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Sharma RK, Krishnapura SG, Ceremsak J, Gallant JN, Benedetti DJ, Borinstein SC, Belcher RH. Disparities in pediatric parotid cancer treatment and presentation: A National study. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2024; 185:112077. [PMID: 39217865 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2024.112077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although parotid gland malignancies are uncommon, they nevertheless represent a cause of morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population. Few studies have sought to identify disparities related to their presentation, treatment, and survival. There is a need to understand these variations to improve care for historically underrepresented groups. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective Cohort Study. SETTING Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program Database. METHODS Analysis of pediatric patients with parotid gland malignancies between 2000 and 2019. Race and ethnicity were classified as Non-Hispanic White, Non-Hispanic Black, Asian, and Hispanic for multivariable analysis. Outcomes included tumor size and stage at diagnosis, survival, and need for facial nerve sacrifice. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to analyze survival. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify predictors of outcomes. RESULTS 149 patients met the criteria for inclusion. Stratified by race/ethnicity, Non-Hispanic Black (Median 23 mm, IQR 15-33), Asian (30 mm, 14-32), and Hispanic (23 mm, 20-28) patients had larger tumors at presentation than Non-Hispanic White patients (18 mm, 12-25, p = 0.017). Disease-specific survival differed by time-to-treatment (log-rank, p = 0.01) and overall survival differed by income (p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, Hispanic patients were more likely to experience facial nerve sacrifice (OR 3.71, 95%CI 1.25-11.6, p = 0.020), and Non-Hispanic Black (OR 3.37, 0.95-11.6, = 0.053) and Asian (OR 5.67, 1.46-22.2, p = 0.011) patients presented with larger tumors compared to Non-Hispanic White patients. CONCLUSIONS Variations in presentation and treatment exist across race and ethnicity in pediatric parotid cancer. Identifying these disparities may help improve access and outcomes for underserved patient populations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul K Sharma
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | | | - John Ceremsak
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jean-Nicolas Gallant
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Daniel J Benedetti
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Scott C Borinstein
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ryan H Belcher
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Monroe Carrell Jr. Children's Hospital, Nashville, TN, USA.
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Hoffman A, Alvandi LM, Gjonbalaj E, Lo Y, Badrinath R, Fornari ED, Karkenny AJ. Child Opportunity Index and Diagnosis of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: Insights From a Children's Hospital Serving Disadvantaged Communities. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2024; 32:807-813. [PMID: 38861723 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-24-00417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Initiation of Pavlik harness treatment for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) by 6 to 7 weeks of age predicts a higher rate of success. Child Opportunity Index (COI) 2.0 is a single metric designed to measure resources and conditions affecting children's healthy development. This study investigates COI in relation to the timing of DDH diagnosis. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study on patients younger than 4 years diagnosed with DDH between 2016 and 2023, treated with a Pavlik harness, rigid hip abduction orthosis, and/or surgery. Demographic and clinical data were recorded, including date of first diagnostic imaging. Patients with syndromes, congenital anomalies, or neuromuscular disorders and those referred with an unknown date of first diagnostic imaging were excluded. A subgroup analysis of patients diagnosed at ≤6 weeks ("early") and >6 weeks ("late") was conducted. Statewide COI scores (total, three domains) and categorical quintile scores (very low, low, moderate, high, and very high) were recorded. RESULTS A total of 115 patients were included: 90 female infants (78%), with a median age of 32 days at diagnostic imaging. No notable difference was observed between median age at diagnosis for study patients in low or very low quintiles and those in moderate, high, or very high quintiles for COI total or domains. "Early" and "late" diagnosis subgroups did not differ markedly by COI total or domains, nor insurance type, race, or ethnicity. Subgroups differed markedly by race and insurance status. DISCUSSION In an urban children's hospital, COI did not differ markedly between patients diagnosed with DDH by ≤6 weeks and >6 weeks. This is the first study to pose this question on DDH in a population with predominantly low/very low COI scores and public insurance, which may lead to unexpected results. Replicating the study in a different setting could yield different results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Hoffman
- From the Albert Einstein College of Medicine (Hoffman, Lo), Montefiore-Einstein and The Children's Hospital at Montefiore (Alvandi,Gjonbalaj, Fornari, Karkenny), and Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY (Badrinath)
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Bent MA, Rethlefsen S, Beltran V, Wren T. Comprehensive computerized gait analysis: Barriers to access for children and adolescents. Gait Posture 2024; 113:319-323. [PMID: 39002267 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2024.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comprehensive computerized gait analysis (CGA) alters orthopedic surgical plans and improves outcomes. Despite these documented benefits, CGA is not widely available to all patients who could be helped by it. RESEARCH QUESTION Do social determinants of health impact access to CGA? METHODS Retrospective review of patients seen for CGA from 2021 to 2022. Dates of referral, insurance approval and completion of CGA, demographics and insurance type were extracted from patient records. Zip codes were used to determine the neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES). Data were analyzed using non-parametric statistics. RESULTS Insurance type affected time to authorization (private insurance/self-pay: median 9 days; HMO insurance: median 51.5 days; public insurance: median 27 days; p=0.0004). Once authorized, insurance type did not affect time to schedule and complete CGA (p=0.76). Lower neighborhood SES was associated with longer time to authorization but shorter time to complete CGA once authorized. Rescheduling was associated with longer time to complete CGA once authorized (median 29.5 vs. 16 days, p<0.0001). White, non-Hispanic families tended to reschedule more often than non-white or Hispanic families (35 % vs. 18 %, p=0.07). SIGNIFICANCE Knowledge of barriers to CGA is necessary in order to design and implement effective strategies to widen its availability to all whom it could benefit. Social determinants of health and insurance type are associated with delays in authorization for CGA. Families with public insurance and HMO coverage experience delays in obtaining insurance authorization compared to PPO/self-pay patients, whose tests did not require prior authorization. However, there can also be delays in scheduling and completing CGA once authorized. This is a multi-faceted issue that requires further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A Bent
- Jackie and Gene Autry Orthopedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, USA; Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Susan Rethlefsen
- Jackie and Gene Autry Orthopedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Veronica Beltran
- Jackie and Gene Autry Orthopedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Tishya Wren
- Jackie and Gene Autry Orthopedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, USA; Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA.
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Kreider AR, Layton TJ, Shepard M, Wallace J. Adverse selection and network design under regulated plan prices: Evidence from Medicaid. JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS 2024; 97:102901. [PMID: 38944945 PMCID: PMC11392643 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2024.102901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Health plans for the poor increasingly limit access to specialty hospitals. We investigate the role of adverse selection in generating this equilibrium among private plans in Medicaid. Studying a network change, we find that covering a top cancer hospital causes severe adverse selection, increasing demand for a plan by 50% among enrollees with cancer versus no impact for others. Medicaid's fixed insurer payments make offsetting this selection, and the contract distortions it induces, challenging, requiring either infeasibly high payment rates or near-perfect risk adjustment. By contrast, a small explicit bonus for covering the hospital is sufficient to make coverage profitable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mark Shepard
- Harvard University and NBER, United States of America.
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Belza CC, Sheahan L, Becker M, Gosman AA. Geospatial and Socioeconomic Disparities Influencing the Management and Outcomes of Nonsyndromic Craniosynostosis: A Systematic Review. J Craniofac Surg 2024; 35:1334-1337. [PMID: 39042067 DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000010162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Geospatial and socioeconomic health disparities are potential barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis. This systematic review aims to assess published literature describing disparities in craniosynostosis care and to summarize the findings surrounding patient proximity to care centers and familial socioeconomic status as predictors of surgical management and outcomes. The data sources used include PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar. The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist was used for appraisal of the quality of the studies included. Generally, the literature reviewed suggested that socioeconomic variables including race, insurance payor, and median zip code income quartile are predictors of suboptimal craniosynostosis surgical management outcomes including older age at time of surgery and more invasive surgical approach performed. The only geospatial data element assessed was the general region of the hospital where the patient was treated. The review highlighted various knowledge gaps within published literature describing health-related disparities in patients with craniosynostosis. There is a paucity of research assessing geospatial access to craniosynostosis care centers, suggesting that further research should be performed to evaluate this potential disparity. In addition, previous studies lack granularity when assessing socioeconomic factors and only one study accounted for suture fused, which is a potential confounding variable across the other published work. These considerations should be addressed in future studies addressing this topic. The limitations of this review include potential publication bias given that unpublished work was not included. An element of reviewer bias also exists considering only one reviewer screened the articles and extracted the data.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucy Sheahan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | | | - Amanda A Gosman
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
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Tessier-Kay M, Beltrami E, Sinha S, Feng H. Characteristics of board-certified pediatric dermatologists accepting Medicaid. Pediatr Dermatol 2024. [PMID: 38887825 DOI: 10.1111/pde.15656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
A current shortage of pediatric dermatologists limits access to dermatologic care among the pediatric population, yet comprehensive and updated data are lacking regarding access among the pediatric Medicaid population. This cross-sectional study characterized Medicaid acceptance among actively practicing board-certified pediatric dermatologists in the United States and revealed that of the 352 physicians compiled, 275 (78.1%) accept Medicaid. Significant differences in Medicaid acceptance status were observed based on practice type, region of practice, practice county median household income, and density of pediatric dermatologists. While the majority of practicing board-certified pediatric dermatologists accept Medicaid, our findings suggest that differences in access to Medicaid-accepting pediatric dermatologists exist based on practice type, geographic location, and density of pediatric dermatologists per county.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Tessier-Kay
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Eric Beltrami
- Department of Medicine, Eastern Connecticut Health Network, Manchester, Connecticut, USA
| | - Shivani Sinha
