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Meriggi NF, Voors M, Levine M, Ramakrishna V, Kangbai DM, Rozelle M, Tyler E, Kallon S, Nabieu J, Cundy S, Mobarak AM. Last-mile delivery increases vaccine uptake in Sierra Leone. Nature 2024; 627:612-619. [PMID: 38480877 PMCID: PMC10954551 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07158-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Less than 30% of people in Africa received a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine even 18 months after vaccine development1. Here, motivated by the observation that residents of remote, rural areas of Sierra Leone faced severe access difficulties2, we conducted an intervention with last-mile delivery of doses and health professionals to the most inaccessible areas, along with community mobilization. A cluster randomized controlled trial in 150 communities showed that this intervention with mobile vaccination teams increased the immunization rate by about 26 percentage points within 48-72 h. Moreover, auxiliary populations visited our community vaccination points, which more than doubled the number of inoculations administered. The additional people vaccinated per intervention site translated to an implementation cost of US $33 per person vaccinated. Transportation to reach remote villages accounted for a large share of total intervention costs. Therefore, bundling multiple maternal and child health interventions in the same visit would further reduce costs per person treated. Current research on vaccine delivery maintains a large focus on individual behavioural issues such as hesitancy. Our study demonstrates that prioritizing mobile services to overcome access difficulties faced by remote populations in developing countries can generate increased returns in terms of uptake of health services3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò F Meriggi
- International Growth Centre, Freetown, Sierra Leone.
- Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
- Centre for the Study of African Economies, Department of Economics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Maarten Voors
- Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Michael Rozelle
- Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ella Tyler
- Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sellu Kallon
- Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Junisa Nabieu
- Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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2
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Hirani JC, Wüst M. Reminder design and childhood vaccination coverage. JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS 2024; 93:102832. [PMID: 37976788 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2023.102832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
A major policy concern across public vaccination programs is non-compliance. Exploiting Danish population data and three national reforms in regression discontinuity designs, we document the effects of reminders for childhood vaccination coverage. Retrospective reminders are primarily effective for families with small children and when sent out close to the recommended vaccination age. Digital and postal reminders are equally effective. Prospective reminders increase timely vaccinations in later childhood and help reaching high coverage for new vaccines in increasingly complex vaccination programs. While reminders prompt additional preventive care for focal children, we find no spillovers to other health behaviors or relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miriam Wüst
- The Danish Center for Social Science Research - VIVE, Denmark; University of Copenhagen, Denmark; CEBI, Denmark.
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Malik AA, Ahmed N, Shafiq M, Elharake JA, James E, Nyhan K, Paintsil E, Melchinger HC, Team YBI, Malik FA, Omer SB. Behavioral interventions for vaccination uptake: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Health Policy 2023; 137:104894. [PMID: 37714082 PMCID: PMC10885629 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2023.104894] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human behavior and more specifically behavioral insight-based approaches to vaccine uptake have often been overlooked. While there have been a few narrative reviews indexed in Medline on behavioral interventions to increase vaccine uptake, to our knowledge, none have been systematic reviews and meta-analyses covering not just high but also low-and-middle income countries. METHODS We included 613 studies from the Medline database in our systematic review and meta-analysis categorizing different behavioral interventions in 9 domains: education campaigns, on-site vaccination, incentives, free vaccination, institutional recommendation, provider recommendation, reminder and recall, message framing, and vaccine champion. Additionally, considering that there is variability in the acceptance of vaccines among different populations, we assessed studies from both high-income countries (HICs) and low- to middle-income countries (LMICs), separately. FINDINGS Our results showed that behavioral interventions can considerably improve vaccine uptake in most settings. All domains that we examined improved vaccine uptake with the highest effect size associated with provider recommendation (OR: 3.4 (95%CI: 2.5-4.6); Domain: motivation) and on-site vaccination (OR: 2.9 (95%CI: 2.3-3.7); Domain: practical issues). While the number of studies conducted in LMICs was smaller, the quality of studies was similar with those conducted in HICs. Nevertheless, there were variations in the observed effect sizes. INTERPRETATION Our findings indicate that "provider recommendation" and "on-site vaccination" along with other behavioral interventions can be employed to increase vaccination rates globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amyn A Malik
- Yale Institute for Global Health, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Analysis Group, Inc, Boston, MA 02199, USA
| | - Noureen Ahmed
- UT Southwestern Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Mehr Shafiq
- Yale Institute for Global Health, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Columbia University School of Public Health, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Jad A Elharake
- Yale Institute for Global Health, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; UT Southwestern Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Erin James
- Yale Institute for Global Health, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Kate Nyhan
- Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Elliott Paintsil
- Yale Institute for Global Health, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Columbia University Institute of Human Nutrition, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | | | | | - Fauzia A Malik
- UT Southwestern Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Saad B Omer
- UT Southwestern Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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Cooper S, Schmidt BM, Sambala EZ, Swartz A, Colvin CJ, Leon N, Wiysonge CS. Factors that influence parents' and informal caregivers' views and practices regarding routine childhood vaccination: a qualitative evidence synthesis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 10:CD013265. [PMID: 34706066 PMCID: PMC8550333 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013265.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illnesses and deaths in children. However, worldwide, many children do not receive all recommended vaccinations, for several potential reasons. Vaccines might be unavailable, or parents may experience difficulties in accessing vaccination services; for instance, because of poor quality health services, distance from a health facility, or lack of money. Some parents may not accept available vaccines and vaccination services. Our understanding of what influences parents' views and practices around childhood vaccination, and why some parents may not accept vaccines for their children, is still limited. This synthesis links to Cochrane Reviews of the effectiveness of interventions to improve coverage or uptake of childhood vaccination. OBJECTIVES - Explore parents' and informal caregivers' views and practices regarding routine childhood vaccination, and the factors influencing acceptance, hesitancy, or nonacceptance of routine childhood vaccination. - Develop a conceptual understanding of what and how different factors reduce parental acceptance of routine childhood vaccination. - Explore how the findings of this review can enhance our understanding of the related Cochrane Reviews of intervention effectiveness. SEARCH METHODS We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and three other databases for eligible studies from 1974 to June 2020. SELECTION CRITERIA We included studies that: utilised qualitative methods for data collection and analysis; focused on parents' or caregivers' views, practices, acceptance, hesitancy, or refusal of routine vaccination for children aged up to six years; and were from any setting globally where childhood vaccination is provided. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used a pre-specified sampling frame to sample from eligible studies, aiming to capture studies that were conceptually rich, relevant to the review's phenomenon of interest, from diverse geographical settings, and from a range of income-level settings. We extracted contextual and methodological data from each sampled study. We used a meta-ethnographic approach to analyse and synthesise the evidence. We assessed methodological limitations using a list of criteria used in previous Cochrane Reviews and originally based on the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme quality assessment tool for qualitative studies. We used the GRADE-CERQual (Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research) approach to assess our confidence in each finding. We integrated the findings of this review with those from relevant Cochrane Reviews of intervention effectiveness. We did this by mapping whether the underlying theories or components of trial interventions included in those reviews related to or targeted the overarching factors influencing parental views and practices regarding routine childhood vaccination identified by this review. MAIN RESULTS We included 145 studies in the review and sampled 27 of these for our analysis. Six studies were conducted in Africa, seven in the Americas, four in South-East Asia, nine in Europe, and one in the Western Pacific. Studies included urban and rural settings, and high-, middle-, and low-income settings. Many complex factors were found to influence parents' vaccination views and practices, which we divided into four themes. Firstly, parents' vaccination ideas and practices may be influenced by their broader ideas and practices surrounding health and illness generally, and specifically with regards to their children, and their perceptions of the role of vaccination within this context. Secondly, many parents' vaccination ideas and practices were influenced by the vaccination ideas and practices of the people they mix with socially. At the same time, shared vaccination ideas and practices helped some parents establish social relationships, which in turn strengthened their views and practices around vaccination. Thirdly, parents' vaccination ideas and practices may be influenced by wider political issues and concerns, and particularly their trust (or distrust) in those associated with vaccination programmes. Finally, parents' vaccination ideas and practices may be influenced by their access to and experiences of vaccination services and their frontline healthcare workers. We developed two concepts for understanding possible pathways to reduced acceptance of childhood vaccination. The first concept, 'neoliberal logic', suggests that many parents, particularly from high-income countries, understood health and healthcare decisions as matters of individual risk, choice, and responsibility. Some parents experienced this understanding as in conflict with vaccination programmes, which emphasise generalised risk and population health. This perceived conflict led some parents to be less accepting of vaccination for their children. The second concept, 'social exclusion', suggests that some parents, particularly from low- and middle-income countries, were less accepting of childhood vaccination due to their experiences of social exclusion. Social exclusion may damage trustful relationships between government and the public, generate feelings of isolation and resentment, and give rise to demotivation in the face of public services that are poor quality and difficult to access. These factors in turn led some parents who were socially excluded to distrust vaccination, to refuse vaccination as a form of resistance or a way to bring about change, or to avoid vaccination due to the time, costs, and distress it creates. Many of the overarching factors our review identified as influencing parents' vaccination views and practices were underrepresented in the interventions tested in the four related Cochrane Reviews of intervention effectiveness. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Our review has revealed that parents' views and practices regarding childhood vaccination are complex and dynamic social processes that reflect multiple webs of influence, meaning, and logic. We have provided a theorised understanding of the social processes contributing to vaccination acceptance (or not), thereby complementing but also extending more individualistic models of vaccination acceptance. Successful development of interventions to promote acceptance and uptake of childhood vaccination will require an understanding of, and then tailoring to, the specific factors influencing vaccination views and practices of the group(s) in the target setting. The themes and concepts developed through our review could serve as a basis for gaining this understanding, and subsequent development of interventions that are potentially more aligned with the norms, expectations, and concerns of target users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Cooper
