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McDaniel CE, Truschel LL, Kerns E, Polanco YV, Liang D, Gutman CK, Cunningham S, Rooholamini SN, Thull-Freedman J, Jennings B, Magee S, Aronson PL. Disparities in Guideline Adherence for Febrile Infants in a National Quality Improvement Project. Pediatrics 2024; 154:e2024065922. [PMID: 39155728 PMCID: PMC11350103 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2024-065922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interventions aimed to standardize care may impact racial and ethnic disparities. We evaluated the association of race and ethnicity with adherence to recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics' clinical practice guideline for febrile infants after a quality improvement (QI) intervention. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of infants aged 8 to 60 days enrolled in a QI collaborative of 99 hospitals. Data were collected across 2 periods: baseline (November 2020-October 2021) and intervention (November 2021-October 2022). We assessed guideline-concordance through adherence to project measures by infant race and ethnicity using proportion differences compared with the overall proportion. RESULTS Our study included 16 961 infants. At baseline, there were no differences in primary measures. During the intervention period, a higher proportion of non-Hispanic white infants had appropriate inflammatory markers obtained (2% difference in proportions [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.7 to 3.3]) and documentation of follow-up from the emergency department (2.5%, 95% CI 0.3 to 4.8). A lower proportion of non-Hispanic Black infants (-12.5%, 95% CI -23.1 to -1.9) and Hispanic/Latino infants (-6.9%, 95% CI -13.8 to -0.03) had documented shared decision-making for obtaining cerebrospinal fluid. A lower proportion of Hispanic/Latino infants had appropriate inflammatory markers obtained (-2.3%, 95% CI -4.0 to -0.6) and appropriate follow-up from the emergency department (-3.6%, 95% CI -6.4 to -0.8). CONCLUSIONS After an intervention designed to standardize care, disparities in quality metrics emerged. Future guideline implementation should integrate best practices for equity-focused QI to ensure equitable delivery of evidence-based care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrie E. McDaniel
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Larissa L. Truschel
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University Health, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Ellen Kerns
- Division of Informatics and Health Systems Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Yenimar Ventura Polanco
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Danni Liang
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Colleen K. Gutman
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - Sahar N. Rooholamini
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Jennifer Thull-Freedman
- Section of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Sloane Magee
- American Academy of Pediatrics, Itasca, Illinois
| | - Paul L. Aronson
- Section of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Departments of Pediatrics and of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Ross-Driscoll K, Adams A, Caicedo J, Gordon EJ, Kirk AD, McElroy LM, Taber D, Patzer R. Health Disparity Metrics for Transplant Centers: Theoretical and Practical Considerations. Transplantation 2024; 108:1823-1825. [PMID: 38548712 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Ross-Driscoll
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
- Center for Health Services Research, Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Andrew Adams
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Juan Caicedo
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Elisa J Gordon
- Department of Surgery and Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Alan D Kirk
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Lisa M McElroy
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - David Taber
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Rachel Patzer
- Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, IN
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
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Warren KF, Dail RB, Dawson RM, Boghossian NS, Felder TM. When a baby is born, so is a parent: Understanding the effects of preterm birth on Black parents through the lens of the NIMHD framework. Nurs Outlook 2024; 72:102246. [PMID: 39116649 DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2024.102246] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rate of preterm birth (PTB) is high in the United States and Black infants remain disproportionately affected, with the disparity between Black and White infant deaths greater today than it was under antebellum slavery. PURPOSE The National Institute on Minority Health and Disparities Research Framework reflects a unique set of determinants relevant to the understanding and promotion of minority health. METHODS We have applied this framework to better understand the effects of PTB on Black parents and the distribution of the social determinants of health, including structural determinants and root causes of inequities. DISCUSSION This adaptation shows the intersection in maternal and infant health that shapes individuals' experiences, drives disparities and impacts perinatal outcomes in critical periods over the lifecourse. CONCLUSION In our efforts to achieve health equity, it is imperative that we study the underlying mechanisms and recognize that policies, institutional structures, and social factors are drivers of racism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen F Warren
- University of South Carolina, College of Nursing, Columbia, SC.
| | - Robin B Dail
- University of South Carolina, College of Nursing, Columbia, SC
| | - Robin M Dawson
- University of South Carolina, College of Nursing, Columbia, SC
| | - Nansi S Boghossian
- University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia, SC
| | - Tisha M Felder
- University of South Carolina, College of Nursing, Columbia, SC
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Midgette Y, Halvorson E, Chandler A, Aguilar A, Strahley AE, Gomez Y, Lassiter R, Akinola M, Hanson S, Montez K. Caregiver and Provider Perceptions of Health Disparities in the NICU: A Qualitative Study. Acad Pediatr 2024:S1876-2859(24)00284-5. [PMID: 39069230 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2024.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the experience of caregivers and their perceptions of disparate care in the NICU, and (2) explore inter-professional NICU provider perspectives on potential biases and perceptions of disparate care. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted in one southeastern level IV NICU. Semi-structured interviews assessed caregiver and provider perspectives on NICU care. Purposive sampling ensured ≥50% of caregivers self-identified as racial and/or ethnic minorities. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and audio verified. A coding scheme was developed, raw data were systematically coded, and emerging themes were identified using thematic analyses. RESULTS 23 caregivers and 14 providers were interviewed, including 5 neonatologists, 6 nurses, and 3 residents. Caregivers were predominantly English-speaking (85%); 96% were mothers with a mean age of 32 years. Neonates were predominantly racial and ethnic minorities (62%). Providers were predominantly White (71%) and female (71%). Five themes emerged: (1) ineffective, biased communication between caregivers, providers, and healthcare team may contribute to disparities (2) language barriers and lack of interpreter access play a significant role in perceived negative care; (3) lack of caregiver involvement and role in decision-making may negatively influence NICU outcomes, especially for those not able to be present at the bedside; and (4) multiple biases may affect neonatal health disparities. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the importance of considering both provider and racial and/or ethnic minority caregiver perceptions disparities in NICU care delivery. It adds to the literature as one of the few qualitative studies comparing perceptions of disparate NICU care among both caregivers and providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmeen Midgette
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, One Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27157.
| | - Elizabeth Halvorson
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, One Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27157.
| | - Allison Chandler
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 525 Vine St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
| | - Aylin Aguilar
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 525 Vine St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
| | - Ashley E Strahley
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 525 Vine St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
| | - Yorjannys Gomez
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, One Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27157.
| | - Rebekah Lassiter
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, One Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27157.
| | - Modupeola Akinola
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, One Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27157.
| | - Shannon Hanson
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, One Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27157.
| | - Kimberly Montez
- Departments of Pediatrics and Social Sciences & Health Policy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, One Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27157.
