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King KI, Milien E, Jones M, Mensah T, Carty LLEJ. Building Power on "Mass&Cass": A Community-Centered Approach to Addressing Health Resource Gaps for Persons Experiencing Homelessness in Boston, MA, 2021. Am J Public Health 2024; 114:870-873. [PMID: 38900982 PMCID: PMC11306605 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2024.307713] [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: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
In November 2021, two grassroots organizations in Boston, Massachusetts-a housing and health justice organization and a student-led nonprofit-established an initiative to provide persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) near the Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard ("Mass&Cass") intersection in Boston with access to free COVID-19 education and other wrap-around services. They partnered with hospitals, public health organizations, and advocacy groups to make this happen. This community-driven initiative serves as a model for how to enact a sustainable pipeline for PEH to receive health resources and information, with the voices of those directly impacted at the center. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(9):870-873. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307713).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kareem I King
- Kareem I. King Jr. and Melissa Jones are with We Got Us, Boston, MA, and Harvard College, Cambridge, MA. Eilien Milien is with We Got Us, Boston, and Emmanuel College, Boston. Terrence Mensah is with Housing = Health, Boston, and Harvard Medical School, Boston. Lady Lawrence E. J. Carty is with Housing = Health, Boston
| | - Eileen Milien
- Kareem I. King Jr. and Melissa Jones are with We Got Us, Boston, MA, and Harvard College, Cambridge, MA. Eilien Milien is with We Got Us, Boston, and Emmanuel College, Boston. Terrence Mensah is with Housing = Health, Boston, and Harvard Medical School, Boston. Lady Lawrence E. J. Carty is with Housing = Health, Boston
| | - Melissa Jones
- Kareem I. King Jr. and Melissa Jones are with We Got Us, Boston, MA, and Harvard College, Cambridge, MA. Eilien Milien is with We Got Us, Boston, and Emmanuel College, Boston. Terrence Mensah is with Housing = Health, Boston, and Harvard Medical School, Boston. Lady Lawrence E. J. Carty is with Housing = Health, Boston
| | - Terrance Mensah
- Kareem I. King Jr. and Melissa Jones are with We Got Us, Boston, MA, and Harvard College, Cambridge, MA. Eilien Milien is with We Got Us, Boston, and Emmanuel College, Boston. Terrence Mensah is with Housing = Health, Boston, and Harvard Medical School, Boston. Lady Lawrence E. J. Carty is with Housing = Health, Boston
| | - Lady Lawrence E J Carty
- Kareem I. King Jr. and Melissa Jones are with We Got Us, Boston, MA, and Harvard College, Cambridge, MA. Eilien Milien is with We Got Us, Boston, and Emmanuel College, Boston. Terrence Mensah is with Housing = Health, Boston, and Harvard Medical School, Boston. Lady Lawrence E. J. Carty is with Housing = Health, Boston
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Galvin AM, Walters ST, Lewis MA, Thompson EL. Using the Plan-Do-Study-Act Evaluation Framework to Improve the Recruitment of Women Experiencing Homelessness: Lessons Learned. FAMILY & COMMUNITY HEALTH 2024; 47:167-175. [PMID: 38372333 DOI: 10.1097/fch.0000000000000395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Strategic recruitment is necessary to reach recruiting goals when conducting research with vulnerable and transient populations, such as postpartum women experiencing homelessness. The current study evaluated the recruitment process for a qualitative study using the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) method. METHODS In a study conducting semistructured interviews about reproductive interconception care barriers and facilitators for local women who were recently pregnant and homeless in 2022, PDSA cycles were used to improve community organizations' assistance with identifying participants, facilitate screening and interviewing processes, and ensure participants were safeguarded. RESULTS Iterative PDSA cycles were conducted across a 20-week period. Ultimately, 12 women were interviewed, with increasing participant location and organizational assistance over time. Following 4 key lessons were identified: provide in-person and remote options for conducting data collection; include fair compensation that balances time versus study coercion; weigh feasibility versus importance of sample size with eligibility criteria; and support partnerships with organization connections. CONCLUSIONS The PDSA method served as a parsimonious framework for evaluation. The lessons learned will help facilitate future recruitment efforts for this difficult-to-recruit and vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalynn M Galvin
- Department of Research, Cizik School of Nursing, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston (Dr Galvin); and Department of Population and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth (Drs Walters, Lewis, and Thompson)
