in Canada. Clin Rheumatol 2023; 42:1205-1211. [PMID: 36746833 PMCID: PMC9901822 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-023-06532-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatic diseases are becoming increasingly prevalent in Canada, and its associated strain on the healthcare system is expected to increase over the next decades. Furthermore, there is an increasing body of evidence to suggest that access to rheumatology care is currently not meeting established quality of care benchmarks. To frame issues affecting access to care for rheumatology services in Canada, a proposed chronological framework from a rheumatology patient's perspective is proposed. Illustrating principles from a health policy lens including drawing from the stages heuristic framework and multiple streams theory, issues surrounding access to rheumatology assessment, to rheumatological investigations and lastly to appropriate treatment are explored. In particular, the current supply and demand mismatch within the rheumatology workforce presents challenges for patients in accessing rheumatic diseases providers. Potential policy solutions including increasing the pool of rheumatic diseases care providers, enhancing the clinical capacity with extended role providers and increasing uptake of virtual care are discussed. To ameliorate access to rheumatology investigations, the concept of provider education surrounding the appropriateness of investigations and merit-based funding are explored. Lastly, access to rheumatological treatment is framed using biologic therapies as an example, highlighting the policy challenges in biosimilar uptake and associated ethical and political considerations. By using a health policy lens to explore deficiencies within Canada's current system, the overarching goal of this analysis is to set the stage for reasoned and timely solutions in the future.
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Miloslavsky EM, Marston B. The Challenge of Addressing the Rheumatology Workforce Shortage. J Rheumatol 2022; 49:555-557. [PMID: 35428725 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.220300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eli M Miloslavsky
- E.M. Miloslavsky, MD, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts;
| | - Bethany Marston
- B. Marston, MD, Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
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Scott DL, Ibrahim F, Hill H, Tom B, Prothero L, Baggott RR, Bosworth A, Galloway JB, Georgopoulou S, Martin N, Neatrour I, Nikiphorou E, Sturt J, Wailoo A, Williams FMK, Williams R, Lempp H. Intensive therapy for moderate established rheumatoid arthritis: the TITRATE research programme. PROGRAMME GRANTS FOR APPLIED RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/pgfar09080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background
Rheumatoid arthritis is a major inflammatory disorder and causes substantial disability. Treatment goals span minimising disease activity, achieving remission and decreasing disability. In active rheumatoid arthritis, intensive management achieves these goals. As many patients with established rheumatoid arthritis have moderate disease activity, the TITRATE (Treatment Intensities and Targets in Rheumatoid Arthritis ThErapy) programme assessed the benefits of intensive management.
Objectives
To (1) define how to deliver intensive therapy in moderate established rheumatoid arthritis; (2) establish its clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in a trial; and (3) evaluate evidence supporting intensive management in observational studies and completed trials.
Design
Observational studies, secondary analyses of completed trials and systematic reviews assessed existing evidence about intensive management. Qualitative research, patient workshops and systematic reviews defined how to deliver it. The trial assessed its clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in moderate established rheumatoid arthritis.
Setting
Observational studies (in three London centres) involved 3167 patients. These were supplemented by secondary analyses of three previously completed trials (in centres across all English regions), involving 668 patients. Qualitative studies assessed expectations (nine patients in four London centres) and experiences of intensive management (15 patients in 10 centres across England). The main clinical trial enrolled 335 patients with diverse socioeconomic deprivation and ethnicity (in 39 centres across all English regions).
Participants
Patients with established moderately active rheumatoid arthritis receiving conventional disease-modifying drugs.
Interventions
Intensive management used combinations of conventional disease-modifying drugs, biologics (particularly tumour necrosis factor inhibitors) and depot steroid injections; nurses saw patients monthly, adjusted treatment and provided supportive person-centred psychoeducation. Control patients received standard care.
Main outcome measures
Disease Activity Score for 28 joints based on the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR)-categorised patients (active to remission). Remission (DAS28-ESR < 2.60) was the treatment target. Other outcomes included fatigue (measured on a 100-mm visual analogue scale), disability (as measured on the Health Assessment Questionnaire), harms and resource use for economic assessments.
