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Davis KA, Zhao F, Janis RA, Castonguay LG, Hayes JA, Scofield BE. Therapeutic alliance and clinical outcomes in teletherapy and in-person psychotherapy: A noninferiority study during the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychother Res 2024; 34:589-600. [PMID: 37399573 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2023.2229505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The current study aimed to inform the varied and limited research on clinical variables in the context of teletherapy. Questions remain about the comparative quality of therapeutic alliance and clinical outcome in the context of teletherapy compared to in-person treatment.Methods We utilized a cohort design and a noninferiority statistical approach to study a large, matched sample of clients who reported therapeutic alliance as well as psychological distress before every session as part of routine clinical practice at a university counseling center. A cohort of 479 clients undergoing teletherapy after the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic was compared to a cohort of 479 clients receiving in-person treatment before the onset of the pandemic. Tests of noninferiority were conducted to investigate the absence of meaningful differences between the two modalities of service delivery. Client characteristics were also examined as moderators of the association between modality and alliance or outcome.Results Clients receiving teletherapy showed noninferior alliance and clinical outcome when compared to clients receiving in-person psychotherapy. A significant main effect on alliance was found with regard to race and ethnicity. A significant main effect on outcome was found with regard to international student status. Significant interactions on alliance were found between cohort and current financial stress.Conclusions Study findings support the continued use of teletherapy by demonstrating commensurate clinical process and outcome. Yet, it will be important for providers to be aware of existing mental health disparities that continue to accompany psychotherapy - in person and via teletherapy. Results and findings are discussed in terms of research and clinical implications. Future directions for researching teletherapy as a viable treatment delivery method are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A Davis
- Department of Psychology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Fanghui Zhao
- Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca A Janis
- Counseling and Psychological Services, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Louis G Castonguay
- Department of Psychology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Hayes
- Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Brett E Scofield
- Counseling and Psychological Services, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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O'Shea AMJ, Mulligan K, Carlson P, Haraldsson B, Augustine MR, Kaboli PJ, Shimada SL. Healthcare Utilization Differences Among Primary Care Patients Using Telemedicine in the Veterans Health Administration: a Retrospective Cohort Study. J Gen Intern Med 2024; 39:109-117. [PMID: 38252240 PMCID: PMC10937860 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08472-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic encouraged telemedicine expansion. Research regarding follow-up healthcare utilization and primary care (PC) telemedicine is lacking. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether healthcare utilization differed across PC populations using telemedicine. DESIGN Retrospective observational cohort study using administrative data from veterans with minimally one PC visit before the COVID-19 pandemic (March 1, 2019-February 28, 2020) and after in-person restrictions were lifted (October 1, 2020-September 30, 2021). PARTICIPANTS All veterans receiving VHA PC services during study period. MAIN MEASURES Veterans' exposure to telemedicine was categorized as (1) in-person only, (2) telephone telemedicine (≥ 1 telephone visit with or without in-person visits), or (3) video telemedicine (≥ 1 video visit with or without telephone and/or in-person visits). Healthcare utilization 7 days after index PC visit were compared. Generalized estimating equations estimated odds ratios for telephone or video telemedicine versus in-person only use adjusted for patient characteristics (e.g., age, gender, race, residential rurality, ethnicity), area deprivation index, comorbidity risk, and intermediate PC visits within the follow-up window. KEY RESULTS Over the 2-year study, 3.4 million veterans had 12.9 million PC visits, where 1.7 million (50.7%), 1.0 million (30.3%), and 649,936 (19.0%) veterans were categorized as in-person only, telephone telemedicine, or video telemedicine. Compared to in-person only users, video telemedicine users experienced higher rates per 1000 patients of emergent care (15.1 vs 11.2; p < 0.001) and inpatient admissions (4.2 vs 3.3; p < 0.001). In adjusted analyses, video versus in-person only users experienced greater odds of emergent care (OR [95% CI]:1.18 [1.16, 1.19]) inpatient (OR [95% CI]: 1.29 [1.25, 1.32]), and ambulatory care sensitive condition admission (OR [95% CI]: 1.30 [1.27, 1.34]). CONCLUSIONS Telemedicine potentially in combination with in-person care was associated with higher follow-up healthcare utilization rates compared to in-person only PC. Factors contributing to utilization differences between groups need further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M J O'Shea
- VA Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, 52246-2208, USA.
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, 52246-2208, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
| | - Kailey Mulligan
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, 52246-2208, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, IA, 52241, USA
| | - Paige Carlson
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Bjarni Haraldsson
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, 52246-2208, USA
| | - Matthew R Augustine
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, James J Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Peter J Kaboli
- VA Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, 52246-2208, USA
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, 52246-2208, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Stephanie L Shimada
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR) at the Bedford VA Medical Center, Bedford, MA, USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Health Informatics and Implementation Science, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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Bjork JM, Sadicario JS, Jahan NF, Curiel E, Thumma L, Reisweber J. Virtual Hybrid Versus In-Person Administration of Transcending Self Therapy for Veterans with Substance Use Disorders. SUBSTANCE USE : RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2024; 18:29768357241255437. [PMID: 38803614 PMCID: PMC11129570 DOI: 10.1177/29768357241255437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Objectives Veterans with substance use disorder (SUD) can show high severity and are at high risk of relapse due to trauma histories and other comorbid conditions. However, evidence-based SUD therapies may not be available to many veterans due to geographic or transportation constraints. Telehealth approaches have shown promise to improve access to different SUD therapy formats but have not been well-studied in open (rolling-admission) group therapy of in-person patients as administered by a single on-screen therapist. Methods Social distancing required by the COVID-19 pandemic forced the transition of delivery of Transcending Self Therapy (TST) from an in-person therapist to a single remote (on-screen) therapist. In this virtual model, veterans continued to receive TST but the therapist was off site and provided therapy to veterans who were together in the same room during a 28 day residential Veterans Affairs treatment program. In a program evaluation, we compared their changes in quality of life (QoL), treatment satisfaction ratings and group therapy treatment outcomes with those of Veterans who received TST from an in-person therapist. Results In both groups, there was a significant increase in QoL Inventory scores from baseline to post-treatment, with no difference in improvement between treatment modalities (i.e., in-person group vs telehealth-delivered group). Veterans professed knowledge of therapy-driven skills at the end of treatment in both groups and overwhelmingly rated TST as helpful and understandable. Conclusions These data extend previous findings of patient acceptability of remotely-delivered SUD treatment, here with a remote therapist administering open group therapy, as evidenced by improvement in QoL and positive patient feedback about the remote intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M. Bjork
- Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, USA
- Insitute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jaclyn S. Sadicario
- Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, USA
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Nabila F. Jahan
- Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, USA
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Espn Curiel
- Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Lillia Thumma
- Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, USA
- Insitute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Hargrave AS, Danan ER, Than CT, Gibson CJ, Yano EM. Factors Associated with Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Disclosure During VA Screening Among Women Veterans. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:3188-3197. [PMID: 37291361 PMCID: PMC10651589 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08257-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Capturing military sexual trauma (MST) exposure is critical for Veterans' health equity. For many, it improves access to VA services and allows for appropriate care. OBJECTIVE Identify factors associated with nondisclosure of MST in VA screening among women. DESIGN Cross-sectional telephone survey linked with VA electronic health record (EHR) data. PARTICIPANTS Women Veterans using primary care or women's health services at 12 VA facilities in nine states. MAIN MEASURES Survey self-reported MST (sexual assault and/or harassment during military service), socio-demographics and experiences with VA care, as well as EHR MST results. Responses were categorized as "no MST" (no survey or EHR MST), "MST captured by EHR and survey," and "MST not captured by EHR" (survey MST but no EHR MST). We used stepped multivariable logistic regression to examine "MST not captured by EHR" as a function of socio-demographics, patient experiences, and screening method (survey vs. EHR). KEY RESULTS Among 1287 women (mean age 50, SD 15), 35% were positive for MST by EHR and 61% were positive by survey. Approximately 38% had "no MST," 34% "MST captured by EHR and survey," and 26% "MST not captured by EHR". In fully adjusted models, odds of "MST not captured by EHR" were higher among Black and Latina women compared to white women (Black: OR = 1.6, 1.2-2.2; Latina: OR = 1.9, 1.0-3.6). Women who endorsed only sexual harassment in the survey (vs. sexual harassment and sexual assault) had fivefold higher odds of "MST not captured by EHR" (OR = 4.9, 3.2-7.3). Women who were screened for MST in the EHR more than once had lower odds of not being captured (OR = 0.3, 0.2-0.4). CONCLUSIONS VA screening for MST may disproportionately under capture patients from historically minoritized ethnic/racial groups, creating inequitable access to resources. Efforts to mitigate screening disparities could include re-screening and reinforcing that MST includes sexual harassment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita S Hargrave
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA.
