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Winslow A, Mills C, Schwartz JT, Assa'ad A. Implementing Food Oral Immunotherapy Into Clinical Practice: Quality and Safety Perspectives From a US Academic Center. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:1159-1169. [PMID: 38423284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is an accessible procedure for practicing allergy/immunology providers, yet rigorous safety standards are limited in the clinical setting. By exploring the transition from research to clinical practice OIT, we review relevant safety considerations necessary for the clinical provider. We offer a perspective on clinical benefits and considerations at the individual, collaboration, and policy levels from the vantage of a large academic OIT program, and we propose several practical start-up checklists and clerical considerations for practicing providers. Awareness of the local population and front-end planning is necessary to improve the accessibility of this procedure in clinical practice among racial and socioeconomic minority populations. Sharing and merging OIT protocols, procedural methods, and electronic medical record order sets may increase harmonization among OIT-providing institutions and further our abilities to pool safety and outcomes data, ultimately enhancing the safety and efficacy of clinical OIT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Winslow
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| | - Christa Mills
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Justin T Schwartz
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Amal Assa'ad
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Dehbozorgi S, Ramsey N, Lee ASE, Coleman A, Varshney P, Davis CM. Addressing Health Equity in Food Allergy. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:570-577. [PMID: 38280451 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Social determinants of health can lead to poor health outcomes for food-allergic patients, including limited access to allergen-free foods and specialty care. Housing and transportation limitations can worsen social factors including food insecurity, poor early food introduction, increased reactivity to foods, lower tertiary/allergy care utilization, and increased emergency department utilization. A key component of addressing health equity involves valuing all people with sustained, focused efforts to address social determinants of health. In this clinical commentary, we discuss the current state of heath equity for food-allergic patients, highlighting the disparities in emergency care, food allergy prevention, and food insecurity. Solutions to improve health equity through clinical practice are proposed. Currently available funding opportunities through the National Institutes of Health for health equity initiatives are outlined. Gaps in health equity for food-allergic patients include the lack of documented successful implementation of effective solutions to food insecurity, poor early food introduction uptake, poor access to specialist care, and unequal distribution of educational resources. The availability of research funding and legislative policies supporting access to food and education bolster the impetus to move toward health equity for 20 million people in the United States with food allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Dehbozorgi
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Nicole Ramsey
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Ashley Sang Eun Lee
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Amaziah Coleman
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rockville, Md
| | - Pooja Varshney
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Dell Medical School at the University of Texas Austin, Dell Children's Medical Center, Austin, Texas
| | - Carla M Davis
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Retrovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas.
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3
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Venter C, Meyer R, Bauer M, Bird JA, Fleischer DM, Nowak-Wegrzyn A, Anagnostou A, Vickery BP, Wang J, Groetch M. Identifying Children at Risk of Growth and Nutrient Deficiencies in the Food Allergy Clinic. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:579-589. [PMID: 38280452 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Food allergies affect growth in children by decreasing the availability of nutrients through decreased dietary intake, increased dietary needs, food-medication interactions, and psychosocial burden. Guidelines on food allergy management frequently recommend nutrition counseling and growth monitoring of children with food allergies. OBJECTIVE To provide clear guidance for clinicians to identify children with food allergies who are at nutritional risk and ensure prompt intervention. METHODS We provide a narrative review summarizing information from national and international guidelines, retrospective studies, population studies, review articles, case reports, and case series to identify those with food allergy at greatest nutritional risk, determine the impact of nutritional interventions on growth, and develop guidance for risk reduction in children with food allergies. RESULTS Children with food allergies are at increased risk of nutritional deficiencies and poor growth. Nutritional assessment and intervention can improve outcomes. Identifying poor growth is an important step in the nutrition assessment. Therefore, growth should be assessed at each allergy evaluation. Interventions to ensure adequate dietary intake for growth include appropriately prescribed elimination diets, breast-feeding support and assessment, supplemental formula, vitamin and/or mineral supplementation, appropriate milk substitutes, and timely introduction of nutrient-dense complementary foods. Access to foods of appropriate nutritional value is an ongoing concern. CONCLUSION Nutrition intervention or referral to registered dietitian nutritionists with additional training and/or experience in food allergy may result in improved growth and nutrition outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Venter
- Section of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colo.
