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Kenniff J, Ginat D. Evaluation of an Automated Reminder System for Reducing Missed MRI Appointments. J Patient Exp 2023; 10:23743735231151548. [PMID: 36741825 PMCID: PMC9893353 DOI: 10.1177/23743735231151548] [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] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The high frequency of missed appointments continues to be a burden on healthcare providers, leading to decreased productivity, quality of service, and quality of outcome. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Televox's automated appointment reminder service in reducing the missed appointment rate for MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). The appointment reminders were sent 72 h in advance. The total and no-show numbers were tallied to calculate missed appointment rates. Comparison of the missed appointment rate with and without Televox implementation and different payment types was performed. Temporal comparisons were also made across the corresponding time periods in order to control for seasonal fluctuations. Results: An insignificant decline in missed appointment rates was found in locations implementing Televox (P = .495) overall, although a significant decrease in missed appointments was found among Medicaid patients (P = .0381). Conclusion: Implementation of Televox appointment reminder systems did not significantly affect appointment attendance overall, but could be more useful specifically for encouraging Medicaid patients to attend MRI appointments.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Kenniff
- The College, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Daniel Ginat
- Department of Radiology, University of Chicago, Pritzker School of
Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA,Daniel Ginat, 5841 S Maryland Avenue,
Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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Wouk K, Kinlaw AC, Farahi N, Pfeifer H, Yeatts B, Paw MK, Robinson WR. Correlates of Receiving Guideline-Concordant Postpartum Health Services in the Community Health Center Setting. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS 2022; 3:180-193. [PMID: 35262055 PMCID: PMC8896220 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2021.0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: New clinical guidelines recommend comprehensive and timely postpartum services across 3 months after birth. Research is needed to characterize correlates of receiving guideline-concordant, quality postpartum care in federally qualified health centers serving marginalized populations. Methods: We abstracted electronic health record data from patients who received prenatal health care at three health centers in North Carolina to characterize quality postpartum care practices and to identify correlates of receiving quality care. We used multivariable log-binomial regression to estimate associations between patient, provider, and health center characteristics and two quality postpartum care outcomes: (1) timely care, defined as an initial assessment within the first 3 weeks and at least one additional visit within the first 3 months postpartum; and (2) comprehensive care, defined as receipt of services addressing family planning, infant feeding, chronic health, mood, and physical recovery across the first 3 months. Results: In a cohort of 253 patients, 60.5% received comprehensive postpartum care and 30.8% received timely care. Several prenatal factors (adequate care use, an engaged patient–provider relationship) and postpartum factors (early appointment scheduling, exclusive breastfeeding, and use of enabling services) were associated with timely postpartum care. The most important correlate of comprehensive services was having more than one postpartum visit during the first 3 months postpartum. Discussion: Identifying best practices for quality postpartum care in the health center setting can inform strategies to reduce health inequities. Future research should engage community stakeholders to define patient-centered measures of quality postpartum care and to identify community-centered ways of delivering this care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Wouk
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Carolina Global Breastfeeding Institute, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alan C. Kinlaw
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, University of North Carolina School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Narges Farahi
- Department of Family Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Henry Pfeifer
- Piedmont Health Services, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Physician Assistant Studies, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brandon Yeatts
- Piedmont Health Services, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Moo Kho Paw
- Piedmont Health Services, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Whitney R. Robinson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Wouk K, Morgan I, Johnson J, Tucker C, Carlson R, Berry DC, Stuebe AM. A Systematic Review of Patient-, Provider-, and Health System-Level Predictors of Postpartum Health Care Use by People of Color and Low-Income and/or Uninsured Populations in the United States. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2021; 30:1127-1159. [PMID: 33175652 PMCID: PMC8403215 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2020.8738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: People of color and low-income and uninsured populations in the United States have elevated risks of adverse maternal health outcomes alongside low levels of postpartum visit attendance. The postpartum period is a critical window for delivering health care services to reduce health inequities and their transgenerational effects. Evidence is needed to identify predictors of postpartum visit attendance in marginalized populations. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the peer-reviewed literature to identify studies that quantified patient-, provider-, and health system-level predictors of postpartum health care use by people of color and low-income and uninsured populations. We extracted study design, sample, measures, and outcome data from studies meeting our eligibility criteria, and used a modified Cochrane Risk of Bias tool to evaluate risk of bias. Results: Out of 2,757 studies, 36 met our criteria for inclusion in this review. Patient-level factors consistently associated with postpartum care included higher socioeconomic status, rural residence, fewer children, older age, medical complications, and previous health care use. Perceived discrimination during intrapartum care and trouble understanding the health care provider were associated with lower postpartum visit use, while satisfaction with the provider and having a provider familiar with one's health history were associated with higher use. Health system predictors included public facilities, group prenatal care, and services such as patient navigators and appointment reminders. Discussion: Postpartum health service research in marginalized populations has predominantly focused on patient-level factors; however, the multilevel predictors identified in this review reflect underlying inequities and should be used to inform the design of structural changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Wouk
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Carolina Global Breastfeeding Institute, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Isabel Morgan
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jasmine Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Christine Tucker
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rebecca Carlson
- Health Sciences Library, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Diane C. Berry
- School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alison M. Stuebe
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Carolina Global Breastfeeding Institute, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Rossouw L, Burger RP, Burger R. An Incentive-Based and Community Health Worker Package Intervention to Improve Early Utilization of Antenatal Care: Evidence from a Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial. Matern Child Health J 2019; 23:633-640. [PMID: 30600521 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-018-2677-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Objectives One of the factors linked to South Africa's relatively high maternal mortality ratio is late utilization of antenatal care (ANC). Early utilization is especially important in South Africa due to the high HIV prevalence amongst pregnant women. This study examined the impact of a package intervention, consisting of an incentive called the Thula Baba Box (TBB) and a community health worker (CHW) programme, on early utilization of ANC. Methods A pilot randomised controlled trial consisting of 72 women aged 18 and older was conducted in an urban area in South Africa to evaluate the impact of the package intervention. Women were recruited and randomised into either intervention (n = 39) or control group (n = 33). The intervention group received both the TBB and monthly CHW visits, while the control group followed standard clinical practice. Both groups were interviewed at recruitment and once again after giving birth. The outcomes measured are the timing of first ANC visit and whether they attended more than four times. It is anticipated that the box will also have a beneficial impact on infant health outcomes, but these fall out of the scope of this study. Results Women in the intervention groups sought care on average 1.35 months earlier than the control group. They were also significantly more likely to attend at least four antenatal clinic visits. Conclusions for practice Given the South African context and the importance of early care-seeking behaviour to improve health outcomes of HIV-positive pregnant women, the intervention can help to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Further research is needed to investigate the impact of the two interventions separately, and to see if these findings hold in other communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rossouw
- Economics Department, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
| | - Rulof Petrus Burger
- Economics Department, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Ronelle Burger
- Economics Department, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
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Priebe S, Bremner SA, Lauber C, Henderson C, Burns T. Financial incentives to improve adherence to antipsychotic maintenance medication in non-adherent patients: a cluster randomised controlled trial. Health Technol Assess 2018; 20:1-122. [PMID: 27682868 DOI: 10.3310/hta20700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor adherence to long-term antipsychotic injectable (LAI) medication in patients with psychotic disorders is associated with a range of negative outcomes. No psychosocial intervention has been found to be consistently effective in improving adherence. OBJECTIVES To test whether or not offering financial incentives is effective and cost-effective in improving adherence and to explore patient and clinician experiences with such incentives. DESIGN A cluster randomised controlled trial with economic and nested qualitative evaluation. The intervention period lasted for 12 months with 24 months' follow-up. The unit of randomisation was mental health teams in the community. SETTING Community teams in secondary mental health care. PARTICIPANTS Patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective psychosis or bipolar illness, receiving ≤ 75% of their prescribed LAI medication. In total, 73 teams with 141 patients (intervention n = 78 and control n = 63) were included. INTERVENTIONS Participants in the intervention group received £15 for each LAI medication. Patients in the control group received treatment as usual. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES PRIMARY OUTCOME adherence to LAI medication (the percentage of received out of those prescribed). SECONDARY OUTCOMES percentage of patients with at least 95% adherence; clinical global improvement; subjective quality of life; satisfaction with medication; hospitalisation; adverse events; and costs. Qualitative evaluation: semistructured interviews with patients in the intervention group and their clinicians. RESULTS PRIMARY OUTCOME outcome data were available for 131 patients. Baseline adherence was 69% in the intervention group and 67% in the control group. During the intervention period, adherence was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (85% vs. 71%) [adjusted mean difference 11.5%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.9% to 19.0%; p = 0.003]. Secondary outcome: patients in the intervention group showed statistically significant improvement in adherence of at least 95% (adjusted odds ratio 8.21, 95% CI 2.00 to 33.67; p = 0.003) and subjective quality of life (difference in means 0.71, 95% CI 0.26 to 1.15; p = 0.002). Follow-ups: after incentives stopped, adherence did not differ significantly between groups, neither during the first 6 months (adjusted difference in means -7.4%, 95% CI -17.0% to 2.1%; p = 0.175) nor during the period from month 7 to month 24 (difference in means -5.7%, 95% CI -13.1% to 1.7%; p = 0.130). Cost-effectiveness: the average costs of the financial incentives was £303. Overall costs per patient were somewhat higher in the intervention group, but the difference was not significant. Semistructured interviews: the majority of patients and clinicians reported positive experiences with the incentives beyond their monetary value. These included improvement in the therapeutic relationship. The majority of both patients and clinicians perceived no negative impact after the intervention was stopped after 1 year. CONCLUSIONS Financial incentives are effective in improving adherence to LAI medication. Health-care costs (including costs of the financial incentive) are unlikely to be increased substantially by this intervention. Once the incentives stop, the advantage is not maintained. The experiences of both patients and clinicians are largely, but not exclusively, positive. Whether or not financial incentives are effective for patients with more favourable background, those on oral mediation or for shorter or longer time periods remains unknown. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN77769281. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 20, No. 70. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Priebe
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Services Development, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Stephen A Bremner
- Division of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Mayfield House, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Christoph Lauber
- Services Psychiatriques, Jura bernois, Bienne-Seeland, Bellelay, Switzerland
| | - Catherine Henderson
- Department of Social Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Tom Burns
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Upper secondary school students' compliance with two Internet-based self-help programmes: a randomised controlled trial. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2018; 27:191-200. [PMID: 28776094 PMCID: PMC5842245 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-017-1035-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric symptoms and stress are on the increase among Swedish adolescents. We aimed to study the potential effect and feasibility of two Internet-based self-help programmes, one mindfulness based (iMBI) and the other music based in a randomised controlled trial that targeted adolescents. A total of 283 upper secondary school students in two Swedish schools were randomised to either a waiting list or one of the two programmes, on their own incentive, on schooltime. General psychiatric health (Symptoms Checklist 90), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale) were assessed before and after the interventions. In total, 202 participants answered the questionnaires. Less than 20 logged into each intervention and only 1 performed a full intervention (iMBI). No significant differences in any of the scales were found between those who logged in and those who did not. The potential effect of Internet-based self-help programmes was not possible to examine due to low compliance rates. Adolescents seem to have a very low compliance with Internet-based self-help programmes if left to their own incentive. There were no associations between the psychiatric and stress-related symptoms at baseline and compliance in any of the intervention groups, and no evidence for differences in compliance in relation to the type of programme. Additional studies are needed to examine how compliance rates can be increased in Internet-based self-help mindfulness programmes in adolescents, as the potentially positive effects of mindfulness are partly related to compliance rates.
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Himes KP, Donovan H, Wang S, Weaver C, Grove JR, Facco FL. Healthy Beyond Pregnancy, a Web-Based Intervention to Improve Adherence to Postpartum Care: Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial. JMIR Hum Factors 2017; 4:e26. [PMID: 29017990 PMCID: PMC5654734 DOI: 10.2196/humanfactors.7964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During the postpartum visit, health care providers address issues with short- and long-term implications for maternal and child health. Women with Medicaid insurance are less likely to return for a postpartum visit compared with women with private insurance. Behavioral economics acknowledges that people do not make exclusively rational choices, rather immediate gratification, cognitive and psychological biases, and social norms influence decision making. Drawing on insights from decision science, behavioral economists have examined how these biases can be modulated through carefully designed interventions. We have developed a Web-based tool, Healthy Beyond Pregnancy, that incorporates empirically derived concepts of behavioral economics to improve adherence rates to the postpartum visit. Objectives The primary objectives of this pilot study were to (1) refine and assess the usability of Healthy Beyond Pregnancy and (2) assess the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of the intervention. Methods We used a multistep process and multidisciplinary team of maternal-fetal medicine physicians, a behavioral economist, and researchers with expertise in behavioral interventions to design Healthy Beyond Pregnancy. We assessed the usability of the program with the Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ), a validated 7-point scale, and semistructured interviews with postpartum women. We then conducted a feasibility trial to determine the proportion of eligible women who were willing to participate in an RCT of Healthy Beyond Pregnancy and the proportion of women willing