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Harris M, Cusatis R, Malnory M, Dawson S, Konduri GG, Lagatta J. Identifying barriers and facilitators to care for infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia after NICU discharge: a prospective study of parents and clinical stakeholders. J Perinatol 2024; 44:970-978. [PMID: 38278963 PMCID: PMC11375762 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-024-01880-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Understand barriers and facilitators to follow-up care for infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). METHODS Qualitative study of parents and clinical stakeholders caring for infants with BPD. The interview guide was developed by a mother of a former 23-week preterm infant, neonatologist, pulmonologist, nurse, and qualitative researcher. Purposive sampling obtained a heterogenous sociodemographic and professional cohort. Subjects discussed their experience with BPD, barriers to care, caregiver quality of life and health education. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and coded. Thematic analysis was used. RESULTS Eighteen parents and 20 stakeholders completed interviews. Family-level themes included pragmatic barriers like transportation being multi-faceted; and caregiving demands straining mental health. System-level themes included caregiver education needing to balance immediate caregiving activities with future health outcomes; and integrating primary care, specialty, and community supports. CONCLUSIONS Individual and system barriers impact follow-up for infants with BPD. This conceptual framework can be used to measure and improve care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Harris
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Rachel Cusatis
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Margaret Malnory
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Sara Dawson
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - G Ganesh Konduri
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Joanne Lagatta
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
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Bordelon C. From Data to Delivery: Integrating Quality Improvement in Perinatal and Neonatal Care. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs 2024; 38:236-237. [PMID: 39074318 DOI: 10.1097/jpn.0000000000000840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
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Jomy J, Lin KX, Huang RS, Chen A, Malik A, Hwang M, Bhate TD, Sharfuddin N. Closing the gap on healthcare quality for equity-deserving groups: a scoping review of equity-focused quality improvement interventions in medicine. BMJ Qual Saf 2024:bmjqs-2023-017022. [PMID: 38866468 DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2023-017022] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Quality improvement (QI) efforts are critical to promoting health equity and mitigating disparities in healthcare outcomes. Equity-focused QI (EF-QI) interventions address the unique needs of equity-deserving groups and the root causes of disparities. This scoping review aims to identify themes from EF-QI interventions that improve the health of equity-deserving groups, to serve as a resource for researchers embarking on QI. METHODS In adherence with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines, several healthcare and medical databases were systematically searched from inception to December 2022. Primary studies that report results from EF-QI interventions in healthcare were included. Reviewers conducted screening and data extraction using Covidence. Inductive thematic analysis using NVivo identified key barriers to inform future EF-QI interventions. RESULTS Of 5,330 titles and abstracts screened, 36 articles were eligible for inclusion. They reported on EF-QI interventions across eight medical disciplines: primary care, obstetrics, psychiatry, paediatrics, oncology, cardiology, neurology and respirology. The most common focus was racialised communities (15/36; 42%). Barriers to EF-QI interventions included those at the provider level (training and supervision, time constraints) and institution level (funding and partnerships, infrastructure). The last theme critical to EF-QI interventions is sustainability. Only six (17%) interventions actively involved patient partners. DISCUSSION EF-QI interventions can be an effective tool for promoting health equity, but face numerous barriers to success. It is unclear whether the demonstrated barriers are intrinsic to the equity focus of the projects or can be generalised to all QI work. Researchers embarking on EF-QI work should engage patients, in addition to hospital and clinic leadership in the design process to secure funding and institutional support, improving sustainability. To the best of our knowledge, no review has synthesised the results of EF-QI interventions in healthcare. Further studies of EF-QI champions are required to better understand the barriers and how to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Jomy
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ke Xin Lin
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ryan S Huang
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alisia Chen
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aleena Malik
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Tahara D Bhate
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nazia Sharfuddin
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Trillium Health Partners, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
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Montoya-Williams D, Barreto A, Laguna-Torres A, Worsley D, Wallis K, Peña MM, Palladino L, Salva N, Levine L, Rivera A, Hernandez R, Fuentes-Afflick E, Yun K, Lorch S, Virudachalam S. Philadelphia Latine Immigrant Birthing People's Perspectives on Mitigating the Chilling Effect on Prenatal Care Utilization. Med Care 2024; 62:404-415. [PMID: 38728679 PMCID: PMC11090453 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000002002] [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] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH DESIGN Community-engaged qualitative study using inductive thematic analysis of semistructured interviews. OBJECTIVE To understand Latine immigrants' recent prenatal care experiences and develop community-informed strategies to mitigate policy-related chilling effects on prenatal care utilization. BACKGROUND Decreased health care utilization among immigrants due to punitive immigration policies (ie, the "chilling effect") has been well-documented among Latine birthing people both pre and postnatally. PATIENTS AND METHODS Currently or recently pregnant immigrant Latine people in greater Philadelphia were recruited from an obstetric clinic, 2 pediatric primary care clinics, and 2 community-based organization client pools. Thematic saturation was achieved with 24 people. Participants' pregnancy narratives and their perspectives on how health care providers and systems could make prenatal care feel safer and more comfortable for immigrants. RESULTS Participants' recommendations for mitigating the chilling effect during the prenatal period included training prenatal health care providers to sensitively initiate discussions about immigrants' rights and reaffirm confidentiality around immigration status. Participants suggested that health care systems should expand sources of information for pregnant immigrants, either by partnering with community organizations to disseminate information or by increasing access to trusted individuals knowledgeable about immigrants' rights to health care. Participants also suggested training non-medical office staff in the use of interpreters. CONCLUSION Immigrant Latine pregnant and birthing people in greater Philadelphia described ongoing fear and confusion regarding the utilization of prenatal care, as well as experiences of discrimination. Participants' suggestions for mitigating immigration-related chilling effects can be translated into potential policy and programmatic interventions which could be implemented locally and evaluated for broader applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Montoya-Williams
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- CHOP PolicyLab, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alejandra Barreto
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alicia Laguna-Torres
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Diana Worsley
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- CHOP PolicyLab, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kate Wallis
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michelle-Marie Peña
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Emory University School of Medicine and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lauren Palladino
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nicole Salva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lisa Levine
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Elena Fuentes-Afflick
- Division of General Pediatrics University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Katherine Yun
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of General Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Scott Lorch
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- CHOP PolicyLab, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Senbagam Virudachalam
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of General Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Nash KA, Tolliver DG, Foster AA. Accountability to Quality and Equity of Care for Children With Acute Agitation in the Emergency Department. Hosp Pediatr 2024; 14:390-393. [PMID: 38618650 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2024-007776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A Nash
- Division of Critical Care and Hospital Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, New York, New York
| | - Destiny G Tolliver
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ashley A Foster
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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10
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Ridge MS, Statile AM. We Need It All in Quality Improvement: Local Change, Collaboration, and an Equity Lens. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2024065653. [PMID: 38682246 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2024-065653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret S Ridge
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; and James M Anderson Center for Health Systems Excellence, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Angela M Statile
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; and James M Anderson Center for Health Systems Excellence, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Razdan S, Hedli LC, Sigurdson K, Profit J, Morton CH. Disparity drivers, potential solutions, and the role of a health equity dashboard in the neonatal intensive care unit: a qualitative study. J Perinatol 2024; 44:659-664. [PMID: 38155228 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-023-01856-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Racial/ethnic disparities are well-described in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We explored expert opinion on their etiology, potential solutions, and the ability of health equity dashboards to meaningfully capture NICU disparities. STUDY DESIGN We conducted 12 qualitative semi-structured interviews, purposively selecting a diverse group of neonatal experts. We used grounded theory to develop codes, shape interviews, and conduct analysis. RESULT We identified three sources of disparity: interpersonal bias, care process and institutional barriers, and social determinants of health, particularly as they affect parental engagement in the NICU. Proposed solutions included racial/cultural concordance, bolstering hospital-based resources, and policy interventions. Health equity dashboards were viewed as useful but limited, because clinical metrics do not account for many of the aforementioned sources of disparities. CONCLUSION Equity dashboards serve as a motivational starting point for quality improvement; future iterations may require novel, qualitative data sources to identify underlying etiologies of NICU disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Razdan
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Laura C Hedli
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Krista Sigurdson
- School of Journalism, Writing, and Media, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Jochen Profit
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Christine H Morton
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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12
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Arrington LA, Kramer B, Ogunwole SM, Harris TL, Dankwa L, Knight S, Creanga AA, Bower KM. Interrupting false narratives: applying a racial equity lens to healthcare quality data. BMJ Qual Saf 2024; 33:340-344. [PMID: 38216312 DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2023-016612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Briana Kramer
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Lois Dankwa
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Andreea A Creanga
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kelly M Bower
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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13
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Porterfield L, Ram M, Kuo YF, Gaither ZM, O'Connell KP, Roy K, Bhardwaj N, Fingado E. Disparities in the Timeliness of Addressing Patient-Initiated Telephone Calls in a Primary Care Clinic: The Impact of Quality Improvement Interventions. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38567512 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2024.2335056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