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Kim RG, McDonell C, McKinney J, Catalli L, Price JC, Morris MD. Staff-Facilitated Telemedicine Care Delivery for Treatment of Hepatitis C Infection among People Who Inject Drugs. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:715. [PMID: 38610138 PMCID: PMC11012066 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12070715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine offers the opportunity to provide clinical services remotely, thereby bridging geographic distances for people engaged in the medical system. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the widespread adoption of telemedicine in clinical practices has persisted, highlighting its continued relevance for post-pandemic healthcare. Little is known about telemedicine use among people from socially marginalized groups. METHODS The No One Waits (NOW) Study is a single-arm clinical trial measuring the acceptability, feasibility, and safety of an urban point-of-diagnosis hepatitis C (HCV) treatment initiation model delivered in a non-clinical community setting. Participants enrolled in the NOW Study are recruited via street outreach targeting people experiencing homelessness and injecting drugs. Throughout the NOW Study, clinical care is delivered through a novel staff-facilitated telemedicine model that not only addresses geographic and transportation barriers, but also technology and medical mistrust, barriers often unique to this population. While clinicians provide high-quality specialty practice-based care via telemedicine, on-site staff provide technical support, aid in communication and rapport, and review the clinicians' instructions and next steps with participants following the visits. Research questionnaires collect information on participants' experience with and perceptions of telemedicine (a) prior to treatment initiation and (b) at treatment completion. DISCUSSION For people from socially marginalized groups with HCV infection, creative person-centered care approaches are necessary to diagnose, treat, and cure HCV. Although non-clinical, community-based staff-facilitated telemedicine requires additional resources compared to standard-of-care telemedicine, it could expand the reach and offer a valuable entrance into technology-delivered care for socially marginalized groups. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03987503.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca G. Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA;
| | - Claire McDonell
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA;
| | - Jeff McKinney
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (J.M.); (L.C.); (J.C.P.)
| | - Lisa Catalli
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (J.M.); (L.C.); (J.C.P.)
| | - Jennifer C. Price
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (J.M.); (L.C.); (J.C.P.)
- Liver Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Meghan D. Morris
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA;
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Azar R, Chan R, Sarkisian M, Burns RD, Marcin JP, Gotthardt C, De Guzman KR, Rosenthal JL, Haynes SC. Adapting telehealth to address health equity: Perspectives of primary care providers across the United States. J Telemed Telecare 2024:1357633X241238780. [PMID: 38515372 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x241238780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telehealth has the potential to increase access to care for medically underserved patients. This qualitative study aimed to identify telecare practices used during the COVID-19 pandemic to meet the needs of patients experiencing homelessness, patients with disabilities, and patients with language preference other than English (LOE). METHODS We conducted a secondary qualitative data analysis of 47 clinician interviews at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) around the country. Using thematic analysis, transcripts were coded by line-by-line by five qualitative researchers. A multidisciplinary team of telehealth experts, researchers and primary care clinicians reviewed memos and excerpts to generate major themes. RESULTS We identified six main areas demonstrating how community providers developed strategies or practices to improve access to care for vulnerable patients: reaching patients experiencing homelessness, serving deaf and hard of hearing patients, improving access for patients with disabilities, serving patients with LOE, improving access for mental and behavioral health services, and educating patients about telehealth. During the pandemic, FQHCs developed innovative solutions to provide access to care for the unhoused, including using telehealth in shelters, vans, and distributing devices like mobile phones and tablets. Telehealth reduced transportation burdens for patients with disabilities and reduced no-show rates for mental health services by adapting group therapy via telehealth features (like break-out rooms) and increasing provider capacity. CONCLUSION Our study identified strategies adopted by FQHCs to serve underserved populations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings highlight the need for enduring strategies to improve health equity through telehealth..
