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Kwon S, Byun J. Clinical Experience of Nurses in a Consultative Hospice Palliative Care Service. JOURNAL OF HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2024; 27:31-44. [PMID: 38449831 PMCID: PMC10911980 DOI: 10.14475/jhpc.2024.27.1.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this qualitative study was to employ Colaizzi's phenomenological research method to elucidate and understand the essence of practical experiences among consultative hospice palliative care nurses working in hospice institutions. Methods The participants in the study were 15 consultative hospice palliative care nurses with over 1 year of work experience in institutions located in S City, I City, and K Province in South Korea. Data were collected from 23 in-depth interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological qualitative method. Results The practical experiences of consultative hospice palliative nurses were categorized into five categories, 10 theme clusters, and 25 themes. The five categories included "being aware of patients' situations at the time of transition to hospice palliative care," "empathizing with patients and their families by putting oneself in the other's shoes," "providing patient and family-centered end-of-life care," "experiencing difficulties in practical tasks," and "striving to improve hospice service quality." Conclusion This study is significant in that it provides practical data for understanding the experiences of consultative hospice palliative care nurses caring for terminally ill patients. This could enhance our understanding of care solutions that effectively tackle the challenges consultative hospice palliative care nurses encounter while fulfilling their roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinyoung Kwon
- Department of Nursing, Gangdong University, Eumseong, Korea
| | - Jinyee Byun
- Department of Nursing, Kyungil University, Gyeongsan, Korea
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Kim S, Chervu N, Premji A, Mallick S, Verma A, Ali K, Benharash P, Donahue T. Association of Inpatient Palliative Care Consultation with Clinical and Financial Outcomes for Pancreatic Cancer. Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:1328-1335. [PMID: 37957512 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14528-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative care consultation (PCC) has been shown to improve quality of life and reduce costs for various chronic life-threatening diseases. Despite PCC incorporation into modern pancreatic cancer care guidelines, limited data regarding its specific utilization and impact on resource use is available. METHODS The 2016-2020 Nationwide Readmissions Database was used to identify all adult hospitalizations entailing pancreatic cancer. Only patients with at least one readmission within 90 days were included to account for uncaptured out-of-hospital mortality. Multivariable regression models were used to ascertain the relationship between inpatient PCC during initial hospitalization and index as well as cumulative costs, overall length of stay (LOS), readmission rate, and number of repeat hospitalizations. RESULTS Of an estimated 175,805 patients with pancreatic cancer, 11.1% had inpatient PCC during the index admission. PCC utilization significantly increased from 10.5% in 2016 to 11.6% in 2020 (nptrend < 0.001). After adjustment, PCC was associated with reduced index hospitalization costs [β: - $1100; 95% confidence interval (CI) - 1500, - 800; P < 0.001] and cumulative 90-day costs (β: - $11,700; 95% CI - 12,700, - 10,000; P < 0.001). PCC was associated with longer index LOS (β: + 1.12 days, 95% CI 0.92-1.31, P < 0.001) but significantly reduced cumulative LOS (β: - 3.16 days; 95% CI - 3.67, - 2.65; P < 0.001). Finally, PCC was linked with decreased odds of 30-day nonelective readmission (AOR: 0.48, 95% CI 0.45-0.50, P < 0.001). DISCUSSION PCC was associated with decreased costs, readmission rates, and number of hospitalizations among patients with pancreatic cancer. Directed strategies to increase utilization and reduce barriers to consultation should be implemented to encourage practitioners to maximize inpatient PCC referral rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shineui Kim
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nikhil Chervu
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alykhan Premji
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Saad Mallick
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arjun Verma
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Konmal Ali
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Peyman Benharash
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Timothy Donahue
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Leung C, Andersen CR, Wilson K, Nortje N, George M, Flowers C, Bruera E, Hui D. The impact of a multidisciplinary goals-of-care program on unplanned readmission rates at a comprehensive cancer center. Support Care Cancer 2023; 32:66. [PMID: 38150077 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08265-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined the 30-day unplanned readmission rate in the medical oncology population before and after the implementation of an institution-wide multicomponent interdisciplinary goals of care (myGOC) program. METHODS This retrospective study compared the 30-day unplanned readmission rates in consecutive medical patients during the pre-implementation period (May 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019) and the post-implementation period (May 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020). Secondary outcomes included 7-day unplanned readmission rates, inpatient do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders, and palliative care consults. We randomly selected a hospitalization encounter for each unique patient during each study period for statistical analysis. A multivariate analysis model was used to examine the association between 30-day unplanned readmission rates and implementation of the myGOC program. RESULTS There were 7028 and 5982 unique medical patients during the pre- and post-implementation period, respectively. The overall 30-day unplanned readmission rate decreased from 24.0 to 21.3% after implementation of the myGOC program. After adjusting for covariates, the myGOC program implementation remained significantly associated with a reduction in 30-day unplanned readmission rates (OR [95% CI] 0.85 [0.77, 0.95], p = 0.003). Other factors significantly associated with a decreased likelihood of a 30-day unplanned readmission were an inpatient DNR order, advanced care planning documentation, and an emergent admission type. We also observed a significant decrease in 7-day unplanned readmission rates (OR [95% CI] 0.75 [0.64, 0.89]) after implementation of the myGOC program. CONCLUSION The 30-day and 7-day unplanned readmission rates decreased in our hospital after implementation of a system-wide multicomponent GOC intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cerena Leung
- Department of Hospital Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Clark R Andersen
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kaycee Wilson
- Department of Inpatient Analytics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nico Nortje
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Marina George
- Department of Hospital Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christopher Flowers
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David Hui
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Cook A, Swindall R, Spencer K, Wadle C, Cage SA, Mohiuddin M, Desai Y, Norwood S. Hospitalization and readmission after single-level fall: a population-based sample. Inj Epidemiol 2023; 10:49. [PMID: 37858271 PMCID: PMC10588028 DOI: 10.1186/s40621-023-00463-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Single-level falls (SLFs) in the older US population is a leading cause of hospital admission and rates are increasing. Unscheduled hospital readmission is regarded as a quality-of-care indication and a preventable burden on healthcare systems. We aimed to characterize the predictors of 30-day readmission following admission for SLF injuries among patients 65 years and older. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Nationwide Readmission Database from 2018 to 2019. Included patients were 65 and older, admitted emergently following a SLF with a primary injury diagnosis. Hierarchical logit regression was used to model factors associated with readmission within 30 days of discharge. RESULTS Of 1,338,905 trauma patients, 65 years or older, 61.3% had a single-level fall as the mechanism of injury. Among fallers, the average age was 81.1 years and 68.5% were female. SLF patients underwent more major therapeutic procedures (56.3% vs. 48.2%), spent over 2 million days in the hospital and incurred total charges of over $28 billion annually. Over 11% of SLF patients were readmitted within 30 days of discharge. Increasing income had a modest effect, where the highest zip code quartile was 9% less likely to be readmitted. Decreasing population density had a protective effect of readmission of 16%, comparing Non-Urban to Large Metropolitan. Transfer to short-term hospital, brain and vascular injuries were independent predictors of 30-day readmission in multivariable analysis (OR 2.50, 1.31, and 1.42, respectively). Palliative care consultation was protective (OR 0.41). The subsequent hospitalizations among those 30-day readmissions were primarily emergent (92.9%), consumed 260,876 hospital days and a total of $2.75 billion annually. CONCLUSIONS SLFs exact costs to patients, health systems, and society. Transfer to short-term hospitals at discharge, along with brain and vascular injuries were strong predictors of 30-day readmission and warrant mitigation strategy development with consideration of expanded palliative care consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Cook
- Trauma Services, UT Health East Texas, 1020 E. Idel St., Tyler, TX, 75701, USA
| | - Rebecca Swindall
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, 11937 US Highway 271, Room H252, Tyler, TX, 75708, USA
| | - Katherine Spencer
- CHRISTUS Health-Texas A&M Spohn Emergency Medicine Residency, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, 600 Elizabeth Street, 9B, Corpus Christi, TX, 78404, USA
| | - Carly Wadle
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, 11937 US Highway 271, Room H252, Tyler, TX, 75708, USA
| | - S Andrew Cage
- Department of Sports Medicine, The University of Texas at Tyler, 3900 University Blvd., Tyler, TX, 75799, USA
| | - Musharaf Mohiuddin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, 11937 US Highway 271, Room H252, Tyler, TX, 75708, USA.
