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Nassar EL, Virgili-Gervais G, Carrier ME, Kwakkenbos L, Henry RS, Hu S, Provencher S, Golberg M, Bartlett SJ, Mouthon L, Patten SB, Varga J, Benedetti A, Thombs BD. Experiences of telehealth during and after the COVID-19 pandemic and preferences for future care of people with systemic sclerosis: a cross-sectional study. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2024; 6:e660-e663. [PMID: 38944052 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(24)00166-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Elsa-Lynn Nassar
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada; Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Marie-Eve Carrier
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Linda Kwakkenbos
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands; IQ Health and Center for Mindfulness, Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Richard S Henry
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sophie Hu
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sabrina Provencher
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Meira Golberg
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Susan J Bartlett
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Luc Mouthon
- Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de Référence Maladies Autoimmunes et Autoinflammatoires Systémiques Rares d'Ile de France, de l'Est et de l'Ouest, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Scott B Patten
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, and O'Brien Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - John Varga
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Andrea Benedetti
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada; Respiratory Epidemiology and Clinical Research Unit, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Brett D Thombs
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada; Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Muehlensiepen F, Petit P, Knitza J, Welcker M, Vuillerme N. Identification of Motivational Determinants for Telemedicine Use Among Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis in Germany: Secondary Analysis of Data From a Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey Study. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e47733. [PMID: 39159448 PMCID: PMC11369527 DOI: 10.2196/47733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have demonstrated telemedicine to be an effective tool to complement rheumatology care and address workforce shortage. With the COVID-19 outbreak, telemedicine experienced a massive upswing. An earlier analysis revealed that the motivation of patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases to use telemedicine is closely connected to their disease. It remains unclear which factors are associated with patients' motivation to use telemedicine in certain rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases groups, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). OBJECTIVE This study aims to identify factors that determine the willingness to try telemedicine among patients diagnosed with RA. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of data from a German nationwide cross-sectional survey among patients with RA. Bayesian univariate logistic regression analysis was applied to the data to determine which factors were associated with willingness to try telemedicine. Predictor variables (covariates) studied individually included sociodemographic factors (eg, age, sex) and health characteristics (eg, health status). All the variables positively and negatively associated with willingness to try telemedicine in the univariate analyses were then considered for Bayesian model averaging analysis after a selection based on the variance inflation factor (≤ 2.5) to identify determinants of willingness to try telemedicine. RESULTS Among 438 surveyed patients in the initial study, 210 were diagnosed with RA (47.9%). Among them, 146 (69.5%) answered either yes or no regarding willingness to try telemedicine and were included in the analysis. A total of 22 variables (22/55, 40%) were associated with willingness to try telemedicine (region of practical equivalence %≤5). A total of 9 determinant factors were identified using Bayesian model averaging analysis. Positive determinants included desiring telemedicine services provided by a rheumatologist (odds ratio [OR] 13.7, 95% CI 5.55-38.3), having prior knowledge of telemedicine (OR 2.91, 95% CI 1.46-6.28), residing in a town (OR 2.91, 95% CI 1.21-7.79) or city (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.23-1.27), and perceiving one's health status as moderate (OR 1.87, 95% CI 0.94-3.63). Negative determinants included the lack of an electronic device (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.01-0.62), absence of home internet access (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.02-0.39), self-assessment of health status as bad (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.21-0.89) or very bad (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.06-2.06), and being aged between 60 and 69 years (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.22-1.04) or older than 70 years (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.16-0.85). CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that some patients with RA will not have access to telemedicine without further support. Older patients, those not living in towns, those without adequate internet access, reporting a bad health status, and those not owning electronic devices might be excluded from the digital transformation in rheumatology and might not have access to adequate RA care. These patient groups certainly require support for the use of digital rheumatology care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Muehlensiepen
- Center for Health Services Research, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
- AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Pascal Petit
- AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Johannes Knitza
- AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Institute for Digital Medicine, University Hospital Giessen-Marburg, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Martin Welcker
- Medizinisches Versorgungszentrum für Rheumatologie Dr M Welcker GmbH, Planegg, Germany
| | - Nicolas Vuillerme
- AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- LabCom Telecom4Health, Orange Labs & Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Inria, Grenoble, France
