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Pongdee T, Brunner WM, Kanuga MJ, Sussman JH, Wi CI, Juhn YJ. Rural Health Disparities in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunologic Diseases: The Current State and Future Direction for Clinical Care and Research. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:334-344. [PMID: 38013156 PMCID: PMC11089647 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2023.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Rural health disparities are well documented and continue to jeopardize the long-term health and wellness for the millions of individuals who live in rural America. The disparities observed between urban and rural residents encompass numerous morbidity and mortality measures for several chronic diseases and have been referred to as the "rural mortality penalty." Although the unmet health needs of rural communities are widely acknowledged, little is known about rural health disparities in allergies, asthma, and immunologic diseases. Furthermore, the intersection between rural health disparities and social determinants of health has not been fully explored. To achieve a more complete understanding of the factors that perpetuate rural health disparities, greater research efforts followed by improved practice and policy are needed that account for the complex social context within rural communities rather than a general comparison between urban and rural environments or focusing on biomedical factors. Moreover, research efforts must prioritize community inclusion throughout rural areas through meaningful engagement of stakeholders in both clinical care and research. In this review, we examine the scope of health disparities in the rural United States and the impact of social determinants of health. We then detail the current state of rural health disparities in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology. To close, we offer future considerations to address knowledge gaps and unmet needs for both clinical care and research in addressing rural health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanai Pongdee
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.
| | - Wendy M Brunner
- Center for Rural Community Health, Bassett Research Institute, Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown, NY
| | - Mansi J Kanuga
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Mayo Clinic Health System, Red Wing, Minn
| | | | - Chung-Il Wi
- Precision Population Science Lab, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn; Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
| | - Young J Juhn
- Precision Population Science Lab, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn; Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn; Office of Mayo Clinic Health System Research, Mayo Clinic Health System, Rochester, Minn.
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LaCrete F, Ratnapradipa KL, Carlson K, Lyden E, Dowdall JR. Rural-urban otolaryngologic observational workforce analysis: The state of Nebraska. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2023; 8:1602-1606. [PMID: 38130258 PMCID: PMC10731502 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.1181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To analyze the rural-urban access to otolaryngology (OHNS) care within the state of Nebraska. Design Cross-sectional study. Methods Counties in Nebraska were categorized into rural versus urban status based upon the 2013 National Center for Health Statistics urban-rural classification scheme with I indicating most urban and VI indicating most rural. The information on otolaryngologists was gathered utilizing the Health Professions Tracking System. Otolaryngologists were categorized based on the county of their primary and outreach clinic location(s). Travel burden was estimated using census tract centroid distance to the nearest clinic location, aggregated to county using weighted population means to determine the average county distance to the nearest otolaryngologist. Results Nebraska is a state with a population of 1.8 million people unequally distributed across 76,824 square miles, with rural counties covering 2/3 of the land area. Nebraska has 78 primary OHNS clinics and 70 outreach OHNS clinics distributed across 93 counties. More than half (54.8%) of the counties in Nebraska lacked any OHNS clinic. Overall, a statistically significant difference was found when comparing mean primary OHNS per 100,000 population and mean miles to a primary OHNS clinic with Level III counties being 5.17 linear miles from primary OHNS compared to Level V counties being 29.94 linear miles. Conclusion Overall, a clear discrepancy between rural and urban primary OHNS clinics in Nebraska can be seen visually and statistically with rural Nebraskans having to travel at least 5.5 times farther to primary OHNS clinics when compared to urban Nebraskans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kendra L. Ratnapradipa
- Department of EpidemiologyCollege of Public Health, UNMC, 984375 Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
| | - Kristy Carlson
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck SurgeryCollege of Medicine, UNMC, 984395 Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
| | - Elizabeth Lyden
- Department of BiostatisticsCollege of Public Health, UNMC, 984375 Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