| | - Yagnesh Desai
- Department of Emergency Medicine, UT Health East Texas, 1000 S. Beckham Ave., Tyler, TX, 75701, USA
| | - Scott Norwood
- Trauma Services, UT Health East Texas, 1020 E. Idel St., Tyler, TX, 75701, USA
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Ohana S, Shaulov A, DeKeyser Ganz F. Acute palliative care models: scoping review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023:spcare-2022-004124. [PMID: 37591691 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-004124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this scoping review is to identify the most commonly used models of palliative care delivery in acute care settings, their advantages and disadvantages, and to review existent research evidence in support of each model. METHODS We conducted an extensive search using EMBASE, Medline, CINAHL and Pubmed, using various combinations of terms relating to models in palliative care and acute care settings. Data were analysed using tabular summaries and content analysis. RESULTS 41 articles were analysed. Four models were identified: primary, consultative, integrative and hybrid models of palliative care. All four models have varying characteristics in terms of access to specialist palliative care; fragmentation of healthcare services; therapeutic relationships between patients and providers; optimal usage of scarce palliative care resources; timing of provision of palliative care; communication and collaboration between providers and clarity of provider roles. Moreover, all four models have different patient outcomes and healthcare utilisation. Gaps in research limit the ability to determine what model of care is more applicable in an acute care setting. CONCLUSION No ideal model of care was identified. Each model had its advantages and disadvantages. Future work is needed to investigate which setting one model may be better than the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulamit Ohana
- Nursing, Hebrew University of Jerusalem Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Adir Shaulov
- Nursing, Hebrew University of Jerusalem Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Freda DeKeyser Ganz
- Nursing, Hebrew University of Jerusalem Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
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Wilson PM, Ramar P, Philpot LM, Soleimani J, Ebbert JO, Storlie CB, Morgan AA, Schaeferle GM, Asai SW, Herasevich V, Pickering BW, Tiong IC, Olson EA, Karow JC, Pinevich Y, Strand J. Effect of an Artificial Intelligence Decision Support Tool on Palliative Care Referral in Hospitalized Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 66:24-32. [PMID: 36842541 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.02.317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Palliative care services are commonly provided to hospitalized patients, but accurately predicting who needs them remains a challenge. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness on clinical outcomes of an artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML) decision support tool for predicting patient need for palliative care services in the hospital. METHODS The study design was a pragmatic, cluster-randomized, stepped-wedge clinical trial in 12 nursing units at two hospitals over a 15-month period between August 19, 2019, and November 17, 2020. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to either a medical service consultation recommendation triggered by an AI/ML tool predicting the need for palliative care services or usual care. The primary outcome was palliative care consultation note. Secondary outcomes included: hospital readmissions, length of stay, transfer to intensive care and palliative care consultation note by unit. RESULTS A total of 3183 patient hospitalizations were enrolled. Of eligible patients, A total of 2544 patients were randomized to the decision support tool (1212; 48%) and usual care (1332; 52%). Of these, 1717 patients (67%) were retained for analyses. Patients randomized to the intervention had a statistically significant higher incidence rate of palliative care consultation compared to the control group (IRR, 1.44 [95% CI, 1.11-1.92]). Exploratory evidence suggested that the decision support tool group reduced 60-day and 90-day hospital readmissions (OR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.57, 0.97]) and (OR, 0.72 [95% CI, 0.55-0.93]) respectively. CONCLUSION A decision support tool integrated into palliative care practice and leveraging AI/ML demonstrated an increased palliative care consultation rate among hospitalized patients and reductions in hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M Wilson
- Mayo Clinic Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery (P.M.W, J.O.E., C.B.S., G.M.S.), Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
| | - Priya Ramar
- Department of Medicine (P.R., L.M.P.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota USA
| | - Lindsey M Philpot
- Department of Medicine (P.R., L.M.P.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota USA
| | - Jalal Soleimani
- Department of Anesthesiology (J.S., V.H., B.W.P., Y.P.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota USA
| | - Jon O Ebbert
- Mayo Clinic Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery (P.M.W, J.O.E., C.B.S., G.M.S.), Rochester, Minnesota, USA; Division of Community Internal Medicine (J.O.E., A.A.M. E.A.O., J.C.K., J.S.), Geriatrics and Palliative Care Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Curtis B Storlie
- Mayo Clinic Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery (P.M.W, J.O.E., C.B.S., G.M.S.), Rochester, Minnesota, USA; Department of Health Sciences Research (C.B.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Alisha A Morgan
- Division of Community Internal Medicine (J.O.E., A.A.M. E.A.O., J.C.K., J.S.), Geriatrics and Palliative Care Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gavin M Schaeferle
- Mayo Clinic Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery (P.M.W, J.O.E., C.B.S., G.M.S.), Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Shusaku W Asai
- Health Analytics | Global Health and Wellbeing (S.W.A.), Delta Air Lines, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vitaly Herasevich
- Department of Anesthesiology (J.S., V.H., B.W.P., Y.P.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota USA
| | - Brian W Pickering
- Department of Anesthesiology (J.S., V.H., B.W.P., Y.P.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota USA
| | - Ing C Tiong
- Department of Information Technology (I.C.T.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Emily A Olson
- Division of Community Internal Medicine (J.O.E., A.A.M. E.A.O., J.C.K., J.S.), Geriatrics and Palliative Care Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jordan C Karow
- Division of Community Internal Medicine (J.O.E., A.A.M. E.A.O., J.C.K., J.S.), Geriatrics and Palliative Care Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Yuliya Pinevich
- Department of Anesthesiology (J.S., V.H., B.W.P., Y.P.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota USA
| | - Jacob Strand
- Division of Community Internal Medicine (J.O.E., A.A.M. E.A.O., J.C.K., J.S.), Geriatrics and Palliative Care Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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El Hachem P, Pasniciuc S, Khurana S, Samala RV, Rybicki LA, Lagman RL, Davis MP. Characteristics of Patients with Cancer Readmitted Within 30 Days to an Acute Palliative Care Unit. J Palliat Care 2023; 38:200-206. [PMID: 35929121 DOI: 10.1177/08258597221119325] [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(S) For patients with cancer, the emergence of acute palliative care units (APCU) may hold promise in curtailing hospital readmissions. The study aims to describe the characteristics of patients readmitted to an APCU. METHODS This retrospective study examined patients with cancer readmitted within 30 days to an APCU. Readmissions were further classified as either potentially preventable or non-preventable. RESULTS Out of 734 discharges from July 1, 2014 to July 1, 2015, 69 (9%) readmissions were identified and analyzed. For index admissions, median length of stay was five days, and one (1%) was discharged home with hospice care. For readmissions, median time from index admission to readmission was nine days, median length of stay was six days, three (4%) patients died, and 20 (30%) went home with hospice. Ten (14.5%) readmissions were deemed potentially preventable (95% CI 7.2-25.0%). Race/ethnicity-White/Black/Hispanic/Others-was 60%, 10%, 20% and 10%, respectively, among potentially preventable readmissions and 76%, 22%, 2% and 0%, respectively, among potentially non-preventable readmissions (P = .012). Potentially preventable readmissions were more likely to have venous thromboembolism (40% vs. 12%, P = .046) and more reasons for readmission (median 2 vs. 1, P = .019). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with cancer readmitted to an APCU, one out of seven was potentially preventable and a far larger proportion was discharged with hospice care compared to the index admission. Recognition of disease course, meaningful goals of care discussions and timely transition to hospice care may reduce rehospitalization in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre El Hachem
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, 2569Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Silviu Pasniciuc
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, 2569Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Saurabh Khurana
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, 2569Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Renato V Samala
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, 2569Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Lisa A Rybicki
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, 2569Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ruth L Lagman
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, 2569Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mellar P Davis
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, 2569Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Association between inpatient palliative care encounter and 30-day all-cause readmissions after index hospitalization for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Heart Lung 2023; 58:69-73. [PMID: 36410155 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies exist on the association between inpatient Palliative Care Encounter (iPCE) and 30-day rehospitalization among cancer and several non-cancer conditions but limited in persons with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). OBJECTIVE To assess the association between an iPCE with the risk of 30-day rehospitalization after an index hospitalization for COPD. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of the Nationwide Readmissions Database (2010-2014). Index hospitalizations were defined as persons ≥ 18 years of age, discharge destinations of either Home/Routine, Home with Home Care, or a Facility, and an index hospitalization with Diagnosis Related Group of COPD. The International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision codes were used to extract comorbidities and a Palliative Care Encounter (V66.7). RESULTS There were 3,163,889 index hospitalizations and iPCE occurred in 21,330 (0.67%). There were 558,059 (17.63%) with a 30-day rehospitalization. An iPCE was associated with a significantly lower adjusted odds of 30-day readmission (Odds Ratio [OR], 0.50; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 0.46 to 0.54). By discharge destination, the odds of 30-day rehospitalization were for a discharged to a facility (OR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.42), to home with home health (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.37 to 0.47), and to home (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.85 to 1.12) for those with relative to without iPCE. CONCLUSION Inpatient PCE was associated with a 50% lower relative odds of 30-day rehospitalization after an index hospitalization for COPD. This association varied by discharge destination being statistically significant among those with a discharge destination of a facility (63%) and home with home care (58%).
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Anandan S, Reyes A, Izard S, Magalee CJ, Lopez S. A Retrospective Study Analyzing a Palliative Care-Hospital Medicine Collaboration to Improve Quality of Care of Patients With Advanced Illness. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023; 40:299-310. [PMID: 35549918 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221101566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative care seeks to improve outcomes for patients with advanced illness (AI). Advocacy exists for making it part of mainstream care for hospitalized patients with AI. AIM To determine if a partnership between hospital-medicine and specialized palliative care would increase identification of AI patients with palliative care needs requiring palliative consultation. Secondary outcomes: Decreasing 30-day readmission, length of stay (LOS) and pain scores, increasing documentation reflecting goals and advanced care planning. DESIGN Retrospective chart review of patients with AI admitted to a hospitalist-resident run unit divided into Care Models, "A" and "B," and analyzed over two ten-month periods, "1" and "2." Triggers for palliative needs were provided for "A." During biweekly rounding, needs were assessed and generalist vs. specialist level palliative care concepts were used for consultation. SETTING Quaternary-level teaching center in the New York Metropolitan area. PATIENTS 3,395 AI patients were analyzed, 1,707 from "1," and 1,688 from "2." RESULTS Comparing care models and time frames, palliative care consultation increased in "A" (P-value = .0013, P-value = .0005). When investigating "A" in "1" to "2," CMI was higher. Comparing "B" between "1" and "2," found older age and lower LACE. When adjusting for confounders (LACE and CMI), our models did not show a difference. Data on discharge disposition was significant for subacute rehab but not for mortality. There were no differences between care models and time-periods for secondary outcomes. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrated the demand for palliative care services integrated into hospital medicine and highlighted areas of focus for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Anandan
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Andre Reyes
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Stephanie Izard
- Center for Health Innovations and Outcomes Research, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Christopher J Magalee
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Santiago Lopez
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
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Kowalczys A, Bohdan M, Wilkowska A, Pawłowska I, Pawłowski L, Janowiak P, Jassem E, Lelonek M, Gruchała M, Sobański P. Comprehensive care for people living with heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease—Integration of palliative care with disease-specific care: From guidelines to practice. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:895495. [PMID: 36237915 PMCID: PMC9551106 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.895495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are the leading global epidemiological, clinical, social, and economic burden. Due to similar risk factors and overlapping pathophysiological pathways, the coexistence of these two diseases is common. People with severe COPD and advanced chronic HF (CHF) develop similar symptoms that aggravate if evoking mechanisms overlap. The coexistence of COPD and CHF limits the quality of life (QoL) and worsens symptom burden and mortality, more than if only one of them is present. Both conditions progress despite optimal, guidelines directed treatment, frequently exacerbate, and have a similar or worse prognosis in comparison with many malignant diseases. Palliative care (PC) is effective in QoL improvement of people with CHF and COPD and may be a valuable addition to standard treatment. The current guidelines for the management of HF and COPD emphasize the importance of early integration of PC parallel to disease-modifying therapies in people with advanced forms of both conditions. The number of patients with HF and COPD requiring PC is high and will grow in future decades necessitating further attention to research and knowledge translation in this field of practice. Care pathways for people living with concomitant HF and COPD have not been published so far. It can be hypothesized that overlapping of symptoms and similarity in disease trajectories allow to draw a model of care which will address symptoms and problems caused by either condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kowalczys
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
- *Correspondence: Anna Kowalczys,
| | - Michał Bohdan
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Alina Wilkowska
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Pomeranian, Poland
| | - Iga Pawłowska
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Pomeranian, Poland
| | - Leszek Pawłowski
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Pomeranian, Poland
| | - Piotr Janowiak
- Department of Pneumonology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Pomeranian, Poland
| | - Ewa Jassem
- Department of Pneumonology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Pomeranian, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Lelonek
- Department of Noninvasive Cardiology, Medical University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland
| | - Marcin Gruchała
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Piotr Sobański
- Palliative Care Unit and Competence Centre, Department of Internal Medicine, Schwyz Hospital, Schwyz, Switzerland
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11