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Elisheva R Danan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Minneapolis VA Medical Center: Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Claire T Than
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carolyn J Gibson
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Yano
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Health Policy & Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, UCLA Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Rohs CM, Albright KR, Monteith LL, Lane AD, Fehling KB. Perspectives of VA healthcare from rural women veterans not enrolled in or using VA healthcare. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289885. [PMID: 37578986 PMCID: PMC10424869 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289885] [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] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Women Veterans have unique healthcare needs and often experience comorbid health conditions. Despite this, many women Veterans are not enrolled in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and do not use VHA services. Underutilization of VHA services may be particularly prevalent among rural women Veterans, who may experience unique barriers to using VHA care. Nonetheless, knowledge of rural women Veterans and their experiences remains limited. We sought to understand rural women Veterans' perceptions and needs related to VHA healthcare, including barriers to enrolling in and using VHA services, and perspectives on how to communicate with rural women Veterans about VHA services. METHODS Rural women Veterans were recruited through community engagement with established partners and a mass mailing to rural women Veterans not enrolled in or using VHA healthcare. Ten virtual focus groups were conducted with a total of twenty-nine rural women Veterans (27 not enrolled in VHA care and 2 who had not used VHA care in the past 5 years) in 2021. A thematic inductive analytic approach was used to analyze focus group transcripts. FINDINGS Primary themes regarding rural women Veterans' perceptions of barriers to enrollment and use of VHA healthcare included: (1) poor communication about eligibility and the process of enrollment; (2) belief that VHA does not offer sufficient women's healthcare services; and (3) inconvenience of accessing VHA facilities. CONCLUSION Although VHA has substantially expanded healthcare services for women Veterans, awareness of such services and the nuances of eligibility and enrollment remains an impediment to enrolling in and using VHA healthcare among rural women Veterans. Recommended strategies include targeted communication with rural women Veterans not enrolled in VHA care to increase their awareness of the enrollment process, eligibility, and expansion of women's healthcare services. Creative strategies to address access and transportation barriers in rural locations are also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly M. Rohs
- Seattle-Denver Center for Innovation (COIN), Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC) for Suicide Prevention, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Karen R. Albright
- Seattle-Denver Center for Innovation (COIN), Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Lindsey L. Monteith
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC) for Suicide Prevention, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Amber D. Lane
- Seattle-Denver Center for Innovation (COIN), Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Kelty B. Fehling
- Seattle-Denver Center for Innovation (COIN), Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
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Stevenson BJ, Kathawalla U, Smith C, Mueller L. Career Development in Transitional Work Settings: A Qualitative Investigation Among Veterans and Vocational Counselors. JOURNAL OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT 2023; 50:947-964. [PMID: 37463233 PMCID: PMC10288654 DOI: 10.1177/08948453221137344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Veterans living with mental health conditions have ambitious career goals and want support to find employment that meets their interests and preferences. Despite calls from researchers to "invest" and "commit" to career development research and practice for individuals living with psychiatric conditions, we still do not have empirically tested models for facilitating career development among individuals with mental health conditions, especially veterans. This qualitative study investigates the career development needs and recommended intervention strategies of veterans living with mental health conditions. Vocational counselors from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and veterans receiving vocational rehabilitation services (N = 13) participated in semi-structured focus groups. Findings illuminate the tasks, barriers, interventions, implementation strategies, and transitional work context that hinder and support career development of veterans with mental health conditions. Findings offer theoretical and applied guidance to researchers and counselors regarding career development of veterans living with mental health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J. Stevenson
- VISN 1 New England Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Lisa Mueller
- VISN 1 New England Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
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Webermann AR, Nester MS, Gianoli MO, Black AC, Rosen MI, Mattocks KM, Portnoy GA. Compensation and Pension Exams for Military Sexual Trauma-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Examiner Perspectives, Clinical Impacts on Veterans, and Strategies. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:428-434. [PMID: 37003918 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is estimated that in one in three women veterans experience military sexual trauma (MST), which is strongly associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A 2018 report indicated the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) processed approximately 12,000 disability claims annually for PTSD related to MST, most of which are filed by women. Part of the VBA adjudication process involves reviewing information from a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam, a forensic diagnostic evaluation that helps determine the relationship among military service, diagnoses, and current psychosocial functioning. The quality and outcome of these exams may affect veteran well-being and use of Veterans Health Administration (VHA) mental health care, but no work has looked at examiner perspectives of MST C&P exams and their potential clinical impacts on veteran claimants. METHODS Thirteen clinicians ("examiners") who conduct MST C&P exams through VHA were interviewed. Data were analyzed using rapid qualitative methods. RESULTS Examiners described MST exams as more clinically and diagnostically complex than non-MST PTSD exams. Examiners noted that assessing "markers" of MST (indication that MST occurred) could make veterans feel disbelieved; others raised concerns related to malingered PTSD symptoms. Examiners identified unique challenges for veterans who underreport MST (e.g., men and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer [LGBTQ+] veterans), and saw evaluations as a conduit to psychotherapy referrals and utilization of VHA mental health care. Last, examiners used strategies to convey respect and minimize retraumatization, including a standardized process and validating the difficulty of the process. CONCLUSIONS Examiners' responses offer insight into a process entered by thousands of veterans annually with PTSD. Strengthening the MST C&P process is a unique opportunity to enhance trust in the VBA claims process and increase likelihood of using VHA mental health care, especially for women veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliya R Webermann
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - M Shae Nester
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina
| | - Mayumi O Gianoli
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Anne C Black
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Marc I Rosen
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Galina A Portnoy