| | - Jayme R. Dowdall
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck SurgeryCollege of Medicine, UNMC, 984395 Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
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Rameau A, Cox SR, Sussman SH, Odigie E. Addressing disparities in speech-language pathology and laryngology services with telehealth. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2023; 105:106349. [PMID: 37321106 PMCID: PMC10239150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcomdis.2023.106349] [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: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected the health and well-being of marginalized communities, and it brought greater awareness to disparities in health care access and utilization. Addressing these disparities is difficult because of their multidimensional nature. Predisposing factors (demographic information, social structure, and beliefs), enabling factors (family and community) and illness levels (perceived and evaluated illness) are thought to jointly contribute to such disparities. Research has demonstrated that disparities in access and utilization of speech-language pathology and laryngology services are the result of racial and ethnic differences, geographic factors, sex, gender, educational background, income level and insurance status. For example, persons from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds have been found to be less likely to attend or adhere to voice rehabilitation, and they are more likely to delay health care due to language barriers, longer wait times, a lack of transportation and difficulties contacting their physician. The purpose of this paper is to summarize existing research on telehealth, discuss how telehealth offers the potential to eliminate some disparities in the access and utilization of voice care, review its limitations, and encourage continued research in this area. A clinical perspective from a large volume laryngology clinic in a major city in northeastern United States highlights the use of telehealth in the provision of voice care by a laryngologist and speech-language pathologist during and after the COVID19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Rameau
- Sean Parker Institute for the Voice, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America.
| | - Steven R Cox
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY, United States of America
| | - Scott H Sussman
- Sean Parker Institute for the Voice, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Eseosa Odigie
- Sean Parker Institute for the Voice, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America
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Patel EA, Poulson TA, Shah M, Jagasia AA. Evaluation of Wait Times for Otolaryngology Appointments in Illinois. OTO Open 2023; 7:e63. [PMID: 37448623 PMCID: PMC10336491 DOI: 10.1002/oto2.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study was to quantify the wait times that patients may encounter for common clinical diagnoses when seeking otolaryngology care, while determining whether a wait time disparity exists based on geographic location within Illinois. Methods In November 2022, a list of Illinois otolaryngologists was obtained from www.entnet.org. Using a uniform script, each of the 291 otolaryngologists were contacted. The caller posed as a new patient with either sudden sensorineural hearing loss, a neck mass, or chronic sinusitis. Each clinic was called 3 times and wait times were recorded. One hundred fifty-eight otolaryngologists were included in the analysis. Results The average statewide wait time for a new patient presenting with sudden unilateral hearing loss, a neck mass, and chronic sinusitis was 18.0, 22.6, and 25.5 days, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between urban and rural wait times. Discussion Although wait time differences were noted, the lack of urban versus rural p value significance may be attributed to the small sample size (n = 11) of rural otolaryngologists in Illinois. However, the overall wait times in this study were longer compared to those reported in other studies, suggesting that the current number of otolaryngologists in Illinois is inadequate to meet the public need. Implications for Practice We have demonstrated that the current demand for otolaryngology care is outstripping the existing supply in Illinois. This suggests that an emphasis should be placed on training more otolaryngologists, or increasing the use of physician extenders, while incentivizing otolaryngologists to practice in rural areas. Level of Evidence 5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan A. Patel
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck SurgeryRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Trevor A. Poulson
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck SurgeryRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Manushi Shah
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck SurgeryRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Ashok A. Jagasia
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck SurgeryRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