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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Watson RR, Niedziela CJ, Nuzzi LC, Netson RA, McNamara CT, Ayannusi AE, Flanagan S, Massey GG, Labow BI. Impact of Insurance Type on Access to Pediatric Surgical Care. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2024; 12:e5831. [PMID: 38798939 PMCID: PMC11124593 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Background This study aimed to measure the impact of insurance type on access to pediatric surgical care, clinical and surgical scheduling decisions, provider-driven cancelations, and missed care opportunities (MCOs). We hypothesize that patients with public health insurance experience longer scheduling delays and more frequently canceled surgical appointments compared with patients with private health insurance. Methods This retrospective study reviewed the demographics and clinical characteristics of patients who underwent a surgical procedure within the plastic and oral surgery department at our institution in 2019. Propensity score matching and linear regressions were used to estimate the effect of insurance type on hospital scheduling and patient access outcomes while controlling for procedure type and sex. Results A total of 457 patients were included in the demographic and clinical characteristics analyses; 354 were included in propensity score matching analyses. No significant differences in the number of days between scheduling and occurrence of initial consultation or number of clinic cancelations were observed between insurance groups (P > 0.05). However, patients with public insurance had a 7.4 times higher hospital MCO rate (95% CI [5.2-9.7]; P < 0.001) and 4.7 times the number of clinic MCOs (P = 0.007). Conclusions No significant differences were found between insurance groups in timely access to surgical treatment or cancelations. Patients with public insurance had more MCOs than patients with private insurance. Future research should investigate how to remove barriers that impact access to care for marginalized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel R. Watson
- From the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Cassi J. Niedziela
- From the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Laura C. Nuzzi
- From the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Rebecca A. Netson
- From the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Catherine T. McNamara
- From the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Anuoluwa E. Ayannusi
- From the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Sarah Flanagan
- From the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Gabrielle G. Massey
- From the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Brian I. Labow
- From the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
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Adams DR, Pérez-Flores NJ, Mabrouk F, Minor C. Assessing Access to Trauma-Informed Outpatient Mental Health Services for Adolescents: A Mystery Shopper Study. Psychiatr Serv 2024; 75:402-409. [PMID: 38018150 PMCID: PMC11062805 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.20230198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The authors aimed to examine how access to trauma-informed mental health services in safety-net health centers varies by insurance type and race-ethnicity of the care seeker. METHODS In this mystery shopper study, three women (White, Latina, and Black voice actresses) called community mental health centers (CMHCs) and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) (N=229) in Cook County, Illinois, posing as mothers requesting a mental health appointment for their traumatized adolescent child. Each health center was called twice-once in the spring and once in the summer of 2021-with alternating insurance types reported (Medicaid or private insurance). Ability to schedule an appointment, barriers to access, wait times, and availability of trauma-specific treatment were assessed. RESULTS Callers could schedule an appointment in only 17% (N=78 of 451) of contacts. Reasons for appointment denial varied by organization type: the primary reasons for denial were capacity constraints (67%) at CMHCs and administrative requirements to switch to in-network primary care providers (62%) at FQHCs. Insurance and organization type did not predict successful appointment scheduling. Non-White callers were significantly less likely (incidence rate ratio=1.18) to be offered an appointment than the White caller (p=0.019). The average wait time was 12 days; CMHCs had significantly shorter wait times than FQHCs (p=0.019). Only 38% of schedulers reported that their health center offered trauma-informed therapy. CONCLUSIONS Fewer than one in five contacts resulted in a mental health appointment, and an apparent bias against non-White callers raises concern that racial discrimination may occur during scheduling. For equitable access to care, antidiscrimination policies should be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle R Adams
- Center for Mental Health Services Research, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis (Adams, Pérez-Flores); Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York City (Mabrouk); American Blues Theater, Chicago (Minor)
| | - Nancy Jacquelyn Pérez-Flores
- Center for Mental Health Services Research, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis (Adams, Pérez-Flores); Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York City (Mabrouk); American Blues Theater, Chicago (Minor)
| | - Fatima Mabrouk
- Center for Mental Health Services Research, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis (Adams, Pérez-Flores); Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York City (Mabrouk); American Blues Theater, Chicago (Minor)
| | - Carolyn Minor
- Center for Mental Health Services Research, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis (Adams, Pérez-Flores); Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York City (Mabrouk); American Blues Theater, Chicago (Minor)
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Kalluri AL, Jiang K, Abu-Bonsrah N, Ammar A, Reynolds R, Alomari S, Odonkor MN, Bhimreddy M, Ram N, Robinson S, Akbari SHA, Groves ML. Socioeconomic characteristics and postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing prenatal vs. postnatal repair of myelomeningoceles. Childs Nerv Syst 2024; 40:1177-1184. [PMID: 38133684 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-06254-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate differences in sociodemographic characteristics and short-term outcomes between patients undergoing prenatal versus postnatal myelomeningocele repair. METHODS Patients who underwent myelomeningocele repair at our institution were stratified based on prenatal or postnatal timing of repair. Baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify whether prenatal repair was a predictor of outcomes independent of socioeconomic measures. RESULTS 49 patients underwent postnatal repair, and 30 underwent prenatal repair. Patients who underwent prenatal repair were more likely to have private insurance (73.3% vs. 42.9%, p = 0.03) and live farther from the hospital where they received their repair (251.5 ± 447.4 vs. 72.5 ± 205.6 miles, p = 0.02). Patients who underwent prenatal repair had shorter hospital stays (14.3 ± 22.7 days vs. 25.3 ± 20.1 days, p = 0.03), fewer complications (13.8% vs. 42.9%, p = 0.01), fewer 30-day ED visits (0.0% vs. 34.0%, p < 0.001), lower CSF diversion rates (13.8% vs. 38.8%, p = 0.02), and better functional status at 3-months (13.3% vs. 57.1% delayed, p = 0.009), 6-months (20.0% vs. 56.7% delayed, p = 0.03), and 1-year (29.4% vs. 70.6% delayed, p = 0.007). On multivariate analysis, prenatal repair was an independent predictor of inpatient complication (OR(95%CI): 0.19(0.05-0.75), p = 0.02) and 3-month (OR(95%CI): 0.14(0.03-0.80) p = 0.03), 6-month (OR(95%CI): 0.12(0.02-0.73), p = 0.02), and 1-year (OR(95%CI): 0.19(0.05-0.80), p = 0.02) functional status. CONCLUSION Prenatal repair for myelomeningocele is associated with better outcomes and developmental functional status. However, patients receiving prenatal closure are more likely to have private health insurance and live farther from the hospital, suggesting potential barriers to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita L Kalluri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Kelly Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Nancy Abu-Bonsrah
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
| | - Adam Ammar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Rebecca Reynolds
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Safwan Alomari
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Michelle N Odonkor
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Meghana Bhimreddy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Natasha Ram
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Shenandoah Robinson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Syed Hassan A Akbari
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Mari L Groves
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
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Chehade M, McGowan EC, Wright BL, Muir AB, Klion AD, Furuta GT, Jensen ET, Bailey DD. Barriers to Timely Diagnosis of Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:302-308. [PMID: 38110118 PMCID: PMC10988285 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2023.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Although eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases, including eosinophilic esophagitis, have been described over the past 2 to 3 decades, barriers to diagnosis and treatment are common and compounded by issues related to social determinants of health, race, ethnicity, and access to care. These barriers contribute to delays in diagnosis, resulting in persistent inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, which can have significant consequences, including fibrostenotic complications in adults, failure to thrive in children, and decreased quality of life in all affected patients. In this commentary, we summarize gaps in knowledge regarding the epidemiology of eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases, highlight barriers to diagnosis, discuss potential approaches based on best practices in other atopic and chronic gastrointestinal diseases, and provide recommendations for reducing barriers to timely diagnosis of eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases in underserved populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirna Chehade
- Mount Sinai Center for Eosinophilic Disorders, Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY.
| | - Emily C McGowan
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va
| | - Benjamin L Wright
- Division of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ; Section of Allergy and Immunology, Division of Pulmonology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ
| | - Amanda B Muir
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa
| | - Amy D Klion
- Human Eosinophil Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md
| | - Glenn T Furuta
- Digestive Health Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colo; Gastrointestinal Eosinophilic Diseases Program, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colo
| | - Elizabeth T Jensen
- Departments of Epidemiology and Prevention and Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Dominique D Bailey
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, New York, NY
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Wentzel S, Craft A, Onwuka A, Lind M. Racial, ethnic and language disparities in healthcare utilization in pediatric patients following tonsillectomy. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2024; 176:111805. [PMID: 38043184 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2023.111805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures performed in the United States. However, there is little known about the intersectionality of race, ethnicity, and language and how these factors influence post-tonsillectomy outcomes such as ED utilization and hospital readmission rates. OBJECTIVE To examine disparities in emergency department (ED) utilization and hospital readmissions for post-tonsillectomy complications based on insurance status, patient race, ethnicity and language spoken. DESIGN This was retrospective cohort over four years. SETTING Tertiary Care Children's Hospital. PARTICIPANTS All children (n = 10,215) who underwent tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy at a tertiary children's hospital from January 2015 to December 2018 were identified and included. There were no exclusion criteria. EXPOSURE The exposure of interest was tonsillectomy. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Outcomes and variables of interest were defined prior to data collection. The primary outcome of this study was emergency department (ED) utilization defined as any ED or urgent care visit within 21 days of the tonsillectomy for surgery-related concerns. The secondary outcome of this study was readmissions following tonsillectomy. RESULTS A total of 10215 pediatric patients (median age, 6 years; 5096 [50 %] male) who underwent tonsillectomy were included in the analysis. 13 % of patients presented to the ED with surgery-related complaints. Among English proficient patients, multi-racial patients were the only group with an elevated odds of ED utilization (OR:1.5, 95 % CI: 1.2, 1.9). Non-English language preference (NELP) patients of Black, Hispanic, Asian, and American Indian/Alaskan Native race/ethnicity also had elevated odds of ED use post-tonsillectomy compared to non-Hispanic White English proficient patients. Six percent of all patients had an unplanned hospital readmission. Asian patients with non-English language preference had 2.1 times the odds of readmission (95 % CI: 1.2, 3.6); and were disproportionately admitted for post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage. CONCLUSIONS and Relevance: Language disparities in ED use and readmission persist after adjusting for risk factors. Non-English language preference populations have a higher rate of ED utilization, especially for minor complications. Disparities may result from differential health literacy or predispositions to complications. Future directions include additional research on mechanisms and targeted interventions to increase education and access to language-appropriate resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Wentzel
- Medical Student Research Program, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Aaron Craft
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Amanda Onwuka
- Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Meredith Lind
- Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Bailey K, Avolio J, Lo L, Gajaria A, Mooney S, Greer K, Martens H, Tami P, Pidduck J, Cunningham J, Munce S, Toulany A. Social and Structural Drivers of Health and Transition to Adult Care. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2023062275. [PMID: 38084099 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-062275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/02/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Youth with chronic health conditions experience challenges during their transition to adult care. Those with marginalized identities likely experience further disparities in care as they navigate structural barriers throughout transition. OBJECTIVES This scoping review aims to identify the social and structural drivers of health (SSDOH) associated with outcomes for youth transitioning to adult care, particularly those who experience structural marginalization, including Black, Indigenous, and 2-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, and others youth. DATA SOURCES Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were searched from earliest available date to May 2022. STUDY SELECTION Two reviewers screened titles and abstracts, followed by full-text. Disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. Primary research studying the association between SSDOH and transition outcomes were included. DATA EXTRACTION SSDOH were subcategorized as social drivers, structural drivers, and demographic characteristics. Transition outcomes were classified into themes. Associations between SSDOH and outcomes were assessed according to their statistical significance and were categorized into significant (P < .05), nonsignificant (P > .05), and unclear significance. RESULTS 101 studies were included, identifying 12 social drivers (childhood environment, income, education, employment, health literacy, insurance, geographic location, language, immigration, food security, psychosocial stressors, and stigma) and 5 demographic characteristics (race and ethnicity, gender, illness type, illness severity, and comorbidity). No structural drivers were studied. Gender was significantly associated with communication, quality of life, transfer satisfaction, transfer completion, and transfer timing, and race and ethnicity with appointment keeping and transfer completion. LIMITATIONS Studies were heterogeneous and a meta-analysis was not possible. CONCLUSIONS Gender and race and ethnicity are associated with inequities in transition outcomes. Understanding these associations is crucial in informing transition interventions and mitigating health inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Bailey
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation
| | | | - Lisha Lo
- Centre for Quality Improvement and Patient Safety
| | - Amy Gajaria
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth, and Family Mental Health, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah Mooney
- Stollery Children's Hospital, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Alberta Strategy for Patient Oriented Research Support Unit
- Faculty of Nursing, Grant MacEwan University, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Katelyn Greer
- Alberta Strategy for Patient Oriented Research Support Unit
| | - Heather Martens
- Patient and Community Engagement Research (PaCER) Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta,Canada
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- KickStand, Mental Health Foundation, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Perrine Tami
- Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Sarah Munce
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
- KITE, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alene Toulany
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Child Health and Evaluative Sciences, Sickkids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Hu JC, Cummings JR, Ji X, Wilk AS. State-Level Variation in Medicaid Managed Care Enrollment and Specialty Care for Publicly Insured Children. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2336415. [PMID: 37796501 PMCID: PMC10556966 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.36415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program cover almost 50% of children with special health care needs (CSHCN). CSHCN often require specialty services and have been increasingly enrolled in Medicaid managed care (MMC) plans, but there is a dearth of recent national studies on specialty care access among publicly insured children and particularly CSHCN. Objective To provide recent, nationwide evidence on the association of MMC penetration with specialty care access among publicly insured children, with a special focus on CSHCN. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study used nationally representative data from the 2016 to 2019 National Survey of Children's Health to identify publicly insured children in 41 states that administered comprehensive managed care organizations for Medicaid. Data analysis was performed from May 2022 to March 2023. Exposure Form CMS-416 data were used to measure state-year level share of Medicaid-enrolled children who were covered by MMC (ie, MMC penetration). Main Outcomes and Measures Measures of specialty care access included whether, in the past year, the child had (1) any visit to non-mental health (MH) specialists, (2) any visit to MH professionals, and (3) any unmet health care needs and (4) whether the caregiver ever felt frustrated getting services for their child. Logistic regression models were used to examine the association of MMC penetration with specialty care access among all publicly insured children, and separately for CSHCN and non-CSHCN. Results Among 20 029 publicly insured children, 7164 (35.8%) were CSHCN, 9537 (48.2%) were female, 4110 (37.2%) were caregiver-reported Hispanic, and 2812 (21.4%) were caregiver-reported non-Hispanic Black (all percentages are weighted). MMC was not associated with significant changes in any visit to non-MH specialists and unmet health care needs. In addition, MMC penetration was positively associated with caregiver frustration among all children (adjusted odds ratio, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.03-1.48; P = .02) and was negatively associated with any visit to MH professionals among CSHCN (adjusted odds ratio, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.58-0.98; P = .04). Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study evaluating MMC and specialty care access for publicly insured children, increased MMC enrollment was not associated with improved specialty care access for publicly insured children, including CSHCN. MMC was associated with less access to specialties like MH and increased frustrations among caregivers seeking services for their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Chen Hu
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Now with Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Janet R. Cummings
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Xu Ji
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Adam S. Wilk
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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14
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Fattahi CB, Purkayastha A, Roychowdhury P, Kamil SH, Sobin L. Impacts of health insurance on tympanostomy tube outcomes in the pediatric population. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2023; 173:111715. [PMID: 37659379 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2023.111715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Tympanostomy tube (TT) placement is a common surgical procedure for treating pediatric patients with chronic otitis media with effusion (COME) with or without recurrent acute otitis media (rAOM). Prior work suggests children from low-income families face significant disparities in access to care for rAOM or COME. The impact of these health disparities in the care of children with rAOM or COME has yet to be investigated in a state with an expanded public health insurance model. We seek to examine differences in care for patients with rAOM and COME based on insurance status and socioeconomic status (SES) in Massachusetts. METHODS Retrospective review of 560 pediatric patients referred for TT insertion at a tertiary academic medical center between 2017 and 2019. Demographic data collected included age, ethnicity, insurance type (public, private, none) and zip code. Otologic history collected included prior AOM episodes, time to postoperative follow-up, postoperative "no-show" appointments, and number of postoperative audiograms. Multinomial logistic regression was used to isolate the effects of race and ethnicity. RESULTS We found no major differences in preoperative outcome measures between cohorts. Postoperatively, public insurance was independently associated with decreased odds of undergoing an audiogram (OR 0.35, 95% Cl 0.16-0.76) and increased odds of "no-showing" for an appointment (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.8-5.3). SES was not independently associated with differences in postoperative outcomes. CONCLUSION In a state with an early expanded public health insurance model, access to care for rAOM and COME is comparable despite differences in insurance type and SES. However, enrollment in public health insurance is associated with worse measures of follow up care. Despite improvements in access to care with expanded health insurance models, retention continues to be a challenge for vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron B Fattahi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ayan Purkayastha
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Prithwijit Roychowdhury
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Syed H Kamil
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Lindsay Sobin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA.
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15
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Chareyron S, L'Horty Y, Petit P. Cream skimming and discrimination in access to medical care: A field experiment. HEALTH ECONOMICS 2023; 32:1868-1883. [PMID: 37104549 DOI: 10.1002/hec.4692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
This study measures the differences in access to healthcare for female patients in France in three medical specialties (dentistry, gynecology and psychiatry) according to two criteria: the African ethnicity of the patient and the benefit of having means-tested health insurance coverage. To this purpose, we conducted a nationally representative field experiment on more than 1500 physicians. We do not find substantial discrimination against the patient of African origin. However, the results indicate that patients with means-tested health insurance coverage are less likely to get an appointment. Differentiating between two types of coverage, we show that the lesser-known coverage (ACS) is more penalized than the other (CMU-C) as poor knowledge of the program increases the physician's expectation of additional administrative tasks and is an important element to explain cream-skimming. We also find that, for physicians who are free to set their fees, the opportunity cost of accepting a means-tested patient increases the penalty. Finally, the results suggest that enrollment in OPTAM, the controlled pricing practice option that incentivizes physicians to accept means-tested patients, reduces cream-skimming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvain Chareyron
- Univ Paris-Est Créteil, Univ Gustave Eiffel, ERUDITE (EA 437), TEPP (FR 2042), Créteil, France
| | - Yannick L'Horty
- Univ Gustave Eiffel, Univ Paris-Est Créteil, ERUDITE (EA 437), TEPP (FR 2042), Marne-La-Vallée, France
| | - Pascale Petit
- Univ Gustave Eiffel, Univ Paris-Est Créteil, ERUDITE (EA 437), TEPP (FR 2042), Marne-La-Vallée, France
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16
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Chen AYA, Geissler KH, Dick AW, Goff S, Kranz AM. Association Between Insurance Type and Fluoride Varnish Application During Well-Child Visits in Massachusetts. Acad Pediatr 2023; 23:1213-1219. [PMID: 37169254 PMCID: PMC10524787 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare rates of fluoride varnish (FV) applications during well-child visits for children covered by Medicaid and private medical insurance in Massachusetts. METHODS This cross-sectional study analyzed well-child visits for children aged 1 to 5 years paid by Medicaid and private insurance during 2016.Çô18 in Massachusetts. Multivariate regression models, with all covariates interacting with insurance type, were used to calculate odds ratios and adjusted predicted probabilities of fluoride varnish during well-child visits by calendar year and age. RESULTS Across 957,551 well-child visits, 40.0% were paid by private insurers. Unadjusted rates of fluoride varnish were significantly lower among well-child visits paid by private insurers (6.6%) than visits paid by Medicaid (14.2%). In the fully interacted regression model, the odds of a visit including fluoride varnish were significantly lower for older children than for children aged 1 for visits paid by both insurance types. Adjusted rates of fluoride varnish increased significantly from 2016 to 2018 for both insurance types. Moreover, rates were higher among visits for children covered under Medicaid than privately insured children in all years, and the differences by insurance type declined over time (2016: 8.0% points, 95% confidence interval.á=.á.êÆ8.7 to .êÆ7.3, 2018: 5.3% points, 95% confidence interval.á=.á.êÆ6.6 to .êÆ3.9). CONCLUSIONS Rates of fluoride varnish applications during well-child visits were low for both Medicaid and private insurance despite growth from 2016 to 2018 in Massachusetts. Low rates are concerning because this is a recommended service with the potential to help address racial, geographic, and income-based disparities in access and oral health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kimberley H Geissler
- University of Massachusetts Amherst School of Public Health & Health Sciences (KH.áGeissler and.áS.áGoff).
| | - Andrew W Dick
- RAND Corporation (A.áYu-An.áChen and.áAW.áDick), Boston, Mass.
| | - Sarah Goff
- University of Massachusetts Amherst School of Public Health & Health Sciences (KH.áGeissler and.áS.áGoff).