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bey-Marrié Schmidt
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Evanson Z Sambala
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Alison Swartz
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christopher J Colvin
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Natalie Leon
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Charles S Wiysonge
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarize evidence-based strategies for improving pediatric immunization rates including physician behaviors, clinic and public health processes, community-based and parent-focused interventions, and legal and policy approaches RECENT FINDINGS: Studies continue to show the effectiveness of audit and feedback, provider reminders, standing orders, and reminder/recall to increase immunization rates. Provider communication strategies may improve immunization rates including use of a presumptive approach and motivational interviewing. Centralized reminder/recall (using a state Immunization Information System) is more effective and cost-effective compared to a practice-based approach. Recent work shows the success of text messages for reminder/recall for vaccination. Web-based interventions, including informational vaccine websites with interactive social media components, have shown effectiveness at increasing uptake of pediatric and maternal immunizations. Vaccination requirements for school attendance continue to be effective policy interventions for increasing pediatric and adolescent vaccination rates. Allowance for and ease of obtaining exemptions to vaccine requirements are associated with increased exemption rates. SUMMARY Strategies to increase vaccination rates include interventions that directly impact physician behavior, clinic and public health processes, patient behaviors, and policy. Combining multiple strategies to work across different settings and addressing different barriers may offer the best approach to optimize immunization coverage.
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Abimbola S, Keelan S, Everett M, Casburn K, Mitchell M, Burchfield K, Martiniuk A. The medium, the message and the measure: a theory-driven review on the value of telehealth as a patient-facing digital health innovation. HEALTH ECONOMICS REVIEW 2019; 9:21. [PMID: 31270685 PMCID: PMC6734475 DOI: 10.1186/s13561-019-0239-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
By what measure should a policy maker choose between two mediums that deliver the same or similar message or service? Between, say, video consultation or a remote patient monitoring application (i.e. patient-facing digital health innovations) and in-person consultation? To answer this question, we sought to identify measures which are used in randomised controlled trials. But first we used two theories to frame the effects of patient-facing digital health innovations on - 1) transaction costs (i.e. the effort, time and costs required to complete a clinical interaction); and 2) process outcomes and clinical outcomes along the care cascade or information value chain, such that the 'value of information' (VoI) is different at each point in the care cascade or value chain. From the trials, we identified three categories of measures: outcome (process or clinical), satisfaction, and cost. We found that although patient-facing digital health innovations tend to confer much of their value by altering process outcomes, satisfaction, and transaction costs, these measures are inconsistently assessed. Efforts to determine the relative value of and choose between mediums of service delivery should adopt a metric (i.e. mathematical combination of measures) that capture all dimensions of value. We argue that 'value of information' (VoI) is such a metric - it is calculated as the difference between the 'expected utility' (EU) of alternative options. But for patient-facing digital health innovations, 'expected utility' (EU) should incorporate the probability of achieving not only a clinical outcome, but also process outcomes (depending on the innovation under consideration); and the measures of utility should include satisfaction and transaction costs; and also changes in population access to services, and health system capacity to deliver more services, which may result from reduction in transaction costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seye Abimbola
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Royal Far West, Sydney, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarah Keelan
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Royal Far West, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Alexandra Martiniuk
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Royal Far West, Sydney, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, Australia
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Mekonnen ZA, Gelaye KA, Were MC, Gashu KD, Tilahun BC. Effect of mobile text message reminders on routine childhood vaccination: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Syst Rev 2019; 8:154. [PMID: 31253186 PMCID: PMC6598255 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-019-1054-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization estimates that 29% of under-five mortality could be prevented with existing vaccines. However, non-consistent attendance for immunization appointments remains a global challenge to healthcare providers. Thus, innovative strategies are required to reach the last mile where technology could be effectively utilized to achieve better compliance with children immunization schedules. Therefore, the aim of the review was to systematically collect and summarize the available evidence on the effectiveness of text message reminders on childhood vaccination. METHODS This review was conducted according to a priori published protocol on PROSPERO. A systematic literature search of databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane/Wiley library, and Science direct) was conducted. Eligibility and risk of bias assessments were performed independently by two reviewers. PRISMA flow diagrams were used to summarize the study selection process. Taking into account the level of heterogeneity, a random effects model was used and risk ratios with their 95% CI were used to present the pooled estimates. To investigate the sources of heterogeneity, subgroup analysis and meta-regression analysis were also considered. In this review, publication bias was assessed statistically using Harbord test. RESULTS A total of 1771 articles were searched. Out of those 1771 articles, 558 duplicated articles were removed. About 1213 articles were further screened, and finally, ten articles met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis showed that there is a significant effect of text message reminders on childhood vaccination coverage (RR = 1.11; 95% CI 1.05-1.17) with a moderate level of heterogeneity (I2 = 64.3%, P = 0.003). The results from the Harbord test suggested that there is no evidence for publication bias (P = 0.340). CONCLUSION This review highlights the potential benefits of incorporating mobile text message reminders into the standard management of childhood immunizations, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The frequency and timing of the text message reminders are also crucial in determining the effectiveness of text message reminders. Hence, mHealth interventions deserve more attention as a potential innovation to improve healthcare programs. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42017074230.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeleke Abebaw Mekonnen
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Kassahun Alemu Gelaye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Martin C Were
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Kassahun Dessie Gashu
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Binyam Chakilu Tilahun
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Ozawa S, Yemeke TT, Thompson KM. Systematic review of the incremental costs of interventions that increase immunization coverage. Vaccine 2018; 36:3641-3649. [PMID: 29754699 PMCID: PMC7853081 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Achieving and maintaining high vaccination coverage requires investments, but the costs and effectiveness of interventions to increase coverage remain poorly characterized. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify peer-reviewed studies published in English that reported interventions aimed at increasing immunization coverage and the associated costs and effectiveness of the interventions. We found limited information in the literature, with many studies reporting effectiveness estimates, but not providing cost information. Using the available data, we developed a cost function to support future programmatic decisions about investments in interventions to increase immunization coverage for relatively low and high-income countries. The cost function estimates the non-vaccine cost per dose of interventions to increase absolute immunization coverage by one percent, through either campaigns or routine immunization. The cost per dose per percent increase in absolute coverage increased with higher baseline coverage, demonstrating increasing incremental costs required to reach higher coverage levels. Future studies should evaluate the performance of the cost function and add to the database of available evidence to better characterize heterogeneity in costs and generalizability of the cost function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachiko Ozawa
- Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Maternal and Child Health, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Tatenda T Yemeke
- Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Feasibility of Electronic Health Information and Surveillance System (eHISS) for disease symptom monitoring: A case of rural Ghana. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0197756. [PMID: 29795626 PMCID: PMC5967752 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0197756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The current surge of mobile phone use in many African countries creates the opportunity to provide caregivers with limited access to the health care system with vital health recommendations. At the same time such communication system can be utilised to collect tempero-spatial data on disease symptoms. Objective We assessed the feasibility of an mHealth system among caregivers with children under-five years, designed as a health information and surveillance tool in a rural district of Ghana. Methods A mobile phone-based electronic health information and surveillance system was piloted from February to December 2015. Toll-free numbers were provided to 1446 caregivers, which they could call to receive health advice in case their children showed disease symptoms. The system was setup to evaluate the illness of a sick child. Symptoms reported via the system were evaluated and compared to clinician’s report after follow-up. Cogency of the reported symptoms was assessed using Cohen’s kappa coefficient. Results A total of 169 children with disease symptoms were identified based on phone calls from caregivers. The predominant reported symptoms were fever (64%; n = 108), cough (55%; n = 93) and diarrhoea (33%; n = 55). Temporal pattern of symptomatic cases revealed a peak saturation in the month of September, with fever registering the highest number of symptoms observed. Reported symptoms and clinician’s report revealed a very good agreement for fever (95%, kappa = 0.89); good for diarrhoea (87%, kappa = 0.73) and moderate for cough (76%, kappa = 0.49). Conclusion This pilot concept, has demonstrated the practicality of using mobile phones for assessing childhood disease symptoms and encouraging caregivers to seek early treatment for their children if needed. The strategy to use mobile phones in disease surveillance and treatment support is a promising strategy especially for areas with limited access to the health care system.