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Azar
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Rachel Chan
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | | | | | - James P Marcin
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Center for Health and Technology, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | | | - Keshia R De Guzman
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Rosenthal
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Center for Health and Technology, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Sarah C Haynes
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Center for Health and Technology, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Tierney AA, Mosqueda M, Cesena G, Frehn JL, Payán DD, Rodriguez HP. Telemedicine Implementation for Safety Net Populations: A Systematic Review. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:622-641. [PMID: 37707997 PMCID: PMC10924064 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine systems were rapidly implemented in response to COVID-19. However, little is known about their effectiveness, acceptability, and sustainability for safety net populations. This study systematically reviewed primary care telemedicine implementation and effectiveness in safety net settings. Methods: We searched PubMed for peer-reviewed articles on telemedicine implementation from 2013 to 2021. The search was done between June and December 2021. Included articles focused on health care organizations that primarily serve low-income and/or rural populations in the United States. We screened 244 articles from an initial search of 343 articles and extracted and analyzed data from N = 45 articles. Results: Nine (20%) of 45 articles were randomized controlled trials. N = 22 reported findings for at least one marginalized group (i.e., racial/ethnic minority, 65 years+, limited English proficiency). Only n = 19 (42%) included African American/Black patients in demographics descriptions, n = 14 (31%) LatinX/Hispanic patients, n = 4 (9%) Asian patients, n = 4 (9%) patients aged 65+ years, and n = 4 (9%) patients with limited English proficiency. Results show telemedicine can provide high-quality primary care that is more accessible and affordable. Fifteen studies assessed barriers and facilitators to telemedicine implementation. Common barriers were billing/administrative workflow disruption (n = 9, 20%), broadband access/quality (n = 5, 11%), and patient preference for in-person care (n = 4, 9%). Facilitators included efficiency gains (n = 6, 13%), patient acceptance (n = 3, 7%), and enhanced access (n = 3, 7%). Conclusions: Telemedicine is an acceptable care modality to deliver primary care in safety net settings. Future studies should compare telemedicine and in-person care quality and test strategies to improve telemedicine implementation in safety net settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron A. Tierney
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Mariana Mosqueda
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Gabriel Cesena
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Frehn
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Denise D. Payán
- Department of Health, Society, and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Hector P. Rodriguez
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
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Tierney AA, Brown TT, Aguilera A, Shortell SM, Rodriguez HP. Conjoint Analysis of Telemedicine Preferences for Hypertension Management Among Adult Patients. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:692-704. [PMID: 37843962 PMCID: PMC10924055 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0254] [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] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine has been differentially utilized by different demographic groups during COVID-19, exacerbating inequities in health care. We conducted conjoint and latent class analyses to understand factors that shape patient preferences for hypertension management telemedicine appointments. Methods: We surveyed 320 adults, oversampling participants from households that earned <$50K per year (77.2%) and speak a language other than English at home (68.8%). We asked them to choose among 2 hypothetical appointments through 12 conjoint tasks measuring 6 attributes. Individual utilities for attributes were constructed using logit estimation, and latent classes were identified and compared by demographic and clinical characteristics. Results: Respondents preferred in-person visits (0.353, standard error [SE] = 0.039) and video appointments conducted through a secure patient portal (0.002, SE = 0.040). Respondents also preferred seeing a clinician with whom they have an established relationship (0.168, SE = 0.021). We found four latent classes: "in-person" (26.5% of participants) who strongly weighted in-person appointments, "cost conscious" (8.1%) who prioritized the lowest copay ($0 to $10), "expedited" (19.7%) who prioritized getting the earliest appointment possible (same/next day or at least within the next week), and "comprehensive" (45.6%) who had preferences for in-person care and telemedicine appointments through a secure portal, low copayments, and the ability to see a familiar clinician. Conclusions: Appointment preferences for hypertension management can be segmented into four groups that prioritize (1) in-person care, (2) low copayments, (3) expedited care, and (4) balanced preferences for in-person and telemedicine appointments. Evidence is needed to clarify whether aligning appointment offerings with patients' preferences can improve care quality, equity, and efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron A. Tierney
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Timothy T. Brown
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Adrian Aguilera
- School of Social Welfare, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Stephen M. Shortell
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Hector P. Rodriguez
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
