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Presley CJ, Dalal N, Davenport AP, Gounden A, Ramchandran K, Tonorezos E. Survivorship in Advanced Lung Cancer: Understanding a New Landscape and Opportunities. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2024; 44:e433298. [PMID: 38768420 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_433298] [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: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
People with advanced lung cancer represent a distinct group whose needs remain understudied, especially compared with people diagnosed with limited-stage disease. Fortunately, novel treatments such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors are leading to significant advances in prognosis and survival, even among those with advanced disease at the time of diagnosis. However, there are known gaps in symptom management, psychosocial and nutritional support, complex care coordination, health behavior coaching, and health care delivery efforts among patients living with advanced lung cancer. Many of these patients would benefit from survivorship and palliative care approaches. In particular, survivorship care may include health care maintenance, treatment of immune-related adverse events and late- or long-term effects, frailty assessment and rehabilitation, and care coordination. Palliative care may be best suited to discuss ongoing symptom management, advanced care planning, and end-of-life considerations, as well as psychosocial well-being. To this end, we share a review of the current status of the palliative and survivorship care infrastructure for patients with advanced lung cancer and provide suggestions across the care continuum for this diverse group of patients and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn J Presley
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | - Ashley P Davenport
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
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Burry N, Nakagawa S, Blinderman CD. "You Are Not Alone": The Allure and Limitations of Artificial Intelligence in Serious Illness Communication. J Palliat Med 2024; 27:7-9. [PMID: 38011011 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2023.0471] [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: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way clinicians practice medicine, and recent technological advancements have resulted in consumer-facing products that can respond to users with dynamic and nuanced language. Clinicians typically struggle with serious illness communication, such as delivering news about a poor prognosis. Palliative care clinicians receive extensive training in serious illness communication, but there is a paucity of such highly trained specialists. This article explores the allure of employing AI-powered chatbots to assist nonspecialist clinicians with serious illness communication and highlights the ethical and practical drawbacks. While outsourcing communication to new AI chatbot technologies may be inappropriate, there is a role for AI in training clinicians on effective language to use when discussing serious illness with their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Burry
- Adult Palliative Care Service, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shunichi Nakagawa
- Adult Palliative Care Service, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Craig D Blinderman
- Adult Palliative Care Service, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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3
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Payne J, Sadeghi MA, Liu J, Siess S, Moyer A. The comprehensiveness and comprehensibility of publicly-available, state-approved advance directive documents. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2023; 28:3131-3148. [PMID: 35477323 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2022.2067341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased attention to end-of-life decision-making and advance care planning. Advance directives (ADs) are documents that express an individual's wishes regarding their medical care if they are incapacitated and may appoint someone to make decisions for them. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the comprehensiveness and comprehensibility of the widely available state-approved AD documents provided to the public online. Their content was coded using a grounded theory approach, and the reading level of the documents was assessed. Preferences related to important issues, such as pain relief, were commonly included (92.2% of forms), but other issues, such as whether someone would approve of artificial respiration (39.2%) or CPR (35.3%), were less often addressed. The average reading level of the forms (M = grade 7.64; SD = 1.28) was above the recommended 5th grade level. Overall, there was meaningful variability in the comprehensiveness and comprehensibility of AD documents, suggesting incompatibility for those recording their end-of-life preferences across states and the need for future work to increase their user-friendliness and ability to record authentic advance care wishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackelyn Payne
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | | | - Jaimie Liu
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Samantha Siess
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Anne Moyer