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Johnson AW, Byriel B, Rubeck J, Ghabril M, Orman ES. Standardized Criteria Increases Palliative Care Consultation Utilization in Patients With End-Stage Liver Disease: A Pilot Study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2022:10499091221127984. [PMID: 36167488 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221127984] [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: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: Patients with end-stage liver disease have high symptom burden and high healthcare utilization, which may be improved by palliative care consultation. Objectives: We sought to determine if implementing standardized palliative care consultation criteria in hospitalized patients with end-stage liver disease would increase palliative care utilization and improve patient outcomes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of hospitalized patients with end-stage liver disease. Patients under the age of 18, received a previous liver transplant, or admitted for liver transplantation were not included. Patients with end-stage liver disease meeting two or more of the following criteria were included: (i)Child Pugh C cirrhosis, (ii)2 or more liver related hospitalizations within 6 months, (iii) current alcohol use with alcoholic cirrhosis, and (iv) unsuitable for transplantation work up. We compared consults before and after implementation of the criteria, and we compared outcomes in patients who did and did not see palliative care. Results: With implementation, consults increased (2/25 (8%) vs 11/33 (33%), p = .020). Palliative care was associated with higher completion of health care representative documentation (66.7% vs 35.7%, P = .20) and physician orders for scope of treatment forms (16.7% vs 0%, P = 0.13). Patients seen by palliative care had a higher rate of discharges with hospice (30.8% vs 0, P = .002). Conclusions: Implementation of standardized palliative care consultation criteria for patients with end-stage liver disease increased palliative care utilization. Patients seen by palliative care had increased discharges with hospice services and a trend towards higher completion rates of advanced directives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy W Johnson
- Division of General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics, 12250Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis. IN, USA
| | - Benjamin Byriel
- Gastroenterology Fellowship, Department of Medicine, 12250Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis. IN, USA
| | | | - Marwan Ghabril
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 12250Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis. IN, USA
| | - Eric S Orman
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 12250Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis. IN, USA
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12
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Yazdanyar A, Guthier D, Maitz T, Singh S, Parfianowicz D, Li S, Jarjous S. Inpatient palliative care encounter and 30-day readmission among hospitalizations for heart failure. Future Cardiol 2022; 18:809-816. [PMID: 36052818 DOI: 10.2217/fca-2022-0041] [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: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: To determine the association between inpatient palliative care encounter (PCE) and 30-day rehospitalization. Materials & methods: The Nationwide Readmission Database was used in a cross-sectional design study. Comorbidities and a palliative care encounter (PCE; V66.7) were defined using ICD-9 codes. Results: Overall, 21.28% of 3,534,480 index hospitalizations were readmitted. PCE occurred in 1.66% of index hospitalizations and was associated with a lower odds of 30-day rehospitalization (adjusted odds ratio, 0.38; 95% CI: 0.35-0.40). This association remained significant when assessed by discharge destination. Conclusion: PCE was associated with a lower relative odds of 30-day rehospitalization. A 73% decrease in the relative odds of 30-day rehospitalization among discharges to a facility, 64% for home with home health, and 22% for discharges to home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Yazdanyar
- Department of Emergency & Hospital Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA 18103, USA.,Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Desire Guthier
- Department of Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA 18013, USA
| | - Theresa Maitz
- Department of Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA 18013, USA
| | - Satinder Singh
- Department of Emergency & Hospital Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA 18103, USA
| | - Dominic Parfianowicz
- Department of Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA 18013, USA
| | - Shuisen Li
- Department of Emergency & Hospital Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA 18103, USA.,Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Shadi Jarjous
- Department of Emergency & Hospital Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA 18103, USA.,Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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13
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Griffith KN, Schwartzman DA, Pizer SD, Bor J, Kolachalama VB, Jack B, Garrido MM. Local Supply Of Postdischarge Care Options Tied To Hospital Readmission Rates. HEALTH AFFAIRS (PROJECT HOPE) 2022; 41:1036-1044. [PMID: 35787076 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2021.01991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The extent to which patients' risk for readmission after a hospitalization is influenced by local availability of postdischarge care options is not currently known. We used national, hospital-level data to assess whether the supply of postdischarge care options in hospitals' catchment areas was associated with readmission rates for Medicare patients after hospitalizations for acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, or pneumonia. Overall, readmission rates were negatively associated with per capita supply of primary care physicians (-0.16 percentage points per standard deviation) and licensed nursing home beds (-0.09 percentage points per standard deviation). In contrast, readmission rates were positively associated with per capita supply of nurse practitioners (0.09 percentage points per standard deviation). Our results suggest potential modifications to the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program to account for local health system characteristics when assigning penalties to hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin N Griffith
- Kevin N. Griffith , Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, and Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David A Schwartzman
- David A. Schwartzman, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Steven D Pizer
- Steven D. Pizer, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System and Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | - Melissa M Garrido
- Melissa M. Garrido, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System and Boston University
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14
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Zametkin E, Williams E, Feingold-Link M, Jiang L, Martin E, Erqou S, Gravenstein S, Wice M, Wu WC, Rudolph JL. Racial Differences in Burdensome Transitions in Heart Failure Patients with Palliative Care: A Propensity-Matched Analysis. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:1122-1126. [PMID: 35275739 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Examining racial disparities in the treatment of heart failure (HF) patients and the effects of palliative care (PC) consultation is important to developing culturally competent clinical behaviors. Objective: To compare burdensome transitions for Black and White Veterans hospitalized with HF after PC consultation. Participants: This retrospective study evaluated Veterans admitted for HF to Veterans Administration hospitals who received PC consultation from October 2010 through August 2017. Methods: We propensity-matched Black to White Veterans using demographic, comorbidity, clinical, hospital, and survival time data. Results: Propensity matching of our cohort (n = 5638) yielded 796 Black and White Veterans (total n = 1592) who were well-matched on observed variables (standard mean difference <0.15 for all variables). Matched Black Veterans had more burdensome transitions than White Veterans (n = 218, 27.4% vs. n = 174, 21.9%; p = 0.011) over the six-month follow-up period. Conclusions: This propensity-matched cohort found racial differences in burdensome transitions among admitted HF patients after PC consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Zametkin
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Edelva Williams
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Mara Feingold-Link
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Lan Jiang
- Center of Innovation in Long Term Services and Supports, Providence Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Edward Martin
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Sebhat Erqou
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Center of Innovation in Long Term Services and Supports, Providence Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Stefan Gravenstein
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Mitchell Wice
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Center of Innovation in Long Term Services and Supports, Providence Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Wen-Chih Wu
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Center of Innovation in Long Term Services and Supports, Providence Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - James L Rudolph
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Center of Innovation in Long Term Services and Supports, Providence Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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15
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van Zyl C, O'Riordan DL, Kerr KM, Harris HA. Doing More with the Same: Comparing Public and Private Hospital Palliative Care within California. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:1064-1071. [PMID: 35085457 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0384] [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: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Public and private hospitals treat different patient populations, which may impact resources to deliver palliative care (PC). Objectives: Compare public and private hospital PC service structures, processes, and treatment outcomes. Design: Retrospective data analysis of the Palliative Care Quality Network between 2018 and 2019. Settings/Subjects: Six public and 40 private California hospitals provided PC consultations to 4244 and 38,354 adults, respectively. Measurements: PC team and patient characteristics, care processes, and treatment outcomes. Results: Public and private hospital PC services had similar full-time equivalent/100 beds (1.2 vs. 1.4, p = 0.4). Public hospital patients were younger (65.2 vs. 73.5, p < 0.001), less likely to be non-Hispanic Caucasian (22.5% vs. 57.5%, p < 0.001), or English speaking (51.1% vs. 79.9%, p < 0.001). Public hospital patients had more moderate/severe pain (21.3% vs. 19.3, p < 0.03), anxiety (12.4% vs. 9.2%, p < 0.001), nausea (6.5% vs. 4.7%, p < 0.001), and dyspnea (11.0% vs. 8.6%, p < 0.001). Both hospitals equally improved pain (70.9% vs. 70.5%, p = 0.83) and nausea (82.0% vs. 87.6%, p = 0.09), but public hospitals were less effective at improving anxiety (67.3% vs. 78.4%, p = 0.002) and dyspnea (58.4% vs. 67.9%, p = 0.05). Although there was no difference in hospital length of stay (public = 10.2 days vs. private = 9.5 days, p = 0.07), public hospitals conducted more patient visits (2.6 vs. 1.8, p < 0.001). They also more often clarified code status (87.7% vs. 84.4%, p < 0.001) and surrogate decision maker (94.9% vs. 89.9%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Public hospital PC teams treat a more diverse symptomatic population. Yet, they achieved comparable outcomes with similar staffing to private hospitals. These findings have important ramifications for policy makers and public institution leaders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carin van Zyl
- LAC+USC Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Medicine, Section of Palliative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - David L O'Riordan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Heather A Harris
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hospital Medicine, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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16
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The Impact of Palliative Medicine Consultation on Readmission Rates and Hospital Costs in Surgical Patients Requiring Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation. Jt Comm J Qual Patient Saf 2022; 48:280-286. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcjq.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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17
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Mir WAY, Siddiqui AH, Paul V, Habib S, Reddy S, Gaire S, Shrestha DB. Palliative Care and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Readmissions: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2021; 13:e16987. [PMID: 34540390 PMCID: PMC8421707 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.16987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite all the advances in the treatment and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), COPD readmissions remain a major challenge nationwide. Increasing evidence suggests that palliative care involvement with a holistic approach towards end-of-life care can significantly improve outcomes related to the quality of life and survival for late-stage cancers and chronic progressive illnesses like COPD, chronic heart failure, and end-stage renal disease. Some studies have attempted to evaluate an association between the involvement of palliative care and readmission reduction, the effect of which remains elusive, especially with regards to COPD readmissions. This review examined the existing literature to analyze the relationship between palliative care involvement for COPD patients and its effect on COPD readmissions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdul Hasan Siddiqui
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, USA
| | - Vishesh Paul
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, USA
| | - Saad Habib
- Internal Medicine, Staten Island University Hospital/Northwell Health, Staten Island, USA
| | - Shravani Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, USA
| | - Suman Gaire
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Palpa Hospital, Palpa, NPL
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18
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Martz K, Alderden J, Bassett R, Swick D. Outcomes Associated With a Nurse-Driven Palliative Care Screening Tool in the Intensive Care Unit. Crit Care Nurse 2021; 40:23-29. [PMID: 32476026 DOI: 10.4037/ccn2020702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Access to specialty palliative care delivery in the intensive care unit is inconsistent across institutions. The intensive care unit at the study institution uses a screening tool to identify patients likely to benefit from specialty palliative care, yet little is known about outcomes associated with the use of screening tools. OBJECTIVE To identify outcomes associated with specialty palliative care referral among patients with critical illness. METHODS Records of 112 patients with positive results on palliative care screening were retrospectively reviewed to compare outcomes between patients who received a specialty palliative care consult and those who did not. Primary outcome measures were length of stay, discharge disposition, and escalation of care. RESULTS Sixty-five patients (58%) did not receive a palliative care consult. No significant differences were found in length of hospital or intensive care unit stay. Most patients who experienced mechanical ventilation did not receive a palliative care consultation (χ2 = 5.14, P = .02). Patients who were discharged to home were also less likely to receive a consult (χ2 = 4.1, P = .04), whereas patients who were discharged to hospice were more likely to receive a consult (χ2 = 19.39, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Unmet needs exist for specialty palliative care. Understanding the methods of identifying patients for specialty palliative care and providing them with such care is critically important. Future research is needed to elucidate the factors providers use in their decisions to order or defer specialty palliative care consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Martz
- Kim Martz is Associate Professor Emeritus, Boise State University School of Nursing, Faculty Mentor, St Luke's Health System, Boise, Idaho
| | - Jenny Alderden
- Jenny Alderden is an assistant professor, University of Utah College of Nursing, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Rick Bassett
- Rick Bassett is an adult clinical nurse specialist, St Luke's Health System
| | - Dawn Swick
- Dawn Swick is a staff nurse, St Luke's Health System
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19
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Brazee RL, Nugent BD, Sereika SM, Rosenzweig M. The Quality of End-of-Life Care for Women Deceased From Metastatic Breast Cancer. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2021; 23:238-247. [PMID: 33782263 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) carries unique disease burdens with potential for poor-quality end-of-life (EOL) care. It is the purpose of this article to explore the association of poor-quality EOL care indicators according to key tumor, demographic, social, and clinical factors. End-of-life quality indicators were based on Emanuel and Emanuel's good death model in conjunction with Earle et al (2003). A single-institution retrospective chart review of women deceased from MBC between November 2016 and November 2019 with double-verification chart review was completed. Data were analyzed with descriptive, correlative, and comparative statistics. Total sample was N = 167 women, with 14.4% (n = 24) Black and 85.6% (n = 143) White. Mean (SD) age was 55.3 (11.73) years. Overall, MBC survival was 3.12 years (SD, 3.31): White women, 41.2 months (3.4 years), and Black women, 19 months (1.6 years). A total of 64.1% (n = 107) experienced 1 or more indicators of poor-quality EOL care. Patients more likely to experience poor-quality EOL care were older (P = .03), estrogen negative (P = .08), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (P = .07), from more deprived neighborhoods (P = .02), married (P = .05), and with physical (P = .001) and mental (P = .002) comorbidities. Understanding sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with poor EOL MBC care may be useful for proactive patient navigation.