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Gromatsky M, Sullivan SR, Greene AL, Govindarajulu U, Mitchell EL, Edwards ER, Lane R, Hamerling-Potts KK, Spears AP, Goodman M. An open trial of VA CONNECT: Caring for Our Nation's Needs Electronically during the COVID-19 Transition. PSYCHIATRY RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:100122. [PMID: 37101559 PMCID: PMC10108571 DOI: 10.1016/j.psycom.2023.100122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic impacted emotional well-being due to safety concerns, grief, employment impacts, and social interaction limitations. Face-to-face mental health treatment restrictions were especially impactful to veterans who often gain social enrichment from Veterans Health Administration (VHA) care. We present results from a novel group-based telehealth intervention, VA Caring for Our Nation's Needs Electronically during the COVID-19 Transition (VA CONNECT), which integrates skills training and social support to develop a COVID-19 Safety & Resilience Plan. Veterans (n = 29) experiencing COVID-related stress participated in an open trial of this 10-session, manualized group VHA telehealth intervention. We examined whether COVID-19-related stress, adjustment disorder symptoms, and loneliness decreased, and coping strategy use increased after participation in VA CONNECT. Between baseline and two-month follow-up, participants reported a significant reduction in perceived stress and adjustment disorder symptoms, and an increase in planning coping skills use. Significant changes were not observed in loneliness or other specific coping strategies. Findings may support the utility of VA CONNECT as an intervention for pandemic-related stress and improving certain coping skills. Future research should explore group-based telehealth interventions like VA CONNECT with other populations within and outside of the VA, which have value during major disruptions to face-to-face mental healthcare access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Gromatsky
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sarah R Sullivan
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Hunter College and The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ashley L Greene
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Usha Govindarajulu
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Center for Biostatistics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emily L Mitchell
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Emily R Edwards
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robert Lane
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kyra K Hamerling-Potts
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Angela Page Spears
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Counseling & Clinical Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marianne Goodman
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Roddy MK, Chen P, Jeffery AD, Gutierrez J, Rubenstein M, Campbell C, Blake E, Ward MJ. Telemental health in emergency care settings: A qualitative analysis of considerations for sustainability and spread. Acad Emerg Med 2023; 30:368-378. [PMID: 36786633 PMCID: PMC10983773 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14682] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Following rapid uptake of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic, we examined barriers and facilitators for sustainability and spread of telemental health video (TMH-V) as policies regarding precautions from the pandemic waned. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study using semistructured interviews and observations guided by RE-AIM. We asked four groups, local clinicians, facility leadership, Veterans, and external partners, about barriers and facilitators impacting patient willingness to engage in TMH-V (reach), quality of care (effectiveness), barriers and facilitators impacting provider uptake (adoption), possible adaptations to TMH-V (implementation), and possibilities for long-term use of TMH-V (maintenance). Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using framework analysis. We also observed TMH-V encounters in one emergency department (ED) and one urgent care (UC) to understand how clinicians and Veterans engaged with the technology. RESULTS We conducted 35 interviews with ED/UC clinicians and staff (n = 10), clinical and facility leadership (n = 7), Veterans (n = 5), and external partners (n = 13), January-May 2022. We completed 10 observations. All interviewees were satisfied with the TMH-V program, and interviewees highlighted increased comfort discussing difficult topics for Veterans (reach). Clinicians identified that TMH-V allowed for cross-coverage across sites as well as increased safety and flexibility for clinicians (adoption). Opportunities for improvement include alleviating technological burdens for on-site staff, electronic health record (EHR) modifications to accurately capture workload and modality (telehealth vs. in-person), and standardizing protocols to streamline communication between on-site and remote clinical staff (implementation). Finally, interviewees encouraged its spread (maintenance) and thought there was great potential for service expansion. CONCLUSIONS Interviewees expressed support for continuing TMH-V locally and spread to other sites. Ensuring adequate infrastructure (e.g., EHR integration and technology support) and workforce capacity are key for successful spread. Given the shortage of mental health (MH) clinicians in rural settings, TMH-V represents a promising intervention to increase the access to high-quality emergency MH care.
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Affiliation(s)
- McKenzie K. Roddy
- Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Alvin D. Jeffery
- Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Nashville, Tennessee
- School of Nursing, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Melissa Rubenstein
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Corey Campbell
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Eric Blake
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Michael J. Ward
- Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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HIV care experiences and health priorities during the first wave of COVID-19: clients' perspectives - a qualitative study in Lusaka, Zambia. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2238. [PMID: 36451158 PMCID: PMC9713144 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14493-y] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The novel COVID-19 pandemic threatened to disrupt access to human immunodeficiency (HIV) treatment for persons living with HIV (PLHIV), two-thirds of whom live in sub-Saharan Africa. To inform a health system response supportive of continuity of care, we sought to understand clients' HIV care experiences and health priorities during the first wave of COVID-19 outbreak in Lusaka, Zambia. METHODS Leveraging a study cohort of those who completed periodic SMS surveys on HIV care, we purposefully sampled 25 PLHIV after first confirmed COVID-19 case was reported in Zambia on 18th March 2020. We phone-interviewed participants, iteratively refining interview guide to capture emergent themes on COVID-19 awareness, health facility interactions, and social circumstances, which we analyzed using matrix analysis. RESULTS All participants were aware of COVID-19, and HIV care experiences and health priorities of clients were affected by associated changes at health system, household, and individual level. The health system instituted early clinic visits to provide 6-months of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for stable patients and 3-months for unstable patients to reduce clinic visits and wait times. Most patients welcomed this long-desired extended appointment spacing. Some reported feeling respected and engaged when health care workers telephoned requesting their early clinic visit. However, others felt discouraged by an absence of physical distancing during their clinic visit due to 'severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2' (SARS-CoV-2) infection concerns. Several expressed a lack of clarity regarding next viral load monitoring date and means for receiving results. Patients suggested regular patient-facility communication by telephone and SMS. Patients emphasized that COVID-19 restrictions led to loss of employment and household income, exacerbating poverty and difficulties in taking ART. At individual level, most participants felt motivated to stay healthy during COVID-19 by ART adherence and regular laboratory monitoring. CONCLUSIONS Clients' HIV care and health priorities during the first wave of COVID-19 in Lusaka province were varied with a combination of positive and negative experiences that occurred especially at health system and individual levels, while at household level, the experiences were all negative. More research is needed to understand how patients practice resiliency in the widespread context of socio-economic instability. Governments and patients must work together to find local, health systems solutions to support ART adherence and monitoring. Additionally, the health system should consider how to build on changes for long-term HIV management and service delivery.