Results
Evaluation of existing evidence for intensive rheumatoid arthritis management showed the following. First, in observational studies, DAS28-ESR scores decreased over 10–20 years, whereas remissions and treatment intensities increased. Second, in systematic reviews of published trials, all intensive management strategies increased remissions. Finally, patients with high disability scores had fewer remissions. Qualitative studies of rheumatoid arthritis patients, workshops and systematic reviews helped develop an intensive management pathway. A 2-day training session for rheumatology practitioners explained its use, including motivational interviewing techniques and patient handbooks. The trial screened 459 patients and randomised 335 patients (168 patients received intensive management and 167 patients received standard care). A total of 303 patients provided 12-month outcome data. Intention-to-treat analysis showed intensive management increased DAS28-ESR 12-month remissions, compared with standard care (32% vs. 18%, odds ratio 2.17, 95% confidence interval 1.28 to 3.68; p = 0.004), and reduced fatigue [mean difference –18, 95% confidence interval –24 to –11 (scale 0–100); p < 0.001]. Disability (as measured on the Health Assessment Questionnaire) decreased when intensive management patients achieved remission (difference –0.40, 95% confidence interval –0.57 to –0.22) and these differences were considered clinically relevant. However, in all intensive management patients reductions in the Health Assessment Questionnaire scores were less marked (difference –0.1, 95% confidence interval –0.2 to 0.0). The numbers of serious adverse events (intensive management n = 15 vs. standard care n = 11) and other adverse events (intensive management n = 114 vs. standard care n = 151) were similar. Economic analysis showed that the base-case incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was £43,972 from NHS and Personal Social Services cost perspectives. The probability of meeting a willingness-to-pay threshold of £30,000 was 17%. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio decreased to £29,363 after including patients’ personal costs and lost working time, corresponding to a 50% probability that intensive management is cost-effective at English willingness-to-pay thresholds. Analysing trial baseline predictors showed that remission predictors comprised baseline DAS28-ESR, disability scores and body mass index. A 6-month extension study (involving 95 intensive management patients) showed fewer remissions by 18 months, although more sustained remissions were more likley to persist. Qualitative research in trial completers showed that intensive management was acceptable and treatment support from specialist nurses was beneficial.
Limitations
The main limitations comprised (1) using single time point remissions rather than sustained responses, (2) uncertainty about benefits of different aspects of intensive management and differences in its delivery across centres, (3) doubts about optimal treatment of patients unresponsive to intensive management and (4) the lack of formal international definitions of ‘intensive management’.
Conclusion
The benefits of intensive management need to be set against its additional costs. These were relatively high. Not all patients benefited. Patients with high pretreatment physical disability or who were substantially overweight usually did not achieve remission.
Future work
Further research should (1) identify the most effective components of the intervention, (2) consider its most cost-effective delivery and (3) identify alternative strategies for patients not responding to intensive management.
Trial registration
Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN70160382.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in full in Programme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 9, No. 8. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Scott
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Fowzia Ibrahim
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Harry Hill
- ScHARR Health Economics and Decision Science, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Brian Tom
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Louise Prothero
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Rhiannon R Baggott
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | | | - James B Galloway
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Sofia Georgopoulou
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Naomi Martin
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Isabel Neatrour
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Elena Nikiphorou
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Jackie Sturt
- Department of Adult Nursing, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Allan Wailoo
- ScHARR Health Economics and Decision Science, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Frances MK Williams
- Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, St Thomas’ Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ruth Williams
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Heidi Lempp
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
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Frazier K, Paez KA, Creek E, Vinci A, Amolegbe A, Hasanbasri A. Patient Acceptance of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants in Rheumatology Care. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2021; 74:1593-1601. [PMID: 33973378 DOI: 10.1002/acr.24618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study sought to assess whether patients with autoimmune disease would accept advanced practice providers (APPs) as an option to fill the growing shortage of rheumatologists. METHODS We administered a cross-sectional survey to 500 patients or parents of children who reported having been diagnosed with qualifying autoimmune conditions and who had seen their primary rheumatology providers in the past 6 months. Respondents self-reported whether their primary providers were rheumatologists or APPs. Our analysis compared the attitude and experience of the patients whose primary rheumatology providers were APPs with those of patients whose primary providers were rheumatologists. RESULTS Of respondents, 36.8% reported having APPs as primary rheumatology providers. Patients of APPs were significantly more likely to arrive at their provider's office in 15 minutes or less (p < 0.01) and to be able to schedule routine and urgent appointments sooner (p = 0.02, 0.05). There were no significant differences for overall patient experience of care between provider types. Most patients rated their providers highly, but those who saw rheumatologists rated their providers significantly higher (p < 0.01). APP patients were significantly more likely than rheumatologist patients to prefer to see APPs over rheumatologists (p < 0.01) and to recommend APPs (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS APPs may improve access to care, and regardless of provider type, patients rated their overall experience of care similarly. Overall, patient attitudes toward APPs were positive regardless of provider type, although APP patients held more positive overall attitudes toward APPs than did rheumatologist patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Frazier