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20
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Woodrell CD, Goldstein NE, Moreno JR, Schiano TD, Schwartz ME, Garrido MM. Inpatient Specialty-Level Palliative Care Is Delivered Late in the Course of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Associated With Lower Hazard of Hospital Readmission. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 61:940-947.e3. [PMID: 33035651 PMCID: PMC8021616 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Little is known about receipt of specialty-level palliative care by people with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or its impact on health care utilization. OBJECTIVES Identify patient characteristics associated with receipt of specialty-level palliative care among hospitalized HCC patients and measure association with time to readmission. METHODS We used logistic regression to examine relationships between receipt of inpatient palliative care consultation by HCC patients at an academic center (N = 811; 2012-2016) and clinical and demographic covariates at index hospitalization. We used a survival analysis model accounting for competing risk of mortality to compare time to readmission among individuals who did or did not receive palliative care during the admission and performed a sensitivity analysis using kernel weights to account for selection bias. RESULTS Overall, 16% received inpatient palliative care consults. Those who received consults had worse laboratory values than those who did not. In a multivariable model, higher Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Sodium, receipt of sorafenib, and higher pain scores were significantly associated with increased odds of palliative care, whereas liver transplantation and admission to a surgical service were associated with lower odds. For time to readmission (2076 hospitalizations for 811 individuals with 175 palliative care visits), the subhazard ratio for readmission for patients who received consults was 0.26 (95% CI = 0.18-0.38) and 0.35 (95% CI = 0.24-0.52) with a kernel-weighted sample. CONCLUSION Inpatient palliative care consultation was received by individuals with more advanced disease and associated with lower readmission hazard. These findings support further research and the development of HCC-specific programs that increase access to specialty-level palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Woodrell
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA.
| | - Nathan E Goldstein
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Jaison R Moreno
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Thomas D Schiano
- Division of Liver Diseases, Samuel Bronfman Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Myron E Schwartz
- Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Melissa M Garrido
- Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Pugh J, Penney LS, Noël PH, Neller S, Mader M, Finley EP, Lanham HJ, Leykum L. Evidence based processes to prevent readmissions: more is better, a ten-site observational study. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:189. [PMID: 33648491 PMCID: PMC7919066 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06193-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background 30-day hospital readmissions are an indicator of quality of care; hospitals are financially penalized by Medicare for high rates. Numerous care transition processes reduce readmissions in clinical trials. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between the number of evidence-based transitional care processes used and the risk standardized readmission rate (RSRR). Methods Design: Mixed method, multi-stepped observational study. Data collection occurred 2014–2018 with data analyses completed in 2021. Setting: Ten VA hospitals, chosen for 5-year trend of improving or worsening RSRR prior to study start plus documented efforts to reduce readmissions. Participants: During five-day site visits, three observers conducted semi-structured interviews (n = 314) with staff responsible for care transition processes and observations of care transitions work (n = 105) in inpatient medicine, geriatrics, and primary care. Exposure: Frequency of use of twenty recommended care transition processes, scored 0–3. Sites’ individual process scores and cumulative total scores were tested for correlation with RSRR. Outcome: best fit predicted RSRR for quarter of site visit based on the 21 months surrounding the site visits. Results Total scores: Mean 38.3 (range 24–47). No site performed all 20 processes. Two processes (pre-discharge patient education, medication reconciliation prior to discharge) were performed at all facilities. Five processes were performed at most facilities but inconsistently and the other 13 processes were more varied across facilities. Total care transition process score was correlated with RSRR (R2 = 0..61, p < 0.007). Conclusions Sites making use of more recommended care transition processes had lower RSRR. Given the variability in implementation and barriers noted by clinicians to consistently perform processes, further reduction of readmissions will likely require new strategies to facilitate implementation of these evidence-based processes, should include consideration of how to better incorporate activities into workflow, and may benefit from more consistent use of some of the more underutilized processes including patient inclusion in discharge planning and increased utilization of community supports. Although all facilities had inpatient social workers and/or dedicated case managers working on transitions, many had none or limited true bridging personnel (following the patient from inpatient to home and even providing home visits). More investment in these roles may also be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Pugh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health at San Antonio, Long School of Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA. .,South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - Lauren S Penney
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health at San Antonio, Long School of Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA.,South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Polly H Noël
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, TX, USA.,Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Texas Health at San Antonio, Long School of Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Sean Neller
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health at San Antonio, Long School of Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Michael Mader
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Erin P Finley
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health at San Antonio, Long School of Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA.,South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Holly J Lanham
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health at San Antonio, Long School of Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA.,South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Luci Leykum
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, TX, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas at Austin, Dell Medical School, Austin, TX, USA
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22
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Price M, Howell EP, Dalton T, Ramirez L, Howell C, Williamson T, Fecci PE, Anders CK, Check DK, Kamal AH, Goodwin CR. Inpatient palliative care utilization for patients with brain metastases. Neurooncol Pract 2021; 8:441-450. [PMID: 34277022 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npab016] [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] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Given the high symptom burden and complex clinical decision making associated with a diagnosis of brain metastases (BM), specialty palliative care (PC) can meaningfully improve patient quality of life. However, no prior study has formally evaluated patient-specific factors associated with PC consultation among BM patients. Methods We examined the rates of PC consults in a cohort of 1303 patients with BM admitted to three tertiary medical centers from October 2015 to December 2018. Patient demographics, surgical status, 30-day readmission, and death data were collected via retrospective chart review. PC utilization was assessed by identifying encounters for which an inpatient consult to PC was placed. Statistical analyses were performed to compare characteristics and outcomes between patients who did and did not receive PC consults. Results We analyzed 1303 patients admitted to the hospital with BM. The average overall rate of inpatient PC consultation was 19.6%. Rates of PC utilization differed significantly by patient race (17.5% in White/Caucasian vs 26.0% in Black/African American patients, P = .0014). Patients who received surgery during their admission had significantly lower rates of PC consultation (3.9% vs 22.4%, P < .0001). Patients who either died during their admission or were discharged to hospice had significantly higher rates of PC than those who were discharged home or to rehabilitation (P < .0001). Conclusions In our dataset, PC consultation rates varied by patient demographic, surgical status, discharging service, and practice setting. Further work is needed to identify the specific barriers to optimally utilizing specialty PC in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Price
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Elizabeth P Howell
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Tara Dalton
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Luis Ramirez
- Duke Center for Brain and Spine Metastasis, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Claire Howell
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Theresa Williamson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Peter E Fecci
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Carey K Anders
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Devon K Check
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Arif H Kamal
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - C Rory Goodwin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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23
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Doshi S, Wish JB. Strategies to Reduce Rehospitalization in Patients with CKD and Kidney Failure. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2021; 16:328-334. [PMID: 32660962 PMCID: PMC7863646 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.02300220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Readmissions in patients with nondialysis-dependent CKD and kidney failure are common and are associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and economic consequences. In 2013, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services implemented the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program in an attempt to reduce high hospitalization-associated costs. Up to 50% of all readmissions are deemed avoidable and present an opportunity for intervention. We describe factors that are specific to the patient, the index hospitalization, and underlying conditions that help identify the "high-risk" patient. Early follow-up care, developing volume management strategies, optimizing nutrition, obtaining palliative care consultations for seriously ill patients during hospitalization and conducting goals-of-care discussions with them, instituting systematic advance care planning during outpatient visits to avoid unwanted hospitalizations and intensive treatment at the end of life, and developing protocols for patients with incident or prevalent cardiovascular conditions may help prevent avoidable readmissions in patients with kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simit Doshi
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
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24
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Clinical Nurse Specialist Collaboration With a Community-Based Palliative Care Program: An Evidence-Based Practice Project. CLIN NURSE SPEC 2021; 35:88-95. [PMID: 33534251 DOI: 10.1097/nur.0000000000000581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES The purpose of the project was to evaluate the impact of a clinical nurse specialist (CNS) collaborating with an established Midwestern community-based palliative care program on the following quality outcomes: care coordination, 30-day readmissions, and emergency department (ED) utilization. DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT Palliative care services are evolving from the inpatient setting to community-based models to meet the needs of patients in their homes. As community-based programs develop, healthcare systems are examining the various models of care. The evidence-based practice project evaluated a collaborative practice model between a CNS and a community-based palliative care team. Quantitative analysis included 30-day readmissions and ED utilization in a preimplementation and postimplementation design. Qualitative data were obtained from a focus group of the community-based palliative care team to discuss the role of the CNS on the team. OUTCOMES The addition of a CNS did not significantly impact 30-day readmissions or ED visits. An unexpected outcome was that the CNS intervention was associated with an increase in social work visits. Results of the focus groups suggested that the CNS improved care coordination, nursing support, education, and medical management. CONCLUSION Both quantitative and qualitative analyses suggest that the CNS enhanced coordination of care and quality outcomes. Examining the CNS contribution over a longer period will further clarify the CNS's impact to the team.