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Yamin F, Kaewkungwal J, Singhasivanon P, Lawpoolsri S. Women's Perceptions of Using Mobile Phones for Maternal and Child Health Support in Afghanistan: Cross-Sectional Survey. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2018; 6:e76. [PMID: 29636317 PMCID: PMC5915672 DOI: 10.2196/mhealth.9504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Growing rates of global mobile subscriptions pave the way for implementation of mobile health (mHealth) initiatives, especially among hard-to-reach populations. Objective This study aimed to determine the perceptions of Afghan women regarding the use of mobile phones for maternal and child health services. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in both rural and urban districts of Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. The interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to assess participants’ demographic profile, mobile phone usage, and perception of respondents toward different aspects of health care delivery via mobile phones. Results Of the 240 participants, 142 (59.2%) owned mobile phones and 220 (91.7%) routinely used mobile phones. Approximately 209 (87.1%) of participants were willing to receive health messages via a mobile phone. Automated voice call was the most preferred method for sending health messages. More than 90% of the women reported that they would like to receive reminders for their children’s vaccinations and antenatal care visits. Conclusions Users’ perception was associated with mobile phone ownership, literacy level, and experience using mobile phones. In the study area, where the literacy rate is low, mHealth was well perceived.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazal Yamin
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jaranit Kaewkungwal
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pratap Singhasivanon
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Saranath Lawpoolsri
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Jacobson Vann JC, Jacobson RM, Coyne‐Beasley T, Asafu‐Adjei JK, Szilagyi PG. Patient reminder and recall interventions to improve immunization rates. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018; 1:CD003941. [PMID: 29342498 PMCID: PMC6491344 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003941.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunization rates for children and adults are rising, but coverage levels have not reached optimal goals. As a result, vaccine-preventable diseases still occur. In an era of increasing complexity of immunization schedules, rising expectations about the performance of primary care, and large demands on primary care providers, it is important to understand and promote interventions that work in primary care settings to increase immunization coverage. One common theme across immunization programs in many nations involves the challenge of implementing a population-based approach and identifying all eligible recipients, for example the children who should receive the measles vaccine. However, this issue is gradually being addressed through the availability of immunization registries and electronic health records. A second common theme is identifying the best strategies to promote high vaccination rates. Three types of strategies have been studied: (1) patient-oriented interventions, such as patient reminder or recall, (2) provider interventions, and (3) system interventions, such as school laws. One of the most prominent intervention strategies, and perhaps best studied, involves patient reminder or recall systems. This is an update of a previously published review. OBJECTIVES To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of various types of patient reminder and recall interventions to improve receipt of immunizations. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL to January 2017. We also searched grey literature and trial registers to January 2017. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized trials, controlled before and after studies, and interrupted time series evaluating immunization-focused patient reminder or recall interventions in children, adolescents, and adults who receive immunizations in any setting. We included no-intervention control groups, standard practice activities that did not include immunization patient reminder or recall, media-based activities aimed at promoting immunizations, or simple practice-based awareness campaigns. We included receipt of any immunizations as eligible outcome measures, excluding special travel immunizations. We excluded patients who were hospitalized for the duration of the study period. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used the standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane and the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care (EPOC) Group. We present results for individual studies as relative rates using risk ratios, and risk differences for randomized trials, and as absolute changes in percentage points for controlled before-after studies. We present pooled results for randomized trials using the random-effects model. MAIN RESULTS The 75 included studies involved child, adolescent, and adult participants in outpatient, community-based, primary care, and other settings in 10 countries.Patient reminder or recall interventions, including telephone and autodialer calls, letters, postcards, text messages, combination of mail or telephone, or a combination of patient reminder or recall with outreach, probably improve the proportion of participants who receive immunization (risk ratio (RR) of 1.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23 to 1.35; risk difference of 8%) based on moderate certainty evidence from 55 studies with 138,625 participants.Three types of single-method reminders improve receipt of immunizations based on high certainty evidence: the use of postcards (RR 1.18, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.30; eight studies; 27,734 participants), text messages (RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.44; six studies; 7772 participants), and autodialer (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.32; five studies; 11,947 participants). Two types of single-method reminders probably improve receipt of immunizations based on moderate certainty evidence: the use of telephone calls (RR 1.75, 95% CI 1.20 to 2.54; seven studies; 9120 participants) and letters to patients (RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.21 to 1.38; 27 studies; 81,100 participants).Based on high certainty evidence, reminders improve receipt of immunizations for childhood (RR 1.22, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.29; risk difference of 8%; 23 studies; 31,099 participants) and adolescent vaccinations (RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.42; risk difference of 7%; 10 studies; 30,868 participants). Reminders probably improve receipt of vaccinations for childhood influenza (RR 1.51, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.99; risk difference of 22%; five studies; 9265 participants) and adult influenza (RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.43; risk difference of 9%; 15 studies; 59,328 participants) based on moderate certainty evidence. They may improve receipt of vaccinations for adult pneumococcus, tetanus, hepatitis B, and other non-influenza vaccinations based on low certainty evidence although the confidence interval includes no effect of these interventions (RR 2.08, 95% CI 0.91 to 4.78; four studies; 8065 participants). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Patient reminder and recall systems, in primary care settings, are likely to be effective at improving the proportion of the target population who receive immunizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie C Jacobson Vann
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel HillSchool of NursingCarrington HallChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA27599‐7460
| | - Robert M Jacobson
- Mayo ClinicPediatric and Adolescent Medicine200 First Street, SWRochesterMinnesotaUSA55905‐0001
| | - Tamera Coyne‐Beasley
- University of North CarolinaGeneral Pediatrics and Adolescent MedicineChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Josephine K Asafu‐Adjei
- University of North Carolina at Chapel HillDepartment of Biostatistics, School of Nursing120 North Medical Drive, 2005 Carrington HallChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA27599
| | - Peter G Szilagyi
- University of California Los AngelesDepartment of Pediatrics90024Los AngelesCaliforniaUSA90024
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Brown VB, Oluwatosin OA. Feasibility of implementing a cellphone-based reminder/recall strategy to improve childhood routine immunization in a low-resource setting: a descriptive report. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:703. [PMID: 29219093 PMCID: PMC5773899 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2639-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Reminder/recall systems are effective ways to improve immunization rates, but their feasibility in primary health care (PHC) settings in Nigeria has not been adequately evaluated. In this study we describe the acceptability and adaptability of immunization reminder/recall system in an urban setting in southwest Nigeria. Methods This is a descriptive report of a cluster randomized controlled trial. Four local government areas (LGAs) were randomly assigned into a cellphone reminder/recall intervention group or a usual care control group. Within each LGA, PHC centers were purposively selected to participate in the study. In each PHC center, mothers and their infants aged 0–3 months were enrolled into the two groups during the infants’ first immunization visit. Mothers (or other contact persons) in the intervention group received cellphone calls reminding them to take their child for scheduled immunizations. Follow-up of all the children lasted till the final scheduled immunization visit for each child. The intervention lasted for 13 months. Results A total of 595 mothers/infants pairs (295 in the intervention group and 300 in the control group) participated in the study. Almost all mothers (n = 590, 99.2%) had access to their own cellphone or had access to a cellphone belonging to a significant other. Ninety-eight percent (n = 584) of all mothers were willing to receive immunization reminder/recall phone calls. Eighty-seven percent (n = 2023) of all calls (n = 2324) for the reminder/recall intervention went through to the recipients and of these calls, 1948 (96.3%) were received. The mean cost of each call in US Dollars was about 5 cents. Immunization compliance rate (the receipt of required number of doses of routine vaccines at the appropriate age at recommended interval) was 79.2% among the children in intervention group and 46.4% in the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusion Results demonstrate that cellphone reminder/recall interventions to improve routine childhood immunization are feasible in PHC settings in limited-resource settings with wide cellphone coverage, such as urban areas in Nigeria. Further research to test the potential for scale up in a variety of settings is recommended. Trial registration PACTR201702002043415; Date of registration: 17 February 2017. (Retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - O Abimbola Oluwatosin