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Jones JW, Saravia A, Mamidi IS, Torres JI, Evans AK. Telehealth Adoption and Perspectives Among Pediatric Otolaryngologists Following the COVID-19 Pandemic. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 2022:34894221129014. [PMID: 36217956 DOI: 10.1177/00034894221129014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess use of and physician experiences with pediatric otolaryngology telehealth visits as impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Cross sectional survey. METHODS A 15-question survey was electronically distributed to 656 members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology in August 2021, addressing member demographics, experiential practice elements, and use pre-pandemic, during the initial shutdown period of March-May 2020, and current use at the time of survey inquiry. RESULTS There were 124 respondents (response rate = 18.9%). Incident use pre-pandemic and during the shutdown were 21.0% (n = 26), and 92.7% (n = 115), respectively. Current use was 83.9% (n = 104) and the percentage of new current users (79.5%, n = 78) was significant (P < .0001,95% CI = 70.6%-86.4%). Estimated median telehealth visit rates pre-pandemic, during shutdown, and currently were 0 to 1, 4 to 5, and 2 to 3 per week, respectively (P < .0001). A difference in post-covid adoption rates was noted only for location (P = .008), with no differences for years out of training or practice type. Compared to in-person visits, physician satisfaction with telehealth visits was rated equivalent (49.0%) or worse/much worse (48.1%). The most common telehealth uses were follow-up visits (83.7%), pre-operative counseling (76.9%), and post-operative evaluation (69.2%). The need for a detailed exam (89.4%) and initial visits (32.7%) were reasons a telehealth visit was not offered. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic appears to have precipitated a rapid increase in telehealth adoption among surveyed pediatric otolaryngologists, regardless of age or practice type. The most significant limitations remain the need for a detailed exam, perceived low patient technological literacy, and limitations to interpretive services. Technology-based optimization of these barriers could lead to increased use and physician satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel W Jones
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Ari Saravia
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Ishwarya S Mamidi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Jairo I Torres
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Adele K Evans
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
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Smith DH, Case HF, Quereshy HA, Mecham JC, Bowe SN, Carlson ML, Cordero J. Geographic Distribution of Otolaryngology Training Programs and Potential Opportunities for Strategic Program Growth. Laryngoscope 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/lary.30361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Drew H. Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Lubbock Texas U.S.A
| | - Hannah F. Case
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine Jacksonville Florida U.S.A
| | - Humzah A. Quereshy
- Department of Surgery Case Western Reserve University/University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland Ohio U.S.A
| | - Jeffrey C. Mecham
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Mayo Clinic Arizona Phoenix Arizona U.S.A
| | - Sarah N. Bowe
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium, JBSA‐Ft Sam Houston Sam Houston Texas U.S.A
| | - Matthew L. Carlson
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Mayo Clinic Rochester Minnesota U.S.A
| | - Joehassin Cordero
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Lubbock Texas U.S.A
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The Role of Access and Cost-Effectiveness in Managing Asthma: A Systematic Review. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY: IN PRACTICE 2022; 10:2109-2116. [PMID: 35525532 PMCID: PMC9353043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2022.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Inconsistent and unequal access to medical care is an issue that predates the COVID19 pandemic, which only worsened the problem. Limited access to care from asthma specialists and other specialists treating comorbid diseases may adversely affect asthma. Objective The purpose of this review is to identify health disparities associated with access to care for asthma, and cost-effectiveness of therapies and interventions addressing this health disparity. Methods A narrative systematic review was undertaken using MeSH searches of English language articles published in CINAHL, Scopus, or PubMed. Results A total of 725 articles were identified. Barriers recognized from the literature included access to diagnostic spirometry, access to specialists, medication formulary restrictions, and issues leading to medical nonadherence. Telemedicine, school-based health care interventions, digital applications, and non–office-based digital spirometry could be used to address these gaps in access to asthma care while potentially being cost-effective. Conclusion With the widespread adoption of telemedicine because of the pandemic, and adoption of other mobile services, we now have potential tools that can increase access to asthma care, which can help address this health care inequity. Evidence is limited, but favorable, that some of these tools may be cost-effective.