A timely response to patient-initiated telephone calls can affect many aspects of patient health, including quality of care and health equity. Historically, at a family medicine residency clinic, at least 1 out of 4 patient calls remained unresolved three days after the call was placed. We sought to explore whether there were differential delays in resolution of patient concerns for certain groups and how these were affected by quality improvement interventions to increase responsiveness to patient calls. A multidisciplinary team at a primary care residency clinic applied Lean education and tools to improve the timeliness of addressing telephone encounters. Telephone encounter data were obtained for one year before and nine months after the intervention. Data were stratified by race, ethnicity, preferred language, sex, online portal activation status, age category, zip code, patient risk category, and reason for call. Stratified data revealed consistently worse performance on telephone encounter closure by 72 hours for Black/African American patients compared to Hispanic and non-Hispanic White patients pre-intervention. Interventions resulted in statistically significant overall improvement, with an OR of 2.9 (95% CI: 2.62 to 3.21). Though interventions did not target a specific population, pre-intervention differences based on race and ethnicity resolved post-intervention. Telephone calls serve as an important means of patient communication with care teams. General interventions to improve the timeliness of addressing telephone encounters can lead to sustainable improvement in a primary care academic clinic and may also alleviate disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mythili Ram
- System Optimization & Performance, University of Texas Medical Branch
| | - Yong Fang Kuo
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, University of Texas Medical Branch
| | - Zanita M Gaither
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch
| | | | - Khushali Roy
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch
| | - Namita Bhardwaj
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, The University of Texas Medical Branch
| | - Elizabeth Fingado
- System Optimization & Performance, University of Texas Medical Branch
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Dalton EM, Raymond K, Kovacs B, Vespe K, Kaufmann V, Lasoski M, Gunnison C, Beauchamps J, Kane E, Andrade G. Reducing Physical Restraint Use in the Medical Behavioral Unit. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2023062747. [PMID: 38415305 PMCID: PMC10904888 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-062747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Children with behavioral health conditions often experience agitation when admitted to children's hospitals. Physical restraint should be used only as a last resort for patient agitation because it endangers the physical and psychological safety of patients and employees. At the medical behavioral unit (MBU) in our children's hospital, we aimed to decrease the weekly rate of physical restraint events per 100 MBU patient-days, independent of patient race, ethnicity, or language, from a baseline mean of 14.0 to <10 within 12 months. METHODS Using quality improvement methodology, a multidisciplinary team designed, tested, and implemented interventions including a series of daily deescalation huddles led by a charge behavioral health clinician that facilitated individualized planning for MBU patients with the highest behavioral acuity. We tracked the weekly number of physical restraint events per 100 MBU patient-days as a primary outcome measure, weekly physical restraint event duration as a secondary outcome measure, and MBU employee injuries as a balancing measure. RESULTS Our cohort included 527 consecutive patients hospitalized in the MBU between January 2021 and January 2023. Our 2021 baseline mean of 14.0 weekly physical restraint events per 100 MBU patient-days decreased to 10.0 during our 2022 intervention period from January through July and 4.1 in August, which was sustained through December. Weekly physical restraint event duration also decreased from 112 to 67 minutes without a change in employee injuries. CONCLUSIONS Multidisciplinary huddles that facilitated daily deescalation planning safely reduced the frequency and duration of physical restraint events in the MBU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M. Dalton
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | | | | | - Kristin Vespe
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | | | | | | | | | - Emily Kane
- Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Gabriela Andrade
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Nash KA, Weerahandi H, Yu H, Venkatesh AK, Holaday LW, Herrin J, Lin Z, Horwitz LI, Ross JS, Bernheim SM. Measuring Equity in Readmission as a Distinct Assessment of Hospital Performance. JAMA 2024; 331:111-123. [PMID: 38193960 PMCID: PMC10777266 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.24874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Importance Equity is an essential domain of health care quality. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) developed 2 Disparity Methods that together assess equity in clinical outcomes. Objectives To define a measure of equitable readmissions; identify hospitals with equitable readmissions by insurance (dual eligible vs non-dual eligible) or patient race (Black vs White); and compare hospitals with and without equitable readmissions by hospital characteristics and performance on accountability measures (quality, cost, and value). Design, Setting, and Participants Cross-sectional study of US hospitals eligible for the CMS Hospital-Wide Readmission measure using Medicare data from July 2018 through June 2019. Main Outcomes and Measures We created a definition of equitable readmissions using CMS Disparity Methods, which evaluate hospitals on 2 methods: outcomes for populations at risk for disparities (across-hospital method); and disparities in care within hospitals' patient populations (within-a-single-hospital method). Exposures Hospital patient demographics; hospital characteristics; and 3 measures of hospital performance-quality, cost, and value (quality relative to cost). Results Of 4638 hospitals, 74% served a sufficient number of dual-eligible patients, and 42% served a sufficient number of Black patients to apply CMS Disparity Methods by insurance and race. Of eligible hospitals, 17% had equitable readmission rates by insurance and 30% by race. Hospitals with equitable readmissions by insurance or race cared for a lower percentage of Black patients (insurance, 1.9% [IQR, 0.2%-8.8%] vs 3.3% [IQR, 0.7%-10.8%], P < .01; race, 7.6% [IQR, 3.2%-16.6%] vs 9.3% [IQR, 4.0%-19.0%], P = .01), and differed from nonequitable hospitals in multiple domains (teaching status, geography, size; P < .01). In examining equity by insurance, hospitals with low costs were more likely to have equitable readmissions (odds ratio, 1.57 [95% CI, 1.38-1.77), and there was no relationship between quality and value, and equity. In examining equity by race, hospitals with high overall quality were more likely to have equitable readmissions (odds ratio, 1.14 [95% CI, 1.03-1.26]), and there was no relationship between cost and value, and equity. Conclusion and Relevance A minority of hospitals achieved equitable readmissions. Notably, hospitals with equitable readmissions were characteristically different from those without. For example, hospitals with equitable readmissions served fewer Black patients, reinforcing the role of structural racism in hospital-level inequities. Implementation of an equitable readmission measure must consider unequal distribution of at-risk patients among hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A. Nash
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
| | - Himali Weerahandi
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Huihui Yu
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Arjun K. Venkatesh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Louisa W. Holaday
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Institute for Health Equity Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Jeph Herrin
- Flying Buttress Associates, Charlottesville, Virginia
- Division of Cardiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Zhenqiu Lin
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut
- Division of Cardiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Leora I. Horwitz
- Center for Healthcare Innovation and Delivery Science, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Joseph S. Ross
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Deputy Editor, JAMA
| | - Susannah M. Bernheim
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Now with Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, Baltimore, Maryland
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16
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Gutman CK, Aronson PL, Singh NV, Pickett ML, Bouvay K, Green RS, Roach B, Kotler H, Chow JL, Hartford EA, Hincapie M, St. Pierre-Hetz R, Kelly J, Sartori L, Hoffmann JA, Corboy JB, Bergmann KR, Akinsola B, Ford V, Tedford NJ, Tran TT, Gifford S, Thompson AD, Krack A, Piroutek MJ, Lucrezia S, Chung S, Chowdhury N, Jackson K, Cheng T, Pulcini CD, Kannikeswaran N, Truschel LL, Lin K, Chu J, Molyneaux ND, Duong M, Dingeldein L, Rose JA, Theiler C, Bhalodkar S, Powers E, Waseem M, Lababidi A, Yan X, Lou XY, Fernandez R, Lion KC. Race, Ethnicity, Language, and the Treatment of Low-Risk Febrile Infants. JAMA Pediatr 2024; 178:55-64. [PMID: 37955907 PMCID: PMC10644247 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.4890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Importance Febrile infants at low risk of invasive bacterial infections are unlikely to benefit from lumbar puncture, antibiotics, or hospitalization, yet these are commonly performed. It is not known if there are differences in management by race, ethnicity, or language. Objective To investigate associations between race, ethnicity, and language and additional interventions (lumbar puncture, empirical antibiotics, and hospitalization) in well-appearing febrile infants at low risk of invasive bacterial infection. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a multicenter retrospective cross-sectional analysis of infants receiving emergency department care between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019. Data were analyzed from December 2022 to July 2023. Pediatric emergency departments were determined through the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Collaborative Research Committee. Well-appearing febrile infants aged 29 to 60 days at low risk of invasive bacterial infection based on blood and urine testing were included. Data were available for 9847 infants, and 4042 were included following exclusions for ill appearance, medical history, and diagnosis of a focal infectious source. Exposures Infant race and ethnicity (non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, non-Hispanic White, and other race or ethnicity) and language used for medical care (English and language other than English). Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was receipt of at least 1 of lumbar puncture, empirical antibiotics, or hospitalization. We performed bivariate and multivariable logistic regression with sum contrasts for comparisons. Individual components were assessed as secondary outcomes. Results Across 34 sites, 4042 infants (median [IQR] age, 45 [38-53] days; 1561 [44.4% of the 3516 without missing sex] female; 612 [15.1%] non-Hispanic Black, 1054 [26.1%] Hispanic, 1741 [43.1%] non-Hispanic White, and 352 [9.1%] other race or ethnicity; 3555 [88.0%] English and 463 [12.0%] language other than English) met inclusion criteria. The primary outcome occurred in 969 infants (24%). Race and ethnicity were not associated with the primary composite outcome. Compared to the grand mean, infants of families that use a language other than English had higher odds of the primary outcome (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]; 1.16; 95% CI, 1.01-1.33). In secondary analyses, Hispanic infants, compared to the grand mean, had lower odds of hospital admission (aOR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.63-0.93). Compared to the grand mean, infants of families that use a language other than English had higher odds of hospital admission (aOR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.08-1.46). Conclusions and Relevance Among low-risk febrile infants, language used for medical care was associated with the use of at least 1 nonindicated intervention, but race and ethnicity were not. Secondary analyses highlight the complex intersectionality of race, ethnicity, language, and health inequity. As inequitable care may be influenced by communication barriers, new guidelines that emphasize patient-centered communication may create disparities if not implemented with specific attention to equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen K. Gutman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville
| | - Paul L. Aronson
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Nidhi V. Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Kamali Bouvay
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Rebecca S. Green
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Britta Roach
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Hannah Kotler
- Division of Emergency Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences and Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Jessica L. Chow
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Emily A. Hartford
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine and Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle
| | - Mark Hincapie