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Thomas TH, Bender C, Donovan HS, Murray PJ, Taylor S, Rosenzweig M, Sereika SM, Brufsky A, Schenker Y. The feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a self-advocacy serious game for women with advanced breast or gynecologic cancer. Cancer 2023; 129:3034-3043. [PMID: 37243943 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer clinicians and systems aim to provide patient-centered care, but not all patients have the self-advocacy skills necessary to ensure their care reflects their needs and priorities. This study examines the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a self-advocacy serious game (an educational video game) intervention in women with advanced breast or gynecologic cancer. METHODS Women with recently diagnosed (<3 months) metastatic breast or advanced gynecologic cancer were randomized 2:1 to receive a tablet-based serious game (Strong Together) (n = 52) or enhanced care as usual (n = 26). Feasibility was based on recruitment, retention, data completion, and intervention engagement. Acceptability was assessed via a postintervention questionnaire and exit interview. Preliminary efficacy was assessed on the basis of change scores from baseline to 3 and 6 months in self-advocacy (Female Self-Advocacy in Cancer Survivorship Scale) using intention-to-treat analysis. RESULTS Seventy-eight women (55.1% with breast cancer; 44.9% with gynecologic cancer) were enrolled. Feasibility was demonstrated by satisfactory recruitment (69% approach-to-consent rate; 93% enroll-to-randomize rate), retention (90% and 86% at 3 and 6 months, respectively; 85% data completion), and intervention engagement (84% completed ≥75% of the game). Participants endorsed the intervention's (75%) and trial's (87%) acceptability. Participants in the intervention group experienced significant improvements in self-advocacy at 3 and 6 months compared to participants in the control group. CONCLUSIONS Strong Together is feasible and acceptable among women with advanced breast or gynecologic cancer. This intervention demonstrates promising evidence of clinical efficacy. A future confirmatory trial is warranted to test the efficacy of the intervention for patient and health system outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Hagan Thomas
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Palliative Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Catherine Bender
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Heidi S Donovan
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Magee-Womens Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patty Jo Murray
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah Taylor
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Magee-Womens Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Margaret Rosenzweig
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Magee-Womens Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Susan M Sereika
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Adam Brufsky
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Magee-Womens Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Yael Schenker
- Palliative Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Division of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Ferreira J, Ferreira M, Fernandes CS, Castro J, Campos MJ. Digitisation of patient preferences in palliative care: mobile app prototype. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023:spcare-2023-004516. [PMID: 37595978 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Engaging in advance care planning can be emotionally challenging, but gamification and technology are suggested as a potential solution. OBJECTIVE Present the development stages of a mobile app prototype to improve quality of life for patients in palliative care. DESIGN The study started with a comprehensive literature review to establish a foundation. Subsequently, interviews were conducted to validate the proposed features of the mobile application. Following the development phase, usability tests were conducted to evaluate the overall usability of the mobile application. Furthermore, an oral questionnaire was administered to understand user satisfaction about the implemented features. RESULTS A three-phase testing approach was employed based on the chosen user-centred design methodology to obtain the results. Three iterations were conducted, with improvements being made based on feedback and tested in subsequent phases. Despite the added complexity arising from the health status of patients in palliative care, the usability tests and implemented features received positive feedback from both patients and healthcare providers. CONCLUSION The research findings have demonstrated the potential of digitisation in enhancing the quality of life for patients in palliative care. This was achieved through the implementation of patient-centred design, personalised care, the inclusion of social chatrooms and facilitating end-of-life discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Ferreira
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Porto Faculty of Engineering, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Ferreira
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Porto Faculty of Engineering, Porto, Portugal
- INESC TEC - Institute of Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Sílvia Fernandes
- Nurse Department, Porto Higher School of Nursing, Porto, Portugal
- CINTESIS@RISE-Research Center for Health Technologies and Services, Porto, Portugal
- ADITGameS_ Association for the development of Technological Innovation and Games in Health, Póvoa de Varzim, Portugal
| | - João Castro
- Nurse, Wecare Saude-Continuous Integrated and Palliative Care Unit, Póvoa de Varzim, Portugal
| | - Maria Joana Campos
- Nurse Department, Porto Higher School of Nursing, Porto, Portugal
- CIDESI-Center for Research and Development in Nursing Information Systems, Porto, Portugal