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Zimba O, Guła Z, Strach M, Korkosz M. Living with axial spondyloarthritis: a cross-sectional survey of patient knowledge and perceptions. Rheumatol Int 2024; 44:1543-1552. [PMID: 38907763 PMCID: PMC11222235 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-024-05637-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Diagnosis and effective treatment of axial spondyloarthritis (AxSpA) are often delayed due to inadequate awareness and poor patient-physician communication. Some AxSpA patients fail to maintain an active lifestyle by exercising regularly, further worsening their disease management. The evolving concept of patient-centred care necessitates better understanding of patient awareness and their needs. We aimed to survey AxSpA patients to reflect on healthcare planning and management perspectives. Our self-administered questionnaire focused on perceptions of AxSpA diagnosis and management, particularly exploring issues of physical activity and active lifestyle. Satisfaction with AxSpA medical care and its accessibility, diagnostic delays, patient-physician communication, and support for disease management were also explored. This offline survey was arranged at the Department of Rheumatology, Immunology, and Internal Medicine of Jagiellonian University Medical College and Krakow University Hospital. We surveyed patients with AxSpA attending outpatient clinics between December 1st, 2023 and April 22nd, 2024. The questionnaire included questions on types of physical activities, barriers to exercising, satisfaction with medical care, patient-physician interactions, diagnostic delays, and use of teleconsultations. A total of 117 patients with AxSpA were enrolled (mean age 41.62 years). The majority (n = 93, 79.5%) were employed. There was a male predominance (69, 59%). The average diagnostic delay was 5.5 years. Notably, 104 (88.9%) responders perceived physical activity as a factor influencing their disease course. However, only 32 (27.35%) managed to exercise regularly (≥ 30 min, 2-3 times a week). The majority (70, 59.83%) were irregularly engaged in some form of physical activity, with 15 (12.8%) not exercising at all, and nearly half (48%) reported at least one barrier to maintaining a physically active lifestyle. Pain (32, 27.35%), fatigue (27, 23.08%), lack of motivation (17, 14.53%), and lack of time (12, 10.26%) were noted as barriers to exercising. The respondents preferred to exercise at home. The survey identified critical areas where patient dissatisfaction or uncertainty were notably prevalent: 38 (32.5%) were uncertain and 35 (30%) were dissatisfied with rehabilitation access. For spa therapy, 63 (53.85%) reported uncertainty and 23 (19.7%) expressed dissatisfaction. Only 48 (41%) were treated by a rehabilitation specialist last year. Only 23% of AxSpA patients took part in teleconsultations last year, and 65% preferred in-person visits. While AxSpA patients recognize the importance of physical activity, significant barriers exist to engaging them regularly in exercising. Addressing these barriers through personalized, motivational, and educational strategies could improve patient outcomes. Improving patient satisfaction with healthcare services, particularly in areas of rehabilitation and physician-patient communication, is crucial for improving the overall care of AxSpA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olena Zimba
- Department of Rheumatology, Immunology and Internal Medicine, University Hospital in Kraków, Kraków, Poland.
- National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland.
- Department of Internal Medicine N2, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine.
| | - Zofia Guła
- Department of Rheumatology, Immunology and Internal Medicine, University Hospital in Kraków, Kraków, Poland
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Strach
- Department of Rheumatology, Immunology and Internal Medicine, University Hospital in Kraków, Kraków, Poland
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Mariusz Korkosz
- Department of Rheumatology, Immunology and Internal Medicine, University Hospital in Kraków, Kraków, Poland
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
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Tan YK, Lim GH. Subclinical joint inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis: comparing thermal and ultrasound imaging at the metacarpophalangeal joint. Adv Rheumatol 2024; 64:36. [PMID: 38702760 DOI: 10.1186/s42358-024-00377-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While ultrasound and MRI are both superior to clinical examination in the detection of joint inflammation, there is presently a lack of data whether thermography may be similarly useful in the assessment of joint inflammation in patients with RA. Our study aims to evaluate the use of thermography in detecting subclinical joint inflammation at clinically quiescent (non-tender and non-swollen) metacarpophalangeal joints (MCPJs) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The outcomes from thermography in our study will be compared with ultrasonography (which is a more established imaging tool used for joint inflammation assessment in RA). METHODS The minimum (Tmin), average (Tavg) and maximum (Tmax) temperatures at the 10 MCPJs of each patient were summed to obtain the Total Tmin, Total Tavg and Total Tmax, respectively. Ultrasound grey-scale (GS) and power Doppler (PD) joint inflammation (scored semi-quantitatively, 0-3) at the 10 MCPJs were summed up to derive the respective TGS and TPD scores per patient. Pearson's correlation and simple linear regression were respectively used to assess correlation and characterize relationships between thermographic parameters (Total Tmin, Total Tavg and Total Tmax) and ultrasound imaging parameters (TGS, TPD and the number of joint(s) with PD ≥ 1 or GS ≥ 2). RESULTS In this cross-sectional study, 420 clinically non-swollen and non-tender MCPJs from 42 RA patients were examined. All thermographic parameters (Total Tmin, Total Tavg and Total Tmax) correlated significantly (P-values ranging from 0.001 to 0.0012) with TGS score (correlation coefficient ranging from 0.421 to 0.430), TPD score (correlation coefficient ranging from 0.383 to 0.424), and the number of joint(s) with PD ≥ 1 or GS ≥ 2 (correlation coefficient ranging from 0.447 to 0.465). Similarly, simple linear regression demonstrated a statistically significant relationship (P-values ranging from 0.001 to 0.005) between all thermographic parameters (Total Tmin, Total Tavg and Total Tmax) and ultrasound imaging parameters (TPD and TGS). CONCLUSION For the first time, thermographic temperatures were shown to correlate with ultrasound-detected joint inflammation at clinically quiescent MCPJs. The use of thermography in the detection of subclinical joint inflammation in RA appears promising and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- York Kiat Tan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Road, Bukit Merah, Central Region, 169608, Singapore.