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Ibraheem RM, Akintola MA. Acceptability of Reminders for Immunization Appointments via Mobile Devices by Mothers in Ilorin, Nigeria: A Cross-sectional Study. Oman Med J 2017; 32:471-476. [PMID: 29218123 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2017.91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Immunization coverage in Nigeria remains low despite the protection it confers. Reminders via mobile phones may be deployed as a means of improving vaccination coverage but requires the participation and cooperation of the caregiver. Therefore, we evaluated the acceptability of reminders for immunization appointment by mothers in Ilorin, Nigeria. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study recruited 526 mothers from two public hospitals in Ilorin. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect information on ownership and access to phones, willingness to receive reminders, household, antenatal, and delivery characteristics. Results The majority (92.7%) of mothers had a personal phone, and all willingly provided contact details. Over half (69.0%) of mothers were willing to receive reminders. Postsecondary education (odds ratio (OR) = 1.958; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.232-3.111) and antenatal care attendance by mothers (OR = 8.381; 95% CI: 2.495-28.170) were significant determinants of mothers willingness to receive reminders. Mothers with less than or equal to four children had a three-fold increased odds of wanting reminders. Artisan mothers were less likely to want reminders compared with unemployed mothers (OR = 0.506; 95% CI: 0.291-0.847). Conclusions Most mothers are willing to receive reminders on immunization appointments via their mobile phone. Determinants of maternal willingness to receive reminders include mothers with less than four children, postsecondary education, and antenatal care attendance. Program planners should consider utilizing reminders as a strategy to increase the immunization uptake with access to contact details making this feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasheedat Mobolaji Ibraheem
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Ilorin and University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria
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Frew PM, Lutz CS. Interventions to increase pediatric vaccine uptake: An overview of recent findings. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2017; 13:2503-2511. [PMID: 28949819 PMCID: PMC5703404 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2017.1367069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Although much is known about factors contributing to variation in pediatric immunization uptake, there is a need for synthesis of effective vaccine promotion strategies. With growing public health concern on how to best sustain high pediatric immunization rates, and improve where the rates are suboptimal, this review offers evidence gathered from several studies on the achievement of these goals. We identified and analyzed reported findings on childhood (primarily ≤ 7 years) immunization outcomes from tested intervention strategies that focused on parents, guardians, and caregivers, as well as providers, clinics/practices, and communities. The findings suggest that targeted and tailored interventions offer substantial possibilities, especially in a combined manner. We describe promising intervention models that have been operationalized with success and provide evidence for scalability across contexts. Moreover, they are sensitive to parents' and providers' needs, are feasibly integrated in daily clinical practice, and account for broader community concerns and issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula M. Frew
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Hubert Department of Global Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chelsea S. Lutz
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Posadzki P, Mastellos N, Ryan R, Gunn LH, Felix LM, Pappas Y, Gagnon M, Julious SA, Xiang L, Oldenburg B, Car J. Automated telephone communication systems for preventive healthcare and management of long-term conditions. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 12:CD009921. [PMID: 27960229 PMCID: PMC6463821 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009921.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Automated telephone communication systems (ATCS) can deliver voice messages and collect health-related information from patients using either their telephone's touch-tone keypad or voice recognition software. ATCS can supplement or replace telephone contact between health professionals and patients. There are four different types of ATCS: unidirectional (one-way, non-interactive voice communication), interactive voice response (IVR) systems, ATCS with additional functions such as access to an expert to request advice (ATCS Plus) and multimodal ATCS, where the calls are delivered as part of a multicomponent intervention. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of ATCS for preventing disease and managing long-term conditions on behavioural change, clinical, process, cognitive, patient-centred and adverse outcomes. SEARCH METHODS We searched 10 electronic databases (the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; MEDLINE; Embase; PsycINFO; CINAHL; Global Health; WHOLIS; LILACS; Web of Science; and ASSIA); three grey literature sources (Dissertation Abstracts, Index to Theses, Australasian Digital Theses); and two trial registries (www.controlled-trials.com; www.clinicaltrials.gov) for papers published between 1980 and June 2015. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised, cluster- and quasi-randomised trials, interrupted time series and controlled before-and-after studies comparing ATCS interventions, with any control or another ATCS type were eligible for inclusion. Studies in all settings, for all consumers/carers, in any preventive healthcare or long term condition management role were eligible. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane methods to select and extract data and to appraise eligible studies. MAIN RESULTS We included 132 trials (N = 4,669,689). Studies spanned across several clinical areas, assessing many comparisons based on evaluation of different ATCS types and variable comparison groups. Forty-one studies evaluated ATCS for delivering preventive healthcare, 84 for managing long-term conditions, and seven studies for appointment reminders. We downgraded our certainty in the evidence primarily because of the risk of bias for many outcomes. We judged the risk of bias arising from allocation processes to be low for just over half the studies and unclear for the remainder. We considered most studies to be at unclear risk of performance or detection bias due to blinding, while only 16% of studies were at low risk. We generally judged the risk of bias due to missing data and selective outcome reporting to be unclear.For preventive healthcare, ATCS (ATCS Plus, IVR, unidirectional) probably increase immunisation uptake in children (risk ratio (RR) 1.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.18 to 1.32; 5 studies, N = 10,454; moderate certainty) and to a lesser extent in adolescents (RR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.11; 2 studies, N = 5725; moderate certainty). The effects of ATCS in adults are unclear (RR 2.18, 95% CI 0.53 to 9.02; 2 studies, N = 1743; very low certainty).For screening, multimodal ATCS increase uptake of screening for breast cancer (RR 2.17, 95% CI 1.55 to 3.04; 2 studies, N = 462; high certainty) and colorectal cancer (CRC) (RR 2.19, 95% CI 1.88 to 2.55; 3 studies, N = 1013; high certainty) versus usual care. It may also increase osteoporosis screening. ATCS Plus interventions probably slightly increase cervical cancer screening (moderate certainty), but effects on osteoporosis screening are uncertain. IVR systems probably increase CRC screening at 6 months (RR 1.36, 95% CI 1.25 to 1.48; 2 studies, N = 16,915; moderate certainty) but not at 9 to 12 months, with probably little or no effect of IVR (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.99, 1.11; 2 studies, 2599 participants; moderate certainty) or unidirectional ATCS on breast cancer screening.Appointment reminders delivered through IVR or unidirectional ATCS may improve attendance rates compared with no calls (low certainty). For long-term management, medication or laboratory test adherence provided the most general evidence across conditions (25 studies, data not combined). Multimodal ATCS versus usual care showed conflicting effects (positive and uncertain) on medication adherence. ATCS Plus probably slightly (versus control; moderate certainty) or probably (versus usual care; moderate certainty) improves medication adherence but may have little effect on adherence to tests (versus control). IVR probably slightly improves medication adherence versus control (moderate certainty). Compared with usual care, IVR probably improves test adherence and slightly increases medication adherence up to six months but has little or no effect at longer time points (moderate certainty). Unidirectional ATCS, compared with control, may have little effect or slightly improve medication adherence (low certainty). The evidence suggested little or no consistent effect of any ATCS type on clinical outcomes (blood pressure control, blood lipids, asthma control, therapeutic coverage) related to adherence, but only a small number of studies contributed clinical outcome data.The above results focus on areas with the most general findings across conditions. In condition-specific areas, the effects of ATCS varied, including by the type of ATCS intervention in use.Multimodal ATCS probably decrease both cancer pain and chronic pain as well as depression (moderate certainty), but other ATCS types were less effective. Depending on the type of intervention, ATCS may have small effects on outcomes for physical activity, weight management, alcohol consumption, and diabetes mellitus. ATCS have little or no effect on outcomes related to heart failure, hypertension, mental health or smoking cessation, and there is insufficient evidence to determine their effects for preventing alcohol/substance misuse or managing illicit drug addiction, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, HIV/AIDS, hypercholesterolaemia, obstructive sleep apnoea, spinal cord dysfunction or psychological stress in carers.Only four trials (3%) reported adverse events, and it was unclear whether these were related to the interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS ATCS interventions can change patients' health behaviours, improve clinical outcomes and increase healthcare uptake with positive effects in several important areas including immunisation, screening, appointment attendance, and adherence to medications or tests. The decision to integrate ATCS interventions in routine healthcare delivery should reflect variations in the certainty of the evidence available and the size of effects across different conditions, together with the varied nature of ATCS interventions assessed. Future research should investigate both the content of ATCS interventions and the mode of delivery; users' experiences, particularly with regard to acceptability; and clarify which ATCS types are most effective and cost-effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Posadzki