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Mooney K, Whisenant MS, Wilson CM, Coombs LA, Lloyd J, Alekhina N, Sloss EA, Steinbach M, Moraitis AM, Berry P, Iacob E, Donaldson G. Technology-Assisted mHealth Caregiver Support to Manage Cancer Patient Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 66:33-43. [PMID: 36889453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.02.320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Caregivers managing symptoms of family members with cancer during home hospice care, often feel ill-prepared and need patient care coaching. OBJECTIVES This study tested the efficacy of an automated mHealth platform that included caregiver coaching on patient symptom care and nurse notifications of poorly controlled symptoms. The primary outcome was caregiver perception of patients' overall symptom severity throughout hospice care and at weeks one, two, four, and eight. Secondary outcomes compared individual symptom severity. METHODS Caregivers (n = 298) were randomly assigned to the Symptom Care at Home (SCH) intervention (n = 144) or usual hospice care (UC) (n = 154). All caregivers placed daily calls to the automated system that assessed the presence and severity of 11 end-of-life patient physical and psychosocial symptoms. SCH caregivers received automated coaching on symptom care based on reported patient symptoms and their severity. Moderate-to-severe symptoms were also relayed to the hospice nurse. RESULTS The SCH intervention produced a mean overall symptom reduction benefit, over UC, of 4.89 severity points (95% CI 2.86-6.92) (P < 0.001), with a moderate effect size (d = 0.55). The SCH benefit also occurred at each timepoint (P < 0.001- 0.020). There was a 38% reduction in days reporting moderate-to-severe patient symptoms compared to UC (P < 0.001) with 10/11 symptoms significantly reduced in SCH compared to UC. CONCLUSION Automated mHealth symptom reporting by caregivers, paired with tailored caregiver coaching on symptom management and nurse notifications, reduces cancer patients' physical and psychosocial symptoms during home hospice, providing a novel and efficient approach to improving end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathi Mooney
- College of Nursing and Huntsman Cancer Institute (KM, JL, MS) University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
| | - Meagan S Whisenant
- Cizik School of Nursing (M.S.W.), University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Christina M Wilson
- School of Nursing (C.M.W.), University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Lorinda A Coombs
- School of Nursing (L.A.C.), University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer Lloyd
- College of Nursing and Huntsman Cancer Institute (KM, JL, MS) University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Natalya Alekhina
- College of Nursing (N.A., E.A.S., A.M.M., P.B., E.I.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Sloss
- College of Nursing (N.A., E.A.S., A.M.M., P.B., E.I.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Mary Steinbach
- College of Nursing and Huntsman Cancer Institute (KM, JL, MS) University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Ann Marie Moraitis
- College of Nursing (N.A., E.A.S., A.M.M., P.B., E.I.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Patricia Berry
- College of Nursing (N.A., E.A.S., A.M.M., P.B., E.I.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Eli Iacob
- College of Nursing (N.A., E.A.S., A.M.M., P.B., E.I.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Gary Donaldson
- School of Medicine (G.D.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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Finkelstein R, Wu Y, Brennan-Ing M. Older adults' experiences with using information and communication technology and tech support services in New York City: findings and recommendations for post-pandemic digital pedagogy for older adults. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1129512. [PMID: 37138998 PMCID: PMC10150999 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1129512] [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] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has great potential to help older adults cope with challenges associated with aging, the intended benefits of ICT are not always realized in this population due to access barriers and low digital literacy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous tech support initiatives for older adults got underway. However, evaluation of the effectiveness of these initiatives is less common. This research partnered with a large, multi-service organization in New York City that gave some groups of their clients ICT devices, unlimited broadband, and access to technology training in response to COVID-19 lockdowns. This study investigates older adults' experiences with ICT and ICT support services to better inform the existing and emerging tech support for older adults during and beyond the pandemic. Methods Data were obtained from interviewer-administered surveys of 35 older adult recipients of ICT devices, connectivity, and training in New York City. The average age was 74 years (range = 55-90 years). The group was diverse regarding race/ethnicity (Black 29%, Latino 19%, White 43%). All had low incomes. Surveys consisted of multiple-choice items and open-ended responses. Results The study found that one size does not fit all when it comes to ICT training and support for older adults. While connection to devices and services and tech support led to a degree of ICT adoption, the newly learned skills did not always lead to expanded device usage. The readily available tech support training and support do not guarantee service utilization, as success with tech services is related to one's pre-existing ICT competence. Discussion The study concludes that customized training based on individuals' skills rather than age is needed. Tech support training should start by understanding an individual's interests and incorporate tech education to help users identify a wide range of existing and emerging online services that can meet their needs. Service organizations should consider including an assessment of ICT access, use, and skills into their standard intake protocols to ensure effective service delivery.