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Burruss CP, Pappal RB, Witt MA, Harryman C, Ali SZ, Bush ML, Fritz MA. Healthcare disparities for the development of airway stenosis from the medical intensive care unit. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2022; 7:1078-1086. [PMID: 36000059 PMCID: PMC9392386 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives/hypothesis Study design Methods Results Conclusion Level of evidence
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robin B. Pappal
- Department of Otolaryngology ‐ Head and Neck Surgery University of Kentucky Lexington Kentucky USA
| | - Michael A. Witt
- College of Medicine University of Kentucky Lexington Kentucky USA
| | | | - Syed Z. Ali
- Department of Anesthesiology University of Kentucky Lexington Kentucky USA
| | - Matthew L. Bush
- Department of Otolaryngology ‐ Head and Neck Surgery University of Kentucky Lexington Kentucky USA
| | - Mark A. Fritz
- Department of Otolaryngology ‐ Head and Neck Surgery University of Kentucky Lexington Kentucky USA
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Quereshy HA, Quinton BA, Ruthberg JS, Maronian NC, Otteson TD. Practice Consolidation in Otolaryngology: The Decline of the Single-Provider Practice. OTO Open 2022; 6:2473974X221075232. [PMID: 35237738 PMCID: PMC8883306 DOI: 10.1177/2473974x221075232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To observe trends in practice consolidation within otolaryngology by analyzing changes in size and geographic distribution of practices within the United States from 2014 to 2021. Study Design Retrospective analysis based on the Physician Compare National Database from the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Setting United States. Methods Annual files from the Physician Compare National Database between 2014 and 2021 were filtered for all providers that listed “otolaryngology” as their primary specialty. Organization affiliations were sorted by size of practice and categorized into quantiles (1 or 2 providers, 3-9, 10-24, 25-49, and ≥50). Both the number of practices and the number of surgeons within a practice were collected annually for each quantile. Providers were also stratified geographically within the 9 US Census Bureau divisions. Chi-square analysis was conducted to test significance for the change in surgeon and practice distributions between 2014 and 2021. Results Over the study period, the number of active otolaryngology providers increased from 7763 to 9150, while the number of practices fell from 3584 to 3152 in that time span. Practices with just 1 or 2 otolaryngology providers accounted for 80.2% of all practices in 2014 and fell to 73.1% in 2021. Similar trends were observed at the individual provider level. Regional analysis revealed that New England had the largest percentage decrease in otolaryngologists employed by practices of 1 or 2 active providers at 45.7% and the Mountain region had the lowest percentage decrease at 17.4%. Conclusion The otolaryngology practice marketplace has demonstrated a global trend toward practice consolidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humzah A. Quereshy
- School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Brooke A. Quinton
- School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jeremy S. Ruthberg
- School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Nicole C. Maronian
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Todd D. Otteson
- School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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White SW, Bock JM, Blumin JH, Friedland DR, Adams JA, Tong L, Osinski K, Luo J. Analysis of socioeconomic factors in laryngology clinic utilization for treatment of dysphonia. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2022; 7:202-209. [PMID: 35155799 PMCID: PMC8823153 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between patient socioeconomic and demographic factors and tertiary care utilization for dysphonia in a localized metropolitan area of the American Midwest. METHODS Multivariate regression analysis was used to correlate patient demographics and population level data (e.g., age, gender, race, insurance, median income, education level) with tertiary laryngology utilization for dysphonia care at our institution between 2000 and 2019. Initial analyses characterized tertiary laryngology utilization rates for all regional ZIP codes and correlated these data with census information for household income and education. Dysphonia patient demographics were compared among populations cared for in our entire academic Otolaryngology department, our health system, and the regional population. RESULTS Among 1,365,021 patients in our health system, there were 7066 tertiary laryngology visits with a diagnosis of dysphonia. Dysphonia patients as compared to the overall health system were older (62.0 vs. 50.8 years), more likely to be female (63.7 vs. 50.2%) and more likely to have insurance (98.4 vs. 87.5%, all p < .001). Patient and population-level factors including insurance status, education, and black race showed positive correlation with laryngology utilization while median income did not. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Insurance status, education level, and race correlated with utilization of tertiary laryngology services for the evaluation of dysphonia in our community, while median income did not. Black patients utilized tertiary laryngology care at higher rates compared to departmental and regional population utilization data. These results underscore important demographic and disease-specific factors that may affect utilization of subspecialty care in Otolaryngology. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane W. White