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological UniversityCentre for Population Health Sciences (CePHaS)3 Fusionopolis Link, #06‐13Nexus@one‐northSingaporeSingapore138543
| | - Nikolaos Mastellos
- Imperial College LondonGlobal eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public HealthSt Dunstans RoadLondonHammersmithUKW6 8RP
| | - Rebecca Ryan
- La Trobe UniversityCentre for Health Communication and Participation, School of Psychology and Public HealthBundooraVICAustralia3086
| | - Laura H Gunn
- Stetson UniversityPublic Health Program421 N Woodland BlvdDeLandFloridaUSA32723
| | - Lambert M Felix
- Edge Hill UniversityFaculty of Health and Social CareSt Helens RoadOrmskirkLancashireUKL39 4QP
| | - Yannis Pappas
- University of BedfordshireInstitute for Health ResearchPark SquareLutonBedfordUKLU1 3JU
| | - Marie‐Pierre Gagnon
- Traumatologie – Urgence – Soins IntensifsCentre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Axe Santé des populations ‐ Pratiques optimales en santé10 Rue de l'Espinay, D6‐727QuébecQCCanadaG1L 3L5
| | - Steven A Julious
- University of SheffieldMedical Statistics Group, School of Health and Related ResearchRegent Court, 30 Regent StreetSheffieldUKS1 4DA
| | - Liming Xiang
- Nanyang Technological UniversityDivision of Mathematical Sciences, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences21 Nanyang LinkSingaporeSingapore
| | - Brian Oldenburg
- University of MelbourneMelbourne School of Population and Global HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Josip Car
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological UniversityCentre for Population Health Sciences (CePHaS)3 Fusionopolis Link, #06‐13Nexus@one‐northSingaporeSingapore138543
- Imperial College LondonGlobal eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public HealthSt Dunstans RoadLondonHammersmithUKW6 8RP
- University of LjubljanaDepartment of Family Medicine, Faculty of MedicineLjubljanaSlovenia
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Jacob V, Chattopadhyay SK, Hopkins DP, Murphy Morgan J, Pitan AA, Clymer JM. Increasing Coverage of Appropriate Vaccinations: A Community Guide Systematic Economic Review. Am J Prev Med 2016; 50:797-808. [PMID: 26847663 PMCID: PMC4896867 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Population-level coverage for immunization against many vaccine-preventable diseases remains below optimal rates in the U.S. The Community Preventive Services Task Force recently recommended several interventions to increase vaccination coverage based on systematic reviews of the evaluation literature. The present study provides the economic results from those reviews. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A systematic review was conducted (search period, January 1980 through February 2012) to identify economic evaluations of 12 interventions recommended by the Task Force. Evidence was drawn from included studies; estimates were constructed for the population reach of each strategy, cost of implementation, and cost per additional vaccinated person because of the intervention. Analyses were conducted in 2014. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Reminder systems, whether for clients or providers, were among the lowest-cost strategies to implement and the most cost effective in terms of additional people vaccinated. Strategies involving home visits and combination strategies in community settings were both costly and less cost effective. Strategies based in settings such as schools and MCOs that reached the target population achieved additional vaccinations in the middle range of cost effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS The interventions recommended by the Task Force differed in reach, cost, and cost effectiveness. This systematic review presents the economic information for 12 effective strategies to increase vaccination coverage that can guide implementers in their choice of interventions to fit their local needs, available resources, and budget.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verughese Jacob
- Community Guide Branch, Division of Public Health Information Dissemination, Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Laboratory Services, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia.
| | - Sajal K Chattopadhyay
- Community Guide Branch, Division of Public Health Information Dissemination, Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Laboratory Services, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - David P Hopkins
- Community Guide Branch, Division of Public Health Information Dissemination, Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Laboratory Services, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jennifer Murphy Morgan
- Community Guide Branch, Division of Public Health Information Dissemination, Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Laboratory Services, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Adesola A Pitan
- Community Guide Branch, Division of Public Health Information Dissemination, Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Laboratory Services, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - John M Clymer
- National Forum for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, Washington, District of Columbia
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Harvey H, Reissland N, Mason J. Parental reminder, recall and educational interventions to improve early childhood immunisation uptake: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Vaccine 2015; 33:2862-80. [PMID: 25944299 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.04.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways of reducing childhood mortality. Despite global uptake of childhood vaccinations increasing, rates remain sub-optimal, meaning that vaccine-preventable diseases still pose a public health risk. A range of interventions to promote vaccine uptake have been developed, although this range has not specifically been reviewed in early childhood. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of parental interventions to improve early childhood (0-5 years) vaccine uptake. Twenty-eight controlled studies contributed to six separate meta-analyses evaluating aspects of parental reminders and education. All interventions were to some extent effective, although findings were generally heterogeneous and random effects models were estimated. Receiving both postal and telephone reminders was the most effective reminder-based intervention (RD=0.1132; 95% CI=0.033-0.193). Sub-group analyses suggested that educational interventions were more effective in low- and middle-income countries (RD=0.13; 95% CI=0.05-0.22) and when conducted through discussion (RD=0.12; 95% CI=0.02-0.21). Current evidence most supports the use of postal reminders as part of the standard management of childhood immunisations. Parents at high risk of non-compliance may benefit from recall strategies and/or discussion-based forums, however further research is needed to assess the appropriateness of these strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Harvey
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK.
| | - Nadja Reissland
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK.
| | - James Mason
- Durham University School of Medicine, Pharmacy and Health, Wolfson Research Institute, Stockton-On-Tees TS17 6BH, UK.
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Bangure D, Chirundu D, Gombe N, Marufu T, Mandozana G, Tshimanga M, Takundwa L. Effectiveness of short message services reminder on childhood immunization programme in Kadoma, Zimbabwe - a randomized controlled trial, 2013. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:137. [PMID: 25885862 PMCID: PMC4339642 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-1470-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, non-attendance for immunization appointments remains a challenge to healthcare providers. A review of the 2011 immunization coverage for Kadoma City, Zimbabwe was 74% for Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), Pneumococcal and Pentavalent antigens. The immunization coverage was less than 90%, which is the target for Kadoma City. Adoption of short message services (SMS) reminders has been shown to enhance attendance in some medical settings. The study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of SMS reminders on immunization programme for Kadoma City. METHODS A randomized controlled trial was conducted at Kadoma City clinics in Zimbabwe. Women who delivered and were residents of Kadoma City were recruited into the study. In the intervention group, SMS reminders were sent at 6, 10 and 14 weeks in addition to routine health education. In the non-intervention no SMS reminders were used, however routine health education was offered. Data were collected using interviewer administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Epi Info 7™, where frequencies, means, risk ratios and risk differences were generated. RESULTS A total of 304 participants were recruited, 152 for the intervention group and 152 for the non-intervention group. The immunization coverage at 6 weeks was 97% in the intervention group and 82% in the non-intervention group (p < 0.001). At 14 weeks immunization coverage was 95% for intervention and 75% for non-intervention group (p < 0.001). Those who did not delay receiving immunization at 14 weeks was 82% for the intervention and 8% for non-intervention group. Median delay for intervention was 0 days (Q1 = 0; Q3 = 0) and 10 days (Q1 = 6; Q3 = 17) for non-intervention group. The risk difference (RD) for those who received SMS reminders than those in the non intervention group was 16.3% (95% CI: 12.5-28.0) at 14 weeks. CONCLUSION Immunization coverage in the intervention group was significantly higher than in non-intervention group. Overall increase in immunization coverage can be attributed to use of SMS. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN70918594 . Registration Date: 28 August 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donewell Bangure
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Daniel Chirundu
- City Health Department, Kadoma City Council, Kadoma City, Zimbabwe.