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11
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Getting Connected: a Retrospective Cohort Investigation of Video-to-Home Telehealth for Mental Health Care Utilization Among Women Veterans. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:778-785. [PMID: 36042096 PMCID: PMC9427431 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07594-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasingly, women are serving in the military and seeking care at the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Women veterans face unique challenges and barriers in seeking mental health (MH) care within VHA. VA Video Connect (VVC), which facilitates video-based teleconferencing between patients and providers, can reduce barriers while maintaining clinical effectiveness. OBJECTIVE Primary aims were to examine gender differences in VVC use, describe changes in VVC use over time (including pre-COVID and 6 months following the beginning of COVID), and determine whether changes over time differed by gender. DESIGN A retrospective cohort investigation of video-to-home telehealth for MH care utilization among veterans having at least 1 MH visit from October 2019 to September 2020. PARTICIPANTS Veterans (236,268 women; 1,318,024 men). INTERVENTIONS (IF APPLICABLE) VVC involves face-to-face, synchronous, video-based teleconferencing between patients and providers, enabling care at home or another private location. MAIN MEASURES Percentage of MH encounters delivered via VA Video Connect. KEY RESULTS Women veterans were more likely than men to have at least 1 VVC encounter and had a greater percentage of MH care delivered via VVC in FY20. There was an increase in the percentage of MH encounters that were VVC over FY20, and this increase was greater for women than men. Women veterans who were younger than 55 (compared to those 55 and older), lived in urban areas (compared to those in rural areas), or were Asian (compared to other races) had a greater percentage of MH encounters that were VVC since the start of the pandemic, controlling for the mean percentage of VVC MH encounters in the 6 months pre-pandemic. CONCLUSIONS VVC use for MH care is greater in women veterans compared to male veterans and may reduce gender-specific access barriers. Future research and VVC implementation efforts should emphasize maximizing patient choice and satisfaction.
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12
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Waite MR, Diab S, Adefisoye J. Virtual Behavioral Health Treatment Satisfaction and Outcomes Across Time. J Patient Cent Res Rev 2022; 9:158-165. [PMID: 35935523 PMCID: PMC9302910 DOI: 10.17294/2330-0698.1918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have major and long-lasting impacts on health care delivery and mental health. As health care shifted to telehealth, legislation was adjusted to expand telehealth allowances, creating a unique opportunity to elucidate outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess long-term patient and clinician satisfaction and outcomes with virtual behavioral health. METHODS Data were obtained over 16 months from surveys to patients and clinicians receiving/providing virtual treatment. Outcomes data also were collected from medical records of adults receiving in-person and virtual behavioral health treatment. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Groups were compared using various chi-squared tests for categorical variables, Likert response trends over time, and conditional independence, with Wilcoxon rank-sum or Jonckheere trend test used to assess continuous variables. P-values of ≤0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS Patients gave high ratings to virtual treatment and indicated a preference for virtual formats. Both patient and clinician preference for virtual visits increased significantly with time, and many clinicians perceived virtual services to be equally effective to in-person. Virtual programs had higher completion rates, attendance rates, and number of treatment visits, suggesting that virtual behavioral health had equivalent or better outcomes to in-person treatment and that attitudes toward telehealth changed over time. CONCLUSIONS If trends found in this study continue, telehealth may emerge as a preferred option long term This is important considering the increase in mental health needs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and the eventuality that in-person restrictions ease as the pandemic subsides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mindy R. Waite
- Aurora Behavioral Health Services, Advocate Aurora Health, Wauwatosa, WI
- Advocate Aurora Research Institute, Advocate Aurora Health, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Sara Diab
- Advocate Aurora Research Institute, Advocate Aurora Health, Milwaukee, WI
- Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL
| | - James Adefisoye
- Aurora University of Wisconsin Medical Group, Advocate Aurora Health, Milwaukee, WI
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13
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Kreider CM, Hale-Gallardo J, Kramer JC, Mburu S, Slamka MR, Findley KE, Myers KJ, Romero S. Providers' Shift to Telerehabilitation at the U.S. Veterans Health Administration During COVID-19: Practical Applications. Front Public Health 2022; 10:831762. [PMID: 35309184 PMCID: PMC8931404 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.831762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Telerehabilitation provides Veteran patients with necessary rehabilitation treatment. It enhances care continuity and reduces travel time for Veterans who face long distances to receive care at a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical facility. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a sudden shift to telehealth–including telerehabilitation, where a paucity of data-driven guidelines exist that are specific to the practicalities entailed in telerehabilitation implementation. This paper explicates gains in practical knowledge for implementing telerehabilitation that were accelerated during the rapid shift of VHA healthcare from out-patient rehabilitation services to telerehabilitation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Group and individual interviews with 12 VHA rehabilitation providers were conducted to examine, in-depth, the providers' implementation of telerehabilitation. Thematic analysis yielded nine themes: (i) Willingness to Give Telerehabilitation a Chance: A Key Ingredient; (ii) Creativity and Adaptability: Critical Attributes for Telerehabilitation Providers; (iii) Adapting Assessments; (iv) Adapting Interventions; (v) Role and Workflow Adaptations; (vi) Appraising for Self the Feasibility of the Telerehabilitation Modality; (vii) Availability of Informal, In-Person Support Improves Feasibility of Telerehabilitation; (viii) Shifts in the Expectations by the Patients and by the Provider; and (ix) Benefit and Anticipated Future of Telerehabilitation. This paper contributes an in-depth understanding of clinical reasoning considerations, supportive strategies, and practical approaches for engaging Veterans in telerehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo M. Kreider
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Jennifer Hale-Gallardo
- Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Salt Lake City (VRHRC-SLC), Office of Rural Health, Veterans Health Administration, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - John C. Kramer
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Sharon Mburu
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Mackenzi R. Slamka
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Kimberly E. Findley
- Department of Veterans Affairs, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Research Service, Gainesville, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Kimberly E. Findley
| | - Keith J. Myers
- Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Gainesville (VRHRC-GNV), Office of Rural Health, Veterans Health Administration, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Sergio Romero
- Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Gainesville (VRHRC-GNV), Office of Rural Health, Veterans Health Administration, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Sergio Romero
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14
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Chrystal JG, Frayne S, Dyer KE, Moreau JL, Gammage CE, Saechao F, Berg E, Washington DL, Yano EM, Hamilton AB. Women Veterans' Attrition from the VA Health Care System. Womens Health Issues 2022; 32:182-193. [PMID: 34972600 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2021.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patient attrition from the Veterans Health Administration (VA) health care system could undercut its mission to ensure care for eligible veterans. Attrition of women veterans could exacerbate their minority status and impede systemic efforts to provide high-quality care. We obtained women veterans' perspectives on why they left or continued to use VA health care. METHODS A sampling frame of new women veteran VA patients was stratified by those who discontinued (attriters) and those who continued (non-attriters) using VA care. Semistructured interviews were conducted from 2017 to 2018. Transcribed interviews were coded for women's decision-making, contexts, and recommendations related to health care use. RESULTS Fifty-one women veterans (25 attriters and 26 non-attriters) completed interviews. Reasons for attrition included challenging patient care experiences (e.g., provider turnover, claim processing challenges) and the availability of private health insurance. Personal experiences with VA care (e.g., gender-specific care) were impactful in women's decision to use VA. The affordability of VA care was influential for both groups to stay connected to services. More than one-third of women originally categorized as attriters described subsequently reentering or planning to reenter VA care. Suggestions to decrease attrition included increasing outreach, improving access, and continuing to tailor care delivery to women veterans' needs. CONCLUSIONS Understanding the drivers of patients' decisions to use or not use the VA is critical for the development of strategies to improve retention of current patients and optimize health outcomes for veterans. Women veterans described complex reasons why they left or continued using VA, with cost/affordability playing an important role even in considerations of returning to VA after a long hiatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joya G Chrystal
- VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy (CSHIIP), VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Los Angeles, California.