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17
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Batool S, Burks CA, Bergmark RW. Healthcare Disparities in Otolaryngology. CURRENT OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY REPORTS 2023; 11:1-14. [PMID: 37362031 PMCID: PMC10247342 DOI: 10.1007/s40136-023-00459-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The purpose of this review is to summarize some of the recent research studies on healthcare disparities across various subspecialties within otolaryngology. This review also highlights the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on disparities and proposes potential interventions to mitigate disparities. Recent Findings Significant healthcare disparities in care and treatment outcomes have been reported across all areas of otolaryngology. Notable differences in survival, disease recurrence, and overall mortality have been noted based on race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status (SES), insurance status, etc. This is most well-researched in head and neck cancer (HNC) within otolaryngology. Summary Healthcare disparities have been identified by numerous research studies within otolaryngology for many vulnerable groups that include racial and ethnic minority groups, low-income populations, and individuals from rural areas among many others. These populations continue to experience suboptimal access to timely, quality otolaryngologic care that exacerbate disparities in health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Batool
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Ciersten A. Burks
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Regan W. Bergmark
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 45 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
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18
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Hu JC, Cummings JR, Ji X, Wilk AS. Evaluating Medicaid Managed Care Network Adequacy Standards And Associations With Specialty Care Access For Children. Health Aff (Millwood) 2023; 42:759-769. [PMID: 37276470 PMCID: PMC10706697 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2022.01439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Medicaid managed care plans cover more than 80 percent of Medicaid-enrolled children, including many children with special health care needs (CSHCN). Federal rules require states to set network adequacy standards to improve specialty care access for Medicaid managed care enrollees. Using a quasi-experimental design and 2016-19 National Survey of Children's Health data, we examined the association between quantitative network adequacy standards and access to specialty care among 8,614 Medicaid-enrolled children, including 3,157 with special health care needs, in eighteen states. Outcomes included whether the child had any visit to non-mental health specialists, any visit to mental health professionals, or any unmet health care needs and whether the caregiver ever felt frustrated in getting services for the child in the past year. We observed no association between the adoption of any quantitative network adequacy standard and the above outcomes among Medicaid-enrolled children. Among CSHCN, however, adopting any quantitative standard was positively associated with caregivers feeling frustrated in getting services for the child, especially among CSHCN who visited non-mental health specialists. Without additional interventions, adopting new network adequacy standards may have unintended consequences for CSHCN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Chen Hu
- Ju-Chen Hu , Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Xu Ji
- Xu Ji, Emory University and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia
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19
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Mullen MC, Yan F, Ford ME, Patel KG, Pecha PP. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Primary Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Repair. Cleft Palate Craniofac J 2023; 60:482-488. [PMID: 34967229 PMCID: PMC9793871 DOI: 10.1177/10556656211069828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the impact of race/ethnicity on timing and postoperative outcomes of primary cleft lip (CL) and cleft palate (CP) repair. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric (NSQIP-P) database from 2013 to 2018. PATIENTS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Patients under 2 years of age who underwent primary CL or CP repair were identified in the NSQIP-P. Outcomes were the timing of surgery and 30-day readmission and reoperation rates stratified by race and ethnicity. RESULTS In total, 6021 children underwent CL and 6938 underwent CP repair. Adjusted rates of CL repair over time were 10% lower in Hispanic children (95%CI: 0.84-0.96) and 38% lower for Asian children (95%CI: 0.55-0.70) compared with White infants. CP repair rates over time were 13% lower in Black (95%CI: 0.79-0.95), 17% lower in Hispanic (95%CI: 0.77-0.89), and 53% lower in Asian children (95%CI: 0.43-0.53) than in White infants. Asian patients had the highest rates of delayed surgical repair, with 19.3% not meeting American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association (ACPA) guidelines for CL (P < .001) and 28.2% for CP repair (P< .001). Black and Hispanic children had 80% higher odds of readmission following primary CL repair (95%CI: 1.16-2.83 and 95%CI: 1.27-2.61, respectively). CONCLUSIONS This study of a national database identified several racial/ethnic disparities in primary CL and CP, with reduced receipt of cleft repair over time for non-White children. Asian patients were significantly more likely to have delayed cleft repair per ACPA guidelines. These findings underscore the need to better understand disparities in cleft repair timing and postoperative outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Flora Yan
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Corbett M, Allen A, Bobo N, Foggs MB, Fonacier LS, Gupta R, Kowalsky R, Martinez E, Begolka WS, Zachary C, Blaiss MS. Proposed solutions by the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and advocacy experts to address racial disparities in atopic dermatitis and food allergy. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2023; 130:392-396.e2. [PMID: 36538973 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2022.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) and food allergies are more prevalent and more severe in people with skin of color than White individuals. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) sought to understand the effects of racial disparities among patients with skin of color with AD and food allergies. The ACAAI surveyed its members (N = 200 completed), conducted interviews with health care providers and advocacy leaders, and hosted a roundtable to explore the challenges of diagnosis and management of AD and food allergies in people with skin of color and to discuss potential solutions. Most of the survey respondents (68%) agreed that racial disparities make it difficult for people with skin of color to receive adequate treatment for AD and food allergies. The interviews and roundtable identified access to care, burden of costs, policies and infrastructure that limit access to safe foods and patient education, and inadequate research involving people with skin of color as obstacles to care. Proposed solutions included identifying ways to recruit more people with skin of color into clinical trials and medical school, educating health care providers about diagnosis and treating AD and food allergy in people with skin of color, improving access to safe foods, creating and disseminating culturally appropriate materials for patients, and working toward longer appointment times for patients who need them. Challenges in AD and food allergy in persons with skin of color were identified by the ACAAI members. Solutions to these challenges were proposed to inspire actions to mitigate racial disparities in AD and food allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abby Allen
- Peninsula Allergy & Asthma, Georgetown, Delaware
| | - Nichole Bobo
- National Association of School Nurses, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | | | - Luz S Fonacier
- Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island, Mineola, New York
| | - Ruchi Gupta
- Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Rachel Kowalsky
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Departments of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, New York Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York; Section on Minority Health Equity and Inclusion, American Academy of Pediatrics, Itasca, Illinois
| | | | | | | | - Michael S Blaiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia.
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Ndumele CD, Lollo A, Krumholz HM, Schlesinger M, Wallace J. Long-Term Stability of Coverage Among Michigan Medicaid Beneficiaries : A Cohort Study. Ann Intern Med 2023; 176:22-28. [PMID: 36469920 DOI: 10.7326/m22-1313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medicaid, the primary source of insurance coverage for disadvantaged Americans, was originally designed as a temporary safety-net program. No studies have used long-run data to assess the recent use of the program by beneficiaries. OBJECTIVE To assess patterns of short- and long-term enrollment among beneficiaries, using a 10-year longitudinal panel of Michigan Medicaid eligibility data. DESIGN Primary analyses assessing trends in Medicaid enrollment among cohorts of existing and new beneficiaries. SETTING Administrative records from Michigan Medicaid for the period 2011 to 2020. PARTICIPANTS 3.97 million Medicaid beneficiaries. MEASUREMENTS Short- and long-term enrollment in the program. RESULTS The sample includes 3.97 million unique beneficiaries enrolled at some point between 2011 and 2020. Among a cohort of 1.23 million beneficiaries enrolled in 2011, over half (53%) were also enrolled in Medicaid in June 2020, spending, on average, two-thirds of that period (67%) on Medicaid. These beneficiaries, however, experienced substantial lapses in coverage, as only 25% were continuously enrolled throughout the period. Enrollment was less stable when assessed from the perspective of newly enrolled beneficiaries, of whom only 37% remained enrolled at the end of the study period. LIMITATION Primary estimates from a single state. CONCLUSION For many beneficiaries, Medicaid has served as their primary source of coverage for at least a decade. This pattern would justify increasing investments in the program to improve long-term health outcomes. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE Self-funded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chima D Ndumele
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut (C.D.N., A.L., M.S., J.W.)
| | - Anthony Lollo
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut (C.D.N., A.L., M.S., J.W.)
| | - Harlan M Krumholz
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, and Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut (H.M.K.)
| | - Mark Schlesinger
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut (C.D.N., A.L., M.S., J.W.)
| | - Jacob Wallace
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut (C.D.N., A.L., M.S., J.W.)
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Healthcare Equity in Pediatric Otolaryngology. Otolaryngol Clin North Am 2022; 55:1287-1299. [DOI: 10.1016/j.otc.2022.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Mir TA, Mehta S, Qiang K, Adelman RA, Del Priore LV, Chow J. Association of the Affordable Care Act with Eye-Related Emergency Department Utilization in the United States. Ophthalmology 2022; 129:1412-1420. [PMID: 35792199 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2022.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the association of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) with nationwide eye-related emergency department (ED) use. DESIGN Retrospective, cross-sectional study. PARTICIPANTS All patients who presented to the ED with an eye-related primary diagnosis were eligible for inclusion. METHODS Nationally representative data from the US Nationwide Emergency Department Sample were used to analyze eye-related ED visits before (2010-2013) and after (2014-2017) the ACA was mandated. All ED visits were categorized as emergent or nonemergent or could not be determined. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was to compare the nationwide and regional incidence of eye-related ED visits per 100 000 US population before (2010-2013) and after (2014-2017) the ACA was mandated. Secondary outcome measures included change in payor status, proportion of urgent versus nonurgent visits, proportion of visits at teaching versus nonteaching hospitals, associated charges, and discharge disposition. RESULTS A total of 16 808 343 eye-related ED visits occurred in the United States during the study period from 2010 to 2017. Of these, 8 088 203 ED visits occurred before the ACA was mandated (2010-2013), and 8 720 766 ED visits occurred after the ACA was mandated (2014-2017). After the ACA was mandated in 2014, there was an initial decline in incidence of eye-related ED visits from 652.4 per 100 000 population in 2013 to 593.0 per 100 000 population in 2014, followed by a rapid increase in incidence to 658.5 per 100 000 population in 2015, with a further increase to 746.6 per 100 000 population in 2016. The percentage of uninsured patients decreased from 19.0% to 14.3%. The increase in ED use was greatest for individuals in the lowest income quartile (895.1 per 100 000 population in 2013 to 964.0 per 100 000 in 2017). Overall, 44.8% of ED visits were due to nonemergent eye conditions. CONCLUSIONS Although the ACA increased insurance coverage for Americans, theoretically increasing access to outpatient ophthalmic care, this did not decrease ED reliance for management of ophthalmic conditions. Additional measures beyond expanding insurance coverage may be necessary to provide high-quality, efficient, and equitable outpatient ophthalmic care to all Americans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahreem A Mir
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sumarth Mehta
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Karen Qiang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Ron A Adelman
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Lucian V Del Priore
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Jessica Chow
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
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Rankin KA, Mosier-Mills A, Hsiang W, Wiznia DH. Secret shopper studies: an unorthodox design that measures inequities in healthcare access. Arch Public Health 2022; 80:226. [PMID: 36329541 PMCID: PMC9635177 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-022-00979-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Secret shopper studies are particularly potent study designs that allow for the gathering of objective data for a variety of research hypotheses, including but not limited to, healthcare delivery, equity of healthcare, and potential barriers to care. Of particular interest during the COVID-19 pandemic, secret shopper study designs allow for the gathering of data over the phone. However, there is a dearth of literature available on appropriate methodological practices for these types of studies. To make these study designs more widely accessible, here we outline the case for using the secret shopper methodology and detail best practices for designing and implementing them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey A Rankin
- Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, 06510, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | | | - Walter Hsiang
- Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, 06510, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Daniel H Wiznia
- Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, 06510, New Haven, CT, USA
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25
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Pietruszewski L, Moore-Clingenpeel M, Moellering GCJ, Lewandowski D, Batterson N, Maitre NL. Predictive value of the test of infant motor performance and the Hammersmith infant neurological examination for cerebral palsy in infants. Early Hum Dev 2022; 174:105665. [PMID: 36126506 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2022.105665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current recommendations for early detection tools for cerebral palsy (CP) include assessments that vary in feasibility and resource requirements. The predictive value of less resource-intensive tools has not been fully explored. AIMS To determine the predictive value of the Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP) at 3-4 months corrected age (CA) for CP, and whether administration of both the TIMP and the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Exam (HINE) improves early CP detection. STUDY DESIGN Five-year retrospective observational study of infants who received the TIMP and the HINE at 3-4 months CA in a high-risk follow-up clinic. TIMP and HINE cut-off scores (alone and in combination) were compared for CP discriminatory ability. SUBJECTS Of patients with HINE scores (n = 1389; 676 [48.7 %] female; median gestational age at birth 31 weeks [interquartile range 29-34 weeks]), 1343 had concurrent TIMP scores available. OUTCOME MEASURES Clinical diagnosis of CP. RESULTS HINE total score <57 had optimal CP predictive value (AUC = 0.815; 77 % sensitivity; 91 % specificity) compared to optimal TIMP cut-off (1 SD below the mean, AUC = 0.71; 52 % sensitivity; 94 % specificity) and all tested TIMP and HINE combinations (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS HINE total score <57 at 3-4 months CA had the best CP predictive value, confirming its value absent first-line detection tools. Concurrent administration of TIMP did not improve predictive value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Pietruszewski