| | - Notion Gombe
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Tawanda Marufu
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Gibson Mandozana
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Mufuta Tshimanga
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Lucia Takundwa
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
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Dombkowski KJ, Costello LE, Harrington LB, Dong S, Kolasa M, Clark SJ. Age-specific strategies for immunization reminders and recalls: a registry-based randomized trial. Am J Prev Med 2014; 47:1-8. [PMID: 24750973 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2014.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although previous studies have found reminder/recall to be effective in increasing immunization rates, little guidance exists regarding the specific ages at which it is optimal to send reminder/recall notices. PURPOSE To assess the relative effectiveness of centralized reminder/recall strategies targeting age-specific vaccination milestones among children in urban areas during June 2008-June 2009. METHODS Three reminder/recall strategies used capabilities of the Michigan Care Improvement Registry (MCIR), a statewide immunization information system: a 7-month recall strategy, a 12-month reminder strategy, and a 19-month recall strategy. Eligible children were randomized to notification (intervention) or no notification groups (control). Primary study outcomes included MCIR-recorded immunization activity (administration of ≥1 new dose, entry of ≥1 historic dose, entry of immunization waiver) within 60 days following each notification cycle. RESULTS A total of 10,175 children were included: 2,072 for the 7-month recall, 3,502 for the 12-month reminder, and 4,601 for the 19-month recall. Immunization activity was similar between notification versus no notification groups at both 7 and 12 months. Significantly more 19-month-old children in the recall group (26%) had immunization activity compared to their counterparts who did not receive a recall notification (19%). CONCLUSIONS Although recall notifications can positively affect immunization activity, the effect may vary by targeted age group. Many 7- and 12-month-olds had immunization activity following reminder/recall; however, levels of activity were similar irrespective of notification, suggesting that these groups were likely to receive medical care or immunization services without prompting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J Dombkowski
- Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit, Division of General Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
| | - Lauren E Costello
- Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit, Division of General Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Laura B Harrington
- Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit, Division of General Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Shiming Dong
- Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit, Division of General Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Maureen Kolasa
- National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, the CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sarah J Clark
- National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, the CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
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Sadaf A, Richards JL, Glanz J, Salmon DA, Omer SB. A systematic review of interventions for reducing parental vaccine refusal and vaccine hesitancy. Vaccine 2013; 31:4293-304. [PMID: 23859839 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2013.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 252] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2013] [Revised: 06/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Unvaccinated individuals pose a public health threat to communities. Research has identified many factors associated with parental vaccine refusal and hesitancy toward childhood and adolescent immunizations. However, data on the effectiveness of interventions to address parental refusal are limited. We conducted a systematic review of four online databases to identify interventional studies. We used criteria recommended by the WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on immunization (SAGE) for the quality assessment of studies. Intervention categories and outcomes were evaluated for each body of evidence and confidence in overall estimates of effect was determined. There is limited evidence to guide implementation of effective strategies to deal with the emerging threat of parental vaccine refusal. There is a need for appropriately designed, executed and evaluated intervention studies to address this gap in knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Sadaf
- Medical College, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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Pereira JA, Quach S, Heidebrecht CL, Quan SD, Kolbe F, Finkelstein M, Kwong JC. Barriers to the use of reminder/recall interventions for immunizations: a systematic review. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2012; 12:145. [PMID: 23245381 PMCID: PMC3541955 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6947-12-145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although many studies have demonstrated the benefits of reminder/recall (RR) measures to address patient under-immunization and improve immunization coverage, they are not widely implemented by healthcare providers. We identified providers' perceived barriers to their use from existing literature. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of relevant articles published in English between January 1990 and July 2011 that examined the perceptions of healthcare providers regarding barriers to tracking patient immunization history and implementing RR interventions. We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Academic Search Premier, and PsychINFO. Additional strategies included hand-searching the references of pertinent articles and related reviews, and searching keywords in Google Scholar and Google. RESULTS Ten articles were included; all described populations in the United States, and examined perceptions of family physicians, pediatricians, and other immunization staff. All articles were of moderate-high methodological quality; the majority (n=7) employed survey methodology. The most frequently described barriers involved the perceived human and financial resources associated with implementing an RR intervention, as well as low confidence in the accuracy of patient immunization records, given the lack of data sharing between multiple immunization providers. Changes to staff workflow, lack of appropriate electronic patient-tracking functionalities, and uncertainty regarding the success of RR interventions were also viewed as barriers to their adoption. CONCLUSIONS Although transitioning to electronic immunization records and registries should facilitate the implementation of RR interventions, numerous perceived barriers must still be overcome before the full benefits of these methods can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Pereira
- Surveillance and Epidemiology, Public Health Ontario, 480 University Ave, Suite 300, Toronto, ON M5G 1V2, Canada.
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Dombkowski KJ, Cowan AE, Harrington LB, Allred NJ, Hudson E, Clark SJ. Feasibility of initiating and sustaining registry-based immunization recall in private practices. Acad Pediatr 2012; 12:104-9. [PMID: 22321815 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2012.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2011] [Revised: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 01/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the feasibility of initiating and sustaining immunization recall by private practices, including the barriers and costs, using a statewide immunization information system (IIS). METHODS Private practices in southeast Michigan were recruited in 2007 to perform IIS-based immunization recalls. Enrolled practices were provided with training and asked to conduct 4 recalls during the course of 12 months of children 19 to 35 months of age. Each practice recorded the time they spent performing recall-related activities; labor costs were estimated. Formative and summative evaluations with semistructured interviews were conducted to identify barriers. RESULTS Of 97 eligible pediatric and family medicine practices, 44 declined to participate, 32 did not respond to repeated contacts, and 20 agreed to enroll in the study (21%). A total of 56 recalls were conducted during the study period, with 9 practices completing at least 4 recalls and 7 practices completing 1 to 3 recalls; 4 practices conducted no recalls. Common barriers reported included time constraints and executing all steps of the recalls. Practice costs per patient recalled ranged from $0.05 to more than $6 and were primarily driven by the type of personnel who performed recalls. The costs of creating a roster of current patients comprised nearly one-half of total labor costs. CONCLUSIONS Few private provider practices that we contacted were willing to participate in this study of IIS-based recall, and less than one-half of enrolled practices completed the desired 4 recall cycles in 12 months. Time constraints and other real-world problems should not be underestimated in determining the feasibility of practice-based immunization recall. Efforts to increase the use of a statewide IIS for recall in private practice settings should emphasize ongoing training and technical support to practice staff. Improved interoperability with electronic health record systems may foster practice-based recall by reducing the labor intensity of roster building and other recall activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J Dombkowski
- Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit, Division of General Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 48109-5456, USA.
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Assessing the burden of undeliverable immunization reminder and recall notifications. Prev Med 2011; 53:424-6. [PMID: 22001688 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2011.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2011] [Revised: 07/22/2011] [Accepted: 09/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the completeness and accuracy of parent contact information for the delivery of mailed reminder/recall notices using a statewide immunization information system (IIS). METHODS The Michigan Care Improvement Registry (MCIR) was used to generate reminder and recall notifications for children ages 6 months-19 years in Michigan (2008-2009). Mailed notifications were classified as being undeliverable if they were returned to the local health department (LHD) by the US Postal Service. RESULTS 20,377 notifications were mailed and 5182 (26%) were undeliverable. Undeliverable notification increased with age (reference, 6-18 months): 19-35 months (OR=1.27), 36-71 months (OR=3.03) and adolescents 11-19 years (OR=4.94). Children enrolled in Medicaid (OR=0.76) were less likely to have an undeliverable notification compared to their non-enrolled counterparts, but children who had previously received some (OR=1.07) or all vaccinations (OR=2.43) at an LHD were more likely to have an undeliverable notification. CONCLUSION Undeliverable reminder/recall notifications are most likely among adolescents. Efforts to identify alternate sources of parent contact information may be an important strategy to improve the successful delivery of reminder/recall notifications, especially for adolescents.