- American Institutes for Research, 1920 Tryon Court, Chapel Hill, NC, 27517, USA
| | - Kathryn A Paez
- American Institutes for Research, 1920 Tryon Court, Chapel Hill, NC, 27517, USA
| | - Emily Creek
- American Institutes for Research, 1920 Tryon Court, Chapel Hill, NC, 27517, USA
| | - Arlene Vinci
- American Institutes for Research, 1920 Tryon Court, Chapel Hill, NC, 27517, USA
| | - Andrew Amolegbe
- American Institutes for Research, 1920 Tryon Court, Chapel Hill, NC, 27517, USA
| | - Arifah Hasanbasri
- American Institutes for Research, 1920 Tryon Court, Chapel Hill, NC, 27517, USA
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Widdifield J, Bernatsky S, Pope JE, Kuriya B, Barber CEH, Eder L, Ahluwalia V, Ling V, Gozdyra P, Hofstetter C, Lyddiatt A, Paterson JM, Thorne C. Evaluation of Rheumatology Workforce Supply Changes in Ontario, Canada, from 2000 to 2030. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 16:119-134. [PMID: 33720829 PMCID: PMC7957360 DOI: 10.12927/hcpol.2021.26428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatology workforces are increasingly challenged by too few physicians in face of the growing burden of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). Rheumatology is one of the most frequent non-surgical specialty referrals and has the longest wait times for subspecialists. We used a population-based approach to describe changes in the rheumatology workforce, patient volumes and geographic variation in the supply of and access to rheumatologists, in Ontario, Canada, between 2000 and 2019, and projected changes in supply by 2030. Over time, we observed greater feminization of the workforce and increasing age of workforce members. We identified a large regional variation in rheumatology supply. Fewer new patients are seen annually, which likely contributes to increasing wait times and reduced access to care. Strategies and policies to raise the critical mass and improve regional distribution of supply to effectively provide rheumatology care and support the healthcare delivery of patients with RMDs are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Widdifield
- Scientist, Sunnybrook Research Institute Holland Bone & Joint Program; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto, Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation Toronto, ON; Scientist, ICES Toronto, ON
| | - Sasha Bernatsky
- Rheumatologist and Scientist, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre; Associate Professor, Department of Epidemiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - Janet E Pope
- Rheumatologist, St Joseph's Health Care London; Professor of Medicine Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University London, ON
| | - Bindee Kuriya
- Rheumatologist, Sinai Health System; Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON
| | - Claire E H Barber
- Rheumatologist, Assistant Professor, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB; Research Scientist, Arthritis Research Canada, Richmond, BC
| | - Lihi Eder
- Rheumatologist, Clinician Scientist, Women's College Research Institute, Toronto, ON
| | | | | | | | | | | | - J Michael Paterson
- Scientist, ICES, Toronto, ON; Assistant Professor, Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto, Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Toronto, ON
| | - Carter Thorne
- Rheumatologist, Southlake Regional Health Centre, Newmarket, ON; Assistant Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON
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Nurse-led care for the management of rheumatoid arthritis: a review of the global literature and proposed strategies for implementation in Africa and the Middle East. Rheumatol Int 2020; 41:529-542. [PMID: 32851423 PMCID: PMC7867556 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-020-04682-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Globally, increasing demand for rheumatology services has led to a greater reliance on non-physician healthcare professionals (HCPs), such as rheumatology nurse specialists, to deliver care as part of a multidisciplinary team. Across Africa and the Middle East (AfME), there remains a shortage of rheumatology HCPs, including rheumatology nurses, which presents a major challenge to the delivery of rheumatology services, and subsequently the treatment and management of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To further explore the importance of nurse-led care (NLC) for patients with RA and create a set of proposed strategies for the implementation of NLC in the AfME region, we used a modified Delphi technique. A review of the global literature was conducted using the PubMed search engine, with the most relevant publications selected. The findings were summarized and presented to the author group, which was composed of representatives from different countries and HCP disciplines. The authors also drew on their knowledge of the wider literature to provide context. Overall, results suggest that NLC is associated with improved patient perceptions of RA care, and equivalent or superior clinical and cost outcomes versus physician-led care in RA disease management. Expert commentary provided by the authors gives insights into the challenges of implementing nurse-led RA care. We further report practical proposed strategies for the development and implementation of NLC for patients with RA, specifically in the AfME region. These proposed strategies aim to act as a foundation for the introduction and development of NLC programs across the AfME region.
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Miloslavsky EM, Bolster MB. Addressing the rheumatology workforce shortage: A multifaceted approach. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2020; 50:791-796. [PMID: 32540672 PMCID: PMC7255118 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2020.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
A significant challenge facing the field of rheumatology is the projected gap between the growing demand for rheumatologists and the available workforce. In order to improve access to care, augmenting the rheumatology workforce is required. Herein we discuss potential solutions to the anticipated workforce shortage, including 1) expanding the training of rheumatology physicians; 2) increasing nurse practitioner, physician assistant and pharmacist utilization in rheumatology practice; 3) growing the use of telemedicine; and 4) reducing burnout in order to retain practicing rheumatologists. Building on the existing literature in these areas, we propose a multifaceted approach to addressing the rheumatology workforce shortage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli M Miloslavsky
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Yawkey Center for Outpatient Care, Suite 2C, Boston MA 02114, United States.