- Center for Perinatal Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Research Building III, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
| | - Melissa Moore-Clingenpeel
- Biostatistics Core, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | | | - Dennis Lewandowski
- Center for Perinatal Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Research Building III, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Nancy Batterson
- Center for Perinatal Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Research Building III, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Nathalie L Maitre
- Emory University School of Medicine, 1440 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 1405 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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Hooper J, Shao K, Feng H. Racial/ethnic health disparities in dermatology in the United States, part 1: Overview of contributing factors and management strategies. J Am Acad Dermatol 2022; 87:723-730. [PMID: 35143914 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.12.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Racial or ethnic disparities are prevalent in the field of dermatology. Part 1 of this continuing medical education series aims to elucidate contributors to racial and ethnic disparities within dermatology and highlight potential actionable steps to combat these disparities. We review access to care, workforce diversity, cultural competency, implicit bias, dermatologic education material, patient education, and clinical research. Part 2 of the continuing medical education series will address disease-specific inequities that influence the clinical practice of dermatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jette Hooper
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Kimberly Shao
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To identify factors that impact accessibility to pediatric dermatology and review healthcare delivery models that improve access and address these barriers. RECENT FINDINGS Up to one-third of pediatric primary care visits include a skin-related problem, yet pediatric dermatology subspecialist services are highly inaccessible. Workforce shortages and geographic, sociocultural, and economic barriers perpetuate inaccessibility. Teledermatology expands care, particularly to underserved or geographically remote communities, and reduces healthcare-related costs. Federal legislation to support telehealth services with adequate reimbursement for providers with parity between live, video, and phone visits will dictate the continued feasibility of virtual visits. Innovative care delivery models, such as language-based clinics, multidisciplinary teleconferencing, or embedded dermatology services within primary care are other promising alternatives. SUMMARY Despite efforts to expand access, dermatology still ranks among the most underserved pediatric subspecialties. Improving access requires a multipronged approach. Efforts to expand exposure and mentorship within pediatric dermatology, diversify the workforce and clinical curriculum, recruit and retain clinicians in geographically underserved areas, and collaborate with policymakers to ensure adequate reimbursement for teledermatology services are necessary.
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28
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Prakash Y, Ward LM, Jaleel Z, Ilavarasan V, Liang JJ, Prakash M, Levi JR. The Use of Race and Socioeconomic Status Variables in Published Otolaryngologic Research. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 2022:34894221111323. [PMID: 35861198 DOI: 10.1177/00034894221111323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the use of race and socioeconomic status (SES) variables in clinical otolarynogologic research. METHODS Databases were queried for all articles published in 2016 issues of 5 major otolaryngologic journals. One thousand, one hundred and forty of 1593 articles abstracted met inclusion criteria for analysis. RESULTS In total, 244 (21.4%) studies specified race as a variable. The subspecialty of Head and Neck cancer specified race at statistically higher rates compared to other subspecialties (P = .002). Two hundred nine (34.0%) domestic studies specified race compared to 35 (6.7%) international studies. Of the 244 studies that specified race, 79 (32.4%) defined race using racial and ethnic categories interchangeably. Two hundred twenty-four (91.8%) studies reported data by race, 145 (59.4%) analyzed the data, and 112 (45.9%) discussed race-based results.In total, 94 (8.2%) studies specified SES. All subspecialties specified SES at statistically similar rates. Seventy (11.4%) domestic studies specified SES compared to 24 (4.6%) international studies. Of the 94 studies that specified SES, 42 (44.7%) defined SES using insurance status, 35 (37.2%) used education, and 32 (34.0%) used income. Seventy-eight (83.0%) studies reported data by SES, 71 (75.5%) analyzed the data, and 68 (72.3%) discussed SES-based results. CONCLUSION In clinical otolaryngologic research, the study of race and SES is limited. To improve quality of research and patient care for all patients, investigators should clearly justify their use of race and SES variables, carefully select their measures of race and SES (if the use of these variables is justified), and study race/SES-based data beyond just a superficial level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yash Prakash
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Libby M Ward
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zaroug Jaleel
- Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Jennifer J Liang
- Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | | | - Jessica R Levi
- Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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29
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Schroeder TE, Samson KK, Kerns E, Berrondo C. Impact of Healthcare Disparities on Time to Surgery for Pediatric Urologic Patients. Cureus 2022; 14:e25711. [PMID: 35836442 PMCID: PMC9275528 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Healthcare disparities are differences in health outcomes reflecting social inequalities. We aim to identify healthcare disparities in pediatric urologic patients by analyzing the time from surgical scheduling to completion of procedure at a single center and identify variables associated with increased time to surgery. Materials and methods We reviewed all patients aged 0-18 years who underwent surgery with one of three pediatric urologists at our institution from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2019. We collected or calculated variables including age, sex, race, ethnicity, caregivers’ primary language, insurance status, zip code, median distance to hospital, clinic visit date, and time to surgery (calculated as days between surgery request and date of surgery). Data analysis included bivariate analysis and linear regression with all variables of interest presented with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), where log-transformed time to surgery was the outcome. Because the practice at our institution is to delay elective surgeries until after six months of age, we excluded patients who were less than six months of age at the time of surgery request date. Results A total of 697 patients were included in the final analysis. Patients’ caregivers who spoke languages other than English or Spanish had a lower model-adjusted mean log-days to surgery (−0.44; 95% CI: −0.85, −0.03) relative to English-speaking caregivers. Uninsured patients had increased time to surgery compared to Medicaid patients (0.28; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.53). Income was also associated with increased time to surgery, meaning patients from higher-income backgrounds had a longer time to surgery (0.04; 95% CI: 0.00, 0.08). Conclusions In our patient population, primary language spoken and insurance status were associated with increases in time from initial evaluation to surgical intervention among pediatric patients undergoing urologic surgery. Additional research is needed to better understand variations in access to pediatric urologic surgery.
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Ripp A, Steinway C, Katzow MW, Jan S, Chen J, Chen V. Telehealth Utilization and Follow-Up Visits in Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics During the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2022; 43:297-302. [PMID: 35213413 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to understand the effect of transition to telehealth care on follow-up visit attendance in a developmental-behavioral pediatric (DBP) practice in 2020 versus in-person care in 2019. METHODS This was a retrospective observational cohort study of follow-up visits occurring in a large DBP practice during a 6-week period in March/April of 2019 and 2020. The primary outcome was follow-up visit adherence, defined as completion of scheduled follow-up visit. The primary exposure was telehealth visit in 2020 versus in-person visit in 2019. Covariates included patient demographics and clinical characteristics. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. RESULTS The cohort included 2142 visits for 1868 unique patients. The patient mean age was 9.2 ± 4.8 years, with 73.4% male, 56.5% non-Hispanic, 51.4% White, and 68.3% commercial insurance. There were 470 telehealth visits from March to April 2020 and 1672 in-person visits from March to April 2019. Compared with in-person visits, telehealth visits were more likely to be completed (75.3% vs 64.4%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for age, sex, race, ethnicity, insurance, and week of visit (weeks 1-3 vs 4-6), odds of having a complete follow-up visit were higher for telehealth visits than for in-person visits (odds ratio = 1.57; 95% confidence interval [1.23-2.00], p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Follow-up visit attendance was higher for telehealth care in 2020 than in-person care in 2019. This association persisted after adjusting for insurance, age, race, and ethnicity, suggesting that telehealth is associated with increased follow-up visit attendance in DBP care. Further studies are needed to understand the impact of telehealth on DBP clinical outcomes in chronic disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asher Ripp
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center of NY, New Hyde Park, NY
| | - Caren Steinway
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center of NY, New Hyde Park, NY
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
| | - Michelle Weiss Katzow
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center of NY, New Hyde Park, NY
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
- Center for Health Innovations and Outcomes Research, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY
| | - Sophia Jan
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center of NY, New Hyde Park, NY
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
| | - Jack Chen
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center of NY, New Hyde Park, NY
| | - Victoria Chen
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center of NY, New Hyde Park, NY
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Dickman SL, Gaffney A, McGregor A, Himmelstein DU, McCormick D, Bor DH, Woolhandler S. Trends in Health Care Use Among Black and White Persons in the US, 1963-2019. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2217383. [PMID: 35699954 PMCID: PMC9198752 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.17383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance In the US, Black people receive less health care than White people. Data on long-term trends in these disparities, which provide historical context for interpreting contemporary inequalities, are lacking. Objective To assess trends in Black-White disparities in health care use since 1963. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study analyzed 29 US surveys conducted between 1963 and 2019 of noninstitutionalized Black and non-Hispanic White civilians. Exposures Self-reported race and ethnicity. Main Outcomes and Measures Annual per capita visit rates (for ambulatory, dental, and emergency department care), inpatient hospitalization rates, and total per capita medical expenditures. Results Data from 154 859 Black and 446 944 White (non-Hispanic) individuals surveyed from 1963 to 2019 were analyzed (316 503 [52.6%] female; mean [SD] age, 37.0 [23.3] years). Disparities narrowed in the 1970s in the wake of landmark civil rights legislation and the implementation of Medicare and Medicaid but subsequently widened. For instance, the White-Black gap in ambulatory care visits decreased from 1.2 (95% CI, 1.0-1.4) visits per year in 1963 to 0.8 (95% CI, 0.6-1.0) visits per year in the 1970s and then increased, reaching 3.2 (95% CI, 3.0-3.4) visits per year in 2014 to 2019. Even among privately insured adults aged 18 to 64 years, White individuals used far more ambulatory care (2.6 [95% CI, 2.4-2.8] more visits per year) than Black individuals in 2014 to 2019. Similarly, White peoples' overall health care use, measured in dollars per capita, exceeded that of Black people in every year. After narrowing from 1.96 in the 1960s to 1.26 in the 1970s, the White-Black expenditure ratio began widening in the 1980s, reaching 1.46 in the 1990s; it remained between 1.31 and 1.39 in subsequent periods. Conclusions and Relevance This study's findings indicate that racial inequities in care have persisted for 6 decades and widened in recent years, suggesting the persistence and even fortification of structural racism in health care access. Reform efforts should include training more Black health care professionals, investments in Black-serving health facilities, and implementing universal health coverage that eliminates cost barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel L. Dickman
- Texas Policy Evaluation Project, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin
- Planned Parenthood South Texas, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Adam Gaffney
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Alecia McGregor
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David U. Himmelstein
- City University of New York at Hunter College, New York, New York
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Public Citizen Health Research Group, Washington, DC
| | - Danny McCormick
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - David H. Bor
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Steffie Woolhandler
- City University of New York at Hunter College, New York, New York
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Public Citizen Health Research Group, Washington, DC
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32
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Ludomirsky AB, Schpero WL, Wallace J, Lollo A, Bernheim S, Ross JS, Ndumele CD. In Medicaid Managed Care Networks, Care Is Highly Concentrated Among A Small Percentage Of Physicians. Health Aff (Millwood) 2022; 41:760-768. [PMID: 35500192 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2021.01747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
States have increasingly outsourced the provision of Medicaid services to private managed care plans. To ensure that plans maintain access to care, many states set network adequacy standards that require plans to contract with a minimum number of physicians. In this study we used data from the period 2015-17 for four states to assess the level of Medicaid participation among physicians listed in the provider network directories of each managed care plan. We found that about one-third of outpatient primary care and specialist physicians contracted with Medicaid managed care plans in our sample saw fewer than ten Medicaid beneficiaries in a year. Care was highly concentrated: 25 percent of primary care physicians provided 86 percent of the care, and 25 percent of specialists, on average, provided 75 percent of the care. Our findings suggest that current network adequacy standards might not reflect actual access; new methods are needed that account for beneficiaries' preferences and physicians' willingness to serve Medicaid patients.