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Clark SJ, Butchart A, Kennedy A, Dombkowski KJ. Parents' experiences with and preferences for immunization reminder/recall technologies. Pediatrics 2011; 128:e1100-5. [PMID: 22007019 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2011-0270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe parents' experiences and preferences regarding the use of different communication modes for immunization reminder/recall messages. METHODS A cross-sectional, Internet-based survey of a nationally representative sample of parents of children 0 to 17 years of age was performed. Survey items included questions regarding previous receipt of reminder/recall notices; preferences for how to receive notices in the future; recentness of changes to home address, home telephone, cell phone, and e-mail information; child's usual site for immunization; and willingness to register cell phone numbers with the child's immunization provider to receive future cell phone or text messages about immunization. RESULTS Overall, 31% of parents had ever received an immunization reminder/recall notice, usually by mail. For future immunization messages, approximately one-third of parents preferred mail or calls to the home telephone, 16% preferred e-mail, and 8% preferred calls to a cell phone. More than one-half of parents had maintained the same home address, home telephone number, cell phone number, or e-mail address for the previous 3 years. More than one-half of parents were willing to register their cell phone numbers with their child's usual immunization provider. CONCLUSIONS Although most parents continue to prefer the traditional modes for immunization reminder/recall messages, 1 in 4 preferred newer technologies, and parents' e-mail and cell phone information was surprisingly stable. More than one-half of the parents were willing to register their cell phone numbers for future immunization messaging via cell phone calls or text messages. Research and implementation efforts might benefit from focusing on this willing population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Clark
- Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5456, USA.
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Design and development of a Telephone-Linked Care (TLC) system to reduce impulsivity among violent forensic outpatients and probationers. J Med Syst 2010; 36:1031-42. [PMID: 20721686 DOI: 10.1007/s10916-010-9565-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2010] [Accepted: 07/14/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Forensic services face the challenge of reducing relapse among clients with a history of violent crime. An automated interactive voice response (IVR) service of the complex Telephone-Linked Care (TLC) type, with a focus on reducing impulsivity, could improve the adequacy of service responses to client needs. Theoretically based in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), the forensic TLC system offers interactive conversations on coping with the emotions of anger, shame and loneliness; activities of daily life such as getting out of bed, asking for help, visiting social services and taking medication; and other areas such as hearing voices, drinking alcohol and self-critical thoughts. We describe the user's flow through the system, with an in-depth synopsis of the hearing voices intervention. Issues regarding voluntary versus mandatory use of the system are addressed in connection with prospective introduction of the system in forensic settings.
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Hambidge SJ, Phibbs SL, Chandramouli V, Fairclough D, Steiner JF. A stepped intervention increases well-child care and immunization rates in a disadvantaged population. Pediatrics 2009; 124:455-64. [PMID: 19651574 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2008-0446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test a stepped intervention of reminder/recall/case management to increase infant well-child visits and immunization rates. METHODS We conducted a randomized, controlled, practical, clinical trial with 811 infants born in an urban safety-net hospital and followed through 15 months of life. Step 1 (all infants) involved language-appropriate reminder postcards for every well-child visit. Step 2 (infants who missed an appointment or immunization) involved telephone reminders plus postcard and telephone recall. Step 3 (infants still behind on preventive care after steps 1 and 2) involved intensive case management and home visitation. RESULTS Infants in the intervention arm, compared with control infants, had significantly fewer days without immunization coverage in the first 15 months of life (109 vs 192 days P < .01) and were more likely to have >or=5 well-child visits (65% vs 47% P < .01). In multivariate analyses, infants in the intervention arm were more likely than control infants to be up to date with 12-month immunizations and to have had >or=5 well-child visits. The cost per child was $23.30 per month. CONCLUSION This stepped intervention of tracking and case management improved infant immunization status and receipt of preventive care in a population of high-risk urban infants of low socioeconomic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J Hambidge
- Denver Community Health Services, Denver Health, Denver,Colorado , USA 80204.
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Berlin A, Sorani M, Sim I. A taxonomic description of computer-based clinical decision support systems. J Biomed Inform 2006; 39:656-67. [PMID: 16442854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbi.2005.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2005] [Revised: 11/30/2005] [Accepted: 12/04/2005] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Computer-based clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) vary greatly in design and function. Using a taxonomy that we had previously developed, we describe the characteristics of CDSSs reported in the literature. METHODS We searched PubMed and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English between 1998 and 2003 that evaluated CDSSs. We coded each CDSS using our taxonomy. RESULTS 58 studies met our inclusion criteria. The 74 reported CDSSs varied greatly in context of use, knowledge and data sources, nature of decision support offered, information delivery, and workflow impact. Two distinct subsets of CDSSs were seen: patient-directed systems that provided decision support for preventive care or health-related behaviors via mail or phone (38% of systems), and inpatient systems targeting clinicians with online decision support and direct online execution of the recommendations (18%). 84% of the CDSSs required extra staffing for handling CDSS-related input or output. CONCLUSION Reported CDSSs are heterogeneous along many dimensions. Caution should be taken in generalizing the results of CDSS RCTs to different clinical or workflow settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Berlin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Shaw KM, Barker LE. How do caregivers know when to take their child for immunizations? BMC Pediatr 2005; 5:44. [PMID: 16316458 PMCID: PMC1314897 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2431-5-44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2005] [Accepted: 11/29/2005] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood vaccinations help reduce and eliminate many causes of morbidity and mortality among children. The objective of this study was to compare 4:3:1:3:3 (4+ doses of diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and pertussis vaccine, 3+ doses of poliovirus vaccine, 1+ doses of measles-containing vaccine, 3+ doses of Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine, and 3+ doses of hepatitis B vaccine) coverage among children whose caregivers learned by different methods when their child's most recent immunization was needed. METHODS Between July 2001 and December 2002, a portion of households receiving the National Immunization Survey were asked how they knew when to take the child in for his/her most recent immunization. Responses were post-coded into several categories: 'Doctor/nurse reminder at previous immunization visit', 'Shot card/record', 'Reminder/recall', and 'Other'. Respondents could give more than one answer. Children who did not receive any vaccines, had < or = 1 visits for vaccinations, or whose caregiver did not provide an answer to the question were excluded from analyses. Chi-square analyses were used to compare 4:3:1:3:3 coverage among 19-35 month old children. RESULTS Children whose caregivers indicated that a doctor/nurse told them at a previous immunization visit when to return for the next immunization had significantly greater 4:3:1:3:3 coverage than those who did not choose the response (77.2% vs. 70.1%, p < 0.01). However, no significant difference in coverage was found between households that did/did not indicate that reminder/recalls (71.0% vs. 75.5%, p = 0.24) helped them remember when to take their child for their most recent immunization visit; only borderline significance was found between those that did/did not choose shot cards (70.6% vs. 76.2%, p = 0.07). CONCLUSION A doctor or nurse's reminder during an immunization visit of the next scheduled immunization visit effectively encourages caregivers to bring children in for immunizations, providing an inexpensive and easy way to effectively increase immunization coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate M Shaw
- National Immunization Program Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lawrence E Barker
- National Immunization Program Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Atlanta, Georgia
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Vassilev ZP, Marcus SM, Jennis T, Ruck B, Rego G. Assessment of the utilization of a state AIDS/STD hotline by persons with and without HIV infection and their information needs. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2005; 19:684-9. [PMID: 16232052 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2005.19.684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A large number of AIDS/sexually transmitted disease (STD) helplines provide support to people seeking information how to avoid infection with HIV or how to deal with the infection if they have already contracted it. Nevertheless, limited knowledge is available about how such helplines are being utilized by different segments of the population and what the main concerns of the people calling the helplines are. The goal of this study was to evaluate the use of the State AIDS/STD Hotline in New Jersey and describe the information needs of its callers. Callers were categorized as either having HIV or being free of the virus based on their self-reported HIV status. A cross-sectional design was then used combining caller information from the New Jersey AIDS/STD Hotline with data from the state health department on the number of people living with HIV in each county in New Jersey. The utilization rate of the New Jersey AIDS/STD Hotline was significantly higher among persons with HIV infection compared to the utilization rate among persons who were either free of the virus or unaware of their HIV status. The callers infected with HIV differed significantly from the rest of the callers in terms of the type of information they requested. While callers who had the infection were most likely to ask about treatment options, financial assistance, and support groups, the rest of the callers were more likely to inquire about testing site location and prevention information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zdravko P Vassilev
- New Jersey Poison Information and Education System, Newark, New Jersey 07107, USA.