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, Singapore.
| | - Gek Hsiang Lim
- Health Services Research Unit, Singapore General Hospital, Bukit Merah, Central Region, Singapore
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Zafar SN, Hazlewood G, Dhiman K, Charlton A, Then KL, Dempsey E, Lester R, Hoens AM, Lacaille D, Barnabe C, Rankin J, Mosher D, Barber CEH. "How are you?" Perspectives From Patients and Health Care Providers of Text Messaging to Support Rheumatoid Arthritis Care: A Thematic Analysis. ACR Open Rheumatol 2024; 6:276-286. [PMID: 38376004 PMCID: PMC11089442 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may need to access rheumatology care between scheduled visits. WelTel is a virtual care platform that supports secure two-way text-messaging between patients and their health care team. The objective of the present study was to explore perspectives and experiences of health care providers (HCPs) and patients related to the use of WelTel as an adjunct to routine care. METHODS Seventy patients with RA were enrolled in a six-month WelTel pilot project launched in September 2021. Patients received monthly "How are you?" text message check-ins and could message their health care team during clinic hours to request health advice. The current project is a qualitative study of the WelTel pilot. A subgroup of pilot participants was purposively sampled and invited to participate in interviews. A thematic analysis of transcripts was conducted using a deductive approach leveraging quality of care domains. RESULTS Thirteen patients (62% female, mean age 62 years, 10 White) completed interviews. Patients' views suggested that text messaging with the rheumatology team supported high-quality care across multiple quality domains including patient-centeredness, timeliness, efficiency, safety, effectiveness, equity, and appropriateness. Seven HCPs (57.1% female, one pharmacist and six rheumatologists) completed interviews. HCPs' perspectives varied based on their experience with the WelTel platform. Additional themes reported by HCPs included perceived increased workload and burnout. CONCLUSIONS Patients with RA perceived text-based messaging as supporting high-quality care. The impact of increased communications on HCP burnout and workload requires consideration, and future studies should evaluate the effect of texting on patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saania N. Zafar
- University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and Arthritis Research CanadaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Glen Hazlewood
- University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and Arthritis Research CanadaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | | | | | - Karen L. Then
- Alberta Health Services and University of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Erika Dempsey
- Alberta Health Services and University of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Richard Lester
- University of British Columbia and WelTel IncVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Alison M. Hoens
- Arthritis Research Canada and University of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Diane Lacaille
- Arthritis Research Canada and University of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Cheryl Barnabe
- University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and Arthritis Research CanadaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - James Rankin
- University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and Thompson Rivers UniversityKamloopsBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Dianne Mosher
- Alberta Health Services and University of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Claire E. H. Barber
- University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and Arthritis Research CanadaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
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Graña Gil J, Moreno Martínez MJ, Carrasco Cubero MDC. Delphi consensus on the use of telemedicine in rheumatology: RESULTAR study. REUMATOLOGIA CLINICA 2024; 20:254-262. [PMID: 38821741 DOI: 10.1016/j.reumae.2024.05.005] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES There is growing interest in the potential of telemedicine (TM) as an alternative to physical consultation. Although numerous studies prove the benefits of TM in rheumatology, there are no recommendations on its implementation in Spain. The aim of this study was to analyze the application of TM in rheumatology consultations in Spain. MATERIALS AND METHODS Qualitative, cross-sectional, multicenter study with Delphi methodology in two rounds of queries. A structured ad hoc questionnaire was designed that included statements on teleconsultation, nursing teleconsultation, telecare, telerehabilitation, teleradiology, telehealth tele-education, main barriers, advantages and disadvantages of telehealth tele-education and TM in rheumatoid arthritis. The participants were rheumatology specialists practicing in Spain. RESULTS The participating rheumatologists (N = 80) had a mean age of 42.4 (±9.0) years, with 12.6 (±8.4) years of experience. Some of the aspects of TM that obtained the greatest consensus were: TM is useful for follow-up of some patients, to help determine if a face-to-face consultation is necessary, or to assist patients with rheumatoid arthritis if they present low activity or in remission; certain patients, such as those in their first consultation or those who present digital barriers or cognitive deterioration, should be seen face-to-face; TM presents some technical and patient access barriers; TM can be useful in nursing and in continued medical education. CONCLUSIONS TM can be beneficial for the treatment and follow-up of patients with rheumatic diseases, as well as for alleviating the face-to-face care burden in rheumatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenaro Graña Gil
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario de A Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