| | - Marcy B Bolster
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Yawkey Center for Outpatient Care, Suite 2C, Boston MA 02114, United States
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11
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Kiltz U, Spiller I, Sieper J, Braun J. [Is it possible to delegate medical services to qualified nurses specialized in rheumatology when evaluating patients with suspicion of ankylosing spondylitis?-Results of the PredAS study]. Z Rheumatol 2020; 79:729-736. [PMID: 32696075 PMCID: PMC7550382 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-020-00838-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Hintergrund Der oft langsame Beginn einer axialen Spondyloarthritis (axSpA), die initial zum Teil wenig spezifischen Symptome (Rückenschmerzen), aber auch begrenzte Ressourcen und die damit verbundenen Verzögerungen in der rheumatologischen Versorgung sind Faktoren, die zu verspäteter Diagnose und Therapie dieser meist jungen Patienten mit beitragen. Rheumatologische Fachassistenten (RFA) können zur Verbesserung der Versorgung beitragen, indem sie vom Rheumatologen delegierte ärztliche Leistungen übernehmen. Ziel der Arbeit Ziel ist, zu untersuchen, ob geschulte RFA bei Patienten mit chronischem Rückenschmerz und noch unklarer Diagnose mithilfe eines strukturierten Fragebogens anamnestische und klinische Befunde wie Rheumatologen erheben können. Material und Methoden In der multizentrisch durchgeführten PredAS-Studie wurden bei Patienten mit dem Leitsymptom chronischer Rückenschmerz demografische Basisdaten, Anamnese und patientenberichtete Endpunkte mittels strukturierter Fragebögen von RFA und Rheumatologen unabhängig voneinander erfasst. Zudem wurden Funktion (BASFI) und Wirbelsäulenbeweglichkeit (BASMI) standardisiert gemessen. Um die mögliche Erleichterung durch Nutzung digitaler Medien zu testen, wurden 2 Patientengruppen getrennt untersucht: Die Ergebnisse der einen Kohorte wurden mittels papierbasierter Case Report Forms (CRF) und die Ergebnisse der anderen elektronisch mittels iPad dokumentiert. Die Konkordanz der Dokumentationen zwischen RFA und Rheumatologen wurde als Kappa-Koeffizient, als prozentuale Übereinstimmung und auf individueller Patientenebene berechnet. Ergebnisse Bei fast drei Viertel der 141 Patienten mit chronischen Rückenschmerzen wurden Charakteristika des entzündlichen Rückenschmerzes identifiziert. Die Konkordanz bei Dokumentation durch RFA und Arzt war bei den anamnestischen Angaben zum Rückenschmerz höher als bei der Angabe zur Lokalisation des Rückenschmerzes. Bei der Erhebung des BASMI zeigte sich kein Unterschied zwischen RFA und Arzt (ICC 0,925) (95 %-CI 0,879–0,953). Der Zeitaufwand für die strukturierte Dokumentation betrug beim Arzt 20 ± 6,7 min und bei der RFA 28,5 ± 13 min. Diskussion Die Ergebnisse sprechen dafür, dass geschulte RFA die Rheumatologen bei der anamnestischen Aufarbeitung und ersten körperlichen Untersuchung im Rahmen der Diagnosestellung erheblich und qualifiziert unterstützen können.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Kiltz
- Rheumazentrum Ruhrgebiet und Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Claudiusstr 45, 44649, Herne, Deutschland.