| | - Rosan Meyer
- Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Winchester, Winchester, United Kingdom; Department of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maureen Bauer
- Section of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colo
| | - J Andrew Bird
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy and Immunology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - David M Fleischer
- Section of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colo
| | - Anna Nowak-Wegrzyn
- Hassenfeld Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY; Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Aikaterini Anagnostou
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Section of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Brian P Vickery
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Ga; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Ga
| | - Julie Wang
- Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Marion Groetch
- Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
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The Need for Required Stock Epinephrine in All Schools: A Work Group Report of the AAAAI Adverse Reactions to Foods Committee. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2023; 11:1068-1082.e1. [PMID: 36716997 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2022.12.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Epinephrine is the first line of treatment for anaphylaxis that can occur outside a medical setting in community environments such as schools. Patients with diagnosed IgE-mediated food allergy at risk of anaphylaxis are prescribed self-injectable epinephrine and given an individualized anaphylaxis action plan. As students, such patients/families provide their school with completed medication forms, a copy of their anaphylaxis plan, and additional student-specific epinephrine. However, students approved to self-carry prescribed self-injectable epinephrine may forget to do so or have other reasons for lacking prescribed epinephrine such as familial inability to fill the prescription due to cost or other access barriers. Undiagnosed students lacking prescribed epinephrine may also experience anaphylaxis at school. The presence of non-student-specific school stock epinephrine allows school nurses and other staff the ability to treat anaphylaxis onsite while awaiting Emergency Medical Services. Notably, not all states legally mandate K-12 schools to stock epinephrine. In states with laws only voluntarily allowing schools to stock epinephrine, it provides the ability to opt-out. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of barriers to school stock epinephrine, related improvement strategies, and workgroup recommendations supporting the need for mandated stock epinephrine in all schools in every state. Proposed solutions include ensuring legal immunity from liability for prescribers; advocacy for legislation to stabilize cost of self-injectable epinephrine; educational initiatives to schools promoting merits and safety of epinephrine and related anaphylaxis training; and partnerships between patient advocacy groups, medical and nursing organizations, public health departments and other health professionals to promote laws and district policies addressing need for stock epinephrine and school nurses to train and supervise school staff.
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Disparities in the Diagnosis and Management of Anaphylaxis. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2023; 23:13-19. [PMID: 36454450 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-022-01053-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The goal of this review is to characterize health disparities impacting the recognition and treatment of anaphylaxis. RECENT FINDINGS Previous research has identified major health disparities related to atopic conditions including asthma, atopic dermatitis, and food allergies (FA); however, disparities related to anaphylaxis have yet to be examined in depth. We found widespread health disparities in the incidence and severity of anaphylaxis, as well as in the management of allergies (particularly food allergies) that place individuals at risk of anaphylaxis. Sociodemographic factors are associated with numerous negative health outcomes related to anaphylaxis. We highlight several key steps that must be taken to address these disparities.