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Villalobos JP, Bull SS, Portz JD. Usability and Acceptability of a Palliative Care Mobile Intervention for Older Adults With Heart Failure and Caregivers: Observational Study. JMIR Aging 2022; 5:e35592. [PMID: 36201402 PMCID: PMC9585449 DOI: 10.2196/35592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart failure is a leading cause of death among older adults. Digital health can increase access to and awareness of palliative care for patients with advanced heart failure and their caregivers. However, few palliative care digital interventions target heart failure or patients' caregivers, family, and friends, termed here as the social convoy. To address this need, the Social Convoy Palliative Care (Convoy-Pal) mobile intervention was developed to deliver self-management tools and palliative care resources to older adults with advanced heart failure and their social convoys. OBJECTIVE The goal of the research was to test the acceptability and usability of Convoy-Pal among older adults with advanced heart failure and their social convoys. METHODS Convoy-Pal includes tablet-based and smartwatch tools facilitating self-management and access to palliative care resources. Older adults and social convoy caregivers completed an acceptability and usability interview via Zoom, including open-ended questions and the Mobile Application Rating Scale: User Version (uMARS). Descriptive analysis was conducted to summarize the results of open-ended feedback and self-reported acceptability and usability. RESULTS A total of 26 participants (16 older adults and 10 social convoy caregivers) participated in the interview. Overall, the feedback from users was good (uMARS mean 3.96/5 [SD 0.81]). Both older adults and social convoy caregivers scored information provided by Convoy-Pal the highest (mean 4.22 [SD 0.75] and mean 4.21 [SD 0.64], respectively). Aesthetics, functionality, and engagement were also perceived as acceptable (mean >3.5). Open-ended feedback resulted in 5 themes including improvements to goal setting, monitoring tools, daily check-in call feature, portal and mobile app, and convoy assessment. CONCLUSIONS Convoy-Pal was perceived as acceptable with good usability among older adults with heart failure and their social convoy caregivers. With good acceptability, Convoy-Pal may ultimately lead to increased access to palliative care resources and facilitate self-management among older adults with heart failure and their social convoy caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sheana Salyers Bull
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Jennifer Dickman Portz
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
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Saunders S, Downar J, Subramaniam S, Embuldeniya G, van Walraven C, Wegier P. mHOMR: the acceptability of an automated mortality prediction model for timely identification of patients for palliative care. BMJ Qual Saf 2021; 30:837-840. [PMID: 33632758 DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2020-012461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Saunders
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - James Downar
- Division of Palliative Care, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Gaya Embuldeniya
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carl van Walraven
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology & Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pete Wegier
- Humber River Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Telemedicine for Surgical Consultations - Pandemic Response or Here to Stay?: A Report of Public Perceptions. Ann Surg 2021; 272:e174-e180. [PMID: 32520742 PMCID: PMC7299120 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000004125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine the public's perception of telemedicine surgical consultations, during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA With rapid expansion and uptake of telemedicine during the pandemic, many have posited that virtual visits will endure even as in-person visits are reinstated. The public's perception of telemedicine for an initial surgical consultation has not been previously studied. METHODS A 43-question survey assessed respondents' attitudes toward telemedicine for initial consultations with surgeons, both in the context of COVID-19 and during "normal circumstances." Participants were recruited through Amazon Mechanical Turk, an online crowd-sourcing marketplace. RESULTS Based on 1827 analyzable responses, we found that a majority (86%) of respondents reported being satisfied (either extremely or somewhat) with telemedicine encounters. Interestingly, preference for in-person versus virtual surgical consultation reflected access to care, with preference for telemedicine decreasing from 72% to 33% when COVID-related social distancing ends. Preferences for virtual visits decreased with increasing complexity of the surgical intervention, even during the pandemic. A majority felt that "establishing trust and comfort" was best accomplished in person, and the vast majority felt it was important to meet their surgeons before the day of surgery. CONCLUSIONS The public views telemedicine as an acceptable substitute for in-person visits, especially during the pandemic. However, it seems that an in-person interaction is still preferred when possible for surgical consultations. If telemedicine services are to persist beyond social distancing, further exploration of its impact on the patient-surgeon relationship will be needed.