| | - I Spiller
- Medizinische Klinik für Gastroenterologie, Infektiologie und Rheumatologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - J Sieper
- Medizinische Klinik für Gastroenterologie, Infektiologie und Rheumatologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - J Braun
- Rheumazentrum Ruhrgebiet und Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Claudiusstr 45, 44649, Herne, Deutschland
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12
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Lempp H, Baggott R, Scott DL, Parker L, Bosworth A, Georgopoulou S, Firth J. The value, impact and role of nurses in rheumatology outpatient care: Critical review of the literature. Musculoskeletal Care 2020; 18:245-255. [PMID: 32222059 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As rheumatology nurses make substantial contributions to intensive management programmes following 'treat to target' principles of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), there is a need to understand the impacts of their involvement. A structured literature review was undertaken of qualitative studies, clinical trials and observational studies to assess the impacts of rheumatology nurses on clinical outcomes and the experiences of patients with RA and to examine the skills and training of the nurses involved. METHOD A structured literature review was conducted to examine the value, impact and professional role of nurses in RA management. RESULTS The literature search identified 657 publications, and 20 of them were included comprising: seven qualitative studies (242 patients), nine trials (a total of 2,440 patients) and four observational studies (1,234 patients). In clinical trials, nurses achieved similar patient clinical outcomes to doctors, and nurses also enhanced patients' satisfaction of received care and self-efficacy. In the qualitative studies reviewed, the nurses increased patients' knowledge and promoted their self-management. The observational studies studied examined found that nursing care led to improved patients' global functioning. The nurses in the various studies had a wide range of titles, experiences and training. DISCUSSION Our structured literature review provides strong evidence that rheumatology nurses are effective in delivering care for RA patients. However, their titles, experience and training were highly variable. CONCLUSION There is a convincing case to maintain and extend the role of nurses in managing RA, but further work is needed on standardisation of their titles and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Lempp
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rhiannon Baggott
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - David L Scott
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Louise Parker
- Rheumatology Department, Royal Free London NHSFT, London, UK
| | - Ailsa Bosworth
- National Patient Champion, National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, Maidenhead, UK
| | - Sofia Georgopoulou
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, King's College London, London, UK.,Applied Health Services Research Group, The Royal Marsden Hospital, London, UK
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13
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Ford JA, Solomon DH. Challenges in Implementing Treat-to-Target Strategies in Rheumatology. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2019; 45:101-112. [PMID: 30447739 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2018.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite evidence that treat-to-target (TTT) approaches lead to better disease outcomes in RA, TTT is not widely implemented in rheumatology clinics in North America. This article discusses the barriers (including access to care, patient and physician factors, and systems issues) to implementing TTT in the clinic, and proposes possible solutions and future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A Ford
- Division of Rheumatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Daniel H Solomon
- Division of Rheumatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Division of Pharmacoepidemiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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14
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Beauvais C, Gossec L, Mulliez A, Fayet F, Poilverd RM, Pouplin S, Perrot S, L'amour C, Carton L, Aubert MP, Miconnet S, Grange L, Flipon-Cousin E, Mézieres M, Dougados M, Jaccaz-Vallée N, Savel C. Self-reported competencies and educational needs of rheumatology nurses: Results of a national survey. Joint Bone Spine 2019; 87:91-93. [PMID: 31279742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2019.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Beauvais
- Rheumatology Department, Saint-Antoine University Hospital, DHU i2B, AP-HP, 184, rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75012 Paris, France.
| | - Laure Gossec
- Sorbonne université, institut Pierre-Louis d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Aurélien Mulliez
- Biostatistic Department, University Hospital Gabriel-Montpied, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Françoise Fayet
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Gabriel-Montpied, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Rose Marie Poilverd
- Rheumatology Department, Saint-Antoine University Hospital, DHU i2B, AP-HP, 184, rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Sophie Pouplin
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital, 76000 Rouen, France
| | - Serge Perrot
- Medicine Department, University René-Descartes, University Hospital Cochin, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Christian L'amour
- Rheumatology Department, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Laurence Carton
- Association AFLAR Association de Lutte Anti-Rhumatismale, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Marie Pierre Aubert
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Hôtel-Dieu, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Sylvie Miconnet
- Rheumatology Department, Bicêtre University Hospital, AP-HP, 94270 Le Klemlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Laurent Grange
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Grenoble-Alpes, 38130 Échirolles, France
| | | | - Maryse Mézieres
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Cochin, 75014 France
| | - Maxime Dougados
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Cochin, University René-Descartes, 75014 France
| | - Nelly Jaccaz-Vallée
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Bretonneau, 37000 Tours, France
| | - Carine Savel
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Gabriel-Montpied, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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15
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Edge DS, Tranmer JE, Wei X, VanDenKerkhof EG. A population profile of older adults with prescription encounters with nurse practitioners and family physicians in Ontario: a descriptive retrospective cohort study. CMAJ Open 2019; 7:E323-E332. [PMID: 31088806 PMCID: PMC6517125 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20190007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compared with patients in family physician practices, there is a poor understanding at a population level of patients in nurse practitioner practices. The study aim was to use Ontario administrative databases to identify the sociodemographic characteristics and comorbidities of patients aged 65 years and older who were prescribed medications by nurse practitioners and family physicians between 2000 and 2015. METHODS This population-based descriptive retrospective cohort study included patients 65 years of age and older with Ontario Health Insurance Plan eligibility and at least 1 prescription encounter with a nurse practitioner or family physician during the study period. Prescription identification of patients permitted their characterization by age, sex, geographical location, rurality, neighbourhood income and comorbidities. Patients were categorized into 3 provider groups on the basis of the percentage of prescription encounters with nurse practitioners versus family physicians. RESULTS In 2015, patients in the study cohort with prescriptions by nurse practitioners (n = 25 220) were younger than those with prescriptions by family physicians (40.3% were aged 65-69 yr) and they were more likely to be residents of low-income neighbourhoods (44.0% were in the lowest 2 neighbourhood income quintiles) and to be living outside of central Ontario. In contrast, patients who received prescriptions from family physicians (n = 1 952 904) tended to be older (26.8% were aged ≥ 80 yr), to have higher incomes (21.1% were in the highest neighbourhood income quintile) and to live in urban areas (86.5%). Mean Elixhauser Comorbidity Index scores were consistently lower among patients cared for by nurse practitioners than among those predominantly seen by family physicians (1.30 v. 2.04). The most prevalent conditions were hypertension and diabetes, regardless of provider. INTERPRETATION The patient characteristic with the highest variability between providers was geographic residence in the province. Elucidating patterns of care is critical for primary care policy and our results provide baseline data for future health care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana S Edge
- School of Nursing (Edge, Tranmer, VanDenKerkhof) and ICES Queen's (Tranmer, Wei), Queen's University, Kingston, Ont.