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Miami, Florida
| | - Ryan St. Pierre-Hetz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Jessica Kelly
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Laura Sartori
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jennifer A. Hoffmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jacqueline B. Corboy
- Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kelly R. Bergmann
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children’s Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Bolanle Akinsola
- Department of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Vanessa Ford
- Department of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Natalie J. Tedford
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Theresa T. Tran
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Sasha Gifford
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Emergency Medicine/New York University Langone Health, New York, New York
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Amy D. Thompson
- Department of Pediatrics, Nemours Children’s Hospital of Delaware, Wilmington
| | - Andrew Krack
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Section of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado and Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora
| | - Mary Jane Piroutek
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California Irvine and Children’s Hospital of Orange County, Orange
| | - Samantha Lucrezia
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - SunHee Chung
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland
| | - Nabila Chowdhury
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kathleen Jackson
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Tabitha Cheng
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Harbor University of California Los Angeles Medical Center and the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Christian D. Pulcini
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
| | - Nirupama Kannikeswaran
- Department of Pediatrics, Central Michigan University College of Medicine and Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit
| | - Larissa L. Truschel
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Karen Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jamie Chu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston, Houston, Texas
- Texas Children’s Pediatrics, Houston
| | - Neh D. Molyneaux
- Department of Emergency Medicine, McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Myto Duong
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
| | - Leslie Dingeldein
- Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Jerri A. Rose
- Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Carly Theiler
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Sonali Bhalodkar
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Emily Powers
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Muhammad Waseem
- Department of Pediatrics, Lincoln Medical Center, Bronx, New York
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Lincoln Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Ahmed Lababidi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville
| | - Xinyu Yan
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida College of Medicine and College of Public Health and Health Professions, Gainesville
| | - Xiang-Yang Lou
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida College of Medicine and College of Public Health and Health Professions, Gainesville
| | - Rosemarie Fernandez
- Department of Emergency Medicine and the Center for Experiential Learning and Simulation, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville
| | - K. Casey Lion
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky
- Center for Child Health, Behavior, and Development, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
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17
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Senaldi L, Blatt L, Han JY, Gozum G, Venturini SL, Hauft S, Yap V, Acker KP, Osorio SN, Tiwari P. A quality improvement initiative to reduce antibiotic use in transient tachypnea of the newborn. J Perinatol 2024; 44:119-124. [PMID: 38123798 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-023-01850-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evidence suggests that antibiotics are unnecessary in infants with transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) that are low-risk for early-onset sepsis. The aim was to reduce ampicillin and gentamicin days of therapy (DOT) in infants with suspected TTN by 10% within 12 months. STUDY DESIGN We used the Model for Improvement to test interventions from August 2019 to September 2021 to decrease antibiotic utilization in low-risk infants with TTN. Interventions included the creation of an evidence-based clinical pathway, admission huddles, and prescriber audit and feedback. RESULTS We reduced ampicillin and gentamicin use by 26% and 23%, respectively. In 123 infants with suspected TTN, we sequentially decreased starting antibiotics in this group from 71% to 41%, 13% and 0%. There were no cases of missed bacteremia. CONCLUSION Creation of a multidisciplinary antimicrobial stewardship QI team and subsequent interventions were successful in safely reducing antibiotic use in infants with TTN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Senaldi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Lauren Blatt
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jin-Young Han
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Giselle Gozum
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Susan L Venturini
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sherrie Hauft
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vivien Yap
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karen P Acker
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Snezana Nena Osorio
- Department of Pediatrics, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Priyanka Tiwari
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, NewYork Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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18
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Reis ZSN, Pappa GL, Nader PDJH, do Vale MS, Silveira Neves G, Vitral GLN, Mussagy N, Norberto Dias IM, Romanelli RMDC. Respiratory distress syndrome prediction at birth by optical skin maturity assessment and machine learning models for limited-resource settings: a development and validation study. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1264527. [PMID: 38054190 PMCID: PMC10694507 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1264527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A handheld optical device was developed to evaluate a newborn's skin maturity by assessing the photobiological properties of the tissue and processing it with other variables to predict early neonatal prognosis related to prematurity. This study assessed the device's ability to predict respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Methods To assess the device's utility we enrolled newborns at childbirth in six urban perinatal centers from two multicenter single-blinded clinical trials. All newborns had inpatient follow-up until 72 h of life. We trained supervised machine learning models with data from 780 newborns in a Brazilian trial and provided external validation with data from 305 low-birth-weight newborns from another trial that assessed Brazilian and Mozambican newborns. The index test measured skin optical reflection with an optical sensor and adjusted acquired values with clinical variables such as birth weight and prenatal corticoid exposition for lung maturity, maternal diabetes, and hypertensive disturbances. The performance of the models was evaluated using intrasample k-parts cross-validation and external validation in an independent sample. Results Models adjusting three predictors (skin reflection, birth weight, and antenatal corticoid exposure) or five predictors had a similar performance, including or not maternal diabetes and hypertensive diseases. The best global accuracy was 89.7 (95% CI: 87.4 to 91.8, with a high sensitivity of 85.6% (80.2 to 90.0) and specificity of 91.3% (95% CI: 88.7 to 93.5). The test correctly discriminated RDS newborns in external validation, with 82.3% (95% CI: 77.5 to 86.4) accuracy. Our findings demonstrate a new way to assess a newborn's lung maturity, providing potential opportunities for earlier and more effective care. Trial registration RBR-3f5bm5 (online access: http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-3f5bm5/), and RBR-33mjf (online access: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-33rnjf/).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gisele Lobo Pappa
- Departamento de Ciência da Computação, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Gross ME, Godecker A, Hughes A, Sampene K. Leveraging quality improvement to promote health equity: standardization of prenatal aspirin recommendations. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:651. [PMID: 37684606 PMCID: PMC10492279 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05922-w] [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: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aspirin (ASA) is recommended for patients at elevated risk of preeclampsia. Limited data exists on adherence to guidelines for ASA prescription. This project evaluates the implementation of a standardized approach to ASA prescription in an academic OB/Gyn practice. METHODS We implemented a quality improvement project to evaluate compliance with the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for ASA to prevent preeclampsia. Pre-intervention, we analyzed prescription adherence at 201 New Obstetric (NOB) visits. A multi-step intervention was then implemented at 199 NOB visits. Nurses utilized a checklist created from USPSTF guidelines to identify high-risk patients, defined as having ≥1 high-risk factor or ≥2 moderate-risk factors. ASA orders were placed by physicians. A Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle was performed, and changes implemented. Primary outcome was percent of patients screened at RN intake visit (goal = 90%). Secondary outcomes were percent of patients who screened positive that received the ASA recommendation (goal = 80%) and percent screened and recommended by race. RESULTS Pre-intervention, 47% of patients met criteria for ASA and 28% received a documented recommendation. Post-intervention, 99% were screened. Half (48%) met criteria for an ASA recommendation and 79% received a recommendation (p = < 0.001). Rates of appropriate recommendation did not differ by Black (80%) vs. non-Black (79%) status (p = 0.25). Subsequent PDSA cycles for 12 months neared 100% RN screening rates. Physicians correctly recommended ASA 80-100% of the time. CONCLUSION It is feasible, sustainable and equitable to standardize screening and implementation of ASA to patients at high risk for preeclampsia. Providers can easily reproduce our processes to improve delivery of equitable and reliable preventative obstetric care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya E Gross
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Amy Godecker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ainsley Hughes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, George Washington School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Katherine Sampene
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
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20
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Karvonen KL, Anunwah E, Chambers Butcher BD, Kwarteng L, Mathis-Perry T, McLemore MR, Oh S, Pantell MS, Smith O, Rogers E. Structural Racism Operationalized via Adverse Social Events in a Single-Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. J Pediatr 2023; 260:113499. [PMID: 37211208 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.113499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate structural racism in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) by determining if differences in adverse social events occur by racialized groups. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study of 3290 infants hospitalized in a single center NICU between 2017 and 2019 in the Racial and Ethnic Justice in Outcomes in Neonatal Intensive Care (REJOICE) study. Demographics and adverse social events including infant urine toxicology screening, child protective services (CPS) referrals, behavioral contracts, and security emergency response calls were collected from electronic medical records. Logistic regression models were fit to test the association of race/ethnicity and adverse social events, adjusting for length of stay. Racial/ethnic groups were compared with a White referent group. RESULTS There were 205 families (6.2%) that experienced an adverse social event. Black families were more likely to have experienced a CPS referral and a urine toxicology screen (OR, 3.6; 95% CI, 2.2-6.1 and OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.4-3.5). American Indian and Alaskan Native families were also more likely to experience CPS referrals and urine toxicology screens (OR, 15.8; 95% CI, 6.9-36.0 an OR, 7.6; 95% CI, 3.4-17.2). Black families were more likely to experience behavioral contracts and security emergency response calls. Latinx families had a similar risk of adverse events, and Asian families were less likely to experience adverse events. CONCLUSIONS We found racial inequities in adverse social events in a single-center NICU. Investigation of generalizability is necessary to develop widespread strategies to address institutional and societal structural racism and to prevent adverse social events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla L Karvonen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA.