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Leung LB, Zhang E, Chu K, Yoo C, Gabrielian S, Der-Martirosian C. Characteristics of Veterans Experiencing Homelessness using Telehealth for Primary Care Before and After COVID-19 Pandemic Onset. J Gen Intern Med 2024; 39:53-59. [PMID: 38252239 PMCID: PMC10937850 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08462-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic expanded telehealth use across healthcare systems, including the Veterans Health Administration (VA). Little is known about how large-scale telehealth rollout affected access to primary care for patients experiencing homelessness. OBJECTIVE To examine the extent to which homeless-experienced veterans used telehealth services in primary care and to characterize users before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study, 3/16/2019-3/15/2022. PARTICIPANTS 394,731 veterans with homelessness diagnoses nationally using 4,068,109 primary care visits. MAIN MEASURES The outcomes were use of 1 + telehealth visits (video, phone, secure messaging) for primary care during each year. Through multivariable regression models, we examined associations between telehealth use, patient characteristics (e.g., age, sex, race-ethnicity, comorbidity), and VA homeless services use (e.g., homeless-tailored primary care (HPACT), permanent supportive housing). KEY RESULTS Compared to pre-pandemic, telehealth in primary care among homeless-experienced veterans increased substantially 2 years post-pandemic (video: 1.37% versus 20.56%, phone: 60.74% versus 76.58%). Secure messaging was low over time (1.57-2.63%). In adjusted models, video users were more likely to be young (65 + years: OR = 0.43, CI: 0.42-0.44), women (OR = 1.74, CI: 1.70-1.78), Black (OR = 1.14, CI: 1.12-1.16), Hispanic (OR = 1.34, CI: 1.30-1.38), and with more comorbidities (2 + on the Charlson Comorbidity Index; OR = 1.16, CI: 1.14-1.19), compared to video non-users. HPACT patients were less likely to use video (OR = 0.68, CI: 0.66-0.71) than other primary care patients. This was not observed among users of other VA homeless services. CONCLUSIONS Despite decreased access to health information technology and low pre-pandemic telehealth use, veterans experiencing homelessness still sustained high use of telehealth in primary care post-pandemic. Women and racial-ethnic minorities had higher video uptake proportionately, suggesting that telehealth may address access disparities among these homeless-experienced patient groups. Identifying and targeting organizational characteristics (e.g., HPACT users) that predict telehealth use for improvement may be key to increasing adoption among VA primary care patients experiencing homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucinda B Leung
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Division of General Internal Medicine-Health Services Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Division of General Internal Medicine, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Eunice Zhang
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Karen Chu
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, North Hills, CA, USA
| | - Caroline Yoo
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sonya Gabrielian
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Desert Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Claudia Der-Martirosian
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, North Hills, CA, USA
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Slater H, Yin Z, Walsh CG. Characterization of Adult Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder that Use Patient Portal. AMIA ... ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM PROCEEDINGS. AMIA SYMPOSIUM 2024; 2023:1267-1276. [PMID: 38222351 PMCID: PMC10785869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) access healthcare frequently, yet little is known about their interactions with patient portals. To describe adults with ASD using patient portal, we conducted regression analyses of visit history, demographics, co-occurring conditions and diagnoses, and patient portal use to determine factors most indicative of whether a patient 1) has sent at least one message (via patient or proxy) and 2) has at least one message sent on their behalf via a proxy account after they turned 18 years old. The 2,412-person cohort had 996 (41.3%) patients who had sent at least one message on their account with 129 (5.3%) of patients having at least one proxy message. This study found that adults with ASD are less likely to use messaging functionality and more likely to have a message sent via proxy than other patient populations. Comorbid mental illness was correlated with using messaging functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Slater
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Zhijun Yin
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Colin G Walsh
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN USA
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Bower M, Olsen N, Peach N, Green O, Duarte C, Valpiani P, Teesson M. Feasibility of telehealth counselling pilot for people experiencing homelessness and/or complex needs: During COVID-19 and beyond. Health Promot J Austr 2023; 34:889-894. [PMID: 36917015 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.717] [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: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
ISSUES ADDRESSED People experiencing homelessness and/or complex needs often require targeted health services to address unique vulnerabilities. COVID-19 restrictions acted as a barrier for this group accessing health and alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment services. The Haymarket Foundation, an accommodation and health facility in Australia, transitioned from in-person AOD-counselling services to online consultations. Clients accessing these services were tracked, from March 2019 to November 2020, to assess the impact of the switch to telehealth on client retention. METHODS Qualitative analysis of Haymarket clients' service experience surveys and quantitative descriptives of "no-show" (nonattended sessions) rates and survival analysis of client treatment separations were completed to assess the impact of transitioning to telehealth on client retention. RESULTS Although the initial transition to telehealth in March 2020 minimally impacted client no-show rates, reinstated government restrictions in June/July 2020 coincided with increasing no-shows and a substantial increase in treatment exits without notice, especially amongst males. Qualitative analysis showed clients had mixed feelings towards telehealth: some attributed their dissatisfaction to the inability to build rapport with their counsellor online, or with COVID-19 in general. Others appreciated the availability and genuine care of their counsellors through either setting. CONCLUSIONS Telehealth may be a feasible replacement for face-to-face AOD counselling for people experiencing homelessness, however further investigation needs to be conducted to understand factors associated with improved client retention. SO WHAT?: This pilot demonstrates telehealth may be a feasible ongoing feature of health promotion for vulnerable high-needs populations, including people experiencing homelessness who use substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlee Bower