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication SciencesMedical College of WisconsinMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
| | - Jonathan M. Bock
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication SciencesMedical College of WisconsinMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
| | - Joel H. Blumin
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication SciencesMedical College of WisconsinMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
| | - David R. Friedland
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication SciencesMedical College of WisconsinMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
| | - Jazzmyne A. Adams
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication SciencesMedical College of WisconsinMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
| | - Ling Tong
- Department of Health Informatics and AdministrationUniversity of Wisconsin – MilwaukeeMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
| | - Kristen Osinski
- Clinical and Translational Science InstituteMedical College of WisconsinMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
| | - Jake Luo
- Department of Health Informatics and AdministrationUniversity of Wisconsin – MilwaukeeMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
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Urban MJ, Shimomura A, Shah S, Losenegger T, Westrick J, Jagasia AA. Rural Otolaryngology Care Disparities: A Scoping Review. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2022; 166:1219-1227. [PMID: 35015580 DOI: 10.1177/01945998211068822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To broadly synthesize the literature regarding rural health disparities in otolaryngology, categorize findings, and identify research gaps to stimulate future work. STUDY DESIGN Scoping review. DATA SOURCES A comprehensive literature search was performed in the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Google Scholar, and CINAHL. REVIEW METHODS The methods were developed in concordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. Peer-reviewed, English-language, US-based studies examining a rural disparity in otolaryngology-related disease incidence, prevalence, diagnosis, treatment, or outcome were included. Descriptive studies, commentaries, reviews, and letters to the editor were excluded. Studies published prior to 1980 were excluded. RESULTS The literature search resulted in 1536 unique abstracts and yielded 79 studies that met final criteria for inclusion. Seventy-five percent were published after 2010. The distribution of literature was as follows: otology (34.2%), head and neck cancer (20.3%), endocrine surgery (13.9%), rhinology and allergy (8.9%), trauma (5.1%), laryngology (3.8%), other pediatrics (2.5%), and adult sleep (1.3%). Studies on otolaryngology health care systems also accounted for 10.1%. The most common topics studied were practice patterns (41%) and epidemiology (27%), while the Southeast (47%) was the most common US region represented, and database study (42%) was the most common study design. CONCLUSION Overall, there was low-quality evidence with large gaps in the literature in all subspecialties, most notably facial plastic surgery, laryngology, adult sleep, and pediatrics. Importantly, there were few studies on intervention and zero studies on resident exposure to rural populations, which will be critical to making rural otolaryngology care more equitable in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Urban
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Aoi Shimomura
- Loyola University of Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Swapnil Shah
- Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Tasher Losenegger
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Ashok A Jagasia
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Miller RH, Gurgel RK, McCrary HC. Graduating Otolaryngology Residents' Ideal Practice Expectations: A Longitudinal Analysis. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2022; 167:472-478. [PMID: 34982583 DOI: 10.1177/01945998211069505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prior literature has indicated that the number of trained otolaryngologists required to meet the need of our growing population may be insufficient. Therefore, identifying trends in the subspecialty composition of future otolaryngology practices will elucidate workforce needs. STUDY DESIGN One-page anonymous questionnaire. SETTING The survey was completed by examinees at the conclusion of their American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery oral examination from 2011 to 2019. METHODS Data included age, gender, fellowship, practice type, and ideal future practice components. RESULTS A total of 2286 examinees were included: 58.1% were male and 57.2% completed a fellowship. Ideal practice specialties included general otolaryngology (19%), rhinology (15%), head and neck (13%), and pediatrics (11%). General and pediatric otolaryngology had a negative correlation over time (r = -0.81, P = .01, and r = -0.75, P = .03, respectively). An overall 45% of graduates reported 1 ideal practice area (r = 0.61, P = .10), with a statistically significant decline in the number of ideal practice areas over time (r = -0.79, P = .018). Men more commonly reported allergy, head and neck, otology, rhinology, and sleep medicine as part of their ideal practice (P < .05), while women more commonly reported pediatric otolaryngology (P < .05). There was a higher mean number of ideal practice areas among men than women (2.58 vs 2.1, P < .001). CONCLUSION There is a growing trend for more specialized otolaryngology practices. The data demonstrate a decline in considering general and pediatrics otolaryngology as part of practices, which portends a gap in access to comprehensive otolaryngology in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert H Miller
- Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Richard K Gurgel
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Hilary C McCrary
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Osazuwa-Peters N, Barnes JM, Okafor SI, Taylor DB, Hussaini AS, Adjei Boakye E, Simpson MC, Graboyes EM, Lee WT. Incidence and Risk of Suicide Among Patients With Head and Neck Cancer in Rural, Urban, and Metropolitan Areas. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2021; 147:1045-1052. [PMID: 34297790 PMCID: PMC8304170 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2021.1728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Importance Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) are known to be at increased risk of suicide compared with the general population, but there has been insufficient research on whether this risk differs based on patients' rural, urban, or metropolitan residence status. Objective To evaluate whether the risk of suicide among patients with HNC differs by rural vs urban or metropolitan residence status. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study uses data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database on patients aged 18 to 74 years who received a diagnosis of HNC from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2016. Statistical analysis was conducted from November 27, 2020, to June 3, 2021. Exposures Residence status, assessed using 2013 Rural Urban Continuum Codes. Main Outcomes and Measures Death due to suicide was assessed by International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision codes (U03, X60-X84, and Y87.0) and the cause of death recode (50220). Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) of suicide, assessing the suicide risk among patients with HNC compared with the general population, were calculated. Suicide risk by residence status was compared using Fine-Gray proportional hazards regression models. Results Data from 134 510 patients with HNC (101 142 men [75.2%]; mean [SE] age, 57.7 [10.3] years) were analyzed, and 405 suicides were identified. Metropolitan residents composed 86.6% of the sample, urban residents composed 11.7%, and rural residents composed 1.7%. The mortality rate of suicide was 59.2 per 100 000 person-years in metropolitan counties, 64.0 per 100 000 person-years in urban counties, and 126.7 per 100 000 person-years in rural counties. Compared with the general population, the risk of suicide was markedly higher among patients with HNC in metropolitan (SMR, 2.78; 95% CI, 2.49-3.09), urban (SMR, 2.84; 95% CI, 2.13-3.71), and rural (SMR, 5.47; 95% CI, 3.06-9.02) areas. In Fine-Gray competing-risk analyses that adjusted for other covariates, there was no meaningful difference in suicide risk among urban vs metropolitan residents. However, compared with rural residents, residents of urban (subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.29-0.94) and metropolitan counties (subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.32-0.94) had greatly lower risk of suicide. Conclusions and Relevance The findings of this cross-sectional study suggest that suicide risk is elevated in general among patients with HNC but is significantly higher for patients residing in rural areas. Effective suicide prevention strategies in the population of patients with HNC need to account for rural health owing to the high risk of suicide among residents with HNC in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Editorial Board Member, JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery
| | - Justin M. Barnes
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Somtochi I. Okafor
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Adnan S. Hussaini
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
| | - Eric Adjei Boakye
- Department of Population Science and Policy, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield
- Simmons Cancer Institute, Springfield, Illinois
| | - Matthew C. Simpson
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, St Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Advanced Health Data Research Institute, St Louis University, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Evan M. Graboyes
- Editorial Board Member, JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Walter T. Lee
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, North Carolina
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Liu DH, Ge M, Smith SS, Park C, Ference EH. Geographic Distribution of Otolaryngology Advance Practice Providers and Physicians. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2021; 167:48-55. [PMID: 34428088 DOI: 10.1177/01945998211040408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Advanced practice providers (APPs), namely physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs), play an increasing role in meeting growing demands for otolaryngologic services, particularly in rural communities. This study analyzes the geographic distribution of otolaryngology providers, which is essential to addressing future demands. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Data for 2017. METHODS Current Procedural Terminology codes were used to identify APPs providing 10 common otolaryngologic services. Geographic distribution was evaluated by calculating densities of APPs and otolaryngologists per 100,000 persons in urban versus rural counties as defined by the National Center for Health Statistics Urban-Rural Classification Scheme. RESULTS We identified cohorts of 8573 otolaryngologists, 1148 NPs, and 895 PAs. There were significantly higher population-controlled densities of otolaryngologists and APPs in urban counties as compared with rural counties. The majority of otolaryngologists (92.1%) and APPs (83.3%) were in urban counties. However, the proportion of APPs (16.7%) in rural counties was significantly higher than the proportion of otolaryngologists (7.9%) in rural counties (P < .01). A significant majority of rural counties (72.2%) had zero identified providers, and a greater proportion of rural counties (5.0%) were served exclusively by APPs as compared with urban counties (3.2%). CONCLUSIONS Although otolaryngologists and APPs mostly practiced in urban counties, a relatively higher proportion of APPs practiced in rural counties when compared with otolaryngology physicians. The majority of rural counties did not have any otolaryngologic providers. Given the expected shortages of otolaryngology physicians, APPs may play a critical role in addressing these gaps in access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek H Liu
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marshall Ge
- Caruso Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Stephanie Shintani Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Christine Park
- Caruso Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Elisabeth H Ference
- Caruso Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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15
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Sharma A, Bowman R, Ettema SL, Gregory SR, Javadi P, Johnson MD, Butcher ML, Mutua E, Stack BC, Crosby DL. Rapid telehealth implementation into an otolaryngology practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2021; 6:386-393. [PMID: 34195358 PMCID: PMC8223471 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Report outcomes of rapid implementation of telehealth across an academic otolaryngology-head and neck surgery department during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS This is a retrospective, single-institution study of rapid deployment of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Characteristics of patients were compared between those who agreed and those who declined telehealth care. Reasons for declining telehealth visits were ascertained. Characteristics of telehealth visits were collected and patients were asked to complete a post-visit satisfaction survey. RESULTS There was a 68% acceptance rate for telehealth visits. In multivariable analysis, patients were more likely to accept telehealth if they were being seen in the facial plastics subspecialty clinic (odds ratio [OR] 59.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.21-1607.52; P = .015) compared to the general otolaryngology clinic. Patients with Medicare (compared to commercial insurance) as their primary insurance were less likely to accept telehealth visits (OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.01-0.77; P = .027). Two hundred and thirty one patients underwent telehealth visits; most visits (69%) were for established patients and residents were involved in 38% of visits. There was an 85% response rate to the post-visit survey. On a scale of one to ten, the median satisfaction score was 10 and 99% of patients gave a score of 8 or higher. Satisfaction scores were higher for new patient visits than established patient visits (P = .020). CONCLUSION Rapid implementation of telehealth in an academic otolaryngology-head and neck surgery department is feasible. There was high acceptance of and satisfaction scores with telehealth. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Sharma
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
| | - Ryan Bowman
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
| | - Sandra L. Ettema
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
| | - Stacie R. Gregory
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
| | - Pardis Javadi
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
| | - Matthew D. Johnson
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
| | - Marissa L. Butcher
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
| | - Evans Mutua
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
| | - Brendan C. Stack
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
| | - Dana L. Crosby
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgerySouthern Illinois University School of MedicineSpringfieldIllinoisUSA
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16
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Losenegger T, Urban MJ, Jagasia AJ. Challenges in the Delivery of Rural Otolaryngology Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2021; 165:5-6. [PMID: 33588629 DOI: 10.1177/0194599821995146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Though initially spared from the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic, rural areas in the United States have been ravaged by the disease. With a higher-risk population at baseline and an already strained health care system, rural hospitals face severe challenges in delivering care during the pandemic. In otolaryngology specifically, there has been difficulty in ensuring patient access to care while maintaining safe environments for patients and staff. Partnership between academic medical centers and critical access rural hospitals is urgently needed to help improve care for vulnerable rural populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasher Losenegger
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Matthew J Urban
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ashok J Jagasia
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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