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25
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Kadu M, Mondor L, Hsu A, Webber C, Howard M, Tanuseputro P. Does Inpatient Palliative Care Facilitate Home-Based Palliative Care Postdischarge? A Retrospective Cohort Study. Palliat Med Rep 2021; 2:25-33. [PMID: 34223500 PMCID: PMC8241378 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2020.0095] [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] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Evidence of the impact of inpatient palliative care on receiving home-based palliative care remains limited. Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine, at a population level, the association between receiving inpatient palliative care and home-based palliative care postdischarge. Design: We conducted a retrospective cohort study to examine the association between receiving inpatient palliative care and home-based palliative care within 21 days of hospital discharge among decedents in the last six months of life. Setting/Subjects: We captured all decedents who were discharged alive from an acute care hospital in their last 180 days of life between April 1, 2014, and March 31, 2017, in Ontario, Canada. The index event was the first hospital discharge furthest away from death (i.e., closest to 180 days before death). Results: Decedents who had inpatient palliative care were significantly more likely to receive home-based palliative care after discharge (80.0% vs. 20.1%; p < 0.001). After adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical covariates, the odds of receiving home-based palliative care were 11.3 times higher for those with inpatient palliative care (95% confidence interval [CI]: 9.4–13.5; p < 0.001). The strength of the association incrementally decreased as death approached. The odds of receiving home-based palliative care after a hospital discharge 60 days before death were 7.7 times greater for those who received inpatient palliative care (95% CI: 6.0–9.8). Conclusion: Inpatient palliative care offers a distinct opportunity to improve transitional care between hospital and home, through enhancing access to home-based palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mudathira Kadu
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Luke Mondor
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy Hsu
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Colleen Webber
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michelle Howard
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Tanuseputro
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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26
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Rogers MM, Chambers B, Esch A, Meier DE, Bowman B. Use of an Online Palliative Care Clinical Curriculum to Train U.S. Hospital Staff: 2015-2019. J Palliat Med 2020; 24:488-495. [PMID: 33306934 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Most clinicians in the United States do not receive pre-professional education in pain and symptom management, communication skills, and caregiver support. The use of these skills by clinicians improves the quality of care for persons living with serious illness and enables the specialty-trained palliative care workforce to focus on patients whose needs are most complex. Objective: To review current trends in hospital use of the Center to Advance Palliative Care (CAPC) online clinical training curriculum. Description: Launched in 2015, CAPC clinical curriculum educates clinicians in the knowledge and skills necessary to improve care for patients with serious illness. CAPC currently offers 43 clinical courses and 4 Designations in recognition of successful completion of training by topic. Results: From January 15, 2015, to August 31, 2019, 26,535 clinicians working in hospitals completed 172,684 clinical courses. Registered nurses represented half of learners, and advanced practice providers were most likely to seek Designation. Physicians made up 22% of all learners; 85% of physician learners came from specialties beyond palliative care. Two of every five U.S. hospitals with more than 300 beds had at least one learner. In post-course evaluations, 84% reported that they will make practice changes as a result, and 70% reported that the content was new. Conclusions: The CAPC clinical curriculum is a widely used and valued method for education in clinical skills specific to the care of people living with serious illness. Findings suggest that an increasing number of hospital leaders recognize the importance of these skills in caring for patients with serious illness and support the necessary training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie M Rogers
- Center to Advance Palliative Care of the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Brittany Chambers
- Center to Advance Palliative Care of the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andrew Esch
- Center to Advance Palliative Care of the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Diane E Meier
- Center to Advance Palliative Care of the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Brynn Bowman
- Center to Advance Palliative Care of the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Khan CP, Parver S, Kennedy Lesch J, DiGioia K, Gaglio B, Daugherty S, Clauser SB, Arora NK. Comparative Clinical Effectiveness Research Focused on Community-Based Delivery of Palliative Care: Overview of the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute's Funding Initiative. J Palliat Med 2020; 22:2-6. [PMID: 31486731 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0370] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Palliative care is a growing specialty that addresses the needs of individuals diagnosed with advanced illness and their caregivers. Although palliative care has been shown to improve a variety of patient- and caregiver-centered outcomes, access to comprehensive palliative care services for patients is often limited. There is a need to identify the most effective approaches to delivering palliative care to patients in community settings. In fiscal year 2017, based on extensive input from a diverse set of stakeholders, the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) funded nine multisite comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) trials focused on community-based delivery of palliative care for a total investment of $80 million. These studies, focusing on advance care planning and models of palliative care delivery, represent some of the largest most complex palliative care trials funded to date. Each study evaluates both patient and caregiver outcomes, and together, these trials include a broad range of health conditions, interventions, and settings of care. PCORI has also fostered a learning network of the funded awardees to facilitate the successful conduct of these CER studies and to support awardee efforts to develop collaborative products relevant to advancing the field of palliative care research and practice. The protocols of each of the nine trials, detailed in this issue, demonstrate the expansive reach of the investment PCORI has made in an effort to further the research agenda and provide substantive research evidence in stakeholder-identified areas of need in the field of palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly P Khan
- Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, Washington, DC
| | | | | | | | - Bridget Gaglio
- Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, Washington, DC
| | - Sarah Daugherty
- Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, Washington, DC
| | | | - Neeraj K Arora
- Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, Washington, DC
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28
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Spiker M, Paulsen K, Mehta AK. Primary Palliative Care Education in U.S. Residencies and Fellowships: A Systematic Review of Program Leadership Perspectives. J Palliat Med 2020; 23:1392-1399. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Spiker
- Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kate Paulsen
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ambereen K. Mehta
- Palliative Care Program, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center, Santa Monica, California, USA
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29
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Medication‐related
30‐day rehospitalizations in palliative care patients. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF CLINICAL PHARMACY 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/jac5.1289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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30
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Starr LT, Ulrich CM, Appel SM, Junker P, O'Connor NR, Meghani SH. Goals-of-Care Consultations Are Associated with Lower Costs and Less Acute Care Use among Propensity-Matched Cohorts of African Americans and Whites with Serious Illness. J Palliat Med 2020; 23:1204-1213. [PMID: 32345109 PMCID: PMC7469692 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: African Americans receive more aggressive end-of-life care than Whites. Little is known about how palliative care consultation to discuss goals-of-care ("PCC") is associated with acute care utilization and costs by race. Objective: To compare future acute care costs and utilization between propensity-matched cohorts of African Americans with and without PCC, and Whites with and without PCC. Design: Secondary analysis of a retrospective cohort study. Setting/Subjects: Thirty-five thousand one hundred and fifty-four African Americans and Whites age 18+ admitted for conditions other than childbirth or rehabilitation, who were not hospitalized at the end of the study, and did not die during index hospitalization (hospitalization during which the first PCC occurred). Measurements: Accumulated mean acute care costs and utilization (30-day readmissions, future hospital days, future intensive care unit [ICU] admission, future number of ICU days) after discharge from index hospitalization. Results: No significant difference between African Americans with or without PCC in mean future acute care costs ($11,651 vs. $15,050, p = 0.09), 30-day readmissions (p = 0.58), future hospital days (p = 0.34), future ICU admission (p = 0.25), or future ICU days (p = 0.30). There were significant differences between Whites with PCC and those without PCC in mean future acute care costs ($8,095 vs. $16,799, p < 0.001), 30-day readmissions (10.2% vs. 16.7%, p < 0.0001), and future days hospitalized (3.7 vs. 6.3 days, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: PCC decreases future acute care costs and utilization in Whites and, directionally but not significantly, in African Americans. Research is needed to explain why utilization and cost disparities persist among African Americans despite PCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren T. Starr
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Center for Bioethics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Connie M. Ulrich
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Center for Bioethics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Scott M. Appel
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Paul Junker
- Program for Clinical Effectiveness and Quality Improvement, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nina R. O'Connor
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Salimah H. Meghani
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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31
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Starr LT, Ulrich CM, Junker P, Huang L, O’Connor NR, Meghani SH. Patient Risk Factor Profiles Associated With the Timing of Goals-of-Care Consultation Before Death: A Classification and Regression Tree Analysis. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 37:767-778. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909120934292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Early palliative care consultation (“PCC”) to discuss goals-of-care benefits seriously ill patients. Risk factor profiles associated with the timing of conversations in hospitals, where late conversations most likely occur, are needed. Objective: To identify risk factor patient profiles associated with PCC timing before death. Methods: Secondary analysis of an observational study was conducted at an urban, academic medical center. Patients aged 18 years and older admitted to the medical center, who had PCC, and died July 1, 2014 to October 31, 2016, were included. Patients admitted for childbirth or rehabilitationand patients whose date of death was unknown were excluded. Classification and Regression Tree modeling was employed using demographic and clinical variables. Results: Of 1141 patients, 54% had PCC “close to death” (0-14 days before death); 26% had PCC 15 to 60 days before death; 21% had PCC >60 days before death (median 13 days before death). Variables associated with receiving PCC close to death included being Hispanic or “Other” race/ethnicity intensive care patients with extreme illness severity (85%), with age <46 or >75 increasing this probability (98%). Intensive care patients with extreme illness severity were also likely to receive PCC close to death (64%) as were 50% of intensive care patients with less than extreme illness severity. Conclusions: A majority of patients received PCC close to death. A complex set of variable interactions were associated with PCC timing. A systematic process for engaging patients with PCC earlier in the care continuum, and in intensive care regardless of illness severity, is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren T. Starr
- NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Bioethics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Connie M. Ulrich
- NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Paul Junker
- Program for Clinical Effectiveness and Quality Improvement, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Liming Huang
- BECCA Lab, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nina R. O’Connor
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Salimah H. Meghani
- NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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32