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- The Haymarket Foundation, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas Olsen
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Natalie Peach
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Olivia Green
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - Maree Teesson
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
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SteelFisher GK, McMurtry CL, Caporello H, Lubell KM, Koonin LM, Neri AJ, Ben-Porath EN, Mehrotra A, McGowan E, Espino LC, Barnett ML. Video Telemedicine Experiences In COVID-19 Were Positive, But Physicians And Patients Prefer In-Person Care For The Future. Health Aff (Millwood) 2023; 42:575-584. [PMID: 37011316 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2022.01027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
To help inform policy discussions about postpandemic telemedicine reimbursement and regulations, we conducted dual nationally representative surveys among primary care physicians and patients. Although majorities of both populations reported satisfaction with video visits during the pandemic, 80 percent of physicians would prefer to provide only a small share of care or no care via telemedicine in the future, and only 36 percent of patients would prefer to seek care by video or phone. Most physicians (60 percent) felt that the quality of video telemedicine care was generally inferior to the quality of in-person care, and both patients and physicians cited the lack of physical exam as a key reason (90 percent and 92 percent, respectively). Patients who were older, had less education, or were Asian were less likely to want to use video for future care. Although improvements to home-based diagnostic tools could improve both the quality of and the desire to use telemedicine, virtual primary care will likely be limited in the immediate future. Policies to enhance quality, sustain virtual care, and address inequities in the online setting may be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caitlin L McMurtry
- Caitlin L. McMurtry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Keri M Lubell
- Keri M. Lubell, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lisa M Koonin
- Lisa M. Koonin, Health Preparedness Partners, LLC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Antonio J Neri
- Antonio J. Neri, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | | | | | - Ericka McGowan
- Ericka McGowan, Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, Arlington, Virginia
| | - Laura C Espino
- Laura C. Espino, National Public Health Information Coalition, Marietta, Georgia
| | - Michael L Barnett
- Michael L. Barnett, Harvard University and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Talal AH, Sofikitou EM, Wang K, Dickerson S, Jaanimägi U, Markatou M. High Satisfaction with Patient-Centered Telemedicine for Hepatitis C Virus Delivered to Substance Users: A Mixed-Methods Study. Telemed J E Health 2023; 29:395-407. [PMID: 35925809 PMCID: PMC10024261 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: While telemedicine may increase health care access for vulnerable populations, data are limited on whether people with opioid use disorder (PWOUD) are satisfied with telemedicine. We assessed PWOUD satisfaction with telemedicine and identified factors that increase telemedicine satisfaction. Methods: We conducted a mixed-methods study among hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected persons enrolled at 12 opioid treatment programs (OTPs) throughout New York State. Participants successfully completed HCV treatment either through telemedicine integrated into OTPs (N = 238) or through offsite referral (N = 106). We evaluated Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ) response scores at the initial and final health care encounters and subsequently interviewed telemedicine study participants (N = 25) to assess their experiences with telemedicine. Results: All participants (N = 344) successfully completed HCV treatment. We observed no differences in PSQ scores between telemedicine and in-person encounters (98.3% and 98.7% of telemedicine participants provided PSQ scores of satisfied or highly satisfied at each timepoint, respectively). Study participants indicated that attributes associated with high telemedicine encounter satisfaction included: (1) communicating study information, (2) gaining trust, and (3) delivering patient-centered care. Participants weighted "General Satisfaction" and "Time Spent with Doctor" higher than "Accessibility and Convenience," and female participants were significantly more satisfied than males. Satisfaction with health care delivery among all participants increased significantly comparing timepoints. Conclusions: Participants were highly satisfied with HCV telemedicine encounters equivalent to in-person encounters. Communication augments trust facilitating delivery of patient-centered care through telemedicine. Participants value empathy and trust with providers over accessibility and convenience. In summary, PWOUD are highly satisfied with the facilitated telemedicine model and value empathetic and trusting providers. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02933970.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H. Talal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Address correspondence to: Andrew H. Talal, MD, MPH, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 875 Ellicott Street, Suite 6090, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Elisavet M. Sofikitou
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Kejia Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Suzanne Dickerson