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Molino AR, Minnick MLG, Jerry-Fluker J, Karita Muiru J, Boynton SA, Furth SL, Warady BA, Ng DK. Health and Dental Insurance and Health Care Utilization Among Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults With CKD: Findings From the CKiD Cohort Study. Kidney Med 2022; 4:100455. [PMID: 35518833 PMCID: PMC9062328 DOI: 10.1016/j.xkme.2022.100455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale & Objective To understand the association between health and dental insurance status and health and dental care utilization, and their relationship with disease severity in a population with childhood-onset chronic kidney disease (CKD). Study Design Observational cohort study. Settings & Participants Nine hundred fifty-three participants contributing 4,369 person-visits (unit of analysis) in the United States enrolled in the Chronic Kidney Disease in Children (CKiD) Study from 2005 to 2019. Exposures Health insurance (private vs public vs none) and dental insurance (presence vs absence) self-reported at annual visits. Outcomes Self-reported suboptimal health care utilization in the past year, defined separately as not visiting a private physician, visiting the emergency room, visiting the emergency room at least twice, being hospitalized, and self-reported suboptimal dental care utilization over the past year, defined as not receiving dental care. Analytical Approach Repeated measures Poisson regression models were fit to estimate and compare utilization by insurance type and disease severity at the prior visit. Additional unadjusted and adjusted models were fit, as well as models including interactions between insurance and Black race, maternal education, and income. Results Those with public health insurance were more likely to report suboptimal health care utilization across the CKD severity spectrum, and lack of dental insurance was strongly associated with lack of dental care. These relationships varied depending on strata of socioeconomic status and race but the effect measure modification was not significant. Limitations Details of insurance coverage were unavailable; reasons for emergency care or type of private physician visited were unknown. Conclusions Pediatric nephrology programs may consider interventions to help direct supportive resources to families with public insurance who are at higher risk for suboptimal utilization of care. Insurance providers should identify areas to expand access for families of children with CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea R. Molino
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Maria Lourdes G. Minnick
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Judith Jerry-Fluker
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jacqueline Karita Muiru
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sara A. Boynton
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Susan L. Furth
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Bradley A. Warady
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
| | - Derek K. Ng
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Chronic Kidney Disease in Children Study
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
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Cortez JL, Fadadu RP, Konda S, Grimes B, Wei ML. Disparities in access for melanoma screening by region, specialty, and insurance: A cross-sectional audit study. JAAD Int 2022; 7:78-85. [PMID: 35373156 PMCID: PMC8968658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdin.2022.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Early detection of melanoma is critical for positive outcomes. However, access for the diagnosis of melanoma remains problematic for segments of the general population. Objective To compare the rates of dermatology and family medicine practitioner acceptances for a public insurance (Medicaid) versus private insurance (Anthem Blue Cross) and clinic wait times for an appointment for a changing pigmented skin lesion concerning melanoma in rural and urban regions in California. Methods Cross-sectional audit study between June 2017 and March 2019; scripted phone calls were made to dermatology and family medicine practices (FMPs). Results Family medicine and dermatology practices in both regions had significantly decreased acceptance of Medicaid. Dermatology practices had 11.3% to 13.0% Medicaid acceptance rates that were less than FMP rates of 28% to 36%. In both regions, FMP wait times were 2.4- to 3.2-fold longer for public versus private insurance; there were little differences in wait times for the 2 insurance types in dermatology practices, in both regions. Limitations Assessment of only 2 regions in the state of California. Conclusion Delays at FMPs and insurance types limit access to melanoma screening in California for underserved segments of the general population, which has implications for melanoma outcomes and health policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Luis Cortez
- Department of Dermatology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico.,Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, California.,Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, California
| | - Raj P Fadadu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, California.,Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, California
| | - Sailesh Konda
- Department of Dermatology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Barbara Grimes
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Maria L Wei
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, California.,Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, California.,Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, California
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Ip W, Prahalad P, Palma J, Chen JH. A Data-Driven Algorithm to Recommend Initial Clinical Workup for Outpatient Specialty Referral: Algorithm Development and Validation Using Electronic Health Record Data and Expert Surveys. JMIR Med Inform 2022; 10:e30104. [PMID: 35238788 PMCID: PMC8931647 DOI: 10.2196/30104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Millions of people have limited access to specialty care. The problem is exacerbated by ineffective specialty visits due to incomplete prereferral workup, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Existing processes to guide prereferral diagnostic workup are labor-intensive (ie, building a consensus guideline between primary care doctors and specialists) and require the availability of the specialists (ie, electronic consultation). OBJECTIVE Using pediatric endocrinology as an example, we develop a recommender algorithm to anticipate patients' initial workup needs at the time of specialty referral and compare it to a reference benchmark using the most common workup orders. We also evaluate the clinical appropriateness of the algorithm recommendations. METHODS Electronic health record data were extracted from 3424 pediatric patients with new outpatient endocrinology referrals at an academic institution from 2015 to 2020. Using item co-occurrence statistics, we predicted the initial workup orders that would be entered by specialists and assessed the recommender's performance in a holdout data set based on what the specialists actually ordered. We surveyed endocrinologists to assess the clinical appropriateness of the predicted orders and to understand the initial workup process. RESULTS Specialists (n=12) indicated that <50% of new patient referrals arrive with complete initial workup for common referral reasons. The algorithm achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.95 (95% CI 0.95-0.96). Compared to a reference benchmark using the most common orders, precision and recall improved from 37% to 48% (P<.001) and from 27% to 39% (P<.001) for the top 4 recommendations, respectively. The top 4 recommendations generated for common referral conditions (abnormal thyroid studies, obesity, amenorrhea) were considered clinically appropriate the majority of the time by specialists surveyed and practice guidelines reviewed. CONCLUSIONS An item association-based recommender algorithm can predict appropriate specialists' workup orders with high discriminatory accuracy. This could support future clinical decision support tools to increase effectiveness and access to specialty referrals. Our study demonstrates important first steps toward a data-driven paradigm for outpatient specialty consultation with a tier of automated recommendations that proactively enable initial workup that would otherwise be delayed by awaiting an in-person visit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wui Ip
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Priya Prahalad
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Jonathan Palma
- Neonatology & Perinatal Medicine, Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Jonathan H Chen
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Stanford Center for Biomedical Informatics Research, Stanford, CA, United States
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Resad Ferati S, Parisien RL, Joslin P, Knapp B, Li X, Curry EJ. Socioeconomic Status Impacts Access to Orthopaedic Specialty Care. JBJS Rev 2022; 10:01874474-202202000-00007. [PMID: 35171876 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.rvw.21.00139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
» Financial, personal, and structural barriers affect access to all aspects of orthopaedic specialty care. » Disparities in access to care are present across all subspecialties of orthopaedic surgery in the United States. » Improving timely access to care in orthopaedic surgery is crucial for both health equity and optimizing patient outcomes. » Options for improving orthopaedic access include increasing Medicaid/Medicare payments to physicians, providing secondary resources to assist patients with limited finances, and reducing language barriers in both clinical care and patient education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehar Resad Ferati
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Robert L Parisien
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Patrick Joslin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Brock Knapp
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Xinning Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emily J Curry
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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Kissee JL, Huang Y, Dayal P, Yellowlees P, Sigal I, Marcin JP. Association Between Insurance and the Transfer of Children With Mental Health Emergencies. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e1026-e1032. [PMID: 31274825 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to investigate the association between a patient's insurance coverage and a hospital's decision to admit or transfer pediatric patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with a mental health disorder. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study of pediatric mental health ED admission and transfer events using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project 2014 Nationwide Emergency Department Sample. Children presenting to an ED with a primary mental health disorder who were either admitted locally or transferred to another hospital were included. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to adjust for confounders. RESULTS Nineteem thousand eighty-one acute mental health ED events among children were included in the analyses. The odds of transfer relative to admission were higher for children without insurance (odds ratio, 3.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.73-6.31) compared with patients with private insurance. The odds of transfer were similar for children with Medicaid compared with children with private insurance (odds ratio, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 0.80-1.88). Transfer rates also varied across mental health diagnostic categories. Patients without insurance had higher odds of transfer compared with those with private insurance when they presented with depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit/conduct disorders, and schizophrenia. CONCLUSIONS Children presenting to an ED with a mental health emergency who do not have insurance are more likely to be transferred to another hospital than to be admitted and treated locally compared with those with private insurance. Future studies are needed to determine factors that may protect patients without insurance from disparities in access to care.