| | - Erica Anunwah
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Brittany D Chambers Butcher
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA; Department of Human Ecology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | - Lydia Kwarteng
- University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Monica R McLemore
- Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Sally Oh
- University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA
| | - Matthew S Pantell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA
| | - Olga Smith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Elizabeth Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA
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21
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Mendoza J, Hampton E, Singleton L. A theoretical and practical approach to quality improvement education. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2023; 53:101459. [PMID: 37980237 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2023.101459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Quality Improvement (QI) knowledge and skills are required at all levels of physician training. System improvement efforts need to include understanding of health disparities and design of interventions to reduce those disparities, thus health equity needs to be integrated into QI education. Payors, accreditation bodies and health systems' emphases on QI result in the need for QI curricula that meet the needs of diverse learners. This article presents a theoretical background and practical tools for designing, implementing, and evaluating a QI educational program across the spectrum of physician training with an emphasis on competency-based education and a goal of continuous practice improvement. Practice-based learning and improvement and systems-based practice are two core domains of competencies for readiness to practice. These competencies can be met through the health systems science framework for studying improvement in patient care and health care delivery coupled with QI science. Curricula should incorporate interactive learning of theory and principles of QI as well as mentored, experiential QI project work with multidisciplinary teams. QI projects often develop ideas and implement changes but are often inconsistent in studying intervention impacts or reaching the level of patient outcomes. Curriculum design should incorporate adult learning principles, competency based medical education, environmental and audience factors, and formats for content delivery. Key QI topics and how they fit into the clinical environment and teaching resources are provided, as well as options for faculty development. Approaches to evaluation are presented, along with tools for assessing learner's beliefs and attitudes, knowledge and application of QI principles, project evaluation, competency and curriculum evaluation. If the goal is to empower the next generation of change agents, there remains a need for development of scientific methodology and scholarly work, as well as faculty development and support by institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Mendoza
- Department of Pediatrics, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, Virginia, USA.
| | - Elisa Hampton
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, University of Virginia Children's, Virginia, USA
| | - Lori Singleton
- Department of Pediatrics, Morehouse School of Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Marcellus L, Amundsen M. Developing an Equity Mindset: How Neonatal Nurses Can Impact Health Outcomes by Reducing Disparities. Neonatal Netw 2023; 42:182-191. [PMID: 37491040 DOI: 10.1891/nn-2023-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The concepts of health equity and social justice are foundational to the profession of nursing. Substantial advances have been made over the past decades in the care of infants requiring support in the NICU; however, significant differences remain in health outcomes for infants and their families for groups considered to be disadvantaged. In this article, we explore the concept of health equity, introduce an action framework that provides a practical approach to advancing health equity, and describe how to apply this framework for action within the context of neonatal nursing practice. Nurses are encouraged to accept and act on their ethical responsibility toward the populations they serve, directing attention and resources to those with the greatest need.
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23
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Brady S, Steinwurtzel R, Kim R, Abascal E, Lane M, Brachio S. Improving Postpartum Depression Screening in the NICU: Partnering with Students to Improve Outreach. Pediatr Qual Saf 2023; 8:e674. [PMID: 37434597 PMCID: PMC10332827 DOI: 10.1097/pq9.0000000000000674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Infants born to mothers with postpartum depression (PPD) are at risk for adverse developmental outcomes. Mothers of premature infants are 40% more likely to develop PPD when compared with the general population. Current published studies on implementing PPD screening in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) do not comply with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guideline, which recommends multiple screening points in the first year postpartum and includes partner screening. Our team implemented PPD screening that follows the AAP guideline and includes partner screening for all parents of infants admitted to our NICU beyond 2 weeks of age. Methods The Institute For Healthcare Improvement Model for Improvement was the framework for this project. Our initial intervention bundle included provider education, standardized identification of parents to be screened, and bedside screening performed by the nurse with social work follow-up. This intervention transitioned to weekly screening by phone by health professional students and the use of the electronic medical record for notification of team members of screening results. Results Under the current process, 53% of qualifying parents are screened appropriately. Of the parents screened, 23% had a positive Patient Health Questionnaire-9 requiring referral for mental health services. Conclusions Implementing a PPD screening program that complies with the AAP standard is feasible within a Level 4 NICU. Partnering with health professional students greatly improved our ability to screen parents consistently. Given the high percentage of parents with PPD uncovered with appropriate screening, this type of program has a clear need within the NICU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinead Brady
- From the Division of Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, N.Y
| | - Rochelle Steinwurtzel
- From the Division of Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, N.Y
| | - Rachel Kim
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, N.Y
| | | | - Mariellen Lane
- Division of Child and Adolescent Health, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, N.Y
| | - Sandhya Brachio
- From the Division of Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York, N.Y
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24
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Razdan S, Hedli L, Sigurdson K, Profit J, Morton C. Disparities and Equity Dashboards in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Qualitative Study of Expert Perspectives. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3002217. [PMID: 37461712 PMCID: PMC10350244 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3002217/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Objective Racial/ethnic disparities are well-described in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We explore expert opinion on their root causes, potential solutions, and the ability of health equity dashboards to meaningfully address NICU disparities. Study Design We conducted 12 qualitative semi-structured interviews, purposively selecting a diverse group of neonatal experts. We used grounded theory to develop codes, shape interviews, and conduct analysis. Result Participants identified three sources of disparity: interpersonal bias, care process barriers, and social determinants of health, particularly as they affect parental engagement in the NICU. Proposed solutions included racial/cultural concordance, bolstering hospital-based resources, and policy interventions. Health equity dashboards were viewed as useful but limited because clinical metrics do not account for many of the aforementioned sources of disparities. Conclusion Equity dashboards serve as a motivational starting point for quality improvement; future iterations may require novel, qualitative data sources to identify underlying etiologies of NICU disparities.
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25
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Menda N, Edwards E. Measuring Equity for Quality Improvement. Clin Perinatol 2023; 50:531-543. [PMID: 37201995 DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Applying an equity lens to quality improvement (QI) by collecting, reviewing, and using data that measure health disparities helps identify whether QI interventions improve outcomes evenly and equally across the population or have a greater impact in an advantaged or disadvantaged group. Methodological issues inherent in measuring disparities include appropriately selecting data sources; ensuring reliability and validity of equity data; choosing a suitable comparison group; and understanding between-group variation. The integration and utilization of QI techniques to promote equity is dependent on meaningful measurement to develop targeted interventions and provide a means of ongoing real-time assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Menda
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, 202 South Park Street, McConnell Hall, 4th Floor, Madison, WI 53715, USA.