- Division of Biobehavioral Health and Clinical Sciences, School of Nursing, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Urmo Jaanimägi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Marianthi Markatou
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
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12
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Montgomery A, Neil JM, Cannell MB, Gonzalez J, Cole A, Ra CK, Kezbers K, Robison J, Kendzor DE, Businelle MS. The Prevalence and Perceived Utility of Mobile Health Technology Among Recently Incarcerated Homeless Adults. JOURNAL OF TECHNOLOGY IN BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2023; 8:158-166. [PMID: 36844754 PMCID: PMC9939856 DOI: 10.1007/s41347-023-00308-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Mobile technologies can deliver physical and mental health services for recently incarcerated homeless adults (RIHAs). The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence and perceived utility of mobile technology to support health behavior change among RIHAs. Participants (n = 324) from an ongoing clinical trial at a homeless shelter in Texas were included in the current descriptive cross-sectional analyses. Over one fourth (28.4%) of participants had an active cell phone. Nearly 90 percent (88.6%) of participants reported at least weekly use of the internet, 77 percent used email (77.2%), and more than half used Facebook (55.2%). Although most participants (82.8%) believed that smartphone applications (apps) could help change their behavior, only a quarter (25.1%) had used an app for this purpose. These findings highlight the potential for smartphone-based intervention technologies, and future studies should examine whether smartphone apps that address mental health and health behaviors are feasible among RIHAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Montgomery
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 655 Research Parkway, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 USA
| | - Jordan M. Neil
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 655 Research Parkway, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 USA
| | - Michael B. Cannell
- School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Dallas, TX USA
| | | | - Ashley Cole
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, 116 Psychology Building, Stillwater, OK 74078 USA
| | - Chaelin K. Ra
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 655 Research Parkway, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 USA
| | - Krista Kezbers
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 655 Research Parkway, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 USA
| | - Jillian Robison
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 655 Research Parkway, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 USA
| | - Darla E. Kendzor
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 655 Research Parkway, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 USA
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK USA
| | - Michael S. Businelle
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 655 Research Parkway, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 USA
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK USA
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13
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Zahir A, Yip D, Garcia C, Smith AN, Dhatt Z, Duke M, Kushel M. "I Needed for You to See What I'm Talking About": Experiences With Telehealth Among Homeless-Experienced Older Adults. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2023; 9:23337214231172650. [PMID: 37168020 PMCID: PMC10164854 DOI: 10.1177/23337214231172650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Little is known about how older adults with a current or recent experience of homelessness navigated the switch to telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. We examined the perceptions and use of telehealth in a purposive sample of 37 homeless-experienced older adults in mid-late 2020 through semi-structured qualitative interviews. We purposively recruited participants from a larger longitudinal study on homeless-experienced older adults in Oakland, CA. We subjected the data to content analysis. We found that most participants who used telehealth used audio-only phone calls for care. We found that (1) participants experienced challenges accessing the necessary technologies for telehealth, (2) perceptions of telehealth for physical health differed based on the modality (video vs. audio-only), and (3) participants had generally positive perceptions of telehealth for mental healthcare. Our findings suggest that clinicians interacting with homeless-experienced older adults should address the potential skepticism of audio-only telehealth patients, and assess their access to, and knowledge of, video conferencing technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Zahir
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Deborah Yip
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Cheyenne Garcia
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, CA, USA
| | - Ashley Nicole Smith
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, CA, USA
| | - Zena Dhatt
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, CA, USA
| | - Michael Duke
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, CA, USA
| | - Margot Kushel
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, CA, USA
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14
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DeLaCruz-Jiron EJ, Hahn LM, Donahue AL, Shore JH. Telemental Health for the Homeless Population: Lessons Learned when Leveraging Care. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2023; 25:1-6. [PMID: 36480149 PMCID: PMC9734763 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-022-01400-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this paper is to review key lessons when using telehealth within the context of mental health and homelessness. We examine technological and bandwidth issues the homeless population might face when getting telehealth services, discuss clinical process adaption needed for working remotely, and highlight the lessons learned when leveraging mental health services to homeless patients across telehealth platforms. RECENT FINDINGS Homelessness is associated with chronic, mental health disparities and access to mental health services is often less accessible among communities with unstable housing. Telehealth provides "OnDemand" treatment options while removing specific barriers found with in-person health care such as transportation, overwhelmed mental health facilities, i.e., appointment availability, and office hour limitations while reducing costs for both providers and patients. We provide two case examples to demonstrate successful delivery of telemental health services to homeless patients and review lessons learned when leveraging care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren M. Hahn