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DeVries J, Ren Y, Purdy J, Carvalho D, Kari E. Exploring Factors Responsible for Delay in Pediatric Cochlear Implantation. Otol Neurotol 2021; 42:e1478-e1485. [PMID: 34608001 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0000000000003321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and characterize demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with delays in cochlear implantation (CI) in children. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective. SETTING Tertiary pediatric CI referral center. PATIENTS All patients under 18 years of age receiving CI between March 2018 and February 2020. INTERVENTIONS CI. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome measures included age at implantation and time from hearing loss diagnosis and candidacy evaluation to CI. RESULTS Seventy-two patients were identified (44% women, average age at implantation 4.9 yr). Age at implantation was older in patients with public, rather than private, insurance (6.0 ± 0.8 yr versus 3.1 ± 0.7 yr, p = 0.007) and those from low-income areas (8.6 ± 7.6 yr versus 2.4 ± 3.0 yr, p = 0.007). Time between hearing loss diagnosis and implantation was longer in publicly insured patients (4.1 ± 0.6 yr versus 2.2 ± 0.5 yr, p = 0.014). Time between identification as a CI candidate and implantation was longer in publicly insured patients (721 ± 107d versus 291 ± 64 d, p = 0.001). Among children with congenital profound hearing loss, publicly insured patients continued to be older at implantation (1.9 ± 0.2 versus 1.0 ± 0.2 yr, p = 0.008). Latinx children were more often publicly insured whereas white children were more often privately insured (p < 0.05). Publicly insured patients had delays in the pre-CI workup, including, in no particular order, vestibular evaluation (621 ± 132 d versus 197 ± 67 d, p = 0.007), developmental evaluation (517 ± 106 d versus 150 ± 56 d, p = 0.003), speech evaluation (482 ± 107 d versus 163 ± 65 d, p = 0.013), and children's implant profile (ChIP) assessment (572 ± 107d versus 184 ± 59d, p = 0,002). On ChIP evaluation, concerns regarding educational environment and support were higher in Spanish-speaking children (p = 0.024; p = 2.6 × 10-4) and children with public insurance (p = 0.016; p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS Disparities in access to CI continue to affect timing of pediatric cochlear implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn DeVries
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California
| | - Yin Ren
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California
| | - Julie Purdy
- Division of Otolaryngology, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, California
| | - Daniela Carvalho
- Division of Otolaryngology, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, California
| | - Elina Kari
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California
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Abstract
Health and health care disparities in pediatric rheumatology are prevalent among socially disadvantaged and marginalized populations based on race/ethnicity, socioeconomic position, and geographic region. These groups are more likely to experience greater disease severity, morbidity, mortality, decreased quality of life, and poor mental health outcomes, which are in part due to persistent structural and institutional barriers, including decreased access to quality health care. Most of the research on health and health care disparities in pediatric rheumatology focuses on juvenile idiopathic arthritis and childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus; there are significant gaps in the literature assessing disparities associated with other pediatric rheumatic diseases. Understanding the underlying causes of health care disparities will ultimately inform the development and implementation of innovative policies and interventions on a federal, local, and individual level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisha M Akinsete
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital at Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 3415 Bainbridge Avenue, Bronx, NY 10467, USA. https://twitter.com/@akinsetemd
| | - Jennifer M P Woo
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA. https://twitter.com/@jmpwoo
| | - Tamar B Rubinstein
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital at Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 3415 Bainbridge Avenue, Bronx, NY 10467, USA.
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Cai C, Gaffney A, McGregor A, Woolhandler S, Himmelstein DU, McCormick D, Dickman SL. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Outpatient Visit Rates Across 29 Specialties. JAMA Intern Med 2021; 181:1525-1527. [PMID: 34279566 PMCID: PMC8290333 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2021.3771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
This cross-sectional study examines US racial/ethnic disparities in outpatient visit rates to 29 physician specialties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Cai
- Department of Medicine, Internal Medicine Residency Program at Brigham and Women's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Adam Gaffney
- Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Alecia McGregor
- Department of Community Health, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Steffie Woolhandler
- Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts.,City University of New York at Hunter College, New York City
| | - David U Himmelstein
- Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts.,City University of New York at Hunter College, New York City
| | - Danny McCormick
- Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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McGowan EC, Keller JP, Muir AB, Dellon ES, Peng R, Keet CA, Jensen ET. Distance to pediatric gastroenterology providers is associated with decreased diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis in rural populations. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2021; 9:4489-4492.e2. [PMID: 34534720 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2021.08.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emily C McGowan
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Va; Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Md.
| | - Joshua P Keller
- Department of Statistics, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colo
| | - Amanda B Muir
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa
| | - Evan S Dellon
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Roger Peng
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Md
| | - Corinne A Keet
- Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Md
| | - Elizabeth T Jensen
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
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Maurer LR, Allar BG, Perez NP, Witt EE, Uribe-Leitz T, Peck GL, Bergmark RW, Bates DW, Ortega G. Non-English Primary Language is Associated with Emergency Surgery for Diverticulitis. J Surg Res 2021; 268:643-649. [PMID: 34474213 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2021.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Language barriers can limit access to care for patients with a non-English primary language (NEPL). The objective of this study was to define the association between primary language and emergency versus elective surgery among diverticulitis patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective cohort study of adult patients from the 2009-2014 New Jersey State Inpatient Database. Patients were included if they had primary language data and underwent a partial colon resection for diverticulitis. Primary language was dichotomized into NEPL versus English primary language (EPL). The primary outcome was surgical admission type - urgent/emergent (referred to as "emergency") versus elective. Descriptive and multivariable analyses were performed. RESULTS A total of 9,453 patients underwent surgery for diverticulitis, of which 592 (6.3%) had NEPL. Among NEPL patients, 300 (51%) had Spanish as primary language and 292 (49%) had another non-Spanish primary language. Patients with NEPL and EPL were similar in age (median age 58 versus 59 years; P = 0.54) and sex (52% versus 53% female; P = 0.45). Patients with NEPL were less likely to have commercial insurance (45% versus 59%; P <0.001). On multivariable analysis, compared to patients with EPL, NEPL was associated with increased odds of emergency surgery for diverticulitis (OR 1.35; 95% Confidence Interval 1.13-1.62; P = 0.001) CONCLUSION: Patients with NEPL have higher odds of emergency versus elective surgery for diverticulitis compared to patients with EPL. Further research is needed to examine differences in referral pathways, patient-provider communication, and health literacy that may hinder access to elective surgery in patients with diverticulitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia R Maurer
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Benjamin G Allar
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Numa P Perez
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Healthcare Transformation Lab, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emily E Witt
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tarsicio Uribe-Leitz
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Gregory L Peck
- Department of Surgery, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, New Jersey; Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Regan W Bergmark
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David W Bates
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Gezzer Ortega
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Radlicz C, Jackson K, Hautmann A, Shi J, Yang J. Influence of insurance type on rate and type of initial concussion-related medical visits among youth. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1565. [PMID: 34407798 PMCID: PMC8375144 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11586-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A growing number of studies report increased concussion-related health care utilization in recent years, but factors impacting care-seeking behaviors among youth following a concussion are not well described. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of insurance type on the rate and type of initial concussion visits and the time from injury to the initial visit in youth. Methods We extracted and analyzed initial concussion-related medical visits for youth ages 10 to 17 from electronic health records. Patients must have visited Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s (NCH) concussion clinic at least once between 7/1/2012 and 12/31/2017. We evaluated the trends and patterns of initial concussion visits across the study period using regression analyses. Results Of 4955 unique concussion visits included, 60.1% were males, 80.5% were white, and 69.5% were paid by private insurance. Patients’ average age was 13.9 years (SD = 3.7). The rate of the initial concussion visits per 10,000 NCH visits was consistently higher in privately insured than publicly insured youth throughout the study period (P < .0001). Privately insured youth had greater odds of initial concussion visits to sports medicine clinics (AOR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.20, 1.76) but lower odds of initial concussion visits to the ED/urgent care (AOR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.60, 0.90) than publicly insured youth. Days from injury to initial concussion visit significantly decreased among both insurance types throughout the study (P < .0001), with a greater decrease observed in publicly insured than privately insured youth (P = .011). Conclusions Results on the differences in the rate, type, and time of initial concussion-related visits may help inform more efficient care of concussion among youth with different types of insurance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Radlicz
- Center for Injury Research and Policy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, RBIII-WB5403, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
| | - Kenneth Jackson
- Biostatistics Resource, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Amanda Hautmann
- Center for Injury Research and Policy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, RBIII-WB5403, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
| | - Junxin Shi
- Center for Injury Research and Policy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, RBIII-WB5403, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
| | - Jingzhen Yang
- Center for Injury Research and Policy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, RBIII-WB5403, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Cooper JN, Koppera S, Boss EF, Lind MN. Differences in Tonsillectomy Utilization by Race/Ethnicity, Type of Health Insurance, and Rurality. Acad Pediatr 2021; 21:1031-1036. [PMID: 33207221 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2020.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Tonsillectomy is one of the most common pediatric surgical procedures. In previous decades, large geographic variation and racial disparities in its use have been reported. We aimed to compare contemporary rates of pediatric tonsillectomy utilization in the United States by child race/ethnicity, type of health insurance, and metropolitan/nonmetropolitan residence. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project State Ambulatory Surgery and Services Databases and State Inpatient Databases of 8 US states. We included all children aged <15 years who underwent tonsillectomy in 2013 to 2017. Annual population-level tonsillectomy rates across states and sociodemographic groups overall and by surgical indication were calculated using US Census data. Negative binomial regression models were used to compare rates between groups. RESULTS In all states evaluated, tonsillectomy utilization was higher in non-Hispanic white children than non-Hispanic black or Hispanic children, higher in publicly insured than privately insured children, and higher in children residing in nonmetropolitan areas as compared to metropolitan areas (all P < .05). Tonsillectomy use was highest among white children from nonmetropolitan areas, both overall and for each indication (all P < .05). CONCLUSIONS Tonsillectomy utilization is higher in US children who are white, publicly insured, and who live in nonmetropolitan areas. Future research should identify multilevel factors, such as those at the patient, family, primary care provider, otolaryngologist, health care delivery system, interpersonal and community levels, that explain these differences in utilization in order to improve the appropriateness and equity of tonsillectomy use in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer N Cooper
- Center for Surgical Outcomes Research and Center for Innovation in Pediatric Practice, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital (JN Cooper and S Koppera), Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine (JN Cooper), Columbus, Ohio; Division of Epidemiology, The Ohio State University College of Public Health (JN Cooper), Columbus, Ohio.