| | - Susan Frayne
- VA HSR&D Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, Menlo Park, California; Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Karen E Dyer
- VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy (CSHIIP), VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Los Angeles, California
| | - Jessica L Moreau
- VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy (CSHIIP), VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Los Angeles, California
| | - Cynthia E Gammage
- VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy (CSHIIP), VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Los Angeles, California
| | - Fay Saechao
- VA HSR&D Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, Menlo Park, California
| | - Eric Berg
- VA HSR&D Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, Menlo Park, California
| | - Donna L Washington
- VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy (CSHIIP), VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Los Angeles, California; Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Elizabeth M Yano
- VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy (CSHIIP), VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Los Angeles, California; Department of Health Policy & Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California
| | - Alison B Hamilton
- VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy (CSHIIP), VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Los Angeles, California; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA Geffen School of Medicine, Semel Institute/NPI, Los Angeles, California
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15
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Andrews SM, Porter KA, Bailey DB, Peay HL. Preparing newborn screening for the future: a collaborative stakeholder engagement exploring challenges and opportunities to modernizing the newborn screening system. BMC Pediatr 2022; 22:90. [PMID: 35151296 PMCID: PMC8840788 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-03035-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives Projections that 60 transformative cell and gene therapies could be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within 10 years underscore an urgent need to modernize the newborn screening (NBS) system. This study convened expert stakeholders to assess challenges to the NBS system and propose solutions for its modernization. Methods NBS stakeholders (researchers, clinicians, state NBS leaders, advocates, industry professionals, and current/former advisory committee members) participated in one of five mixed-stakeholder panel discussions. Prior to panels, participants completed a survey in which they reviewed and ranked NBS challenges generated from relevant literature. During panels, participants deliberated on challenges and explored potential solutions. Pre-panel survey data were analyzed descriptively. Data from panel discussions were analyzed using a rapid qualitative analysis. Results Median scores of the ranked challenges (1 = most important) reveal the top three most important barriers to address: critical missing data for NBS decision-making (Median = 2), burden on state NBS laboratories (Median = 3), and the amount of time required for state-level implementation of screening for new conditions (Median = 4). Panel discussions were rooted in recurring themes: the infant’s well-being should be the focal point; the transformative therapy pipeline, although undeniably positive for individuals with rare diseases, is a threat to NBS capacity; decisions about modernizing NBS should be evidence-based; additional financial support is required but not sufficient for modernization; and modernization will require participation of multiple NBS stakeholders. This final overarching theme is reported in depth, including expertise, coordination, and collaboration challenges facing NBS and novel approaches to oversight, partnership, and coordination that were suggested by participants. Conclusions This study engaged representatives from multiple stakeholder groups to generate potential solutions to challenges facing NBS in the United States. These solutions provide a rich starting point for policy makers and other stakeholders who desire to maximize the impact of new transformative therapies for babies, families, and society. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12887-021-03035-x.
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16
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Marcelin LH, Cela T, Dembo R, Jean‐Gilles M, Page B, Demezier D, Clement R, Waldman R. Remote delivery of a therapeutic intervention to court-mandated youths of Haitian descent during COVID-19. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 49:2938-2958. [PMID: 33734451 PMCID: PMC8251117 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The threat generated by the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered sudden institutional changes in an effort to reduce viral spread. Restrictions on group gatherings and in-person engagement have increased the demand for remote service delivery. These restrictions have also affected the delivery of court-mandated interventions. However, much of the literature has focused on populations that voluntarily seek out face-to-face medical care or mental health services, whereas insufficient attention has been paid to telehealth engagement of court-mandated populations. This article draws on data gathered on an NIH/NIDA-funded study intervention implemented with juvenile justice-involved youths of Haitian heritage in Miami-Dade County, Florida, during the COVID-19 public health crisis. We explore the process of obtaining consent, technological access issues, managing privacy, and other challenges associated with remote delivery of family-based therapy to juvenile justice-involved youth. Our aim is to provide some insights for consideration by therapists, healthcare workers, advocates, researchers, and policymakers tasked with finding alternative and safer ways to engage nontraditional populations in health services. The clinical trial registration number is NCT03876171.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Herns Marcelin
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of MiamiCoral GablesFloridaUSA
- Department of Public Health SciencesUniversity of MiamiMiamiFloridaUSA
- Laboratory on Health, Family and MigrationInteruniversity Institute for Research and Development (INURED)Port‐au‐PrinceHaiti
| | - Toni Cela
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of MiamiCoral GablesFloridaUSA
- Laboratory on Health, Family and MigrationInteruniversity Institute for Research and Development (INURED)Port‐au‐PrinceHaiti
| | - Richard Dembo
- Department of CriminologyUniversity of South FloridaTampaFloridaUSA
| | - Michèle Jean‐Gilles
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social WorkFlorida International UniversityMiamiFloridaUSA
| | - Bryan Page
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of MiamiCoral GablesFloridaUSA
| | - Danna Demezier
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of MiamiCoral GablesFloridaUSA
| | - Roy Clement
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of MiamiCoral GablesFloridaUSA
| | - Rachel Waldman
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of MiamiCoral GablesFloridaUSA
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17
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Ganapathy A, Clough BA, Casey LM. Organizational and Policy Barriers to the Use of Digital Mental Health by Mental Health Professionals. Telemed J E Health 2021; 27:1332-1343. [PMID: 33646057 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2020.0455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Digital mental health (DMH) provides effective methods of overcoming issues of time constraints, accessibility, and availability of mental health care. They can provide a valuable means to deliver mental health care in the present pandemic. However, adoption of these methods has been slow. Mental health professional (MHP) concerns at the organizational and policy level that influence this slow adoption need to be examined. Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted to identify the barriers. Searches using the databases Scopus, Embase, and PubMed were conducted to identify research focused on barriers reported by MHPs to use DMH. Results: The search resulted in 356 unique citations, and 21 papers met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Forward and backward sampling resulted in identifying an additional 19 relevant papers. Discussion: Unmet needs for information, training, and infrastructure, challenges to the workflow and excessive workloads, and ambiguous policies serve as barriers to DMH use. This article recommends strategies for researchers, organizations, DMH designers, and governmental institutions to ensure efficient utilization of DMH. Conclusion: Concerted efforts at individual, organizational, and governmental levels are essential to ensure efficient utilization of DMH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarthi Ganapathy
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia.,Menzies Health Institute, Mount Gravatt, Australia
| | - Bonnie A Clough
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia.,Menzies Health Institute, Mount Gravatt, Australia
| | - Leanne M Casey
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia.,Menzies Health Institute, Mount Gravatt, Australia
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18
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Brown-Johnson C, Haverfield MC, Giannitrapani KF, Lo N, Lowery JS, Foglia MB, Walling AM, Bekelman DB, Shreve ST, Lehmann LS, Lorenz KA. Implementing Goals-of-Care Conversations: Lessons From High- and Low-Performing Sites From a VA National Initiative. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 61:262-269. [PMID: 32781166 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.07.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The Veterans Health Administration (VA) National Center for Ethics in Healthcare implemented the Life-Sustaining Treatment Decisions Initiative, including policy and practice standards, clinician communication training, a documentation template, and central implementation support to foster advance care planning via goals-of-care conversations for seriously ill veterans in 2014, spreading nationally to other Veterans Health Affairs (VA) sites in 2017. OBJECTIVES Our goal was to describe the range of early implementation experiences among the pilot sites, and compare them with spread sites that implemented LSTDI about two years later, identifying cross-site best practices and pitfalls. METHODS We conducted semistructured interviews with 32 key stakeholders from 12 sites to identify cross-site best practices and pitfalls related to implementation. RESULTS Three primary implementation themes emerged: organizational readiness for transformation, importance of champions, and time and resources needed to achieve implementation. Each theme's barriers and facilitators highlighted variability in success based on complexity in terms of vertical hierarchy and horizontal cross-role/cross-clinic relationships. CONCLUSION Learning health care systems need multilevel interdisciplinary implementation approaches to support communication about serious illness, from broad-based system-level training and education to build communication skills, to focusing on characteristics of successful individual champions who listen to critics and are tenacious in addressing concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cati Brown-Johnson
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.