- Access Management Services LLC, 11100 East Bethany Drive, Aurora, CO 80014 USA
| | - Amy L. Donahue
- Access Management Services LLC, 11100 East Bethany Drive, Aurora, CO 80014 USA
| | - Jay H. Shore
- Access Management Services LLC, 11100 East Bethany Drive, Aurora, CO 80014 USA ,Department of Psychiatry and Family Medicine, School of Medicine and Centers for American Indian and Alaska Native Health Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
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15
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Békási S, Girasek E, Győrffy Z. Telemedicine in community shelters: possibilities to improve chronic care among people experiencing homelessness in Hungary. Int J Equity Health 2022; 21:181. [PMID: 36528777 PMCID: PMC9758475 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-022-01803-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital health has expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, while the exclusion of vulnerable populations with limited access to these technologies widens the gap to receive proper care. There is very little data available on the feasibility of telemedicine solutions regarding the chronic care of homeless persons. METHODS In our study, 75 participants experiencing homelessness were recruited from four social institutions in Budapest, Hungary. The telecare pilot service consisted of six online consultations with a physician and was available in shelters biweekly. Self-developed questionnaires were used after every online session on the originating and remote sites as well, while a follow-up study was also completed among patients after four to six months of pilot closure. Parameters as frequencies, averages, and percentage distributions were analyzed and two linear regression models were built on explaining the doctors' and patients' overall rating of visits. RESULTS During the pilot, 92.2% (n = 415) of originally planned visits were delivered and 55 clients (73.3%) attended the full program. Both the patients' and physicians' overall satisfaction was very high (4.52 and 4.79, respectively, on a 5-point Likert scale) and the patients' overall rating remained similarly high during the follow-up. Comparing the first and sixth visits, physicians reported significant improvements in almost all aspects. The linear regression models proved that confidence in the patients' assessment and diagnosis had the most prominent effect on the physicians' overall rating, while ease of use and lack of communication gaps influenced positively the patients' rating. CONCLUSION The results suggest that telehealth services represent a promising tool to ensure better care continuity while using shelter infrastructure and on-site assistance might reduce the digital exclusion of people experiencing homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sándor Békási
- Health Center, Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta, Budapest, Hungary , Telemedicine Workgroup, FitPuli Kft, Győr, Hungary
| | - Edmond Girasek
- grid.11804.3c0000 0001 0942 9821Institute of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsa Győrffy
- grid.11804.3c0000 0001 0942 9821Institute of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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16
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Dugani SB, Kiliaki SA, Nielsen ML, Coons TJ, Fischer KM, Parikh RS, Pagali SR, Liwonjo A, Schroeder DR, Croghan IT, Burton MC. Post-discharge early assessment with remote video link (PEARL) initiative for patients discharged from hospital medicine services. Hosp Pract (1995) 2022; 50:379-386. [PMID: 36107464 PMCID: PMC9691619 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2022.2125726] [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: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the availability and accessibility of outpatient care following hospital discharge. Hospitalists (physicians) and hospital medicine advanced practice providers (HM-APPs) coordinate discharge care of hospitalized patients; however, it is unknown if they can deliver post-discharge virtual care and overcome barriers to outpatient care. The objective was to develop and provide post-discharge virtual care for patients discharged from hospital medicine services. METHODS We developed the Post-discharge Early Assessment with Remote video Link (PEARL) initiative for HM-APPs to conduct a post-discharge video visit (to review recommendations) and telephone follow-up (to evaluate adherence) with patients 2-6 days following hospital discharge. Participants included patients discharged from hospital medicine services at an institution's hospitals in Rochester (May 2020-August 2020) and Austin (November 2020-February 2021) in Minnesota, US. HM-APPs also interviewed patients about their experience with the video visit and completed a survey on their experience with PEARL. RESULTS Of 386 eligible patients, 61.4% were enrolled (n = 237/386) including 48.1% women (n = 114/237). In patients with complete video visit and telephone follow-up (n = 141/237), most were prescribed new medications (83.7%) and took them as prescribed (93.2%). Among five classes of chronic medications, patient-reported adherence ranged from 59.2% (narcotics) to 91.5% (anti-hypertensives). Patient-reported self-management of 12 discharge recommendations ranged from 40% (smoking cessation) to 100% (checking rashes). Patients reported benefit from the video visit (agree: 77.3%) with an equivocal preference for video visits over clinic visits. Among HM-APPs who responded to the survey (88.2%; n = 15/17), 73.3% reported benefit from visual contact with patients but were uncertain if video visits would reduce emergency department visits. CONCLUSION In this novel initiative, HM-APPs used video visits to provide care beyond their hospital role, reinforce discharge recommendations for patients, and reduce barriers to outpatient care. The effect of this initiative is under evaluation in a randomized controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagar B. Dugani