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Paramanandam G, Boohene J, Tran K, Volk-Craft BE. Impact of a Hospital Community Based Palliative Care Partnership: Continuum from Hospital to Home. J Palliat Med 2020; 23:1599-1605. [PMID: 32379530 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To discuss the outcomes of a formalized care transition process for palliative care patients from the hospital to the community. Background: Patients who received inpatient palliative care services from the specialist palliative care team in the hospital or who were identified as needing community palliative care services have inadequate support on discharge. Methods: A retrospective review of the medical records of patients admitted to the community based palliative care (CBPC) program, Arizona Palliative Home Care (AZPHC) over a 12-month period (June 2018 to May 2019) was undertaken with a focus on the frequency and pattern of hospital events pre- and postadmission to the program. Patient/family satisfaction data obtained from telephone surveys were evaluated. The medical records from patients (n = 294) with advanced complex illnesses who were admitted to AZPHC from the five Honor Health Network hospitals were included in this study. Results: Of the 294 patients' records reviewed, 80% were in the 65 and older age group and had a mean length of stay on AZPHC of ∼40 days. Comparing acute care utilization pre and post AZPHC admission, there was a reduction of 68.95% at 60 days and 68.22% at 90 days. In addition, 128 avoided hospital events were recorded, and 86% of patients were very likely to recommend AZPHC to family or friends. Discussion: Collaboration between a hospital palliative care team and a CBPC program resulted in high quality transitions across care settings and reduction in acute care utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gobi Paramanandam
- Arizona Palliative Care Program, Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Jeanette Boohene
- Palliative Care, Honor Health, Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
| | - Kelvin Tran
- Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
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33
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Scott M, Shaver N, Lapenskie J, Isenberg SR, Saunders S, Hsu AT, Tanuseputro P. Does inpatient palliative care consultation impact outcomes following hospital discharge? A narrative systematic review. Palliat Med 2020; 34:5-15. [PMID: 31581888 DOI: 10.1177/0269216319870649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While most patients desire to die at home or in a community-based hospice, the transition from hospital to community settings often lacks streamlined coordination of care to ensure that adequate support is provided in the preferred care setting. The impact of hospital-based palliative care consultations on post-discharge care and outcomes has not been extensively studied. AIM The aim of this study was to appraise available research on the impact of inpatient palliative care consultations on transitions from hospital to community settings. DESIGN We conducted a narrative systematic review and used the Effective Public Health Practice Project tool to appraise the quality of selected studies. Studies were included if they assessed the transition from hospital to community and examined outcomes after an inpatient palliative care consultation. A protocol for this study was registered and published in PROSPERO, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (ID: CRD42018094924). DATA SOURCES We searched for quantitative studies indexed in PubMED, CINAHL and Cochrane and published between 1 January 1 2000 and 11 March 2018. RESULTS Our search retrieved 2749 articles. From these, 123 articles were full-text screened and 15 studies met our inclusion criteria. Studies reported that inpatient palliative care consultations are associated with high rates of discharge to community settings, greater provision of services post-discharge, improved coordination and lower rates of rehospitalization. CONCLUSION Existing evidence suggest that inpatient palliative care consultations have a positive impact on patient outcomes and transitions to the community, demonstrating the potential to improve patient quality of life and relieve overburdened acute care systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Scott
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Julie Lapenskie
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sarina R Isenberg
- Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care and Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Palliative Care, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephanie Saunders
- Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care and Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Amy T Hsu
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Tanuseputro
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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34
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Loh KP, Abdallah M, Shieh MS, Stefan MS, Pekow PS, Lindenauer PK, Mohile SG, Babu D, Lagu T. Use of Inpatient Palliative Care Services in Patients With Advanced Cancer Receiving Critical Care Therapies. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2019; 16:1055-1064. [PMID: 30181417 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2018.7039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: Invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), dialysis for acute kidney failure, and other critical care therapies (CCTs) are associated with a high risk for complications in patients with metastatic cancer. Inpatient palliative care (IPC) can assist in assessing patients' preferences for life-prolonging treatment at the end of life. This study investigated the use pattern of IPC, outcomes (in-hospital mortality, length of stay [LOS], discharge destination, and cost of care), and predictors of IPC use in patients with metastatic cancer who received CCTs. We hypothesized that IPC services are underused in this cohort. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we used the 2010 California State Inpatient Databases to identify adults with metastatic cancer who received CCTs that are common and reliably coded (IMV, tracheostomy, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube, dialysis for acute kidney failure, and total parenteral nutrition). We determined IPC use in all patients, in those who received IMV, and across 4 cancer subtypes (lung, breast, colorectal, and genitourinary). Outcomes were assessed based on IPC use. Multivariable analyses were used to investigate factors associated with IPC use. Results: We identified 5,862 hospitalizations, 19.8% of which used IPC services. IPC use varied across cancer subtypes (lung, 28.3%; breast, 22.4%; colorectal, 12.8%; genitourinary, 16.1%; P<.01). Patients who received and did not receive IPC services had high in-hospital mortality rates (63.9% and 29.8%, respectively), and costs of care and LOS were lower in survivors who received IPC compared with those who did not. Predictors of IPC use were lung cancer (vs colorectal or genitourinary cancer), higher comorbidity score, do-not-resuscitate status on admission or within 24 hours of admission, infections (vs cancer-related diagnoses), and higher hospital bed count. Conclusions: Use of IPC was low in the cohort who received CCTs with poor outcomes, although data on outpatient palliative care services is lacking. Predictors of IPC use may be used to identify patients who may benefit from these services.
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35
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Electronic Health Record Mortality Prediction Model for Targeted Palliative Care Among Hospitalized Medical Patients: a Pilot Quasi-experimental Study. J Gen Intern Med 2019; 34:1841-1847. [PMID: 31313110 PMCID: PMC6712114 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-019-05169-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Development of electronic health record (EHR) prediction models to improve palliative care delivery is on the rise, yet the clinical impact of such models has not been evaluated. OBJECTIVE To assess the clinical impact of triggering palliative care using an EHR prediction model. DESIGN Pilot prospective before-after study on the general medical wards at an urban academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS Adults with a predicted probability of 6-month mortality of ≥ 0.3. INTERVENTION Triggered (with opt-out) palliative care consult on hospital day 2. MAIN MEASURES Frequencies of consults, advance care planning (ACP) documentation, home palliative care and hospice referrals, code status changes, and pre-consult length of stay (LOS). KEY RESULTS The control and intervention periods included 8 weeks each and 138 admissions and 134 admissions, respectively. Characteristics between the groups were similar, with a mean (standard deviation) risk of 6-month mortality of 0.5 (0.2). Seventy-seven (57%) triggered consults were accepted by the primary team and 8 consults were requested per usual care during the intervention period. Compared to historical controls, consultation increased by 74% (22 [16%] vs 85 [63%], P < .001), median (interquartile range) pre-consult LOS decreased by 1.4 days (2.6 [1.1, 6.2] vs 1.2 [0.8, 2.7], P = .02), ACP documentation increased by 38% (23 [17%] vs 37 [28%], P = .03), and home palliative care referrals increased by 61% (9 [7%] vs 23 [17%], P = .01). There were no differences between the control and intervention groups in hospice referrals (14 [10] vs 22 [16], P = .13), code status changes (42 [30] vs 39 [29]; P = .81), or consult requests for lower risk (< 0.3) patients (48/1004 [5] vs 33/798 [4]; P = .48). CONCLUSIONS Targeting hospital-based palliative care using an EHR mortality prediction model is a clinically promising approach to improve the quality of care among seriously ill medical patients. More evidence is needed to determine the generalizability of this approach and its impact on patient- and caregiver-reported outcomes.
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Rivera-Hernandez M, Rahman M, Mor V, Trivedi AN. Racial Disparities in Readmission Rates among Patients Discharged to Skilled Nursing Facilities. J Am Geriatr Soc 2019; 67:1672-1679. [PMID: 31066913 PMCID: PMC6684399 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.15960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prior studies have reported mixed findings about the existence of racial disparities in readmission rates among Medicare Advantage beneficiaries, but these studies used data from one state, focused on black-white disparities, and did not focus on patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). The objective of the study was to characterize racial and ethnic disparities in rates of 30-day rehospitalization directly from SNFs among fee-for-service and Medicare Advantage patients. DESIGN A cross-sectional study of admissions to SNFs in 2015 was conducted. SETTING SNFs across the United States. PARTICIPANTS The sample included 1 500 334 white, 213 848 African American, and 99 781 Hispanic Medicare patients who were admitted to 13 375 SNFs. MEASUREMENTS The main outcome of interest was readmission, identified as patients sent back to any hospital directly from the SNF within 30 days of admission, as indicated on the Minimum Data Set discharge assessment. RESULTS Overall readmission rates for fee-for-service patients were 16.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 16.7%-16.8%) for whites, 18.8% (95% CI = 18.7%-19.0%) for African Americans, and 17.4% (95% CI = 17.1%-17.7%) for Hispanics. Readmission rates in Medicare Advantage were 14.7% (95% CI = 14.5%-14.8%) for whites, 16.8% (95% CI = 16.6%-17.1%) for African Americans, and 15.3% (95% CI = 14.9%-15.6%) for Hispanics. We also found that African Americans had about 1% higher readmission rates than whites, even when they received care within the same SNF. No statistically significant differences were found in the magnitude of within-SNF racial disparities in Medicare Advantage compared with Medicare fee-for-service. CONCLUSION We found racial disparities in readmission rates even within the same facility for both Medicare Advantage and fee-for-service beneficiaries. Intervention to reduce disparities in readmission rates, as well as more comprehensive quality measures that incorporate outcomes for Medicare Advantage enrollees, are needed. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:1672-1679, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maricruz Rivera-Hernandez
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Momotazur Rahman
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Vincent Mor
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Amal N Trivedi
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
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Macmillan PJ, Chalfin B, Soleimani Fard A, Hughes S. Earlier Palliative Care Referrals Associated with Reduced Length of Stay and Hospital Charges. J Palliat Med 2019; 23:107-111. [PMID: 31329015 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Inpatient palliative care consultation services have been shown to have a dramatic impact on the time cancer patients spend in the hospital, which directly affects overall health care charges and expenditures. Objective: Our study looks at early palliative care consults in patients with a variety of chronic medical conditions as well as cancer. Design: This is a retrospective case-control study of patients referred to the palliative care department from April 2014 to June 2016. Setting/Subjects: This study took place at a university-affiliated community-based urban tertiary care hospital. Cases were patients with a referral placed for a palliative care consult <24 hours after registration into the hospital. Controls were chosen on a one-to-one basis from all other patients referred 24 or more hours after registration. Participants were matched on underlying disease, Charlson comorbidity index, and date of referral. Measurements: Primary outcomes were hospital length of stay and total hospital charges. Results: The median (interquartile range) length of stay was 4.2 days (2.0-7.2) for cases and 9.7 days (6.0-18.3) for the control group; p < 0.001. Total hospital charges in U.S. dollars for cases and controls was $38,600 ($22,700-$66,900) and $95,300 ($55,200-$192,700), respectively; p < 0.001. Similar differences were seen for cancer and chronic disease cases and controls. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates a significant association between reduced length of stay and hospital charges when consults for palliative care were initiated within 24 hours of hospital admission regardless of underlying disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Macmillan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of California San Francisco Fresno, Fresno, California
| | - Brandon Chalfin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of California San Francisco Fresno, Fresno, California
| | - Alireza Soleimani Fard
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of California San Francisco Fresno, Fresno, California
| | - Susan Hughes
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of California San Francisco Fresno, Fresno, California