| | - Marie C Haverfield
- Department of Communication Studies, San Jose State University, San Jose, California, USA
| | - Karleen F Giannitrapani
- Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, California, USA; Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Natalie Lo
- Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - Jill S Lowery
- National Center for Ethics in Health Care, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mary Beth Foglia
- National Center for Ethics in Health Care, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC, USA; University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Anne M Walling
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, West Los Angeles, California, USA; Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - David B Bekelman
- Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value Driven Care, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Colorado, USA; University of Colorado School of Medicine at the Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Scott T Shreve
- Palliative and Hospice Care Program, Department of Veteran Affairs, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lisa Soleymani Lehmann
- VA New England Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Karl A Lorenz
- Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, California, USA; Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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19
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Ebbert JO, Ramar P, Tulledge-Scheitel SM, Njeru JW, Rosedahl JK, Roellinger D, Philpot LM. Patient preferences for telehealth services in a large multispecialty practice. J Telemed Telecare 2021; 29:298-303. [PMID: 33461397 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x20980302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telehealth service provision has accelerated during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. As the pandemic continues, clinical practices have discovered ways to resume operations. Opportunities exist to understand patient preferences for telehealth clinical services and to tailor offerings to different demographic groups. METHODS We conducted a survey of patients receiving telehealth services through our outpatient practice to understand the types of healthcare services for which patients report preferences for telehealth. RESULTS We received 551 survey responses (response rate = 20.8%; 551/2650). More than half of patients indicated being 'very likely' to use telehealth services to refill medication(s) (67.3%), prepare for an upcoming visit (66.1%), review test results (60.3%), or receive education (54.2%). Males had lower odds of preferring telehealth services for reviewing test results (odds ratio (OR) = 0.57; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.34-0.94) or mental health issues (OR = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.38-0.77). Respondents who received a video visit were significantly more likely than those who received a telephone visit to report preferences for using telehealth for education, care plan discussions, long-term health issues, and mental health. DISCUSSION Patient preferences for telehealth services vary by services provided and respondent demographics. Experience with telehealth increases the likelihood for future use of these services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon O Ebbert
- Community Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, USA
| | - Priya Ramar
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, USA
| | | | - Jane W Njeru
- Community Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, USA
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20
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Hensel JM, Yang R, Vigod SN, Desveaux L. Videoconferencing at home for psychotherapy in the postpartum period: Identifying drivers of successful engagement and important therapeutic conditions for meaningful use. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca Yang
- Women's College Hospital Institute for Health Systems Solutions and Virtual Care Toronto ON Canada
| | - Simone N. Vigod
- Department of Psychiatry University of Toronto Toronto ON Canada
| | - Laura Desveaux
- Women's College Hospital Institute for Health Systems Solutions and Virtual Care Toronto ON Canada
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21
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Chiauzzi E, Clayton A, Huh-Yoo J. Videoconferencing-Based Telemental Health: Important Questions for the COVID-19 Era From Clinical and Patient-Centered Perspectives. JMIR Ment Health 2020; 7:e24021. [PMID: 33180739 PMCID: PMC7725495 DOI: 10.2196/24021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the search for digital approaches in mental health treatment, particularly due to patients and clinicians practicing social distancing. This has resulted in the dramatic growth of videoconferencing-based telemental health (V-TMH) services. It is critical for behavioral health providers and those in the mental health field to understand the implications of V-TMH expansion on the stakeholders who use such services, such as patients and clinicians, to provide the service that addresses both patient and clinical needs. Several key questions arise as a result, such as the following: (1) in what ways does V-TMH affect the practice of psychotherapy (ie, clinical needs), (2) to what extent are ethical and patient-centered concerns warranted in terms of V-TMH services (ie, patient needs), and (3) how do factors related to user experience affect treatment dynamics for both the patient and therapist (ie, patient and clinical needs)? We discuss how behavioral health providers can consider the future delivery of mental health care services based on these questions, which pose strong implications for technological innovation, the adaptation of treatments to new technologies, and training professionals in the delivery of V-TMH services and other digital health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashley Clayton
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Jina Huh-Yoo
- Department of Information Science, College of Computing and Informatics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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22
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Muir SD, de Boer K, Nedeljkovic M, Meyer D. Barriers and facilitators of videoconferencing psychotherapy implementation in veteran mental health care environments: a systematic review. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:999. [PMID: 33131495 PMCID: PMC7603749 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05858-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whilst treatment for mental health issues has traditionally been conducted in-person, advances in technology has seen a recent growth in the use of online video therapy services to help overcome access-to-care barriers faced by those living in rural locations and those unable to travel. These barriers are particularly apparent in the case of veteran populations, which is the focus of this review. Whilst the research investigating the efficacy of online video therapy to treat mental health issues among veterans is promising, widespread adoption and utilisation of this modality remains low with efforts often failing to progress past the pilot phase to implementation. This review focuses on the implementation of online video therapy in veteran mental health care settings and aims to identify the potential barriers and facilitators relevant to implementing the modality in military organisations. METHODS A systematic search of three databases (PsycInfo, PubMed, and Web of Science) was conducted. To be eligible for inclusion, studies had to investigate the challenges, lessons learnt, or factors operating as barriers and/or facilitators to the implementation of online video therapy in veteran health care systems. RESULTS The initial search revealed a total of 202 articles. This was reduced to 133 when duplicates were removed. After screening the titles and abstracts a further 70 articles were excluded leaving 63 to be retrieved for full review. A total of 10 studies were included in this review. The most commonly reported barriers were related to clinician concerns, logistical problems, and technology. Other barriers included access to resources as well as challenges posed by collaborations, policy and recruitment. Facilitators included experience using the modality and having dedicated staff responsible for promoting and managing the new service (e.g., on-site champions and telehealth technicians). CONCLUSIONS This review suggests that numerous barriers must be identified and addressed before attempting to implement an online video therapy service in veteran organisations. Further research is needed to establish best practice for implementation, particularly across geographically dispersed sites. It is hoped that the findings of this review will be used to help inform future implementation efforts and research initiatives in this space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Muir
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Kathleen de Boer
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Maja Nedeljkovic
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Denny Meyer
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
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23