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Venuturupalli S, Peck A, Jinka Y, Fortune N, Davuluri N, Nowell WB, Gavigan K, Cush J, Soares N, Grainger R, Curtis JR. Home-Based Telemedicine in Rheumatology-A Scoping Review. ACR Open Rheumatol 2024; 6:312-320. [PMID: 38456334 PMCID: PMC11089445 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We performed a scoping review of the relevant literature on home-based telehealth in rheumatology to understand its appropriate application in rheumatology practice. METHODS We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and scientific meeting abstracts to identify articles that specifically addressed telehealth suitability, barriers to telehealth, patient-reported outcomes (PROs) collected in telehealth settings, and telehealth satisfaction. From the initial search of 4,882 studies, 23 reports were included. In addition, 10 abstracts were also eligible for analysis, resulting in a total of 33 articles: 2 randomized clinical trials, 9 prospective cohort studies, and 22 retrospective studies. RESULTS We found that triage appointments or predictive models could be helpful in selecting patients for telehealth and that telehealth interventions were appropriate for follow-up of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and inflammatory arthritis, but that conducting new patient visits over telehealth was not ideal. Barriers to telehealth include patient factors (age, technology access) and need for physician/process factors (eg, physical examinations). PROs collected in regular practice can be incorporated into telehealth. Several small, single-center studies suggest that telehealth does not lead to negative outcomes compared with in-person visits, and overall, patients report high patient satisfaction with telehealth. In several scenarios, home-based telehealth was equivalent to in-person visits with regard to patient outcomes and satisfaction. CONCLUSION The widespread potential of telehealth to manage and deliver care for people with rheumatic disease is significant. As such, further research in the form of randomized controlled trials can help contribute to growing evidence that shapes telehealth implementation for patients with rheumatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swamy Venuturupalli
- Cedars Sinai Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles, and Attune HealthLos AngelesCalifornia
| | - Alexander Peck
- Cedars Sinai Medical Center and Pacific Arthritis Care CenterLos AngelesCalifornia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - John Cush
- Texas Christian University Burnett School of MedicineFort Worth
| | - Neelkamal Soares
- Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of MedicineKalamazoo
| | - Rebecca Grainger
- Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand Capital Coast and Hutt Valley and University of Otago WellingtonWellingtonNew Zealand
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Saraux A, da Mota LMH, Dixit S, Gibofsky A, Matsubara T, Mulvey A, Koehn C, Mortezavi M, Segovia M, Kessouri M. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on People Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Experiences and Preferences in Accessing Healthcare Across Five Countries. Rheumatol Ther 2024; 11:257-268. [PMID: 38217796 PMCID: PMC10920583 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-023-00629-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The global coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic created many challenges in healthcare provision. This study aimed to evaluate the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS The RA Narrative COVID-19 survey was conducted online among people with RA who resided in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, and the US from August to September 2021. The survey examined disease management, healthcare access and experiences, and participant preferences for interactions with their doctor. RESULTS Overall, 500 participants completed the survey: 100 each resided in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, and the US. Emotional well-being was the aspect of disease management most reported to be negatively impacted by the pandemic (55% of participants); 'having more anxiety and/or stress' during the pandemic was the top factor that made controlling RA symptoms more difficult (49% of participants). In comparison, the top factor that made controlling RA symptoms easier was 'having a less busy schedule' (35% of participants). More participants had virtual appointments during versus pre-pandemic (53% vs. 13%, respectively) and participants were equally satisfied with the overall quality of care received via virtual and in-person appointments (76% of participants were 'satisfied' or 'very satisfied' with both). However, participants generally preferred in-person over virtual appointments, except for prescription refills, for which preferences were similar (39% vs. 36%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS This survey suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic did negatively impact some aspects of disease management for people living with RA but had positive impacts on the utilization of virtual care. Although participants generally preferred in-person appointments, these results position virtual care as an appropriate means for routine follow-ups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Saraux
- Rheumatology Unit, University Hospital, Hôpital de La Cavale Blanche, Brest, France
| | - Licia Maria Henrique da Mota
- Unidade de Reumatologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Sanjay Dixit
- Division of Rheumatology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Allan Gibofsky
- Department of Medicine, Hospital for Special Surgery-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tsukasa Matsubara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Matsubara Mayflower Hospital, Kato, Japan
| | | | - Cheryl Koehn
- Arthritis Consumer Experts, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | - Meriem Kessouri
- Pfizer France, 23-25 Avenue du Dr Lannelongue, 75668, Paris, France.