| | - Erika Edwards
- Vermont Oxford Network, Burlington, VT 05401, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Robert Larner, MD, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA; Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
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26
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Dahan M, Rotteau L, Higazi S, Kwayke O, Lai G, Moulsdale W, Sampson L, Stannard J, Church PT, O'Brien K. Understanding the Family Context: A Qualitative Descriptive Study of Parent and NICU Clinician Experiences and Perspectives. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10050896. [PMID: 37238444 DOI: 10.3390/children10050896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Enabling individualized decision-making for patients requires an understanding of the family context (FC) by healthcare providers. The FC is everything that makes the family unique, from their names, preferred pronouns, family structure, cultural or religious beliefs, and family values. While there is an array of approaches for individual clinicians to incorporate the FC into practice, there is a paucity of literature guiding the process of collecting and integrating the FC into clinical care by multidisciplinary interprofessional teams. The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the experience of families and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) clinicians with information sharing around the FC. Our findings illustrate that there are parallel and overlapping experiences of sharing the FC for families and clinicians. Both groups describe the positive impact of sharing the FC on building and sustaining relationships and on personalization of care and personhood. The experience by families of revolving clinicians and the risks of miscommunication about the FC were noted as challenges to sharing the FC. Parents described the desire to control the narrative about their FC, while clinicians described seeking equal access to the FC to support the family in the best way possible related to their clinical role. Our study highlights how the quality of care is positively impacted by clinicians' appreciation of the FC and the complex relationship between a large multidisciplinary interprofessional team and the family in an intensive care unit, while also highlighting the difficulties in its practical application. Knowledge learned can be utilized to inform the development of processes to improve communication between families and clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Dahan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S, Canada
- DAN Women & Babies Program, Department of Newborn and Developmental Pediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Leahora Rotteau
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S, Canada
| | - Shelley Higazi
- DAN Women & Babies Program, Department of Newborn and Developmental Pediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Ophelia Kwayke
- DAN Women & Babies Program, Department of Newborn and Developmental Pediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Giselle Lai
- DAN Women & Babies Program, Department of Newborn and Developmental Pediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Wendy Moulsdale
- DAN Women & Babies Program, Department of Newborn and Developmental Pediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Lisa Sampson
- DAN Women & Babies Program, Department of Newborn and Developmental Pediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Jennifer Stannard
- DAN Women & Babies Program, Department of Newborn and Developmental Pediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Paige Terrien Church
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S, Canada
- DAN Women & Babies Program, Department of Newborn and Developmental Pediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Karel O'Brien
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada
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27
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Smith CJ, Raval MV, Simon MA, Henry MCW. Addressing pediatric surgical health inequities through quality improvement efforts. Semin Pediatr Surg 2023; 32:151280. [PMID: 37147217 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2023.151280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Concepts of healthcare quality and health equity should be inextricably linked but are often pursued separately. Quality improvement (QI) can serve as a powerful means to eliminate health inequities by adopting an equity-focused lens to diagnose and address baseline disparities among pediatric populations using targeted interventions. QI and pediatric surgery practitioners should integrate concepts of equity at every stage of formulating a QI project including conceptualization, planning, and execution. Early adaptation of an equity conscious perspective using QI methodology can prevent exacerbation of preexisting disparities while improving overall outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charesa J Smith
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Northwestern Quality Improvement, Research, & Education in Surgery, Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
| | - Mehul V Raval
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Northwestern Quality Improvement, Research, & Education in Surgery, Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Melissa A Simon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Health Equity Transformation, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Marion C W Henry
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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28
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Cordova-Ramos EG, Jain C, Torrice V, McGean M, Buitron de la Vega P, Burke J, Stickney D, Vinci RJ, Drainoni ML, Parker MG. Implementing Social Risk Screening and Referral to Resources in the NICU. Pediatrics 2023; 151:e2022058975. [PMID: 36919445 PMCID: PMC10797529 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-058975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Social risk screening is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, but this practice is underutilized in NICUs. To address this gap in social care, we aimed to increase rates of: (1) systematic social risk screening and (2) connection with community resources, each to ≥50% over a 14-month period. METHODS We conducted a quality improvement initiative from November 2020 to January 2022. We adapted a screening tool and used Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles to integrate screening and referral to resources into clinical workflow. Primary outcome measures included the percentage of (1) families screened and (2) connection with resources. We examined screening by maternal race/ethnicity and primary language. Process measures were (1) time from admission to screening and (2) percentage of referrals provided to families reporting unmet needs and requesting assistance. We used statistical process control to assess change over time and χ2 tests to compare screening by race/ethnicity and language. RESULTS The rates of systematic screening increased from 0% to 49%. Among 103 families screened, 84% had ≥1, and 64% had ≥2 unmet needs, with a total of 221 needs reported. Education, employment, transportation, and food were the most common needs. Screening rates did not vary by race/ethnicity or language. Among families requesting assistance, 98% received referrals. The iterative improvement of a written resource guide and community partnerships led to increased rates of connection with resources from 21% to 52%. CONCLUSION Leveraging existing staff, our social risk screening and referral intervention built the capacity to address the high burden of unmet needs among NICU families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika G. Cordova-Ramos
- Boston Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics
- Evans Center for Implementation and Improvement Sciences (CIIS), Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine
| | | | | | | | - Pablo Buitron de la Vega
- Boston University School of Medicine
- Boston Medical Center, Department of General Internal Medicine
| | | | | | | | - Mari-Lynn Drainoni
- Evans Center for Implementation and Improvement Sciences (CIIS), Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health
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29
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Karvonen KL, Goronga F, McKenzie-Sampson S, Rogers EE. Racial disparities in the development of comorbid conditions after preterm birth: A narrative review. Semin Perinatol 2022; 46:151657. [PMID: 36153273 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2022.151657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite recognition and attempts to reduce racial disparities in perinatal outcomes, Black infants are still disproportionately represented among those who are born preterm. Postnatal investigations of racial disparities in comorbidities and outcomes after preterm birth are increasing, although their results and interpretations are conflicting. In the present review, we 1.) identify important methodological limitations of that literature 2.) summarize the conflicting literature investigating racial disparities, specifically Black-white differences, in postnatal comorbidities and outcomes after preterm birth 3.) describe mechanisms by which racism operates to contextualize our understanding to inform future work to actively reduce disparities in preterm birth and subsequently, its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla L Karvonen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.
| | - Faith Goronga
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Safyer McKenzie-Sampson
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Elizabeth E Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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30
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Fraiman YS, Barrero-Castillero A, Litt JS. Implications of racial/ethnic perinatal health inequities on long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes and health services utilization. Semin Perinatol 2022; 46:151660. [PMID: 36175260 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2022.151660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Infants born preterm and with low birth weight have increased risk for neurodevelopmental challenges later in life compared to term-born peers. These include functional motor impairment, cognitive and speech delays, neurobehavioral disorders, and atypical social development. There are well-documented inequities in the population distributions of preterm birth and associated short-term morbidities by race, ethnicity, language, and nativity. Far less is known about how these inequities affect long-term outcomes, though the impact of unequal access to post-discharge support services for preterm infants raises concerns about widening gaps in health, development, and functioning. In this review, we describe what is currently known about the impact of race, ethnicity, nativity, and language on long-term outcomes. We provide a framework for understanding inequities in social, political, and historical context. And we offer guidance for next steps to delineate mechanistic pathways and to identify interventions to eliminate inequities in long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes through research, intervention, and advocacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yarden S Fraiman
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alejandra Barrero-Castillero
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan S Litt
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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31
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Profit J, Edwards EM, Pursley D. Getting to health equity in NICU care in the USA and beyond. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2022:archdischild-2021-323533. [PMID: 36379698 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-323533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Differences in race/ethnicity, gender, income and other social factors have long been associated with disparities in health, illness and premature death. Although the terms 'health differences' and 'health disparities' are often used interchangeably, health disparities has recently been reserved to describe worse health in socially disadvantaged populations, particularly members of disadvantaged racial/ethnic groups and the poor within a racial/ethnic group. Infants receiving disparate care based on race/ethnicity, immigration status, language proficiency, or social class may be discomforting to healthcare workers who dedicate their lives to care for these patients. Recent literature, however, has documented differences in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) care quality that have contributed to racial and ethnic differences in mortality and significant morbidity. We examine the within-NICU and between-NICU mechanisms of disparate care and recommend approaches to address these disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Profit
- Perinatal Epidemiology and Health Outcomes Research Unit, Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA .,California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Erika M Edwards
- Vermont Oxford Network, Burlington, Vermont, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Robert Larner MD College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA.,Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - DeWayne Pursley
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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32
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Arrington LA. The 5D Cycle for Health Equity: Combining Black Feminism, Radical Imagination, and Appreciative Inquiry to Transform Perinatal Quality Improvement. J Midwifery Womens Health 2022; 67:720-727. [PMID: 36426881 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13418] [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: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Too often, quality improvement initiatives are rooted in the health care system's oppressive structures and hierarchies. Transformative quality improvement models that embody the wisdom and liberatory potential of oppressed groups areneeded to address the alarming inequities within perinatal health. Inspired by experiences with Appreciative Inquiry, a possibility-focused change model, and frustrated by the limits of traditional quality improvement, the author sought new approaches to perinatal quality improvement. Inquiry into Black feminist recommendations for perinatal quality improvement and the principles of radical imagination led to the creation of the 5D Cycle for Health Equity, which grounds Appreciative Inquiry's 5D cycle (define, discover, dream, design, deliver/destiny) in Black feminism and radical imagination. The 5D Cycle for Health Equity is an innovative approach to address health inequities by challenging oppressive quality improvement methods and health care structures. The cycle guides quality improvement collectives through a process that redefines harm and health equity; discovers new understandings of wellness across the past, present, and future; dreams of equitable care with the principles of antioppression and collectivity; designs solutions that embody the liberatory practices of oppressed groups; delivers solutions that strive to free everyone by freeing the most oppressed; and forges a new destiny. Midwives are well poised to use the 5D Cycle for Health Equity to disrupt structures of inequity and foster a health care system that supports the health and wellness of oppressed groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A Arrington
- Georgetown University School of Nursing, Washington, District of Columbia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, Towson, Maryland
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33
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Abstract
Quality improvement has become a foundation of neonatal care. Structured approaches to improvement can standardize practices, improve teamwork, engage families, and improve outcomes. The delivery room presents a unique environment for quality improvement; optimal delivery room care requires advanced preparation, adequately trained providers, and carefully coordinated team dynamics. In this article, we examine quality improvement for neonatal resuscitation. We review the published literature, focusing on reports targeting admission hypothermia, delayed cord clamping, and initial respiratory support. We discuss specific challenges related to delivery room quality improvement, including small numbers, data collection, and lack of benchmarking, and potential strategies to address them including simulation, checklists, and state and national collaboratives. We examine how quality improvement can target equity in delivery room outcomes, and explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on delivery room quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Whitesel
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston MA, United States; Division of Newborn Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, United States.