| | - Joan E Tranmer
- School of Nursing (Edge, Tranmer, VanDenKerkhof) and ICES Queen's (Tranmer, Wei), Queen's University, Kingston, Ont
| | - Xuejiao Wei
- School of Nursing (Edge, Tranmer, VanDenKerkhof) and ICES Queen's (Tranmer, Wei), Queen's University, Kingston, Ont
| | - Elizabeth G VanDenKerkhof
- School of Nursing (Edge, Tranmer, VanDenKerkhof) and ICES Queen's (Tranmer, Wei), Queen's University, Kingston, Ont
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Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by painful, swollen joints that can severely impair physical function and quality of life. The presenting symptoms of musculoskeletal pain, swelling, and stiffness are common in clinical practice, so familiarity with diagnosing and managing RA is crucial. Patients with RA are at greater risk for serious infection, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mortality than the general population. In recent years, early diagnosis, aggressive treatment, and expanded therapeutic options of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs have markedly improved both the management and long-term prognosis of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Sparks
- From Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts. (J.A.S.)
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17
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Nurses' roles in the management of chronic inflammatory arthritis: a systematic review. Rheumatol Int 2018; 38:2027-2036. [PMID: 30128732 PMCID: PMC6208652 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-018-4135-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
In 2011 EULAR first published recommendations for the potential role of nurses in the management of patients with rheumatic diseases. To perform a literature update for the role of nurses in the management of chronic inflammatory arthritis (CIA) from 2010 to 2018. A systematic literature review (SLR) was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines, in accordance with the search strategies and eligibility criteria of the EULAR taskforce. The eligibility criteria were “inflammatory arthritis”, “interventions undertaken by nurses” and “relevant outcomes to answer the research questions”. Exclusion criteria were in itself contradictory outcomes, insufficient data, consideration if they did not clearly distinguish between nurses and health professionals or focused on chronic other than rheumatic diseases. Systematic reviews were classified as descriptive and excluded. Quality of selected trials was determined according to Oxford—levels of evidence 2009. A total of 48 articles and 10 abstracts were identified fulfilling the eligibility and exclusion criteria. Recommendation 1 has been well established in Europe so far. New evidence strengthens the recommendation 3, and—at least in part—recommendation 6. High evidence strengthens recommendation 4, especially for outpatients with low and stable disease activity. Some new evidence also exists for recommendations 7 and 8. This SLR reveals new evidence for the role of nurses in managing CIA patients since 2010, especially for RA-patients with low disease activity or in remission.
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18
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Smith BJ, Bolster MB, Slusher B, Stamatos C, Scott JR, Benham H, Kazi S, Schlenk EA, Schaffer DE, Majithia V, Brown CR, Von Feldt JM, Flood J, Haag DM, Smarr KL. Core Curriculum to Facilitate the Expansion of a Rheumatology Practice to Include Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2018; 70:672-678. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.23546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jeanne R. Scott
- Cheshire Medical Center and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene; Keene New Hampshire
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Calvin R. Brown
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine; Chicago Illinois
| | | | - Joseph Flood
- Columbus Arthritis Center, Columbus, Ohio; and The Ohio State University College of Medicine; Columbus
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Rizzello F, Olivieri I, Armuzzi A, Ayala F, Bettoli V, Bianchi L, Cimino L, Costanzo A, Cristaudo A, D'Angelo S, Daperno M, Fostini AC, Galeazzi M, Gilio M, Gionchetti P, Gisondi P, Lubrano E, Marchesoni A, Offidani A, Orlando A, Pugliese D, Salvarani C, Scarpa R, Vecchi M, Girolomoni G. Multidisciplinary Management of Spondyloarthritis-Related Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Disease. Adv Ther 2018. [PMID: 29516409 PMCID: PMC5910456 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-018-0672-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) are chronic autoimmune conditions that share common pathophysiologic mechanisms. The optimal management of patients with IMIDs remains challenging because the coexistence of different conditions requires the intervention of several specialists. The aim of this study was to develop a series of statements defining overarching principles that guide the implementation of a multidisciplinary approach for the management of spondyloarthritis (SpA)-related IMIDs including SpA, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and uveitis. Methods A Delphi consensus-based approach was used to identify a core set of statements. The process included development of initial questions by a steering committee, an exhaustive search of the literature using complementary approaches to identify potential statements and two Delphi voting rounds for finalization of the statements. Results Consensus was achieved on the related nature of IMIDs, the existence of a high prevalence of multiple IMIDs in a single patient and the fact that a multidisciplinary approach can result in a more extensive evaluation and comprehensive approach to treatment. The goals of a multidisciplinary team should be to increase diagnosis of concomitant IMIDs, improve the decision-making process, and increase patient satisfaction and adherence. Early referral and diagnosis, early recognition of concomitant IMIDs and optimizing treatment to improve patient quality of life are some of the advantages of using multidisciplinary teams. To be effective, a multidisciplinary team should be equipped with the appropriate tools for diagnosis and follow-up, and at a minimum the multidisciplinary team should include a dermatologist, gastroenterologist and rheumatologist; providing psychologic support via a psychologist and involving an ophthalmologist, general practitioners and nurses in multidisciplinary care is also important. Conclusion The present Delphi consensus identified a set of overarching principles that may be useful for implementation of a multidisciplinary approach for the management of SpA-related IMIDs. Funding Aristea and Hippocrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Rizzello