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Barasch JG, Tang W, Khalili L, Askanase A. The Evolving Role of Telemedicine in the Care of Patients With Connective Tissue Diseases. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2024; 76:19-21. [PMID: 37842736 DOI: 10.1002/acr.25259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia G Barasch
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City
| | - Wei Tang
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City
| | - Leila Khalili
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City
| | - Anca Askanase
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City
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Almansouri AY, Alsofyani R, Alharbi HA, Almaqati AS, Aloqbi HS, Bakhsh L, Althubaiti A, Alzahrani Z. Comparison of Remotely Applied and Face-to-Face Disease Activity Scores in Saudi Arabian Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Prospective Cohort Study. Cureus 2024; 16:e52390. [PMID: 38361704 PMCID: PMC10868911 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess the disease activity indices (DAI) of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by telephone-based tele-visits compared to face-to-face clinic encounters. METHODS Patients with RA attending outpatient clinics between December 2021 and May 2022 were prospectively recruited. Disease activity assessments were initially performed in the clinic using the disease activity score 28-C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP) and disease activity score 28-erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR). Within two weeks of the clinic visit, a telephone-based assessment gathered information on demographics, Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data 3 (RAPID3) score, and satisfaction. Disease activity scores were dichotomized into remission or low disease activity and moderate to high disease activity. RESULTS A total of 78 patients completed the two-point interview. Of those, 62 (79.49%) were women, with a mean age of 54.73±13.71 years. Seropositivity for rheumatoid factor and/or anti-citrullinated peptide was observed in 51 (83.61%) participants. Twenty-seven percent of the patients were classified as in remission or low disease activity by RAPID3. This was 71% for DAS28-CRP and 33% for DAS28-ESR. Based on the dichotomized disease activity classification, the agreement percentage between RAPID3 and DAS28-ESR was 78.08%, while it was 47.22% between RAPID3 and DAS28-CRP, which resulted in kappa statistic values of 0.48 (moderate agreement) and 0.14 (low agreement), respectively. Satisfaction rates were low. CONCLUSION Telephone-based RAPID3 showed a low-moderate agreeability compared to DAS28 and had low satisfaction rates. This suggests that tele-rheumatology care by this means was not feasible for following up with patients with RA and warrants further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrahman Y Almansouri
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, SAU
- Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Madinah, SAU
| | - Rahaf Alsofyani
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, SAU
- Internal Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Hanin A Alharbi
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ahmed S Almaqati
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, SAU
- Internal Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Hind S Aloqbi
- Department of Medicine/Rheumatology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, SAU
- Department of Medicine, King Fahad Hospital, Tabuk, SAU
| | - Lama Bakhsh
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Alaa Althubaiti
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health and Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Zeyad Alzahrani
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, SAU
- Internal Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, SAU
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11
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Danda D. Primary care rheumatology: towards sustainable development in health. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2024; 20:1-2. [PMID: 38052911 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-023-01050-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Debashish Danda
- Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Christian Medical College & Hospital, Vellore, India.
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12
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Berg IJ, Tveter AT, Bakland G, Hakim S, Kristianslund EK, Lillegraven S, Macfarlane GJ, Moholt E, Provan SA, Sexton J, Thomassen EE, De Thurah A, Gossec L, Haavardsholm EA, Østerås N. Follow-Up of Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis in Specialist Health Care With Remote Monitoring and Self-Monitoring Compared With Regular Face-to-Face Follow-Up Visits (the ReMonit Study): Protocol for a Randomized, Controlled Open-Label Noninferiority Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e52872. [PMID: 38150310 PMCID: PMC10782285 DOI: 10.2196/52872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with chronic inflammatory joint diseases such as axial spondyloarthritis have traditionally received regular follow-up in specialist health care to maintain low disease activity. The follow-up has been organized as prescheduled face-to-face visits, which are time-consuming for both patients and health care professionals. Technology has enabled the remote monitoring of disease activity, allowing patients to self-monitor their disease and contact health care professionals when needed. Remote monitoring or self-monitoring may provide a more personalized follow-up, but there is limited research on how these follow-up strategies perform in maintaining low disease activity, patient satisfaction, safety, and cost-effectiveness. OBJECTIVE The Remote Monitoring in Axial Spondyloarthritis (ReMonit) study aimed to assess the effectiveness of digital remote monitoring and self-monitoring in maintaining low disease activity in patients with axial spondyloarthritis. METHODS The ReMonit study is a 3-armed, single-site, randomized, controlled, open-label noninferiority trial including patients with axial spondyloarthritis with low disease activity (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score <2.1) and on stable treatment with a tumor necrosis factor inhibitor. Participants were randomized 1:1:1 to arm A (usual care, face-to-face visits every sixth month), arm B (remote monitoring, monthly digital registration of patient-reported outcomes), or arm C (patient-initiated care, self-monitoring, no planned visits during the study period). The primary end point was disease activity measured with the Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score, evaluated at 6, 12, and 18 months. We aimed to include 240 patients, 80 in each arm. Secondary end points included other measures of disease activity, patient satisfaction, safety, and cost-effectiveness. RESULTS The project is funded by the South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority and Centre for the treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Norway. Enrollment started in September 2021 and was completed with 242 patients by June 2022. The data collection will be completed in December 2023. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this trial will be among the first to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness of remote digital monitoring and self-monitoring of patients with axial spondyloarthritis compared with usual care. Hence, the ReMonit study will contribute important knowledge to personalized follow-up strategies for patients with axial spondyloarthritis. These results may also be relevant for other patient groups with inflammatory joint diseases. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05031767; hpps://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05031767. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/52872.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inger Jorid Berg