| | - Justin Goldstein
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston MA, United States
| | - Henry C. Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA, United States
| | - Munish Gupta
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston MA, United States,Division of Newborn Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, United States
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34
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Witt RE, Malcolm M, Colvin BN, Gill MR, Ofori J, Roy S, Lenze SN, Rogers CE, Colson ER. Racism and Quality of Neonatal Intensive Care: Voices of Black Mothers. Pediatrics 2022; 150:188766. [PMID: 35965288 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-056971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Black preterm infants are more likely to die than White preterm infants within the same NICU. Racism may lead to disparate quality of NICU care contributing to disparities in preterm infant health outcomes. The objective of our study was to understand Black mothers' perspectives of the impact of racism on the quality of care for Black preterm infants in the NICU and what might be done to address it. METHODS Using qualitative research methods, we conducted in-depth, semistructured interviews with 20 Black mothers of preterm infants in a single Level IV NICU 6 to 18 months after hospital discharge regarding experiences with disparate quality of NICU care. We developed themes iteratively and conducted interviews until thematic saturation was reached. RESULTS The majority of mothers believed that racism impacted the quality of NICU care and described examples of racism in the NICU at structural, institutional, and interpersonal levels. Mothers also provided ideas for interventions that would decrease racism and improve quality of NICU care for Black families, including increased Black representation, increased peer support, and improved staff education and training. CONCLUSIONS Black mothers of preterm infants experienced racism during NICU hospitalization that impacted the quality of care they received. Interventional studies directed toward mitigating these racial disparities may focus on addressing racism during the NICU period and should include input from Black stakeholders at all stages of design, implementation, and analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mia Malcolm
- Family Partners Program, BJC HealthCare/St Louis Children's Hospital, St Louis, Missouri
| | | | | | - Joel Ofori
- School of Medicine, Washington University, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Shireen Roy
- School of Medicine, Washington University, St Louis, Missouri
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35
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Lewis TR, Kielt MJ, Walker VP, Levin JC, Guaman MC, Panitch HB, Nelin LD, Abman SH. Association of Racial Disparities With In-Hospital Outcomes in Severe Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia. JAMA Pediatr 2022; 176:852-859. [PMID: 35913704 PMCID: PMC9344383 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2022.2663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common serious morbidity of preterm birth. Short-term respiratory outcomes for infants with the most severe forms of BPD are highly variable. The mechanisms that explain this variability remain unknown and may be mediated by racial disparities. Objective To determine the association of maternal race with death and length of hospital stay in a multicenter cohort of infants with severe BPD. Design, Setting, and Participants This multicenter cohort study included preterm infants enrolled in the BPD Collaborative registry from January 1, 2015, to July 19, 2021, involving 8 BPD Collaborative centers located in the US. Included patients were born at less than 32 weeks' gestation, had a diagnosis of severe BPD as defined by the 2001 National Institutes of Health Consensus Criteria, and were born to Black or White mothers. Exposures Maternal race: Black vs White. Main Outcomes and Measures Death and length of hospital stay. Results Among 834 registry infants (median [IQR] gestational age, 25 [24-27] weeks; 492 male infants [59%]) meeting inclusion criteria, the majority were born to White mothers (558 [67%]). Death was observed infrequently in the study cohort (32 [4%]), but Black maternal race was associated with an increased odds of death (adjusted odds ratio, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.2-3.5) after adjusting for center. Black maternal race was also significantly associated with length of hospital stay (adjusted between-group difference, 10 days; 95% CI, 3-17 days). Conclusions and Relevance In a multicenter severe BPD cohort, study results suggest that infants born to Black mothers had increased likelihood of death and increased length of hospital stay compared with infants born to White mothers. Prospective studies are needed to define the sociodemographic mechanisms underlying disparate health outcomes for Black infants with severe BPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamorah R Lewis
- Children's Mercy Hospital, The University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City
| | - Matthew J Kielt
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus
| | - Valencia P Walker
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus
| | - Jonathan C Levin
- Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Howard B Panitch
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Leif D Nelin
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus
| | - Steven H Abman
- Children's Hospital Colorado, The University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
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A mixed methods study of perceptions of bias among neonatal intensive care unit staff. Pediatr Res 2022; 93:1672-1678. [PMID: 36038641 PMCID: PMC9971322 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02217-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inequity in neonatology may be potentiated within neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) by the effects of bias. Addressing bias can lead to improved, more equitable care. Understanding perceptions of bias can inform targeted interventions to reduce the impact of bias. We conducted a mixed methods study to characterize the perceptions of bias among NICU staff. METHODS Surveys were distributed to all staff (N = 245) in a single academic Level IV NICU. Respondents rated the impact of bias on their own and others' behaviors on 5-point Likert scales and answered one open-ended question. Kruskal-Wallis test (KWT) and Levene's test were used for quantitative analysis and thematic analysis was used for qualitative analysis. RESULTS We received 178 responses. More respondents agreed that bias had a greater impact on others' vs. their own behaviors (KWT p < 0.05). Respondents agreed that behaviors were influenced more by implicit than explicit biases (KWT p < 0.05). Qualitative analysis resulted in nine unique themes. CONCLUSIONS Staff perceive a high impact of bias across different domains with increased perceived impact of implicit vs. explicit bias. Staff perceive a greater impact of others' biases vs. their own. Mixed methods studies can help identify unique, unit-responsive approaches to reduce bias. IMPACT Healthcare staff have awareness of bias and its impact on their behaviors with patients, families, and staff. Healthcare staff believe that implicit bias impacts their behaviors more than explicit bias, and that they have less bias than others. Healthcare staff have ideas for strategies and approaches to mitigate the impact of bias. Mixed method studies are effective ways of understanding environment-specific perceptions of bias, and contextual assets and barriers when creating interventions to reduce bias and improve equity. Generating interventions to reduce the impact of bias in healthcare requires a context-specific understanding of perceptions of bias among staff.
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Brachio SS, Reichman V. Scoring Quality, Scoring Equity: The Promise and Power of Scorecards to Facilitate Bidirectional, Real-Time Communication. J Pediatr 2022; 247:14-16. [PMID: 35577117 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya S Brachio
- Division of Neonatology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York-Presbyterian, New York, New York.
| | - Vicky Reichman
- Department of Pediatrics, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, New York
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38
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Whitesel E, Goldstein J, Lee HC, GuptaMMSc M. Quality Improvement for Neonatal Resuscitation and Delivery Room Care. SEMINARS IN SPINE SURGERY 2022:100961. [PMID: 35574250 PMCID: PMC9080026 DOI: 10.1016/j.semss.2022.100961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Quality improvement has become a foundation of neonatal care. Structured approaches to improvement can standardize practices, improve teamwork, engage families, and improve outcomes. The delivery room presents a unique environment for quality improvement; optimal delivery room care requires advanced preparation, adequately trained providers, and carefully coordinated team dynamics. In this article, we examine quality improvement for neonatal resuscitation. We review the published literature, focusing on reports targeting admission hypothermia, delayed cord clamping, and initial respiratory support. We discuss specific challenges related to delivery room quality improvement, including small numbers, data collection, and lack of benchmarking, and potential strategies to address them including simulation, checklists, and state and national collaboratives. We examine how quality improvement can target equity in delivery room outcomes, and explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on delivery room quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Whitesel
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Henry C Lee
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Munish GuptaMMSc
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Wojcik MH, Fraiman YS. Further Considerations on the Value of Whole-Genome Sequencing in Critically Ill Infants. JAMA Pediatr 2022; 176:420-421. [PMID: 35129617 PMCID: PMC9470004 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2021.6280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Monica H Wojcik
- Divisions of Newborn Medicine and Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115
| | - Yarden S. Fraiman
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115
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40
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Jang CJ, Lee HC. A Review of Racial Disparities in Infant Mortality in the US. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9020257. [PMID: 35204976 PMCID: PMC8870826 DOI: 10.3390/children9020257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Racial disparities in infant mortality have persisted, despite the overall decline in the United States’ overall infant mortality rate (IMR). The overall IMR of the entire United States (5.58 per 1000 live births) population masks significant disparities by race and ethnicity: the non-Hispanic Black population experienced an IMR of 10.8 followed by people from Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander populations at 9.4 and American Indians at 8.2. The non-Hispanic White and Asian populations in the United States have the lowest IMR at 4.6 and 3.6, respectively, as of 2018. A variety of factors that characterize minority populations, including experiences of racial discrimination, low income and education levels, poor residential environments, lack of medical insurance, and treatment at low-quality hospitals, demonstrate strong correlations with high infant mortality rates. Identifying, acknowledging, and addressing these disparities must be performed before engaging in strategies to mitigate them. Social determinants of health play a major role in health disparities, including in infant mortality. The study and implementation of programs to address neighborhood factors, education, healthcare access and quality, economic stability, and other personal and societal contexts will help us work towards a common goal of achieving health equity, regardless of racial/ethnic background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb J. Jang
- College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
- Correspondence: (C.J.J.); (H.C.L.)
| | - Henry C. Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Correspondence: (C.J.J.); (H.C.L.)