- IBD Unit, DIMEC, University of Bologna, S Orsola-Malpighi Hospital Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ignazio Olivieri
- Istituto Reumatologico Lucano (IReL), Potenza, Italy
- Dipartimento di Reumatologia della Regione Basilicata, Ospedale Madonna delle Grazie di Matera, Potenza, Italy
- Dipartimento di Reumatologia della Regione Basilicata, Ospedale San Carlo di Potenza, Potenza, Italy
- Fondazione BRB (Basilicata Ricerca Biomedica), Potenza, Italy
| | - Alessandro Armuzzi
- UOC di Medicina Interna e Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Presidio Columbus Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli Universita' Cattolica, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Ayala
- UOC di Dermatologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Bettoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, O.U. of Dermatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Bianchi
- U.O.C. Dermatologia, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Cimino
- SSD di Immunologia Oculare, AUSL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Antonio Costanzo
- Unità Dermatologia Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Humanitas University, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- UOC Dermatologia IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Cristaudo
- UO Dermatologia, MST, Ambientale e Tropicale San Gallicano Dermatological Institute-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore D'Angelo
- Istituto Reumatologico Lucano (IReL), Potenza, Italy.
- Dipartimento di Reumatologia della Regione Basilicata, Ospedale Madonna delle Grazie di Matera, Potenza, Italy.
- Dipartimento di Reumatologia della Regione Basilicata, Ospedale San Carlo di Potenza, Potenza, Italy.
- Fondazione BRB (Basilicata Ricerca Biomedica), Potenza, Italy.
| | - Marco Daperno
- Gastroenterology Unit, Mauriziano Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Anna Chiara Fostini
- Section of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mauro Galeazzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche e Neuroscienze, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Michele Gilio
- Istituto Reumatologico Lucano (IReL), Potenza, Italy
- Dipartimento di Reumatologia della Regione Basilicata, Ospedale Madonna delle Grazie di Matera, Potenza, Italy
- Dipartimento di Reumatologia della Regione Basilicata, Ospedale San Carlo di Potenza, Potenza, Italy
- Department of Health Science, University "Magna Grecia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Paolo Gionchetti
- IBD Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Gisondi
- Section of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Ennio Lubrano
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Scienze della Salute "Vincenzo Tiberio", Università degli Studi del Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Antonio Marchesoni
- U.O.C. Day Hospital di Reumatologia, ASST Gaetano Pini-CTO, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Ambrogio Orlando
- UOSD MICI-A.O. Ospedali Riuniti "Villa Sofia-Cervello" Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Pugliese
- UOC di Medicina Interna e Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Presidio Columbus Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli Universita' Cattolica, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Azienda USL-IRCCS e Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Vecchi
- Department of Biomedical Science for the Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giampiero Girolomoni
- Section of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Riley L, Harris C, McKay M, Gondran SE, DeCola P, Soonasra A. The role of nurse practitioners in delivering rheumatology care and services: Results of a U.S. survey. J Am Assoc Nurse Pract 2017; 29:673-681. [PMID: 28976635 PMCID: PMC5698703 DOI: 10.1002/2327-6924.12525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation, pain, joint stiffness, and progressive joint destruction. An increased demand for rheumatology healthcare professionals is anticipated in coming years; utilizing more nurse practitioners (NPs) in rheumatology may help meet this demand, and improve early detection and diagnosis of RA. METHODS The American Association of Nurse Practitioners surveyed, via e-mail, members who were working in primary care settings to understand their educational and professional needs to help manage their patients with RA. Respondents were surveyed about their NP certifications, patient panel, information received from rheumatologists on shared patients, RA tools or resources that would be helpful, confidence in diagnosing and managing patients with RA, interest in learning about particular topics regarding RA medications, and preferences for exchanging educational information with their professional colleagues. CONCLUSIONS The results from this survey indicate that the role of NPs in managing RA could be optimized by improved communication with treating rheumatologists, access to educational tools and resources, and further education and training in the management of RA. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE NPs in primary care can fill a resource gap and provide access to health care for patients with RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Riley