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Solomon R, Egorova N, Adelson K, Smith CB, Franco R, Bickell NA. Thirty-Day Readmissions in Patients With Metastatic Cancer: Room for Improvement? J Oncol Pract 2019; 15:e410-e419. [DOI: 10.1200/jop.18.00500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Cancer, with readmission rates as high as 27%, has thus far been excluded from most readmission reduction efforts. However, some readmissions for patients with advanced disease may be avoidable. We assessed the prevalence of potentially preventable readmissions and associated factors in patients with metastatic cancer. Patients and Methods: Using a merged longitudinal data set of New York State hospital discharges and vital records, we measured 30-day readmissions for anemia, dehydration, diarrhea, emesis, fever, nausea, neutropenia, pain, pneumonia, and sepsis among patients with metastatic cancer between 2012 and 2014. We used competing-risk models to assess the effects of demographics, comorbidities, hospital type, payer, and discharge disposition. Results: A total of 11,275 patients had 19,307 hospitalizations. The 30-day readmission rate was 24.5%; 11.9% (n = 565) of readmissions were potentially preventable. Higher readmission rates occurred in black (hazard rate [HR], 1.26; 95% CI, 1.17 to 1.35), Hispanic (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.31), and younger patients (HR per 10 years, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.90 to 0.97). Lower rates were associated with female sex (HR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.91 to 0.99), private insurance (HR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.87 to 0.81), teaching hospitals, and hospice discharge (HR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.42 to 0.91). Discharge home with services (HR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.14 to 1.27) or to a skilled nursing facility (HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.23) increased readmission likelihood. Potentially preventable readmissions were associated with younger age (HR per 10 years, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.98 to 0.99) and discharge home with services (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.50). Likelihood decreased if care was received at a teaching hospital (HR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.99). Payer, sex, race, and comorbidities did not contribute. Conclusion: Although the overall rate of potentially preventable readmissions among patients with metastatic cancer is low, higher readmission rates among those discharged home with help suggest that services supplied may not be sufficient to address health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kerin Adelson
- Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Rebeca Franco
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
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May P, Garrido MM, Del Fabbro E, Noreika D, Normand C, Skoro N, Cassel JB. Evaluating Hospital Readmissions for Persons With Serious and Complex Illness: A Competing Risks Approach. Med Care Res Rev 2019; 77:574-583. [PMID: 30658539 DOI: 10.1177/1077558718823919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Hospital readmission rate is a ubiquitous measure of efficiency and quality. Individuals with life-limiting illnesses account heavily for admissions but evaluation is complicated by high-mortality rates. We report a retrospective cohort study examining the association between palliative care (PC) and readmissions while controlling for postdischarge mortality with a competing risks approach. Eligible participants were adult inpatients admitted to an academic, safety-net medical center (2009-2015) with at least one diagnosis of cancer, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, liver failure, kidney failure, AIDS/HIV, and selected neurodegenerative conditions. PC was associated with reduced 30-, 60-, and 90-day readmissions (subhazard ratios = 0.57, 0.53, and 0.52, respectively [all p < .001]). Hospital PC is associated with a reduction in readmissions, and this is not explained by higher mortality among PC patients. Performance measures only counting those alive at a given end point may underestimate systematically the effects of treatments with a high-mortality rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter May
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Melissa M Garrido
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.,Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Charles Normand
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,King's College London, England, UK
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Balboni TA, Hui KKP, Kamal AH. Supportive Care in Lung Cancer: Improving Value in the Era of Modern Therapies. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2018; 38:716-725. [PMID: 30231310 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_201369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Driven by a discipline-wide imperative to maximize patient centeredness and value, supportive care services have experienced remarkable growth and acceptance in oncology care. Two such services with a growing evidence base and examples of routine integration into usual oncology care are palliative care and integrative medicine. Both focus on the patient experience with cancer during and after cancer-directed treatments occur, from diagnosis through survivorship or end-of-life care. With a frame of increasing value for all in the oncology care ecosystem, we highlight the evidence for how these two disciplines can improve the experience of patients with cancer and their loved ones. We further highlight how additional focus in palliative care and integrative medicine can continue to build toward a shared vision of high-value, high-quality cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy A Balboni
- From the Departments of Radiation Oncology and Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA Center for East West Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA; Duke Cancer Institute and Duke Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Ka-Kit P Hui
- From the Departments of Radiation Oncology and Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA Center for East West Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA; Duke Cancer Institute and Duke Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Arif H Kamal
- From the Departments of Radiation Oncology and Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA Center for East West Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA; Duke Cancer Institute and Duke Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, Durham, NC
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Chettiar A, Montez-Rath M, Liu S, Hall YN, O’Hare AM, Kurella Tamura M. Association of Inpatient Palliative Care with Health Care Utilization and Postdischarge Outcomes among Medicare Beneficiaries with End Stage Kidney Disease. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2018; 13:1180-1187. [PMID: 30026286 PMCID: PMC6086714 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.00180118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Palliative care may improve quality of life and reduce the cost of care for patients with chronic illness, but utilization and cost implications of palliative care in ESKD have not been evaluated. We sought to determine the association of inpatient palliative care with health care utilization and postdischarge outcomes in ESKD. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS In analyses stratified by whether patients died during the index hospitalization, we identified Medicare beneficiaries with ESKD who received inpatient palliative care, ascertained by provider specialty codes, between 2012 and 2013. These patients were matched to hospitalized patients who received usual care using propensity scores. Primary outcomes were length of stay and hospitalization costs. Secondary outcomes were 30-day readmission and hospice enrollment. RESULTS Inpatient palliative care occurred in <1% of hospitalizations lasting >2 days. Among the decedent cohort (n=1308), inpatient palliative care was associated with a 21% shorter length of stay (-4.2 days; 95% confidence interval, -5.6 to -2.9 days) and 14% lower hospitalization costs (-$10,698; 95% confidence interval, -$17,553 to -$3843) compared with usual care. Among the nondecedent cohort (n=5024), inpatient palliative care was associated with no difference in length of stay (0.4 days; 95% confidence interval, -0.3 to 1.0 days) and 11% higher hospitalization costs ($4275; 95% confidence interval, $1984 to $6567) compared with usual care. In the 30-day postdischarge period, patients who received inpatient palliative care had higher likelihood of hospice enrollment (hazard ratio, 8.3; 95% confidence interval, 6.6 to 10.5) and lower likelihood of rehospitalization (hazard ratio, 0.8; 95% confidence interval, 0.7 to 0.9). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with ESKD who died in the hospital, inpatient palliative care was associated with shorter hospitalizations and lower costs. Among those who survived to discharge, inpatient palliative care was associated with no difference in length of stay and higher hospitalization costs but markedly higher hospice use and fewer readmissions after discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Chettiar
- Program of Health Policy Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Maria Montez-Rath
- Division of Nephrology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Sai Liu
- Division of Nephrology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Yoshio N. Hall
- Department of Medicine, Kidney Research Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Ann M. O’Hare
- Department of Medicine, Kidney Research Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Hospital and Specialty Medicine, Veteran Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington; and
| | - Manjula Kurella Tamura
- Division of Nephrology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Geriatric Research and Education Clinical Center, Palo Alto Veteran Affairs Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
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42
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Callaway C, Cunningham C, Grover S, Steele KR, McGlynn A, Sribanditmongkol V. Patient Handoff Processes: Implementation and Effects of Bedside Handoffs, the Teach-Back Method, and Discharge Bundles on an Inpatient Oncology Unit. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2018; 22:421-428. [PMID: 30035777 DOI: 10.1188/18.cjon.421-428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bedside handoffs, the teach-back method, and discharge bundles have been shown to contribute to empowering patients to actively engage in their treatment. OBJECTIVES The objectives were to identify patient activation scores, patient readmission rates, and nursing staff satisfaction before and after implementing bedside handoffs, the teach-back method, and discharge bundles on an inpatient oncology unit at a large military treatment facility. METHODS A series of three cycles using the Plan-Do-Study-Act framework guided implementation of the multifaceted approach. Patient activation scores, readmission rates, staff satisfaction, and anecdotal feedback from patients and nursing staff were collected prior to and following implementation. FINDINGS The sample of patients with cancer had high patient activation scores. After implementation of the multifaceted approach, readmission rates decreased from 32% to 25%, and staff satisfaction improved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shawna Grover
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
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43
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A Process Evaluation of an Outpatient Palliative Care Program: A Quality Improvement Project. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2018; 20:245-251. [PMID: 30063675 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Palliative care has evolved from providing care for patients near end of life into a specialized discipline focused on addressing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients throughout the trajectory of an illness. For patients with metastatic cancer, timely referrals to palliative care are essential in order to have a meaningful impact on their quality of life. Recommendations for screening patients for palliative care have been offered by professional organizations; however, screening all patients with metastatic cancer poses many challenges. This quality improvement project conducted a process evaluation of an outpatient palliative care program and evaluated the feasibility of utilizing a screening tool in an effort to readily identify patients with metastatic cancer who have palliative care needs in an outpatient cancer center. Although nurses' compliance with the screening tool was less than expected, screening for palliative care needs in this setting resulted in more referrals to palliative care compared with physician referrals. Improvements in quality of life were found in patients who received a palliative care consultation, and patients were very satisfied with the care provided by palliative care. The potential for financial improvements was observed as a result of this project.
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Preventability of 28-Day Hospital Readmissions in General Internal Medicine Patients: A Retrospective Analysis at a Quaternary Hospital. Qual Manag Health Care 2018; 27:151-156. [PMID: 29944627 DOI: 10.1097/qmh.0000000000000174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unplanned hospital readmissions are associated with increased patient mortality and health care costs, yet only a fraction are likely to be preventable. This study's objective was to identify preventable hospital readmissions of general internal medicine patients, and their common causes. METHODS Patients who were discharged from the general internal medicine teaching service and readmitted to hospital within 28 days for 24 hours or more were recruited to the study; they were identified via the hospital electronic medical record system. Data were gathered via structured review of hospital charts/electronic medical records, along with standardized patient interviews. Unique to our study, a multidisciplinary panel of physicians, nurses, and hospital administrators adjudicated preventability and identified common causes of readmission. RESULTS Fifty-five hospital readmissions were identified; 53% were adjudicated to be preventable. There was no difference in any variable analyzed between preventable and nonpreventable readmissions. The most common causes of preventable readmissions were inadequate coordination of community services upon discharge, insufficient clinical postdischarge follow-up, and suboptimal end-of-life care. CONCLUSION This study identified a higher proportion of preventable 28-day hospital readmissions when compared with prior research. Increased involvement of palliative care during initial hospitalization for appropriate conditions and improvements in care after discharge may reduce preventable hospital readmissions.