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Race, language, and neighborhood predict high-risk preterm Infant Follow Up Program participation. J Perinatol 2022; 42:217-222. [PMID: 34404926 PMCID: PMC8859815 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-021-01188-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Infant Follow Up Programs (IFUPs) provide developmental surveillance for preterm infants after hospital discharge but participation is variable. We hypothesized that infants born to Black mothers, non-English speaking mothers, and mothers who live in "Very Low" Child Opportunity Index (COI) neighborhoods would have decreased odds of IFUP participation. STUDY DESIGN There were 477 infants eligible for IFUP between 1/1/2015 and 6/6/2017 from a single large academic Level III NICU. Primary outcome was at least one visit to IFUP. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with IFUP participation. RESULT Two hundred infants (41.9%) participated in IFUP. Odds of participation was lower for Black compared to white race (aOR 0.43, p = 0.03), "Very Low" COI compared to "Very High" (aOR 0.39, p = 0.02) and primary non-English speaking (aOR 0.29, p = 0.01). CONCLUSION We identified disparities in IFUP participation. Further study is needed to understand underlying mechanisms to develop targeted interventions for reducing inequities.
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42
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Witt RE, Colvin BN, Lenze SN, Forbes ES, Parker MG, Hwang SS, Rogers CE, Colson ER. Lived experiences of stress of Black and Hispanic mothers during hospitalization of preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units. J Perinatol 2022; 42:195-201. [PMID: 34663902 PMCID: PMC8825749 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-021-01241-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the lived experiences of stress associated with having a preterm infant hospitalized in the NICU among Black and Hispanic mothers. METHODS We performed a qualitative content analysis of secondary data from two prior studies that included 39 in-depth interviews with Black and Hispanic mothers of preterm infants at 3 U.S. NICUs. We used a constant comparative method to select important concepts and to develop codes and subsequent themes. RESULTS Black and Hispanic mothers described stressors in the following domains and categories: Individual (feeling overwhelmed, postpartum medical complications, previous stressful life events, competing priorities); Hospital (perceived poor quality of care, provider communication issues, logistical issues); Community (lack of social supports, lack of financial resources, work challenges). CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest that stressors both inside and outside of the hospital affect the lived experiences of stress by Black and Hispanic mothers during NICU hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E. Witt
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Bryanne N. Colvin
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Shannon N. Lenze
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Emma Shaw Forbes
- Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Margaret G.K. Parker
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Sunah S. Hwang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Cynthia E. Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO,Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Eve R. Colson
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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43
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Montoya-Williams D, Fraiman YS, Peña MM, Burris HH, Pursley DM. Antiracism in the Field of Neonatology: A Foundation and Concrete Approaches. Neoreviews 2022; 23:e1-e12. [PMID: 34970665 PMCID: PMC8796312 DOI: 10.1542/neo.23-1-e1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Neonatal patients and families from historically marginalized and discriminated communities have long been documented to have differential access to health care, disparate health care, and as a result, inequitable health outcomes. Fundamental to these processes is an understanding of what race and ethnicity represent for patients and how different levels of racism act as social determinants of health. The NICU presents a unique opportunity to intervene with regard to the detrimental ways in which structural, institutional, interpersonal, and internalized racism affect the health of newborn infants. The aim of this article is to provide neonatal clinicians with a foundational understanding of race, racism, and antiracism within medicine, as well as concrete ways in which health care professionals in the field of neonatology can contribute to antiracism and health equity in their professional careers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yarden S Fraiman
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Michelle-Marie Peña
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Heather H Burris
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - DeWayne M Pursley
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
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44
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Exclusive breastfeeding promotion policies: whose oxygen mask are we prioritizing? J Perinatol 2022; 42:1141-1145. [PMID: 35347245 PMCID: PMC8960073 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-022-01339-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Provision of human milk is crucial for maternal and infant health. However, exclusive breastfeeding may exacerbate mood disorders in women unable to achieve this goal. A nuanced approach that considers all aspects of maternal and infant health is needed. In this paper, we bring attention to the potentially negative consequences on maternal and infant health that may be associated with exclusive breastfeeding in the setting of significant challenges. We discuss recent literature exploring the relationship between breastfeeding and maternal mental health, and contextualize it with our first-hand experiences as healthcare professionals who aimed to exclusively breastfeed and encountered difficulties. Given existing evidence and our collective anecdotal experience, we advocate for a balanced approach when supporting parents struggling to breastfeed. Timely recommendations are offered for healthcare providers, medical educators and hospital administrators seeking to balance maternal and infant child health considerations while continuing to promote breastfeeding. PRéCIS STATEMENT: Exclusively promotion of breastfeeding impacts maternal mental health and consequently, infant health. We advocate for balanced considerations of maternal and infant child health while promoting breastfeeding. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Singular promotion of exclusive breastfeeding may exacerbate adverse maternal mental health outcomes. A balanced consideration of maternal and infant child health is vital as breastfeeding is encouraged. Clinicians who provide front-line support to breastfeeding parents must be taught and expected to provide nuanced breastfeeding support that anticipates both physical and mental health challenges.
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45
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Sankar MN, Weiner Y, Chopra N, Kan P, Williams Z, Lee HC. Barriers to optimal breast milk provision in the neonatal intensive care unit. J Perinatol 2022; 42:1076-1082. [PMID: 34815522 PMCID: PMC8610106 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-021-01275-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines comprehensive patient and process factors that influence breast milk use in the NICU setting. STUDY DESIGN We examined the association of maternal, neonatal, and family factors and lactation support systems to identify gaps in breast milk use in a retrospective study of 865 infants born in 23-41 weeks gestation admitted to the NICU. RESULTS Breast milk at discharge for all infants was 89.3%, for extremely preterm 82.3%, moderately preterm 91.4%, late preterm 86.5%, and term 92.7%. Prematurity (OR 0.31 [0.17-0.56]), low birth weight, morbidities, Black maternal race (OR 0.20 [0.07-0.57]) and public insurance (OR 0.54 [0.34-0.85]) were associated with decreased breast milk use. Early initiation of feeds was associated with increased breast milk use. CONCLUSIONS There is a need to increase social as well as hospital support systems to address gaps in breast milk use in the NICU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meera N. Sankar
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA USA
| | - Ya’el Weiner
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA USA ,grid.512564.1California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Neha Chopra
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA USA ,grid.512564.1California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Peiyi Kan
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA USA ,grid.512564.1California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Zakiyah Williams
- grid.414123.10000 0004 0450 875XLactation services, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Henry C. Lee
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA USA ,grid.512564.1California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative, Stanford, CA USA
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46
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Fanta ML, Rule ARL, Beck AF. The Time is Now: Equity and Inclusion in Newborn Quality Improvement. Hosp Pediatr 2021; 11:e339-e342. [PMID: 34649933 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2021-006279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy R L Rule
- Divisions of Hospital Medicine and.,Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Andrew F Beck
- Divisions of Hospital Medicine and.,Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio.,General and Community Pediatrics and
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47
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Abstract
Racism- a system operating at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional, and structural levels- is a serious threat to the health and wellbeing of children and adolescents. This narrative review highlights racism as a social determinant of health, and describes how racism breeds disparate pediatric health outcomes in infant health, asthma, Type 1 diabetes, mental health, and pediatric surgical conditions. Key examples include the association of residential racial segregation and the alarming infant mortality rate among Black infants as well as the role of redlining and discriminatory housing practices on asthma morbidity among Black children and adolescents. Furthermore, inequitable care practices such as (1) racial and ethnic disparities in insulin pump usage in patients with Type 1 diabetes, (2) lower rates pharmacotherapy initiation in racialized children with mental health disorders, and (3) decreased pain medication management and confirmatory imaging in Black children with acute appendicitis, highlight the role of interpersonal racism in propagating poor health outcomes. An urgent call to action is needed to address pediatric health inequities and ensure all children can live healthy lives. Key strategies must tackle racism at the individual, institutional, and structural levels and include building a diverse workforce, prioritizing research to describe the impact of racism on pediatric health outcomes, initiating improvement efforts to close equity gaps, building community partnerships, co-designing solutions alongside patients and families, and advocating for policy change to address the social conditions that impact children and adolescents of color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Fanta
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. MLC 5018, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Deawodi Ladzekpo
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ndidi Unaka
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. MLC 5018, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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48
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Zupancic JAF. Broadening the scope and scale of quality improvement in neonatology. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2021; 26:101228. [PMID: 33750669 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2021.101228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John A F Zupancic
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Newborn Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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49
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Fraiman YS, Ho T. From My Own Isolette: Examining Racism in Clinical Care. Acad Pediatr 2021; 21:1305-1306. [PMID: 34098171 PMCID: PMC8572146 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2021.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yarden S. Fraiman
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital,Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center,Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
| | - Timmy Ho
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital,Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School
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