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Rojas SM, Piccirillo ML, McCann RA, Reger MA, Felker B. An examination of suicidal behaviour among veterans receiving mental-health appointments in person versus clinical video telehealth. J Telemed Telecare 2020; 28:429-435. [PMID: 32692597 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x20942041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a national leader in the implementation of clinical video telehealth (CVT) services. Despite the growth of mental-health services offered via CVT, it is unclear to what extent these services are offered and accessed by veterans with previous suicidal behaviour. METHODS The current quality improvement project examined this question within a local VA health-care system using data from suicide behaviour reports (SBRs), the Veteran Health Administration's official reporting and surveillance system. The frequency of SBRs was compared during two different time points among veterans who received individual mental-health appointments in person only or via CVT during the 2017 calendar year. Among veterans with a SBR, time in days elapsed from their first mental-health appointment to a SBR was examined as a function of treatment modality. RESULTS Results indicated veterans who received in-person treatment only were more likely to present with a SBR six months prior to their first mental-health appointment compared to those who received CVT during the observation period. There were no differences in SBRs during the 12 months after the first appointment or the time from the first appointment to the SBR as a function of treatment modality used. DISCUSSION Although veterans who received in-person mental-health services were more likely to have had a SBR six months prior to treatment, suicide risk throughout the observation period did not differ between groups. Clinical implications that arise from these findings are described in the discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha M Rojas
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, USA.,VISN 20 Clinical Resource Hub, USA
| | - Marilyn L Piccirillo
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, USA.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University in St Louis, USA
| | - Russell A McCann
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, USA
| | - Mark A Reger
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, USA
| | - Bradford Felker
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, USA
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24
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Than C, Chuang E, Washington DL, Needleman J, Canelo I, Meredith LS, Yano EM. Understanding Gender Sensitivity of the Health Care Workforce at the Veterans Health Administration. Womens Health Issues 2020; 30:120-127. [PMID: 32094056 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender sensitivity of providers and staff has assumed increasing importance in closing historical gender disparities in health care quality and outcomes. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has implemented several initiatives intended to improve gender sensitivity of its health care workforce. The current study examines practice- and individual-level characteristics associated with gender sensitivity of primary care providers (PCPs) and staff. METHODS We surveyed PCPs and staff (nurses, medical assistants, and clerks) at 12 VA medical centers (VAMCs) (n = 256 of 649; response rate, 39%). Gender sensitivity was measured using a 10-item scale adapted from the Gender Awareness Inventory-VA. We used weighted multivariate regression with maximum likelihood estimation to identify individual- and practice-level characteristics associated with gender sensitivity of PCPs and staff. RESULTS PCPs and staff had similar gender sensitivity but differed in most characteristics associated with that gender sensitivity. Among PCPs, women's health training and positive communication with others in the clinic were associated with greater gender sensitivity. For staff, prior work experience caring for women, working in Women's Health Patient-Aligned Care Teams, and rural location were associated with greater gender sensitivity, whereas more years of VA service was associated with lower gender sensitivity. Working at VA medical centers with a higher volume of women veteran patients was associated with greater gender sensitivity for both PCPs and staff. CONCLUSIONS Women's health training and experience in working with other women's health professionals are strongly correlated with greater gender sensitivity in the clinical workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Than
- VA Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California; Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California
| | - Emmeline Chuang
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California
| | - Donna L Washington
- VA Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California; Department of Medicine, Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jack Needleman
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California
| | - Ismelda Canelo
- VA Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Elizabeth M Yano
- VA Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California; Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California.
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25
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Muir SD, de Boer K, Thomas N, Seabrook E, Nedeljkovic M, Meyer D. Videoconferencing Psychotherapy in the Public Sector: Synthesis and Model for Implementation. JMIR Ment Health 2020; 7:e14996. [PMID: 31961334 PMCID: PMC7001045 DOI: 10.2196/14996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Videoconferencing psychotherapy (VCP) is a growing practice among mental health professionals. Early adopters have predominantly been in private practice settings, and more recent adoption has occurred in larger organizations, such as the military. The implementation of VCP into larger health service providers in the public sector is an important step in reaching and helping vulnerable and at-risk individuals; however, several additional implementation challenges exist for public sector organizations. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to offer an implementation model for effectively introducing VCP into public sector organizations. This model will also provide practical guidelines for planning and executing an embedded service trial to assess the effectiveness of the VCP modality once implemented. METHODS An iterative search strategy was employed, drawing on multiple fields of research across mental health, information technology, and organizational psychology. Previous VCP implementation papers were considered in detail to provide a synthesis of the barriers, facilitators, and lessons learned from the implementation attempts in the military and other public sector settings. RESULTS A model was formulated, which draws on change management for technology integration and considers the specific needs for VCP integration in larger organizations. A total of 6 phases were formulated and were further broken down into practical and measurable steps. The model explicitly considers the barriers often encountered in large organizational settings and suggests steps to increase facilitating factors. CONCLUSIONS Although the model proposed is time and resource intensive, it draws on a comprehensive understanding of larger organizational needs and the unique challenge that the introduction of VCP presents to such organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel David Muir
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia
| | - Kathleen de Boer
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia
| | - Neil Thomas
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Seabrook
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia
| | - Maja Nedeljkovic
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia
| | - Denny Meyer
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia
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26
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Connolly SL, Miller CJ, Lindsay JA, Bauer MS. A systematic review of providers' attitudes toward telemental health via videoconferencing. CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY-SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020; 27:10.1111/cpsp.12311. [PMID: 35966216 PMCID: PMC9367168 DOI: 10.1111/cpsp.12311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Telemental health conducted via videoconferencing (TMH-V) has the potential to improve access to care, and providers' attitudes toward this innovation play a crucial role in its uptake. This systematic review examined providers' attitudes toward TMH-V through the lens of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT). Findings suggest that providers have positive overall attitudes toward TMH-V despite describing multiple drawbacks. Therefore, the relative advantages of TMH-V, such as its ability to increase access to care, may outweigh its disadvantages, including technological problems, increased hassle, and perceptions of impersonality. Providers' attitudes may also be related to their degree of prior TMH-V experience, and acceptance may increase with use. Limitations and implications of findings for implementation efforts are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L. Connolly
- Center for Healthcare Organization & Implementation Research, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Christopher J. Miller
- Center for Healthcare Organization & Implementation Research, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jan A. Lindsay
- HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- South Central Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Mark S. Bauer
- Center for Healthcare Organization & Implementation Research, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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27