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Therese Tveter
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Rehabilitation Science and Health Technology, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gunnstein Bakland
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Sarah Hakim
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eirik K Kristianslund
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Siri Lillegraven
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gary J Macfarlane
- Aberdeen Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health (Epidemiology Group), University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Ellen Moholt
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sella A Provan
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Section for Public Health, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Joseph Sexton
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Emil Ek Thomassen
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Annette De Thurah
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Laure Gossec
- INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Rheumatology Department, Assistance Publique des Hopitaux de Paris, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Espen A Haavardsholm
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nina Østerås
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Thomassen EEK, Berg IJ, Kristianslund EK, Tveter AT, Østerås N. Willingness, perceived facilitators and barriers to use remote care among healthcare professionals - a cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1307. [PMID: 38012633 PMCID: PMC10683299 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10301-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Remote care has the potential of improving access to timely care for people with inflammatory joint diseases (IJD), but there is limited knowledge on how this approach is regarded by healthcare professionals (HCP). This study aimed to examine willingness, perceived facilitators, and barriers to use remote care among HCP. METHODS Employees at 20 rheumatology departments in Norway received a digital survey containing 16 statements regarding willingness, perceived facilitators and barriers to use remote care. Statements were scored using numeric rating scales (NRS, 0-10, 10 = strongly agree), and analysed in linear regression models. Open-ended responses with participant-defined facilitators and barriers were analysed using qualitative manifest analysis. RESULTS A total of 130 participants from 17 departments completed the survey. The majority of participants were 45 years or older (n = 84, 54%), 54 (42%) were medical doctors, 48 (37%) nurses, and 27 (21%) were allied healthcare professionals, clinical leaders, or secretaries. A high willingness to use remote care was observed (median NRS: 9, IQR 8-10). The facilitator statement with the highest score was that patients save time and costs by using remote care, whereas the barrier statement with the highest score was the lack of physical examination. Willingness to use remote care was positively associated with the belief that patients wish to use it (β: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.00, 0.34), that patients in remission need less hospital visits (β: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.43), and if remote care is widely adopted by co-workers (β: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.39). Willingness was negatively associated with mistrust in the technical aspects of remote care (β: -0.26, 95% CI:-0.40, -0.11), and lack of physical examination (β: -0.24, 95% CI: -0.43, -0.06). The open-ended responses showed that technological equipment, eligible patients, user-friendly software, adequate training and work flow could be facilitators, but also that lack of these factors were considered barriers to use remote care. CONCLUSION This study showed that HCP have a high willingness to use remote care, and provides important new knowledge on perceived facilitators and barriers among HCP relevant for implementation of remote care for eligible patients with IJD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Inger Jorid Berg
- Centre for treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eirik Klami Kristianslund
- Centre for treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Therese Tveter
- Centre for treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nina Østerås
- Centre for treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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14
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Arumalla N, Chan CKD, Gibson M, Man YL, Adas MA, Norton S, Galloway JB, Garrood T. The Clinical Impact of Electronic Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in the Remote Monitoring of Inflammatory Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2023; 75:1892-1903. [PMID: 37204273 DOI: 10.1002/art.42559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The inflammatory arthritides (IAs) make up a significant proportion of conditions followed up in rheumatology clinics. These patients require regular monitoring, but this is increasingly difficult with rising patient numbers and demand on clinics. Our objective is to evaluate the clinical impact of electronic patient-reported outcome measures (ePROMs) as a digital remote-monitoring intervention on disease activity, treatment decisions, and health care resource use in patients with IA. METHODS Five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) were searched, with randomized controlled trials and (nonrandomized) controlled clinical trials included, and meta-analysis and forest plots conducted for each outcome. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias-2 tool and Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions. RESULTS Eight studies were included with a total of 4,473 patients, with seven studies assessing patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Compared with control, the disease activity in the ePROM group was lower (standardized mean difference [SMD] -0.15; 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.27 to -0.03) and rates of remission/low disease activity were higher (odds ratio1.65; 95% CI 1.02-2.68), but five of eight studies provided additional combined interventions (e.g., disease education). Fewer face to face visits were needed in the remote ePROM group (SMD -0.93; 95% CI -2.14-0.28). CONCLUSION Most studies were at high risk of bias with significant heterogeneity in design, but our results suggest there is an advantage in using ePROM monitoring in patients with IAs, with the potential for reduction in health care resource use without detrimental impact in disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yik L Man
- Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust, London, UK
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15