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Kluger BM, Drees C, Wodushek TR, Frey L, Strom L, Brown MG, Bainbridge JL, Fischer SN, Shrestha A, Spitz M. Would people living with epilepsy benefit from palliative care? Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107618. [PMID: 33246892 PMCID: PMC9326903 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Palliative care (PC) is an approach to the care of persons living with serious illness and their families that focuses on improving quality of life and reducing suffering by addressing complex medical symptoms, psychosocial needs, spiritual well-being, and advance care planning. While PC has traditionally been associated with hospice care for persons with cancer, there is now recognition that PC is relevant to many noncancer diagnoses, including neurologic illness, and at multiple points along the illness journey, not just end of life. Despite the recent growth of the field of neuropalliative care there has been scant attention paid to the relevance of PC principles in epilepsy or the potential for PC approaches to improve outcomes for persons living with epilepsy and their families. We believe this has been a significant oversight and that PC may provide a useful framework for addressing the many sources of suffering facing persons living with epilepsy, for engaging patients and families in challenging conversations, and to focus efforts to improve models of care for this population. In this manuscript we review areas of significant unmet needs where a PC approach may improve patient and family-centered outcomes, including complex symptom management, goals of care, advance care planning, psychosocial support for patient and family and spiritual well-being. When relevant we highlight areas where epilepsy patients may have unique PC needs compared to other patient populations and conclude with suggestions for future research, clinical, and educational efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benzi M Kluger
- Departments of Neurology and Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Cornelia Drees
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Thomas R Wodushek
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lauren Frey
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Laura Strom
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mesha-Gay Brown
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jacquelyn L Bainbridge
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sarah N Fischer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Archana Shrestha
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mark Spitz
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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12
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Portz JD, Ford KL, Doyon K, Bekelman DB, Boxer RS, Kutner JS, Czaja S, Bull S. Using Grounded Theory to Inform the Human-Centered Design of Digital Health in Geriatric Palliative Care. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 60:1181-1192.e1. [PMID: 32615298 PMCID: PMC7323666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Digital health offers innovative mechanisms to engage in palliative care, yet digital systems are typically designed for individual users, rather than integrating the patient's caregiving "social convoy" (i.e., family members, friends, neighbors, formal caregiving supports) to maximize benefit. As older adults with serious illness increasingly rely on the support of others, there is a need to foster effective integration of the social convoy in digitally supported palliative care. OBJECTIVES Conduct a qualitative study examining patient, social convoy, and health care provider perspectives on digital health for palliative care to inform the design of future digital solutions for older adults with serious illness and their social convoy. METHODS Grounded theory approach using semi-structured interviews (N = 81) with interprofessional health care providers, older adults with serious illness, and their social convoy participants at home, clinic, or Zoom. Interviews were conducted using question guides relevant to the participant group and audio-recorded for verbatim transcription. Two coders lead the inductive analysis using open and axial coding. RESULTS Thematic results aligned with the human-centered design framework, which is a participatory approach to the design process that incorporates multiple user stakeholders to develop health solutions. The human-centered design process and corresponding theme included the following: 1) Empathy: Patient, Caregiver, and Provider Experience reports participants' experience with managing serious illness, caregiving, social support, and technology use. 2) Define: Reactions to Evidence-Based Care Concepts and Barriers illustrates participants' perspectives on the domains of palliative care ranging from symptom management to psychosocial-spiritual care. 3) Ideation: Desired Features reports participant recommendations for designing digital health tools for palliative care domains. CONCLUSION Digital health provides an opportunity to expand the reach of geriatric palliative care interventions. This paper documents human-centered preferences of geriatric palliative care digital health to ensure technologies are relevant and meaningful to health care providers, patients, and the caregiving social convoy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Dickman Portz
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
| | - Kelsey Lynett Ford
- mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Katherine Doyon
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - David B Bekelman
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Department of Medicine, Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Department of Veterans Affairs, Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Rebecca S Boxer
- Insitute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jean S Kutner
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Sara Czaja
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sheana Bull
- mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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13