- American Association of Nurse PractitionersAustinTexas
| | - Cindy Harris
- American Association of Nurse PractitionersAustinTexas
| | - Michele McKay
- American Association of Nurse PractitionersAustinTexas
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de Thurah A, Esbensen BA, Roelsgaard IK, Frandsen TF, Primdahl J. Efficacy of embedded nurse-led versus conventional physician-led follow-up in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. RMD Open 2017; 3:e000481. [PMID: 28879053 PMCID: PMC5574437 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2017-000481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy of embedded nurse-led versus conventional physician-led follow-up on disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS In a systematic literature search, we identified randomised controlled trials (RCTs) reporting on the efficacy of nurse-led follow-up on disease control in patients with RA compared with physician-led follow-up. Primary outcome was disease activity indicated by Disease Activity Score (DAS)-28. Secondary outcomes were: patient satisfaction, physical disability, fatigue, self-efficacy and quality of life. Outcomes were assessed after 1-year and 2 year follow-ups. RESULTS Seven studies representing five RCTs, including a total of 723 participants, were included. All but one study included stable patients in low disease activity or remission at baseline. No difference in DAS-28 was found after 1 year (mean difference (MD) -0.07 (95% CI -0.23 to 0.09)). After 2 years, a statistically significant difference was seen in favour of nurse-led follow-up (MD -0.28 (95% CI -0.53 to -0.04)). However, the difference did not reach a clinically relevant level. No difference was found in patient satisfaction after 1 year (standard mean difference (SMD) -0.17 (95 % CI -1.0 to 0.67), whereas a statistical significant difference in favour of nurse-led follow-up was seen after 2 years (SMD: 0.6 (95% CI -0.00 to 1.20)). CONCLUSION After 1 year no difference in disease activity, indicated by DAS-28, were found between embedded nurse-led follow-up compared with conventional physician-led follow-up, in RA patients with low disease activity or remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette de Thurah
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bente Appel Esbensen
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research (COPECARE), Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Centre for Head and Orthopaedics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ida Kristiane Roelsgaard
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research (COPECARE), Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Centre for Head and Orthopaedics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tove Faber Frandsen
- Department of Design and Communication, University of Southern Denmark, Kolding, Denmark
| | - Jette Primdahl
- King Christian X's Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Graasten, Denmark.,Hospital of Southern Jutland, Aabenraa, Denmark.,Institute for Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Resnick CM, Daniels KM, Flath-Sporn SJ, Doyle M, Heald R, Padwa BL. Physician Assistants Improve Efficiency and Decrease Costs in Outpatient Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2016; 74:2128-2135. [PMID: 27528102 DOI: 10.1016/j.joms.2016.06.195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 05/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the effects on time, cost, and complication rates of integrating physician assistants (PAs) into the procedural components of an outpatient oral and maxillofacial surgery practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a prospective cohort study of patients from the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery at Boston Children's Hospital who underwent removal of 4 impacted third molars with intravenous sedation in our outpatient facility. Patients were separated into the "no PA group" and PA group. Process maps were created to capture all activities from room preparation to patient discharge, and all activities were timed for each case. A time-driven activity-based costing method was used to calculate the average times and costs from the provider's perspective for each group. Complication rates were calculated during the periods for both groups. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and significance was set at P < .05. RESULTS The total process time did not differ significantly between groups, but the average total procedure cost decreased by $75.08 after the introduction of PAs (P < .001). The time that the oral and maxillofacial surgeon was directly involved in the procedure decreased by an average of 19.2 minutes after the introduction of PAs (P < .001). No significant differences in postoperative complications were found. CONCLUSIONS The addition of PAs into the procedural components of an outpatient oral and maxillofacial surgery practice resulted in decreased costs whereas complication rates remained constant. The increased availability of the oral and maxillofacial surgeon after the incorporation of PAs allows for more patients to be seen during a clinic session, which has the potential to further increase efficiency and revenue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory M Resnick
- Instructor, Harvard School of Dental Medicine; Attending Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA.
| | - Kimberly M Daniels
- Research Data Manager, Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Susan J Flath-Sporn
- Quality Improvement Specialist, Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Michael Doyle
- Research Study Assistant, Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Ronald Heald
- Department Director, Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Bonnie L Padwa
- Associate Professor, Harvard School of Dental Medicine; Oral Surgeon in Chief, Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
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