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Das AK, Chang E, Paydar C, Broder MS, Orroth KK, Cordey M. Apremilast Adherence and Persistence in Patients with Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis in the Telehealth Setting Versus the In-person Setting During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2023; 13:1973-1984. [PMID: 37392261 PMCID: PMC10442297 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-023-00967-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Limited access to healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic prompted patients to seek care using telehealth. In this study, we assessed whether treatment patterns differed for patients with psoriasis (PsO) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) initiating apremilast by either a telehealth or an in-person visit. METHODS We estimated adherence and persistence among US patients in the Merative© MarketScan© Commercial and Supplemental Medicare Databases who newly initiated apremilast between April and June 2020, categorized by the type of visit (telehealth or in-person) when apremilast was first prescribed. Adherence was defined as the proportion of days covered (PDC), with PDC ≥ 0.80 considered to indicate high adherence. Persistence was defined as having apremilast available to take without a 60-day gap during follow-up. Factors associated with high adherence and persistence were estimated with logistic and Cox regression. RESULTS Among apremilast initiators (n = 505), the mean age was 47.6 years, 57.8% were female, and the majority had PsO (79.6%). Telehealth index visits were more likely among patients residing in Northeast USA (odds ratio [OR] 3.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.63-6.71) and Western USA (OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.07-5.93]), those with a prescribing rheumatologist (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.10-4.68), and those with any baseline telehealth visit (OR 1.91, 85% CI 1.20-3.04). Those initiating apremilast with a telehealth visit (n = 141) had similar mean PDC to those initiating apremilast with an in-person visit (n = 364) (0.695 vs. 0.728; p = 0.272). At the end of the 6-month follow-up, 54.3% of the overall population had high adherence (PDC ≥ 0.80) and 65.1% were persistent. After adjusting for potential confounders, patients initiating apremilast via telehealth had similar full adherence (OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.52-1.21) and persistence as those initiating apremilast in-person. CONCLUSION Patients with PsO and patients with PsA initiating apremilast via telehealth or in-person during the COVID-19 pandemic had similar medication adherence and persistence during the 6-month follow-up period. These data suggest that patients initiating apremilast can be as effectively managed with telehealth visits as with in-person visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashis K. Das
- PHAR (Partnership for Health Analytics Research), 280 S Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 USA
| | - Eunice Chang
- PHAR (Partnership for Health Analytics Research), 280 S Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 USA
| | - Caleb Paydar
- PHAR (Partnership for Health Analytics Research), 280 S Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 USA
| | - Michael S. Broder
- PHAR (Partnership for Health Analytics Research), 280 S Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 USA
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Askanase AD, Aranow C, Kim MY, Kamen DL, Arriens C, Khalili L, Tang W, Barasch J, Dall'Era M, Mackay M. Protocol for virtual physical examination in an observational, longitudinal study evaluating virtual outcome measures in SLE. Lupus Sci Med 2023; 10:e000952. [PMID: 37429672 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2023-000952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is a lack of data on the use of telemedicine (TM) in SLE. SLE outcome measures remain complex, and clinicians and clinical trialists have raised concerns about the accuracy of virtual disease activity measures. This study evaluates the level of agreement between virtual SLE outcome measures and face-to-face (F2F) encounter. Here, we describe the study design, virtual physical examination protocol and demographics for the first 50 patients evaluated. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is an observational, longitudinal study of 200 patients with SLE with varying levels of disease activity from 4 academic lupus centres serving diverse populations. Each study participant will be evaluated at a baseline and a follow-up visit. At each visit, participants are evaluated by the same physician first via a videoconference-based TM and then a F2F encounter. For this protocol, virtual physical examination guidelines relying on physician-directed patient self-examination were established. SLE disease activity measures will be completed immediately after the TM encounter and repeated after the F2F encounter for each visit. The degree of agreement between TM and F2F disease activity measures will be analysed using the Bland-Altman method. An interim analysis is planned after the enrolment of the first 50 participants. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been reviewed by the Columbia University Medical Center Institutional Review Board (IRB Protocol #: AAAT6574). The full results of this study will be published after the final data analysis of 200 patients. The abrupt shift to TM visits due to the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted clinical practice and clinical trials. Establishing a high level of agreement between SLE disease activity measures obtained with videoconference TM and F2F at the same time point, will allow for improved assessment of disease activity when F2F data cannot be acquired. This information may guide both medical decision-making and provide reliable outcome measures for clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca D Askanase
- Division of Rheumatology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Cynthia Aranow
- The Center for Autoimmune & Musculoskeletal Disease, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Mimi Y Kim
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health Division of Biostatistics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Diane L Kamen
- Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Cristina Arriens
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Leila Khalili
- Division of Rheumatology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Wei Tang
- Division of Rheumatology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Julia Barasch
- Division of Rheumatology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Maria Dall'Era
- Division of Rheumatology, UCSF, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Meggan Mackay
- The Center for Autoimmune & Musculoskeletal Disease, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