to complete the Web-based program. Exploratory outcomes of the pilot trial included attendance at the postpartum visit, uptake of long-acting reversible contraception, and uptake of any contraception. Results The median PSSUQ score for Healthy Beyond Pregnancy was 6.5 (interquartile range: 6.1-7) demonstrating high usability. Semistructured interviews (n=10) provided in-depth comments about users’ experience and further improved the program. A total of 34 postpartum women with Medicaid insurance were approached for the pilot trial, and 30 (88%) were consented and randomized. All women randomized to Healthy Beyond Pregnancy completed the Web-based program, had text-enabled cell phones, and were willing to receive text messages from the study team. Women in the Healthy Beyond Pregnancy arm were more likely to return for a postpartum visit compared with women in the control arm with 85% of women in Healthy Beyond Pregnancy returning versus 53% in the control arm (odds ratio in the Healthy Beyond Pregnancy group: 5.3; 95% CI 0.9-32.0; P=.06). Conclusions We have developed a highly usable and acceptable Web-based program designed to increase attendance at the postpartum visit. Our pilot trial demonstrates that women are willing and able to participate in a randomized trial of a Web-based program and text messaging system. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03296774; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03296774 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6tpgXFzyk)
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Park Himes
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Heidi Donovan
- School of Nursing, Health and Community Systems, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Stephanie Wang
- Department of Economics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Carrie Weaver
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jillian Rae Grove
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Francesca Lucia Facco
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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De Geest S, Dobbels F, Martin S, Willems K, Vanhaecke J. Clinical Risk Associated with Appointment Noncompliance in Heart Transplant Recipients. Prog Transplant 2016; 10:162-8. [PMID: 11216275 DOI: 10.1177/152692480001000306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the prevalence of appointment noncompliance in 101 heart transplant recipients and how appointment noncompliance is related to patient profile and clinical risk. Appointment noncompliance was defined as patients not showing up at 1 or more planned clinic appointments (at a minimal frequency of every 3 months) during the previous year. Clinical variables were collected from medical files. Psychosocial variables were measured using established instruments. Medication noncompliance was assessed using electronic event monitoring. Paired t test, Wilcoxon 2-sample test, chi-square test, or Fisher exact test were used for statistical analysis as appropriate. The prevalence of appointment noncompliance was 7%. Appointment noncompliers were significantly younger, were less likely to live in a stable relationship with a partner, were more depressed, perceived their health as poorer, experienced more symptom distress, and had significantly more drug holidays. Fifty-seven percent of the appointment noncompliers experienced 1 or more late acute rejection episodes, compared to 2% of the appointment compliers. Appointment noncompliance is a critical behavioral risk factor in the occurrence of late acute rejection episodes in heart transplant patients. Patient profiles allow the identification of patients at risk for appointment noncompliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- S De Geest
- Center for Health Services and Nursing Research, Catholic University Leuven, Belgium
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Stumbras K, Rankin K, Caskey R, Haider S, Handler A. Guidelines and Interventions Related to the Postpartum Visit for Low-Risk Postpartum Women in High and Upper Middle Income Countries. Matern Child Health J 2016; 20:103-116. [DOI: 10.1007/s10995-016-2053-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Hayes RA, Efron LA, Richman GS, Harrison KA, Aguilera EL. The Effects of Behavioural Contracting and Preferred Reinforcement on Appointment Keeping. BEHAVIOUR CHANGE 2012. [DOI: 10.1375/bech.17.2.90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe current study demonstrates the efficacy of using a behavioural contingency contract in conjunction with family-selected reinforcers to increase appointment keeping among low income families in a child and family therapy clinic. Three families with similar presenting problems participated. A multiple baseline across-subjects design with the addition of a reversal component was utilised. Upon treatment implementation, contracts were signed by family members stating that they would receive coupons valuing $30.00 after attending four consecutive clinic appointments. These coupons were selected by the family from a diverse menu. Results indicated increases in appointment keeping following implementation of the behavioural contract. The cost effectiveness of using a behavioural contract in conjunction with economic incentives with low-income families is discussed, and suggestions for future research on appointment keeping are made.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine non-attendance rates at new appointments at St James's Child Guidance Clinic. METHOD The sample consisted of all new referrals to St. James's Child Guidance Clinic in one calendar year (2004). Data was collected retrospectively from an electronic patient information system (Pinpoint), the new patient-referral logbook, referral letters, the appointment diary, and from clinical records. RESULTS There were 260 new referrals to St James's Child Guidance Clinic in 2004. Out of the 260 children and adolescents granted a new appointment, 34 (13.07%) who failed to keep their appointment were identified. All patients granted an urgent appointment did attend. CONCLUSIONS Non-attendance rates at new assessment in St James's Child Guidance Clinic were slightly lower than those reported in other studies. The implemented evidence-based strategies to reduce non-attendance rates could explain the relatively low non-attendance rate at new assessment.