| | - Swapna Koppera
- Center for Surgical Outcomes Research and Center for Innovation in Pediatric Practice, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital (JN Cooper and S Koppera), Columbus, Ohio
| | - Emily F Boss
- Department of Otolaryngology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (EF Boss), Baltimore, Md
| | - Meredith N Lind
- Department of Otolaryngology, Nationwide Children's Hospital (MN Lind), Columbus, Ohio; Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine (MN Lind), Columbus, Ohio
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Pattern of technology diffusion in the adoption of stereotactic laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) in neuro-oncology. J Neurooncol 2021; 153:417-424. [PMID: 34120277 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-021-03760-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Understanding factors that influence technology diffusion is central to clinical translation of novel therapies. We characterized the pattern of adoption for laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT), also known as stereotactic laser ablation (SLA), in neuro-oncology using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. METHODS We identified patients age ≥ 18 in the NIS (2012-2018) with a diagnosis of primary or metastatic brain tumor that underwent LITT or craniotomy. We compared characteristics and outcomes for patients that underwent these procedures. RESULTS LITT utilization increased ~ 400% relative to craniotomy during the study period. Despite this increase, the total number of LITT procedures performed for brain tumor was < 1% of craniotomy. After adjusting for this time trend, LITT patients were less likely to have > 2 comorbidities (OR 0.64, CI95 0.51-0.79) or to be older (OR 0.92, CI95 0.86-0.99) and more likely to be female (OR 1.35, CI95 1.08-1.69), Caucasian compared to Black (OR 1.94, CI95 1.12-3.36), and covered by private insurance compared to Medicare or Medicaid (OR 1.38, CI95 1.09-1.74). LITT hospital stays were 50% shorter than craniotomy (IRR 0.52, CI95 0.45-0.61). However, charges related to the procedures were comparable between LITT and craniotomy ($1397 greater for LITT, CI95 $-5790 to $8584). CONCLUSION For neuro-oncology indications, LITT utilization increased ~ 400% relative to craniotomy. Relative to craniotomy-treated patients, LITT-treated patients were likelier to be young, female, non-Black race, covered by private insurance, or with < 2 comorbidities. While the total hospital charges were comparable, LITT was associated with a shorter hospitalization relative to craniotomy.
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Reproductive-Age Women's Experience of Accessing Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder: "We Don't Do That Here". Womens Health Issues 2021; 31:455-461. [PMID: 34090780 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE For reproductive-age women, medications for opioid use disorder (OUD) decrease risk of overdose death and improve outcomes but are underutilized. Our objective was to provide a qualitative description of reproductive-age women's experiences of seeking an appointment for medications for OUD. METHODS Trained female callers placed telephone calls to a representative sample of publicly listed opioid treatment clinics and buprenorphine providers in Florida, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia to obtain appointments to receive medication for OUD. Callers were randomly assigned to be pregnant or non-pregnant and have private or Medicaid-based insurance to assess differences in the experiences of access by these characteristics. The callers placed 28,651 uniquely randomized calls, 10,117 to buprenorphine-waivered prescribers and 754 to opioid treatment programs. Open-ended, qualitative data were obtained from the callers about the access experiences and were analyzed using a qualitative, iterative inductive-deductive approach. From all 28,651 total calls, there were 17,970 unique free-text comments to the question "Please give an objective play-by-play of the description of what happened in this conversation." FINDINGS Analysis demonstrated a common path to obtaining an appointment. Callers frequently experienced long hold times, multiple transfers, and difficult interactions. Clinic receptionists were often mentioned as facilitating or obstructing access. Pregnant callers and those with Medicaid noted more barriers. Obtaining an appointment was commonly difficult even for these persistent, trained callers. CONCLUSIONS Interventions are needed to improve the experiences of reproductive-age women as they enter care for OUD, especially for pregnant women and those with Medicaid coverage.
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Mulraney M, Lee C, Freed G, Sawyer M, Coghill D, Sciberras E, Efron D, Hiscock H. How long and how much? Wait times and costs for initial private child mental health appointments. J Paediatr Child Health 2021; 57:526-532. [PMID: 33170548 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.15253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To determine: (i) wait times and out-of-pocket costs for children attending private specialists for initial mental health appointments; and (ii) whether these differed between specialists working in metropolitan versus rural areas and in low, medium and high socio-economic areas. METHODS Prospective secret shopper study whereby a researcher posed as a parent seeking an appointment for her child with anxiety or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. We contacted 317 private paediatrician, psychiatrist and psychologist practices in Victoria and South Australia between 12 March and 5 May 2019. RESULTS One third (29.8%) of private practices were closed to new referrals. The average wait times for paediatricians, psychiatrists, and psychologists were 44, 41 and 34 days, respectively. Average out-of-pocket costs quoted were AU$120 for paediatricians, AU$176 for psychiatrists and AU$85 for psychologists. CONCLUSION Parents face extensive wait times and substantial out-of-pocket costs when seeking private mental health services for their child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Mulraney
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cindy Lee
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gary Freed
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Michael Sawyer
- Research and Evaluation Unit, Women's and Children's Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - David Coghill
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Community Child Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Sciberras
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daryl Efron
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Community Child Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Harriet Hiscock
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Community Child Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Porto A, Rubin K, Wagner K, Chang W, Macri G, Anderson D. Impact of Pediatric Electronic Consultations in a Federally Qualified Health Center. Telemed J E Health 2021; 27:1379-1384. [PMID: 33719584 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2020.0394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Access to pediatric specialty care is a challenge, particularly for medically underserved populations. Introduction: One evolving method that has shown promise in helping ameliorate this disparity is electronic consultations (e-consults). Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study compared two groups: patients referred to pediatric cardiology, endocrinology, or pulmonology from a Federally-Qualified Health Center 10 months before the implementation of an evidence-based care pathway and those referred in the 10 months after implementation. The care pathway included evidence-based referral guidelines for common pediatric diagnoses and an e-consult process. Data included patient demographics, dates of referral requests, appointment dates, e-consult response dates and times, diagnosis codes, and consultants' recommendations. Results: Twenty-three percent of all referrals made postimplementation were submitted for an e-consult, with 53% preventing an unnecessary face-to-face visit. The most common reason for an e-consult was heart murmur/chest pain for cardiology, short stature for endocrinology, and asthma for pulmonology. Discussion: Providers used e-consults for nearly one-quarter of all consultations postimplementation, resulting in 17% of consultations not needing a face-to-face visit. The use of e-consults combined with evidence-based referral guidelines provided a useful tool to help front line pediatric primary care providers manage complex problems and identify those not needing to see a specialist in person. Conclusions: Evidence-based care pathways combined with e-consults can help improve access to pediatric specialty care by reducing demand for in-person visits and allowing more care to be delivered in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen Rubin
- UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA.,Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Center for Innovation, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Wei Chang
- Weitzman Institute, Middletown, Connecticut, USA
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49
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Natsuaki MN, Yates TM. Adolescent Acne and Disparities in Mental Health. CHILD DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVES 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/cdep.12397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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50
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Grinspan ZM, Patel AD, Shellhaas RA, Berg AT, Axeen ET, Bolton J, Clarke DF, Coryell J, Gaillard WD, Goodkin HP, Koh S, Kukla A, Mbwana JS, Morgan LA, Singhal NS, Storey MM, Yozawitz EG, Abend NS, Fitzgerald MP, Fridinger SE, Helbig I, Massey SL, Prelack MS, Buchhalter J. Design and implementation of electronic health record common data elements for pediatric epilepsy: Foundations for a learning health care system. Epilepsia 2021; 62:198-216. [PMID: 33368200 PMCID: PMC10508354 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Common data elements (CDEs) are standardized questions and answer choices that allow aggregation, analysis, and comparison of observations from multiple sources. Clinical CDEs are foundational for learning health care systems, a data-driven approach to health care focused on continuous improvement of outcomes. We aimed to create clinical CDEs for pediatric epilepsy. METHODS A multiple stakeholder group (clinicians, researchers, parents, caregivers, advocates, and electronic health record [EHR] vendors) developed clinical CDEs for routine care of children with epilepsy. Initial drafts drew from clinical epilepsy note templates, CDEs created for clinical research, items in existing registries, consensus documents and guidelines, quality metrics, and outcomes needed for demonstration projects. The CDEs were refined through discussion and field testing. We describe the development process, rationale for CDE selection, findings from piloting, and the CDEs themselves. We also describe early implementation, including experience with EHR systems and compatibility with the International League Against Epilepsy classification of seizure types. RESULTS Common data elements were drafted in August 2017 and finalized in January 2020. Prioritized outcomes included seizure control, seizure freedom, American Academy of Neurology quality measures, presence of common comorbidities, and quality of life. The CDEs were piloted at 224 visits at 10 centers. The final CDEs included 36 questions in nine sections (number of questions): diagnosis (1), seizure frequency (9), quality of life (2), epilepsy history (6), etiology (8), comorbidities (2), treatment (2), process measures (5), and longitudinal history notes (1). Seizures are categorized as generalized tonic-clonic (regardless of onset), motor, nonmotor, and epileptic spasms. Focality is collected as epilepsy type rather than seizure type. Seizure frequency is measured in nine levels (all used during piloting). The CDEs were implemented in three vendor systems. Early clinical adoption included 1294 encounters at one center. SIGNIFICANCE We created, piloted, refined, finalized, and implemented a novel set of clinical CDEs for pediatric epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary M Grinspan
- Departments of Population Health Sciences and Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Anup D Patel
- Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Renée A Shellhaas
- Department of Pediatrics (Pediatric Neurology), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Anne T Berg
- Division of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - Erika T Axeen
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Jeffrey Bolton
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
| | - David F Clarke
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Jason Coryell
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, Oregon
| | - William D Gaillard
- Department of Neurology, Children’s National Health System and School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Howard P Goodkin
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Sookyong Koh
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Children’s Center, 2015 Uppergate Drive NE, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Juma S Mbwana
- Department of Neurology, Children’s National Health System and School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Nilika S Singhal
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Seattle Children’s Hospital, University of Washington, and Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Margaret M Storey
- Department of History, College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, DePaul University, Chicago, IL
| | - Elissa G Yozawitz
- Saul Korey Department of Neurology, Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Nicholas S Abend
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Mark P Fitzgerald
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sara E Fridinger
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Ingo Helbig
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN), Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics (DBHi), Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Shavonne L Massey
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Marisa S Prelack
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jeffrey Buchhalter
- Department of Neurology, St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona
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