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Vassilev ZP, Marcus SM, Jennis T, Ruck B, Rego G. Assessment of the Utilization of a State AIDS/STD Hotline by Persons With and Without HIV Infection and Their Information Needs. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2005. [DOI: 10.1089/apc.2005.19.898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Corkrey R, Parkinson L, Bates L. Pressing the key pad: trial of a novel approach to health promotion advice. Prev Med 2005; 41:657-66. [PMID: 15917066 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2004.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2004] [Revised: 11/29/2004] [Accepted: 12/29/2004] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A relatively simple procedure, the Pap test, is effective in detecting early changes in the cervix; however, many at-risk women, even in developed countries, do not have regular Pap tests. METHODS A randomized controlled trial of an interactive voice response (IVR) cervical screening brief advice involving 17,008 households is described. The IVR system automatically made calls to households and explained the nature of the call; selected one eligible woman aged 18-69 years; determined her screening status; delivered a message appropriate to her screening status; offered additional messages to counter common barriers; offered additional information on cervical screening and cancer; offered additional contact numbers; and offered to arrange for someone to call back. Cervical screening rate data were obtained from the Australian Health Insurance Commission (HIC) for 6 months before and following the intervention. RESULTS The cervical screening rate was found to have increased by 0.43% in intervention compared to the control postcodes, and the increase was greater for older women at 1.34%. CONCLUSIONS The overall conclusion was that IVR technology was a feasible means to contact women to deliver brief interventions aimed at increasing cervical screening rates and could economically target at-risk groups. The potential for linking IVR to centralized Pap test Registers to issue Pap test reminders should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Corkrey
- Lighthouse Field Station, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Cromarty, Rossshire, Scotland IV11 8YJ, UK.
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Kempe A, Beaty BL, Steiner JF, Pearson KA, Lowery NE, Daley MF, Crane LA, Berman S. The regional immunization registry as a public health tool for improving clinical practice and guiding immunization delivery policy. Am J Public Health 2004; 94:967-72. [PMID: 15249300 PMCID: PMC1448374 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.94.6.967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2003] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We assessed the distribution of immunization records among 3 health care delivery sectors and the impact of a regional immunization registry on "up to date" rates. METHODS Immunization registry records in 2 regions were categorized as having originated in private practices, community health centers, or public health clinics. "Up to date" rates were calculated after we sequentially added immunization records from the 3 sectors. RESULTS The percentage of children with immunizations documented in multiple sectors increased with age from 7 to 24 months, and children who were seen in multiple sectors were more likely to be up to date. There were relative increases in "up to date" rates of 50% for children aged 24 months. CONCLUSIONS The regional immunization registry is a powerful public health tool for increasing documented "up to date" rates and providing insights into patterns of immunization delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Kempe
- The Children's Hospital, 1056 E 19th Avenue, B032, Denver, CO 80218, USA.
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Hinman AR, Orenstein WA, Papania MJ. Evolution of Measles Elimination Strategies in the United States. J Infect Dis 2004; 189 Suppl 1:S17-22. [PMID: 15106084 DOI: 10.1086/377694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
There have been 3 efforts to eliminate measles from the United States since the introduction of measles vaccine in 1963. To date, 10 major lessons have been learned from elimination efforts. First, elimination requires very high vaccination-coverage levels by age 2 years. Second, school immunization requirements ensure high coverage rates among schoolchildren. Third, a second dose of measles vaccine is needed to achieve satisfactory levels of immunity. Fourth, school immunization requirements can also ensure delivery of a second dose. Fifth, coverage assessment is crucial. Sixth, measles surveillance is critical for developing, evaluating, and refining elimination strategies. Seventh, surveillance requires laboratory backup to confirm a diagnosis. Eighth, tracking measles virus genotypes is critical to determining if an endemic strain is circulating. Ninth, once endemic transmission has been interrupted, internationally imported measles cases will continue and will cause small outbreaks. Tenth, collaborative efforts with other countries are essential to reduce imported measles cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan R Hinman
- Task Force for Child Survival and Development, Decatur, Georgia 30030, USA.
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Vilella A, Bayas JM, Diaz MT, Guinovart C, Diez C, Simó D, Muñoz A, Cerezo J. The role of mobile phones in improving vaccination rates in travelers. Prev Med 2004; 38:503-9. [PMID: 15020186 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2003.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Noncompliance with vaccination schedules undermines the potential benefits of immunization. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a reminder of the next vaccine dose sent by the Short Messaging Service (SMS) to the vaccinee's mobile phone increases compliance with hepatitis A + B and hepatitis A vaccination schedule. SUBJECTS AND METHODS In this experimental, controlled study, the study group comprised travelers who went to the Internacional-Clínic Vaccination Centre between the 1st June and 30th September of 2001 for the standard immunization schedule against hepatitis A + B and against hepatitis A. Trained health-care workers entered the data into a computer to generate text messages reminding vaccinees of their scheduled doses. Two control groups, one from the same period of the same year including travelers from the third office (Control 2001) and the second, all travelers seen in the same period of the previous year (Control 2000), were used. RESULTS For the second hepatitis A + B dose, compliance in the study group (Message Groups) was 88.4% (83.3-92.2); in the Control 2001, 80.7% (76.3-84.4, relative risk [RR] 1.10 [1.02-1.17]); and in the Control 2000, 77.2% (73.3-80.5, RR 1.15 [1.07-1.22]). For the third hepatitis A + B vaccine dose, results were 47.1% (40.5-53.8); 26.9% (22.8-31.7, RR 1.75 [1.41-2.17]); and 23.6% (20.1-27.4, RR 2.00 [1.63-2.45]), respectively. As for the hepatitis A vaccine, compliance rates for the second dose were 27.7% (23.9-31.9); 16.4% (14.4-18.6, RR 1.69 [1.40-2.04]); and 13.2% (11.6-14.9, RR 2.10 [1.75-2.54]); respectively. CONCLUSIONS SMS seems to be an effective tool for increasing compliance with vaccination schedules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Vilella
- Adults Vaccination Centre, Preventive Medicine Department, UASP IDIBAPS, Clínic Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin B Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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Daley MF, Steiner JF, Brayden RM, Xu S, Morrison S, Kempe A. Immunization registry-based recall for a new vaccine. AMBULATORY PEDIATRICS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMBULATORY PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATION 2002; 2:438-43. [PMID: 12437389 DOI: 10.1367/1539-4409(2002)002<0438:irbrfa>2.0.co;2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunization recall for specific vaccines may be necessary to "catch up" children with newly available vaccines or recall children after vaccine shortages. The extent to which immunization registry-based recall can increase immunization rates for a new vaccine has not been prospectively studied. OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy of letter/telephone recall for immunization with pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) in an economically disadvantaged urban population. DESIGN/METHODS Randomized controlled trial at an inner-city teaching hospital. Using an immunization registry, we randomly assigned children aged 6 weeks to 22 months unimmunized for PCV7 to an intervention group (n = 610) or a control group (n = 624). The intervention consisted of letter and telephone recall for PCV7 vaccination. Two months after intervention, receipt of 1 or more doses of PCV7 was assessed. Intention-to-treat analysis was used. RESULTS We were unable to successfully contact 42.3% of the intervention subjects by mail and telephone. In the intervention group, 23.0% (140 children) received PCV7 within 2 months compared with 20.2% (126 children) in the control group (P = NS). No intervention effect was evident when children were stratified by age. A large proportion of the study population had Medicaid insurance (51.2%) or were uninsured (28.5%), but response to PCV7 recall did not vary by insurance status. CONCLUSIONS Letter and telephone recall for PCV7 vaccine did not significantly increase the rate of PCV7 immunization in an inner-city teaching hospital serving a disadvantaged population. The effectiveness of recall appears to have been limited by the inability to reach many subjects by mail and telephone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew F Daley
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, The Children's Hospital, Denver 80218, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Part of the payoff of immunization registries may be to lower costs of immunization intervention. However, registry-based intervention costs have not been evaluated in a community setting. METHODS The purpose of this study was to prospectively measure the cost of three equally effective registry-based interventions, evaluate how the size of the targeted population affects cost estimates, and compare these results with previously reported studies. A total of 3050 children aged <12 months were randomized to one of four study arms: (1) computer-generated telephone messages (autodialer), (2) outreach worker, (3) autodialer with outreach worker backup, or (4) usual care. The cost data collected included capital equipment, supplies, travel, and personnel. RESULTS Monthly costs of the three registry-based intervention types were (1) autodialer, $1.34 per child; (2) outreach worker, $1.87 per child, and (3) combination, $2.76 per child. Personnel costs represented the majority of incremental costs for all three interventions. Increasing the number of children targeted sharply decreased the cost per child for the autodialer but had only a modest effect on outreach costs. The monthly costs for outreach were substantially lower than previously reported for nonregistry-based interventions in part because of differences in the number of children who were followed up. Monthly costs for the autodialer intervention were slightly higher than previously reported, but several published studies excluded important costs. CONCLUSIONS By facilitating the management of a larger cohort of children, some registry-based immunization interventions appear to be less costly than nonregistry interventions. Further work is needed to establish whether registry maintenance costs may be recouped in part by these savings.
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Affiliation(s)
- K J Rask
- Division of General Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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