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12
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Shaw E, Levitt C, Wong S, Kaczorowski J. Systematic review of the literature on postpartum care: effectiveness of postpartum support to improve maternal parenting, mental health, quality of life, and physical health. Birth 2006; 33:210-20. [PMID: 16948721 DOI: 10.1111/j.1523-536x.2006.00106.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postpartum support is recommended to prevent infant and maternal morbidity. This review examined the published evidence of the effectiveness of postpartum support programs to improve maternal knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to parenting, maternal mental health, maternal quality of life, and maternal physical health. METHODS MEDLINE, Cinahl, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials of interventions initiated from immediately after birth to 1 year in postnatal women. The initial literature search was done in 1999 and was enhanced in 2003 and 2005. Studies were categorized based on the the above outcomes. Data were extracted in a systematic manner, and the quality of each study was reviewed. RESULTS In the 1999 search, 9 studies met the inclusion criteria. The 2003 and 2005 searches identified 13 additional trials for a total of 22 trials. Universal postpartum support to unselected women at low risk did not result in statistically significant improvements for any outcomes examined. Educational visits to a pediatrician showed statistically significant improvements in maternal-infant parenting skills in low-income primiparous women. In women at high risk for family dysfunction and child abuse, nurse home visits combined with case conferencing produced a statistically significant improvement in home environment quality using the HOME (Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment) program. Similarly, in women at high risk for either family dysfunction or postpartum depression, home visitation or peer support, respectively, produced a statistically significant reduction in Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale scores (difference - 2.23, 95% CI -3.72 to -0.74, p= 0.004; and 15.0% vs 52.4%, OR 6.23, 95% CI 1.40 to 27.84, p= 0.01, respectively). Educational programs reduced repeat unplanned pregnancies (12.0% vs 28.3%, p= 0.003) and increased effective contraceptive use (RR 1.35, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.68, p= 0.007). Maternal satisfaction was higher with home visitation programs. CONCLUSIONS No randomized controlled trial evidence was found to endorse universal provision of postpartum support to improve parenting, maternal mental health, maternal quality of life, or maternal physical health. There is some evidence that high-risk populations may benefit from postpartum support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Shaw
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Bech M. The economics of non-attendance and the expected effect of charging a fine on non-attendees. Health Policy 2005; 74:181-91. [PMID: 16153478 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2005.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2004] [Accepted: 01/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Non-attendance is claimed to waste substantial health care resources. However, this is only vaguely supported by empirical evidence. The epidemiology of non-attendees is explored in a rather large number of studies along with a sizeable number of studies documenting the effectiveness of various interventions to reduce non-attendance rates. Very few studies include more than one intervention and very few report information on the cost of the intervention which enables only vague conclusions about the cost-effectiveness of the interventions. The effectiveness of charging a fine on non-attendees, which has recently been suggested in Denmark and United Kingdom, has been studied in very few studies. These studies reveal that a fine will as most economists expected reduce the non-attendance rate. The literature of non-attendance discloses an immense need for studies addressing the non-attendance problem applying economic theory and standards of analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mickael Bech
- Institute of Public Health, Health Economics, University of Southern Denmark, Winslowparken 19,3, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.
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14
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Kane RL, Johnson PE, Town RJ, Butler M. A structured review of the effect of economic incentives on consumers' preventive behavior. Am J Prev Med 2004; 27:327-52. [PMID: 15488364 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2004.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Improving participation in preventive activities will require finding methods to encourage consumers to engage in and remain in such efforts. This review assesses the effects of economic incentives on consumers' preventive health behaviors. A study was classified as complex preventive health if a sustained behavior change was required of the consumer; if it could be accomplished directly (e.g., immunizations), it was considered simple. A systematic literature review identified 111 randomized controlled trials of which 47 (published between 1966 and 2002) met the criteria for review. The economic incentives worked 73% of the time (74% for simple, and 72% for complex). Rates varied by the goal of the incentive. Incentives that increased ability to purchase the preventive service worked better than more diffuse incentives, but the type matters less than the nature of the incentive. Economic incentives are effective in the short run for simple preventive care, and distinct, well-defined behavioral goals. Small incentives can produce finite changes, but it is not clear what size of incentive is needed to yield a major sustained effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Kane
- Division of Health Services Research and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA.