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Prosty C, Colli MD, Gabrielli S, Clarke AE, Morris J, Gravel J, Lim R, Chan ES, Goldman RD, O'Keefe A, Gerdts J, Chu DK, Upton J, Hochstadter E, Bretholz A, McCusker C, Zhang X, Protudjer JLP, Ben-Shoshan M. Impact of Reaction Setting on the Management, Severity, and Outcome of Pediatric Food-Induced Anaphylaxis: A Cross-Sectional Study. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2022; 10:3163-3171. [PMID: 36162798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2022.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prompt epinephrine autoinjector (EAI) use is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis. However, limited Canadian data exist on the impact of reaction location on EAI use for food-induced anaphylaxis (FIA). OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate the setting, management, and severity of pediatric FIA. METHODS We recruited children presenting with FIA from 11 Canadian emergency departments. Patient demographics and the setting, management, and symptoms of FIA were collected by standardized questionnaire. Factors associated with prehospital EAI use and reaction severity were determined by logistic regression. RESULTS We recruited 3,604 children; 60.2% were male and the median age was 5.0 years (interquartile range 1.8-11.0). Among cases with a known location of FIA (85.0%), home was the most common setting (68.1%), followed by school/daycare (12.8%), other locations (11.4%; eg, park, car), and restaurants (7.4%). In the prehospital setting, EAI was administered in 36.7% of reactions at home, 66.7% in school/daycare, 40.2% in other locations, and 44.5% in restaurants. Relative to reactions occurring at school/daycare, prehospital EAI use was less likely at home (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.80; 95% CI 0.76-0.84), in restaurants (aOR 0.81; 95% CI 0.75-0.87), and in other settings (aOR 0.77; 95% CI 0.73-0.83), when data were adjusted for reaction severity, sex, age, comorbidities, and province. The FIA setting was not associated with reaction severity or hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS Prehospital EAI use was higher at school/daycare than in other settings, potentially owing to the presence of policies and training on FIA. Setting-specific interventions including educational programs and policies/laws mandating training and stocking an EAI may improve anaphylaxis recognition and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor Prosty
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Marina Delli Colli
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sofianne Gabrielli
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ann E Clarke
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Judy Morris
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hôpital Sacré-Coeur, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jocelyn Gravel
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rodrick Lim
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital at London Health Science Centre, London, Ont, Canada
| | - Edmond S Chan
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ran D Goldman
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, BC Children's Hospital, and the BC Children's Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew O'Keefe
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | | | - Derek K Chu
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, and Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont, Canada
| | - Julia Upton
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont, Canada
| | - Elana Hochstadter
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont, Canada
| | - Adam Bretholz
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christine McCusker
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Xun Zhang
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jennifer L P Protudjer
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man, Canada; Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man, Canada; Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man, Canada; George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Winnipeg, Man, Canada; The Centre for Allergy Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Moshe Ben-Shoshan
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
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Tepler E, Wong KH, Soffer GK. Health disparities in pediatric food allergy. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2022; 129:417-423. [PMID: 35476967 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2022.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the current literature regarding the health disparities in the prevalence, diagnosis, and management of pediatric food allergy and discuss possible interventions. DATA SOURCES Literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar databases regarding pediatric food allergy and health disparities. STUDY SELECTIONS Original research articles, reviews, and guidelines on health disparities in pediatric food allergy were included in this review. RESULTS The overall prevalence of food allergy appears to be increasing and disproportionately affecting minority groups. Racial and socioeconomic disparities are evident across all aspects of food allergy care: diagnosis, prevention, acute management (eg, access to epinephrine autoinjectors, visits to emergency department), and long-term management (eg, oral immunotherapy). Children of minority populations and those of low socioeconomic status are at a greater risk of food insecurity, which is further exacerbated by the high cost of allergen-free foods and limited support from food assistance programs. CONCLUSION Racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in food allergy among children in the United States are evident and negatively affect the outcomes of children with food allergies. Active efforts to decrease racial and socioeconomic disparities, through education, research, and advocacy, will be important to help improve health outcomes in food allergy for all children, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Tepler
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Katelyn H Wong
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Gary K Soffer
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Waserman S, Shah A, Cruikshank H, Avilla E. Recognition and Management of Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis in the School and Community Setting. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2021; 42:91-103. [PMID: 34823753 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2021.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Given the increasing prevalence of food allergy, schools and food service establishments must have procedures in place to accommodate those with the condition. Training staff on allergy management has been shown to improve knowledge and skills, although more research is needed to better understand its benefits. Furthermore, although there are challenges involved in maintaining unassigned stock epinephrine programs, they have the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with anaphylaxis by improving access to potentially life-saving medication. Finally, food bans in schools may not be an effective part of food allergy management, and other measures should be considered instead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Waserman
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anita Shah
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather Cruikshank
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ernie Avilla
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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Westermann-Clark E, Pepper AN, Lockey RF. Anaphylaxis: Access to Epinephrine in Outpatient Setting. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2021; 42:175-186. [PMID: 34823746 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Epinephrine is a lifesaving medication to treat systemic allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. Epinephrine autoinjectors (EAIs) are expensive, not available everywhere in the world, and shortages can limit their access. Epinephrine prefilled syringes and epinephrine kits are lower-cost alternatives to EAIs. Advantages, disadvantages, and costs of available products are discussed and the socioeconomic factors impacting access to EAIs described. EAIs designed for infants also are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Westermann-Clark
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA.