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Bhulani N, Gupta A, Gao A, Li J, Guenther C, Ahn C, Paulk E, Houck S, Beg MS. Palliative care and end-of-life health care utilization in elderly patients with pancreatic cancer. J Gastrointest Oncol 2018; 9:495-502. [PMID: 29998015 DOI: 10.21037/jgo.2018.03.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Palliative care has been associated with improved survival and quality of life, with lower rate of end-of-life health care utilization and cost. We examined trends in palliative care utilization in older pancreatic cancer patients. Methods Pancreatic cancer patients with and without palliative care consults were identified using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)-Medicare linked database between 2000 and 2009. Trend of palliative care use was studied. Emergency room/intensive care unit (ICU) utilization and costs in the last 30 days of life were compared between both groups using propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis. Results Of the 54,130 patients, 3,166 (5.8%) received palliative care and 70% received it in the last 30 days of life. The proportion of patients receiving palliative care increased from 1.4% in 2000 to 7.4% in 2009 (P<0.001). Patients with palliative care were more likely to be older, Asian and women. In the unmatched and PSM population, the average visits to the ER in the last 30 days of life were significantly higher for patients who received palliative care, and had a significantly higher cost of care. Similarly, ICU length of stay in the last 30 days of life was higher in patients who did not receive palliative care in both PSM and unmatched patients. Cost of care and number of ICU admissions were not different between palliative and non-palliative care groups in PSM and unmatched patients. Conclusions In this study of Medicare patients with pancreatic cancer, palliative care use has increased between 2000 and 2009. Palliative care was largely offered close to the end of life and was not associated with reduced health care utilization or cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nizar Bhulani
- Harold Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Arjun Gupta
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ang Gao
- Harold Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Department of Clinical Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jenny Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Chad Guenther
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Chul Ahn
- Harold Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Department of Clinical Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Elizabeth Paulk
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Stephanie Houck
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Muhammad S Beg
- Harold Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Khateeb R, Puelle MR, Firn J, Saul D, Chang R, Min L. Interprofessional Rounds Improve Timing of Appropriate Palliative Care Consultation on a Hospitalist Service. Am J Med Qual 2018; 33:569-575. [PMID: 29644871 PMCID: PMC9097960 DOI: 10.1177/1062860618768069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite known benefits, palliative care (PC) consultation for hospitalized patients remains underutilized. The objective was to improve frequency and timeliness of appropriate inpatient PC consultation. On 2 of 11 hospitalist teams, a PC representative attended discharge rounds twice a week. Control teams' discharge rounds were unenhanced. Subjects were all patients admitted to a hospitalist service in a quaternary academic medical center. The primary outcome was change in provision of PC consultation over time; the secondary outcome was change in time-to-consult (days). Hospitalists were surveyed regarding the intervention. The unadjusted proportion of patients receiving PC consultation increased from 2.7% to 5.2% on the intervention teams. Compared to control teams over time and adjusting for multiple covariates, the intervention increased PC consultation (difference-in-difference [DID] = 1.0 percentage-point increase [95% CI = 0.3%-1.8%]) and decreased time to consult (DID = -5 days [95% CI = -11 to -1]) in patients admitted for noncancer diagnoses. Hospitalists thought the intervention facilitated effective patient care without increased burden.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Lillian Min
- 1 University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- 4 VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI
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Ernecoff NC, Wessell KL, Gabriel S, Carey TS, Hanson LC. A Novel Screening Method to Identify Late-Stage Dementia Patients for Palliative Care Research and Practice. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 55:1152-1158.e1. [PMID: 29288881 PMCID: PMC6036617 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2017.12.480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Investigators need novel methods for timely identification of patients with serious illness to test or implement new palliative care models. OBJECTIVES The study's aim was to develop an electronic health record (EHR) phenotype to identify patients with late-stage dementia for a clinical trial of palliative care consultation. METHODS We developed a computerized method to identify patients with dementia on hospital admission. Within a data warehouse derived from the hospital's EHR, we used search terms of age, admission date, and ICD-9 and ICD-10 diagnosis codes to create an EHR dementia phenotype, followed by brief medical record review to confirm late-stage dementia. We calculated positive predictive value, false discovery rate, and false negative rate of this novel screening method. RESULTS The EHR phenotype screening method had a positive predictive value of 76.3% for dementia patients and 24.5% for late-stage dementia patients; a false discovery rate of 23.7% for dementia patients and 75.5% for late-stage dementia patients compared to physician assessment. The sensitivity of this screening method was 59.7% to identify hospitalized patients with dementia. Daily screening-including confirmatory chart reviews-averaged 20 minutes and was more feasible, efficient, and more complete than manual screening. CONCLUSION A novel method using an EHR phenotype plus brief medical record review is effective to identify hospitalized patients with late-stage dementia. In health care systems with similar clinical data warehouses, this method may be applied to serious illness populations to improve enrollment in clinical trials of palliative care or to facilitate access to palliative care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie C Ernecoff
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
| | - Kathryn L Wessell
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stacey Gabriel
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Timothy S Carey
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; Departments of Medicine and Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Laura C Hanson
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; Division of Geriatric Medicine & Palliative Care Program, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Palliative care in heart failure. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2018; 28:445-450. [PMID: 29735287 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 02/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Palliative care (PC) is now recommended by all major cardiovascular societies for advanced heart failure (HF). PC is a philosophy of care that uses a holistic approach to address physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs in patients with a terminal disease process. In HF, PC has been shown to improve symptoms and quality of life, facilitate advanced care planning, decrease hospital readmissions, and decrease hospital-associated healthcare costs. Although PC is still underutilized in HF, uptake is increasing. Specific strategies for successfully implementing PC in HF include early PC involvement, multidisciplinary collaboration, exploring patient values for end-of-life care, medical therapy (including both the addition of symptom-directed medications, as well as the removal of life-prolonging medications), and considerations regarding device therapy and mechanical support. Barriers to PC in HF include difficulties predicting the disease trajectory, patient and physician misconceptions, and lack of PC-trained physicians. Moving forward, PC will continue to be a key part of advanced HF care as our knowledge of this area grows.
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O'Connor NR, Junker P, Appel SM, Stetson RL, Rohrbach J, Meghani SH. Palliative Care Consultation for Goals of Care and Future Acute Care Costs: A Propensity-Matched Study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2017; 35:966-971. [PMID: 29169247 DOI: 10.1177/1049909117743475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospitals are under increasing pressure to manage costs across multiple episodes of care. Most studies of the financial impact of palliative care have focused on costs during a single hospitalization. OBJECTIVE To compare future acute health-care costs and utilization between patients who received inpatient palliative care consultation for goals of care (Palliative Care Service [PCS]) and a propensity-matched cohort of patients who did not receive palliative care consultation (non-PCS) in a single academic medical center. METHODS Data were extracted from the hospital's electronic records for admissions and discharges between July 2014 and October 2016. A stratified propensity score matching was used to account for nonrandom assignment and potential inherent differences between PCS and non-PCS groups using variables of theoretical interest: age, gender, race, diagnosis, risk of mortality, and prior acute care costs. RESULTS The analytical sample for this study included 41 363 patients (PCS = 1853; non-PCS = 39 510). Future acute care costs were significantly higher in the non-PCS group after propensity score matching (highest tier = US$15 654 vs US$8831; second highest tier = US$12 200 vs US$5496; P = .0001). The non-PCS group also had significantly higher future acute care utilization across all propensity tiers and outcomes including 30-day readmission ( P = .0001), number of future hospital days ( P = .0001), and number of future intensive care unit days ( P = .0001). CONCLUSION Palliative care consultations for goals of care may decrease future health-care utilization with cost savings that persist into future hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina R O'Connor
- 1 Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Paul Junker
- 2 Program for Clinical Effectiveness and Quality Improvement, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Scott M Appel
- 3 Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman Health System, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Robert L Stetson
- 4 Corporate Office of Strategic Decision Support, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Health System, PA, USA
| | - Jeffrey Rohrbach
- 2 Program for Clinical Effectiveness and Quality Improvement, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Salimah H Meghani
- 5 School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Wiskar K, Celi LA, Walley KR, Fruhstorfer C, Rush B. Inpatient palliative care referral and 9-month hospital readmission in patients with congestive heart failure: a linked nationwide analysis. J Intern Med 2017; 282:445-451. [PMID: 28741859 DOI: 10.1111/joim.12657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE End-stage heart failure (HF) is characterized by high symptom burden and frequent hospitalization. Palliative care (PC) is recommended for advanced HF, and there is some evidence in other diseases that this may reduce readmission rates. We attempted examine the association of an inpatient PC visit on hospital readmission for patients admitted with HF. METHODS Retrospective linked nationwide analysis from 2013 with 9-month follow-up for all hospital readmissions for patients admitted with HF exacerbations using the Nationwide Readmission Database (NRD). The NRD gathers all hospital admissions for patients from 22 states and tracks patients throughout the year, allowing for examination of readmission statistics. A propensity score model for PC visit was made, and patients were matched in a 1 : 1 fashion. RESULTS There were 102 746 patients who survived an admission for HF in the first 3 months of 2013. Of these, 2287 (2.2%) patients had a PC visit as inpatients. After matching based on propensity for a PC visit during the index hospitalization, 2282 patients who received a PC visit were matched to 2282 patients who did not. Those receiving a PC visit were less likely to be readmitted for HF (9.3% vs. 22.4%, P < 0.01) or for any cause (29.0% vs. 63.2%, P < 0.01) during the 9-month follow-up period. The average hospital charges during the follow-up period for the non-PC cohort were $77 643 per patient. The average charges for PC patients were $23 200 (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Patients with HF who received an inpatient PC visit had significantly lower rates of all-cause and HF-specific readmission in the subsequent 9 months. Total 9-month hospital charges were also significantly lower for patients who received an inpatient PC visit.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Wiskar
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - L A Celi
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K R Walley
- Department of Medicine, Division of Critical Care Medicine, St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Centre for Heart Lung Innovation (HLI), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - C Fruhstorfer
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - B Rush
- Department of Medicine, Division of Critical Care Medicine, St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Centre for Heart Lung Innovation (HLI), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
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