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Levitt C, Shaw E, Wong S, Kaczorowski J, Springate R, Sellors J, Enkin M. Systematic review of the literature on postpartum care: methodology and literature search results. Birth 2004; 31:196-202. [PMID: 15330882 DOI: 10.1111/j.0730-7659.2004.00305.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The postpartum period is a time for multiple clinical interventions. To date, no critical review of these interventions exists. This systematic review examined evidence for the effectiveness of postpartum interventions that have been reported in the literature. METHODS MEDLINE, Cinahl, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials of interventions initiated from immediately after birth to 1 year in postnatal women that were conducted in North America, Europe, Australia, or New Zealand. The initial literature search was done in 1999, using postpartum content search terms, and was enhanced in 2003. In both years, bibliographic databases were searched from their inception. Studies were categorized into key topic areas. Data extraction forms were developed and completed for each study, and the quality of each study was systematically reviewed. Groups of studies in a topic area were reviewed together, and clinically relevant questions emanating from the studies were identified to determine whether the studies, alone or together, provided evidence to support the clinical intervention. RESULTS In the 1999 search, of 671 studies identified, 140 studies were randomized controlled trials that met the selection criteria: 41 studies related to breastfeeding, 33 to postpartum perineal pain management, and 63 to 11 other key topic areas (Papanicolaou test, rubella immunization, contraception, postpartum support, early discharge, postpartum depression and anxiety, postpartum medical disorders, smoking cessation, nutrition supplements other than breastfeeding, effects of pelvic floor exercise, and effects of early newborn contact). The results of the systematic review of each topic will be summarized in separate papers as they are completed. CONCLUSIONS This systematic search has identified key topic areas in postpartum care for which randomized controlled trials have been conducted. Our ultimate goal is to provide evidence-based guidelines on the use of routine postpartum interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Levitt
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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De Geest S, Dobbels F, Martin S, Willems K, Vanhaecke J. Clinical risk associated with appointment noncompliance in heart transplant recipients. Prog Transplant 2000. [DOI: 10.7182/prtr.10.3.mtx734810867w680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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17
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Improving Initial Session Attendance of Substance Abusing and Conduct Disordered Adolescents: A Controlled Study. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE 1999. [DOI: 10.1300/j029v08n01_01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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18
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Garuda
- James J, Nance College of Business Administration, Cleveland State University, OH, USA
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Stevens-Simon C, O'Connor P, Bassford K. Incentives enhance postpartum compliance among adolescent prenatal patients. J Adolesc Health 1994; 15:396-9. [PMID: 7947854 DOI: 10.1016/1054-139x(94)90263-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that incentives enhance compliance with postpartum appointments. METHOD We studied a multiracial group of 240, poor, 12-to-19 year olds. At 34 weeks gestation consecutively enrolled patients were randomized to incentive and non-incentive groups. Patients in the incentive group were told that they would receive a Gerry "Cuddler" if they returned for an examination within 12 weeks of delivery. The groups were compared with Student's t-tests and chi-square and logistic regression analyses. RESULTS We found no significant group differences in age, race, Medicaid status, gravidity, parity, the timing of the first prenatal visit, compliance with prenatal appointments, or well-baby care site. One hundred and seventy-five (73%) of the 240 patients returned for a postpartum examination. Patients randomized to the incentive group were significantly more likely to return for an examination within 12 weeks of delivery (82.4% vs. 65.2%, chi 2 = 9.0; p = .003). The logistic regression analysis revealed that in addition to membership in the incentive group, three characteristics were significantly associated with postpartum compliance: primiparity, compliance with prenatal care, and school enrollment. CONCLUSIONS Among adolescents who obtained prenatal care in a multidisciplinary adolescent-oriented maternity program, the offer of an incentive significantly improved compliance with the 6-week postpartum appointment. Since other factors associated with improved postpartum compliance are less amenable to change we recommend that health care providers consider offering a postpartum incentive, especially to their multiparous adolescent patients who are not enrolled in school and/or are non-compliant with prenatal appointments.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Stevens-Simon
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, School of Nursing, University of Colorado Health Science Center, Denver
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20
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Abstract