| | - Amber N Pepper
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Richard F Lockey
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA; James A. Haley Veterans Affairs Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
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Waserman S, Cruickshank H, Hildebrand KJ, Mack D, Bantock L, Bingemann T, Chu DK, Cuello-Garcia C, Ebisawa M, Fahmy D, Fleischer DM, Galloway L, Gartrell G, Greenhawt M, Hamilton N, Hourihane J, Langlois M, Loh R, Muraro A, Rosenfield L, Schoessler S, Tang MLK, Weitzner B, Wang J, Brozek JL. Prevention and management of allergic reactions to food in child care centers and schools: Practice guidelines. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 147:1561-1578. [PMID: 33965093 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Food allergy management in child care centers and schools is a controversial topic, for which evidence-based guidance is needed. Following the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach, we conducted systematic literature reviews of the anticipated health effects of selected interventions for managing food allergy in child care centers and schools; we compiled data about the costs, feasibility, acceptability, and effects on health equity of the selected interventions; and we developed the following conditional recommendations: we suggest that child care centers and schools implement allergy training and action plans; we suggest that they use epinephrine (adrenaline) to treat suspected anaphylaxis; we suggest that they stock unassigned epinephrine autoinjectors, instead of requiring students to supply their own personal autoinjectors to be stored on site for designated at-school use; and we suggest that they do not implement site-wide food prohibitions (eg, "nut-free" schools) or allergen-restricted zones (eg, "milk-free" tables), except in the special circumstances identified in this document. The recommendations are labeled "conditional" due to the low quality of available evidence. More research is needed to determine with greater certainty which interventions are likely to be the most beneficial. Policymakers might need to adapt the recommendations to fit local circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Waserman
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Heather Cruickshank
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kyla J Hildebrand
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Douglas Mack
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura Bantock
- Department of Primary Medical Services, Sun Peaks Community Health Centre, Sun Peaks, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Theresa Bingemann
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, Rochester Regional Health, Rochester, NY; Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Derek K Chu
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carlos Cuello-Garcia
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Quality in Health Care Residency Program, Tecnologico de Monterrey School of Medicine, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Motohiro Ebisawa
- Department of Allergy, Clinical Research Center for Allergy and Rheumatology, Sagamihara National Hospital, National Hospital Organization, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - David Fahmy
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - David M Fleischer
- Department of Pediatrics-Allergy/Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colo; Department of Allergy and Immunology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colo
| | - Lisa Galloway
- School District No. 73, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Greg Gartrell
- School District No. 73, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Matthew Greenhawt
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colo
| | - Nicola Hamilton
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan Hourihane
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Paediatrics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael Langlois
- District School Board of Niagara, St Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard Loh
- Department of Immunology, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Subiaco, Australia
| | | | - Lana Rosenfield
- Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Mimi L K Tang
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Brenda Weitzner
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julie Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Jan L Brozek
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Cohen JS, Agbim C, Hrdy M, Mottla ME, Goyal MK, Breslin K. Epinephrine autoinjector prescription filling after pediatric emergency department discharge. Allergy Asthma Proc 2021; 42:142-146. [PMID: 33685559 DOI: 10.2500/aap.2021.42.200099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Background: There are known racial and socioeconomic disparities in the use of epinephrine autoinjectors (EAI) for anaphylaxis. Objective: To measure the rates of EAI prescription filling and identify patient demographic factors associated with filling rates among patients discharged from the pediatric emergency department. Methods: This was a retrospective observational cohort study of all patients discharged from a pediatric emergency department who received an outpatient prescription for an EAI between January 1, 2018, and October 31, 2019. The rates of prescription filling were calculated, and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify sociodemographic factors associated with prescription filling. Results: Of 717 patients included in