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Guzman D, Ann-Yi S, Bruera E, Wu J, Williams JL, Najera J, Raznahan M, Carmack CL. Enhancing palliative care patient access to psychological counseling through outreach telehealth services. Psychooncology 2019; 29:132-138. [PMID: 31707735 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Palliative care encompasses an interdisciplinary team, including mental health care professionals, to address psychological distress of cancer patients. OBJECTIVES To present the implementation of an outreach counseling program via videoconferencing or telephone to patients receiving care in an outpatient palliative care clinic and to compare patients using this service to those who only received psychological counseling in our outpatient clinic. METHODS We conducted a retrospective chart review of cancer patients seen for psychology counseling services in an outpatient supportive care center between June 2015 and March 2017. RESULTS We reviewed 2072 unique patients (52% of the total patients seen at the outpatient Supportive Care Center), who had 4567 total counseling encounters across outreach and outpatient settings. A total of 452 (22%) patients participated in a combination of outpatient and outreach counseling services. Patients who participated in outreach services had significantly more encounters (311 [69%] had two to five sessions) compared with those who had outpatient services only (1137 [70%] had one session only) (P < .001). Outreach patients also had shorter times between the initial and follow-up encounters (median 14 days) compared with those who had outpatient services only (median 30 days) (P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS Outreach telehealth counseling services was found to enhance palliative care patient access to psychological counseling. These services represent an additional modality for providing continuous psychological care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Guzman
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Sujin Ann-Yi
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jimin Wu
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston Texas, United States
| | - Janet L Williams
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - John Najera
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Houston, Texas
| | - Monica Raznahan
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Cindy L Carmack
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, Houston, Texas
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28
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Kotzias V, Engel CC, Ramchand R, Ayer L, Predmore Z, Ebener P, Haas GL, Kemp JE, Karras E. Mental Health Service Preferences and Utilization Among Women Veterans in Crisis: Perspectives of Veterans Crisis Line Responders. J Behav Health Serv Res 2019; 46:29-42. [PMID: 30298442 DOI: 10.1007/s11414-018-9635-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Women military veterans are at increased risk of suicide compared to non-veterans, but little is known about the mental health service preferences and needs of women veterans in crisis. This study used qualitative, secondary source key informant interviews to ascertain the experiences of women veterans in crisis from 54 responders working at the Veterans Crisis Line. Responders indicated that women veterans reported different experiences with Veterans Administration (VA) and non-VA care, though drivers of satisfaction or dissatisfaction were similar. Availability of specialty care, sensitivity to veterans' issues or Military Sexual Trauma, strong provider relationships, and continuity of care contributed to satisfaction; lengthy appointment wait times, limited service options, and insensitivity to veterans' issues contributed to dissatisfaction. Responders suggested that barriers limiting VA access for women veterans are perceived as similar to non-VA care. Findings suggest that caller experiences with providers drive satisfaction with VA and non-VA mental health services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles C Engel
- RAND Corporation, 20 Park Plaza, 9th Floor, Suite 920, Boston, MA, 02116, USA
| | - Rajeev Ramchand
- RAND Corporation, 1200 S. Hayes St., Arlington, VA, 22202, USA
| | - Lynsay Ayer
- RAND Corporation, 1200 S. Hayes St., Arlington, VA, 22202, USA
| | | | - Patricia Ebener
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA, 90401-3208, USA
| | - Gretchen L Haas
- VISN 4 MIRECC, Department of Veterans Affairs, 323 North Shore Drive, Suite 400, Pittsburgh, PA, 15212, USA
| | - Janet E Kemp
- VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, Department of Veterans Affairs, 400 Fort Hill Ave, Canandaigua, NY, 14424, USA
| | - Elizabeth Karras
- VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, Department of Veterans Affairs, 400 Fort Hill Ave, Canandaigua, NY, 14424, USA
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29
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Evans EA, Tennenbaum DL, Washington DL, Hamilton AB. Why Women Veterans Do Not Use VA-Provided Health and Social Services: Implications for Health Care Design and Delivery. JOURNAL OF HUMANISTIC PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/0022167819847328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Evans
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
- VA Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dawn L. Tennenbaum
- VA Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Donna L. Washington
- VA Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alison B. Hamilton
- VA Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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30
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Abel EA, Shimada SL, Wang K, Ramsey C, Skanderson M, Erdos J, Godleski L, Houston TK, Brandt CA. Dual Use of a Patient Portal and Clinical Video Telehealth by Veterans with Mental Health Diagnoses: Retrospective, Cross-Sectional Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2018; 20:e11350. [PMID: 30404771 PMCID: PMC6249500 DOI: 10.2196/11350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Access to mental health care is challenging. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has been addressing these challenges through technological innovations including the implementation of Clinical Video Telehealth, two-way interactive and synchronous videoconferencing between a provider and a patient, and an electronic patient portal and personal health record, My HealtheVet. Objective This study aimed to describe early adoption and use of My HealtheVet and Clinical Video Telehealth among VHA users with mental health diagnoses. Methods We conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of early My HealtheVet adoption and Clinical Video Telehealth engagement among veterans with one or more mental health diagnoses who were VHA users from 2007 to 2012. We categorized veterans into four electronic health (eHealth) technology use groups: My HealtheVet only, Clinical Video Telehealth only, dual users who used both, and nonusers of either. We examined demographic characteristics and mental health diagnoses by group. We explored My HealtheVet feature use among My HealtheVet adopters. We then explored predictors of My HealtheVet adoption, Clinical Video Telehealth engagement, and dual use using multivariate logistic regression. Results Among 2.17 million veterans with one or more mental health diagnoses, 1.51% (32,723/2,171,325) were dual users, and 71.72% (1,557,218/2,171,325) were nonusers of both My HealtheVet and Clinical Video Telehealth. African American and Latino patients were significantly less likely to engage in Clinical Video Telehealth or use My HealtheVet compared with white patients. Low-income patients who met the criteria for free care were significantly less likely to be My HealtheVet or dual users than those who did not. The odds of Clinical Video Telehealth engagement and dual use decreased with increasing age. Women were more likely than men to be My HealtheVet or dual users but less likely than men to be Clinical Video Telehealth users. Patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder were significantly less likely to be My HealtheVet or dual users than those with other mental health diagnoses (odds ratio, OR 0.50, CI 0.47-0.53 and OR 0.75, CI 0.69-0.80, respectively). Dual users were younger (53.08 years, SD 13.7, vs 60.11 years, SD 15.83), more likely to be white, and less likely to be low-income than the overall cohort. Although rural patients had 17% lower odds of My HealtheVet adoption compared with urban patients (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.80-0.87), they were substantially more likely than their urban counterparts to engage in Clinical Video Telehealth and dual use (OR 2.45, 95% CI 1.95-3.09 for Clinical Video Telehealth and OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.81-2.47 for dual use). Conclusions During this study (2007-2012), use of these technologies was low, leaving much potential for growth. There were sociodemographic disparities in access to My HealtheVet and Clinical Video Telehealth and in dual use of these technologies. There was also variation based on types of mental health diagnosis. More research is needed to ensure that these and other patient-facing eHealth technologies are accessible and effectively used by all vulnerable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica A Abel
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States.,Yale Center for Medical Informatics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Stephanie L Shimada
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States.,Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States.,Division of Health Informatics and Implementation Science, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Karen Wang
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States.,Yale Center for Medical Informatics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Christine Ramsey
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States.,Yale Center for Medical Informatics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Melissa Skanderson
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - Joseph Erdos
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States.,Yale Center for Medical Informatics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Linda Godleski
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.,National Telemental Health Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - Thomas K Houston
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States.,Division of Health Informatics and Implementation Science, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Cynthia A Brandt
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States.,Yale Center for Medical Informatics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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