Failure to attend the first newborn health supervision visit is an important problem for the Continuity Care Clinic of Children's Hospital Medical Center of Akron, Ohio. The goal of this study was to use objective data from the neonatal record to identify newborns at high risk of failure to attend. Clinical and social risk factors of the mother and newborn were abstracted from the neonatal progress notes of 319 infants. The relative risk (RR) of nonattendance was calculated for each factor, and rules for predicting failure to attend were evaluated. The best predictors were multiparous mother (RR = 2.4, P = .01), no telephone in home (RR = 2.6, P = .002), and unmarried teenage mother (RR = 5.8, P = .05). Newborns who had a medical problem and had a adult mother were more likely to attend (RR = 0.4, P = .02). These risk factors were easily identifiable from the medical record at birth. Because interventions may be labor-intensive, it is important to target the families at the highest risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Specht
- Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown
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21
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Weinman ML, Smith PB. U.S.- and Mexico-born Hispanic teen mothers: a descriptive study of factors that relate to postpartum compliance. HISPANIC JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES 1994; 16:186-94. [PMID: 12346335 DOI: 10.1177/07399863940162008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study examinedfactors that related to postpartum compliance in a group of U.S.-and Mexico-born Hispanic teens who delivered at a county hospital in Houston, Texas. Only 50 (17.3%) of the combined group returnedfor their scheduled postpartum visit. Returning teens across groups were more likely to have no prenatal care, have a preterm or expired infant, report no educational plan, but have a support system. When controlling for marital status, Mexico-born married teens were the most likely to return for postpartum visits. Medical services need to focus on cultural norms andfamily support systems to increase use of health services. These factors appear to be consistent across both groups of Hispanic teens although married teens from Mexico appear to be more compliant to health care.
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Abstract
Compliance with medication and medical appointments is presumed to have a critical influence on outcomes of medical interventions. However, compliance may not always be easily defined or accurately measured. No single method of measuring compliance with appointments or medication is applicable in all settings. The apparent effects of compliance on outcome may be both direct and indirect; research is needed to define more clearly how these effects may be mediated. Identifying effective methods of enhancing compliance requires accurate methods of measuring compliance. In addition, the effectiveness of interventions may decay over time, and differences in effectiveness in acute versus long-term settings have not been well studied. Researchers conducting clinical trials of medical interventions must evaluate compliance in the population studied and consider the potential impact of noncompliance on trial results and their generalizability. In some trial designs, data may best be analyzed by considering compliance a dependent or an outcome variable. Under appropriate circumstances, compliance may be considered an independent variable. Readers of the medical literature should consider how compliance was measured and analyzed when interpreting the results of clinical trials. Table 4 suggests criteria for critical appraisal of compliance-related issues in reports of clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Melnikow
- Department of Family Practice, University of California-Davis
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24
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Kiefe CI, Harrison PL. Post-hospitalization followup appointment-keeping among the medically indigent. J Community Health 1993; 18:271-82. [PMID: 8227508 DOI: 10.1007/bf01321788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to measure followup appointment-keeping in patients discharged from a General Medicine Inpatient Service and to identify possible predictors of compliance. Patients were interviewed on hospital admission and all charts were reviewed on discharge. A subset of patients were interviewed by telephone an average of one month after first followup appointment date. The study was conducted in an urban public teaching hospital with hospital-based and community clinics. A convenience sample of 209 patients were selected from admissions to the General Medicine Inpatient Service over a three month period. Followup appointment-keeping was recorded on all 195 patients discharged alive. Seventy-five percent of patients had no medical insurance, public or private. A compliance rate of 60% (95% confidence interval: 53% to 67%) with first followup appointment was found. Variables associated with compliance and which retained independence on multiple logistic regression analysis, followed by adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) were: no copayment requirement, odds ratio 3.2 (1.6 to 6.3), single followup appointment 2.9 (1.4 to 5.9), apartment dwelling 3.2 (1.4 to 7.3) and non-primary care clinic appointment 2.3 (1.1 to 4.8). We conclude that health-care-delivery related factors such as no copayment requirements are strongly associated with appointment-keeping in a public hospital population.
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Affiliation(s)
- C I Kiefe
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham 35205-4785
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