- Division of Hospital Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research, Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Megan L. Nielsen
- Division of Hospital Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Trevor J. Coons
- Division of Hospital Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Karen M. Fischer
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Riddhi S. Parikh
- Division of Hospital Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Anne Liwonjo
- Division of Hospital Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Lake City, MN
| | | | - Ivana T. Croghan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Research Office, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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17
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Durojaiye OC, Jibril I, Kritsotakis EI. Effectiveness of telemedicine in outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (Tele-OPAT): A systematic review. J Telemed Telecare 2022:1357633X221131842. [PMID: 36221964 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x221131842] [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: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telemedicine is increasingly used to deliver healthcare in many clinical specialities. However, the adoption of telemedicine in the delivery of outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) has been relatively slow and limited. This study aims to collate current evidence for telemedicine in OPAT regarding clinical efficacy, safety, acceptability and cost-effectiveness. METHODS We systematically searched the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, EMCARE, EMBASE and MEDLINE databases through 24 July 2022, for relevant studies published in English. Research articles and conference abstracts were included if they involved any form of telephone or video consultation in delivering parenteral antibiotics in the home or outpatient setting. Study findings were synthesised into three main themes: patient outcomes and safety, patient and provider satisfaction and cost-effectiveness. The mixed methods appraisal tool was used to review the methodological quality of the studies. PROSPERO CRD42022342874. RESULTS The literature search yielded 311 articles, of which 12 (five full-length articles and seven conference abstracts) reporting over 1245 telemedicine interventions were reviewed. The reported outcomes were heterogeneous. Telemedicine was cost-effective and associated with high patient satisfaction and comparable complication rates compared to conventional OPAT. Considering six comparative studies, rehospitalisation risk was lower for telemedicine than conventional OPAT (risk ratio, 0.58; 95% confidence interval, 0.38-0.88; I2 = 31%). DISCUSSION The results of this review demonstrate that telemedicine has a role in delivering safe and cost-effective OPAT care, especially for patients residing in remote and geographically isolated locations. Nevertheless, high-quality studies and publication of existing data and experiences are needed to further validate this model of care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oyewole Christopher Durojaiye
- Department of Infection and Tropical Medicine, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Microbiology, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, UK
| | - Ihsan Jibril
- Department of Infection and Tropical Medicine, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Evangelos I Kritsotakis
- Laboratory of Biostatistics, 37778School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
- School of Health and Related Research, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, 7315University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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18
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Cuellar A, Pomeroy JML, Burla S, Jena AB. Outpatient Care Among Users and Nonusers of Direct-to-Patient Telehealth: Observational Study. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e37574. [PMID: 35666556 PMCID: PMC9210206 DOI: 10.2196/37574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expansion of telehealth insurance coverage is hampered by concerns that such coverage may encourage excessive use and spending. OBJECTIVE The aim of this paper is to examine whether users of telehealth services rely more on other forms of outpatient care than nonusers, and to estimate the differences in payment rates. METHODS We examined claims data from a large national insurer in 2017. We limited our analysis to patients with visits for 3 common diagnoses (N=660,546). We calculated the total number of visits per patient, overall, and by setting, and adjusted for patient- and county-level factors. RESULTS After multivariable adjustment, telehealth-visit users, compared to nonusers, had 0.44 fewer visits to primary care, 0.11 fewer visits to emergency departments, and 0.17 fewer visits to retail and urgent care. All estimates are statistically significant at P<.001. Average payment rates for telehealth visits were lower than all other settings. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that telehealth visits may substitute rather than add to in-person care for some types of care. Our study suggests that telehealth visits may offer an efficient and less costly alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Cuellar
- Department of Health Administration and Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States.,National Bureau of Economic Research, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - J Mary Louise Pomeroy
- Department of Health Administration and Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States
| | - Sriteja Burla
- Department of Economics, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States
| | - Anupam B Jena
- National Bureau of Economic Research, Cambridge, MA, United States.,Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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