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Listorti E, Ferrara L, Adinolfi A, Gerardi MC, Ughi N, Tozzi VD, Epis OM. Joining telehealth in rheumatology: a survey on the role played by personalized experience from patients' perspective. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:682. [PMID: 37349713 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09575-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic has forced many hospital departments worldwide to implement telehealth strategies for the first time. Telehealth represents the opportunity to increase value for all stakeholders, including patients and healthcare staff, but its success constitutes a challenge for all of them and particularly patients play a crucial role for their needed adherence. This study focuses on the experience of the Rheumatology Unit of Niguarda Hospital in Milan (Italy), where telehealth projects have been implemented for more than a decade with structured design and organized processes. The case study is paradigmatic because patients have experimented personalized mixes of telehealth channels, including e-mails and phone calls, Patient Reported Outcomes questionnaires, and home delivery of drugs. Given all these peculiarities, we decided to deepen patients' perspective through three main aspects related to the adoption of telehealth: (i) the benefits perceived, (ii) the willingness to enrol in future projects, (iii) the preference on the service-mix between remote contacts and in-person visits. Most importantly, we investigated differences in the three areas among all patients based on the mix of telehealth channels experienced. METHODS We conducted a survey from November 2021 to January 2022, enrolling consecutively patients attending the Rheumatology Unit of Niguarda Hospital in Milan (Italy). Our survey comprised an introductory set of questions related to personal, social, clinical and ICT skills information, followed by the central part on telehealth. All the answers were analysed with descriptive statistics and regression models. RESULTS A complete response was given by 400 patients: 283 (71%) were female, 237 (59%) were 40-64 years old, 213 (53%) of them declared to work, and the disease most represented was Rheumatoid Arthritis (144 patients, 36%). Descriptive statistics and regression results revealed that (i) non-users imagined wide-ranging benefits compared to users; (ii) other things being equal, having had a more intense experience of telehealth increased the odds of accepting to participate to future projects by 3.1 times (95% C.I. 1.04-9.25), compared to non-users; (iii) the more telehealth was experienced, the higher the willingness to substitute in-person with online contacts. CONCLUSIONS Our study contributes to enlighten the crucial role played by the telehealth experience in determining patients' preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucia Ferrara
- CERGAS SDA Bocconi, Bocconi University, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Adinolfi
- Rheumatology Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Ughi
- Rheumatology Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Oscar M Epis
- Rheumatology Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
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18
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Saragiotto BT, Sandal LF, Hartvigsen J. Can you be a manual therapist without using your hands? Chiropr Man Therap 2022; 30:48. [PMID: 36376968 PMCID: PMC9664669 DOI: 10.1186/s12998-022-00457-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To align with current best practices, manual therapists have refined their treatment options to include exercise and pain education for people with chronic musculoskeletal pain. In this commentary, we suggest that manual therapists should also add telehealth to their toolbox. Thus, we aim to discuss the use of telehealth by manual therapists caring for patients with musculoskeletal disorders. MAIN BODY Telehealth can be delivered to the patient in different modes, such as real-time clinical contact or asynchronously. Platforms vary from websites and smartphone apps to virtual reality systems. Telehealth may be an effective approach, especially for improving pain and function in people with musculoskeletal pain, and it has the potential to reduce the individual and socioeconomic burden of musculoskeletal conditions. However, the certainty of evidence reported in systematic reviews is often low. Factors such as convenience, flexibility, undivided attention from the clinician, user-friendly platforms, goal setting, and use of evidence-based information are all enablers for telehealth use and improving patients' knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-management. Barriers to widening the use of telehealth in musculoskeletal care include the reliability of technology, data privacy issues, difficult to build therapeutic alliance, one-size-fits-all approaches, digital health literacy, and payment models. CONCLUSION We suggest that practitioners of manual medicine make telehealth part of their clinical toolbox where it makes sense and where there is evidence that it is beneficial for people who seek their care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno T. Saragiotto
- grid.412268.b0000 0001 0298 4494Masters and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, Universidade Cidade de São Paulo, R. Cesário Galero, 448/475 - Tatuapé, São Paulo, SP 03071-000 Brazil ,grid.117476.20000 0004 1936 7611Discipline of Physiotherapy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Louise F. Sandal
- grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Center for Muscle and Joint Health, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Jan Hartvigsen
- grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Center for Muscle and Joint Health, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark ,Chiropractic Knowledge Hub, Odense M, Denmark
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Doumen M, De Cock D, Van Lierde C, Betrains A, Pazmino S, Bertrand D, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. Engagement and attrition with eHealth tools for remote monitoring in chronic arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. RMD Open 2022; 8:e002625. [PMID: 36302561 PMCID: PMC9621170 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2022-002625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although eHealth tools are potentially useful for remote disease monitoring, barriers include concerns of low engagement and high attrition. We aimed to summarise evidence on patients' engagement and attrition with eHealth tools for remotely monitoring disease activity/impact in chronic arthritis. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted for original articles and abstracts published before September 2022. Eligible studies reported quantitative measures of patients' engagement with eHealth instruments used for remote monitoring in chronic arthritis. Engagement rates were pooled using random effects meta-analysis. RESULTS Of 8246 references, 45 studies were included: 23 using smartphone applications, 13 evaluating wearable activity trackers, 7 using personal digital assistants, 6 including web-based platforms and 2 using short message service. Wearable-based studies mostly reported engagement as the proportion of days the tracker was worn (70% pooled across 6 studies). For other eHealth tools, engagement was mostly reported as completion rates for remote patient-reported outcomes (PROs). The pooled completion rate was 80%, although between-study heterogeneity was high (I2 93%) with significant differences between eHealth tools and frequency of PRO-collection. Engagement significantly decreased with longer study duration, but attrition varied across studies (0%-89%). Several predictors of higher engagement were reported. Data on the influence of PRO-reporting frequency were conflicting. CONCLUSION Generally high patient engagement was reported with eHealth tools for remote monitoring in chronic arthritis. However, we found considerable between-study heterogeneity and a relative lack of real-world data. Future studies should use standardised measures of engagement, preferably assessed in a daily practice setting. TRIAL REGISTERATION NUMBER The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021267936).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Doumen
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Department of Public Health, Biostatistics and Medical Informatics Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Caroline Van Lierde
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Albrecht Betrains
- General Internal Medicine, KU Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - René Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
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