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Portz JD, Ford KL, Elsbernd K, Knoepke CE, Flint K, Bekelman DB, Boxer RS, Bull S. "I Like the Idea of It…But Probably Wouldn't Use It" - Health Care Provider Perspectives on Heart Failure mHealth: Qualitative Study. JMIR Cardio 2020; 4:e18101. [PMID: 32885785 PMCID: PMC7501581 DOI: 10.2196/18101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many mobile health (mHealth) technologies exist for patients with heart failure (HF). However, HF mhealth lacks evidence of efficacy, caregiver involvement, and clinically useful real-time data. OBJECTIVE We aim to capture health care providers' perceived value of HF mHealth, particularly for pairing patient-caregiver-generated data with clinical intervention to inform the design of future HF mHealth. METHODS This study is a subanalysis of a larger qualitative study based on interviewing patients with HF, their caregivers, and health care providers. This analysis included interviews with health care providers (N=20), focusing on their perceived usefulness of HF mHealth tools and interventions. RESULTS A total of 5 themes emerged: (1) bio-psychosocial-spiritual monitoring, (2) use of sensors, (3) interoperability, (4) data sharing, and (5) usefulness of patient-reported outcomes in practice. Providers remain interested in mHealth technologies for HF patients and their caregivers. However, providers report being unconvinced of the clinical usefulness of robust real-time patient-reported outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The use of assessments, sensors, and real-time data collection could provide value in patient care. Future research must continually explore how to maximize the utility of mHealth for HF patients, their caregivers, and health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Dickman Portz
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Kelsey Lynett Ford
- mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Kira Elsbernd
- mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Christopher E Knoepke
- Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Data Science to Patient Value (D2V) Initiative, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Adult & Child Consortium for Outcomes Research & Delivery Science, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Kelsey Flint
- Department of Medicine, Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - David B Bekelman
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Department of Medicine, Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Rebecca S Boxer
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Sheana Bull
- mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
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14
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LeBaron V, Bennett R, Alam R, Blackhall L, Gordon K, Hayes J, Homdee N, Jones R, Martinez Y, Ogunjirin E, Thomas T, Lach J. Understanding the Experience of Cancer Pain From the Perspective of Patients and Family Caregivers to Inform Design of an In-Home Smart Health System: Multimethod Approach. JMIR Form Res 2020; 4:e20836. [PMID: 32712581 PMCID: PMC7481872 DOI: 10.2196/20836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Inadequately managed pain is a serious problem for patients with cancer and those who care for them. Smart health systems can help with remote symptom monitoring and management, but they must be designed with meaningful end-user input. Objective This study aims to understand the experience of managing cancer pain at home from the perspective of both patients and family caregivers to inform design of the Behavioral and Environmental Sensing and Intervention for Cancer (BESI-C) smart health system. Methods This was a descriptive pilot study using a multimethod approach. Dyads of patients with cancer and difficult pain and their primary family caregivers were recruited from an outpatient oncology clinic. The participant interviews consisted of (1) open-ended questions to explore the overall experience of cancer pain at home, (2) ranking of variables on a Likert-type scale (0, no impact; 5, most impact) that may influence cancer pain at home, and (3) feedback regarding BESI-C system prototypes. Qualitative data were analyzed using a descriptive approach to identity patterns and key themes. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS; basic descriptive statistics and independent sample t tests were run. Results Our sample (n=22; 10 patient-caregiver dyads and 2 patients) uniformly described the experience of managing cancer pain at home as stressful and difficult. Key themes included (1) unpredictability of pain episodes; (2) impact of pain on daily life, especially the negative impact on sleep, activity, and social interactions; and (3) concerns regarding medications. Overall, taking pain medication was rated as the category with the highest impact on a patient’s pain (=4.79), followed by the categories of wellness (=3.60; sleep quality and quantity, physical activity, mood and oral intake) and interaction (=2.69; busyness of home, social or interpersonal interactions, physical closeness or proximity to others, and emotional closeness and connection to others). The category related to environmental factors (temperature, humidity, noise, and light) was rated with the lowest overall impact (=2.51). Patients and family caregivers expressed receptivity to the concept of BESI-C and reported a preference for using a wearable sensor (smart watch) to capture data related to the abrupt onset of difficult cancer pain. Conclusions Smart health systems to support cancer pain management should (1) account for the experience of both the patient and the caregiver, (2) prioritize passive monitoring of physiological and environmental variables to reduce burden, and (3) include functionality that can monitor and track medication intake and efficacy; wellness variables, such as sleep quality and quantity, physical activity, mood, and oral intake; and levels of social interaction and engagement. Systems must consider privacy and data sharing concerns and incorporate feasible strategies to capture and characterize rapid-onset symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia LeBaron
- University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Rachel Bennett
- University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Ridwan Alam
- University of Virginia School of Engineering & Applied Science, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Leslie Blackhall
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Kate Gordon
- Virginia Commonwealth University Health, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - James Hayes
- University of Virginia School of Engineering & Applied Science, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Nutta Homdee
- University of Virginia School of Engineering & Applied Science, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Randy Jones
- University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Yudel Martinez
- University of Virginia School of Engineering & Applied Science, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Emmanuel Ogunjirin
- University of Virginia School of Engineering & Applied Science, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Tanya Thomas
- University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - John Lach
- The George Washington University School of Engineering & Applied Science, Washington, DC, United States
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