the analysis, 54.8% (95% confidence interval {CI}, 51.1%-58.5%) filled their prescription. There were no significant associations between EAI fill rates and patient age or sex. In bivariable analysis, non-Hispanic white patients were more likely to fill EAI prescriptions compared with non-Hispanic Black patients (odds ratio [OR] 1.89 [95% CI, 1.11-3.20]), and patients with in-state Medicaid were significantly less likely to fill EAI prescriptions compared with those patients with private insurance (OR 0.69 [95% CI, 0.48-0.98]). However, after multivariable adjustment, there was no significant difference in filling by age, insurance status, or race or ethnicity. Conclusions: Only approximately half the patients had their EAI prescriptions filled after discharge. Filling rates did not vary by sociodemographic characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna S. Cohen
- From the Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C
| | - Chisom Agbim
- From the Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C
| | - Michael Hrdy
- From the Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C
| | - Mary E. Mottla
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C
| | - Monika K. Goyal
- From the Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C
| | - Kristen Breslin
- From the Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C
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Tebo C, Mazer-Amirshahi M, Zocchi MS, Gibson C, Rosenwohl-Mack S, Hsia RY, Fox ER, Nelson LS, Pines JM. The rising cost of commonly used emergency department medications (2006-15). Am J Emerg Med 2020; 42:137-142. [PMID: 32081556 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2020.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We determine how aggregate costs have changed for commonly used emergency department (ED) medications, and assess drivers of cost increases. METHODS Using the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS), we identified the top 150 ED medications administered and prescribed at discharge in 2015. We used average wholesale prices (AWP) for each year from 2006 to 15 from the Red Book (Truven Health Analytics Inc.). Average wholesale price per patient (AWPP) was calculated by dividing AWP by drug uses. This was then multiplied by the total drug administrations or prescriptions to estimate the total cost in a given the year. All prices were converted to 2015 dollars. RESULTS Aggregate costs of drugs administered in the ED increased from $688.7 million in 2006 to $882.4 million in 2015. For discharge prescriptions, aggregate costs increased from $2.031 billion in 2006 to $4.572 billion in 2015. AWPP for drugs administered in the ED in 2015 was 14.5% higher than in 2006 and 24.3% higher at discharge. The largest absolute increase in AWPP for drugs administered was for glucagon, which increased from $111 in 2006 to $235 in 2015. The largest AWPP increase at discharge was for epinephrine auto-injector, which increased from $124 in 2006 and to $481 in 2015. CONCLUSION Over the course of the study period, the aggregate costs of the most common medications administered in the ED increased by 28% while the costs of medications prescribed at discharge increased 125%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collin Tebo
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States of America.
| | - Maryann Mazer-Amirshahi
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States of America; Department of Emergency Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, United States of America.
| | - Mark S Zocchi
- Heller School for Social Policy and Management, Brandeis University, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Colin Gibson
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States of America.
| | | | - Renee Y Hsia
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Erin R Fox
- University of Utah, United States of America.
| | - Lewis S Nelson
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States of America
| | - Jesse M Pines
- US Acute Care Solutions, Canton, OH, United States of America
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Westermann-Clark E, Pepper AN, Lockey RF. Economic considerations in the treatment of systemic allergic reactions. J Asthma Allergy 2018; 11:153-158. [PMID: 29950874 PMCID: PMC6016598 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s159851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Epinephrine is a life-saving medication used to treat systemic allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. Epinephrine autoinjectors (EAIs) are expensive and worldwide availability is limited. Epinephrine prefilled syringes and epinephrine kits are potentially lower-cost alternatives to EAIs. Advantages, disadvantages, and costs of available products are discussed. The socioeconomic factors impacting access to EAIs are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Westermann-Clark
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine.,James A. Haley Veterans Affairs Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Amber N Pepper
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine.,James A. Haley Veterans Affairs Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Richard F Lockey
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine.,James A. Haley Veterans Affairs Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
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Abrams EM, Singer AG, Lix L, Katz A, Yogendran M, Simons FER. Adherence with epinephrine autoinjector prescriptions in primary care. ALLERGY, ASTHMA, AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CANADIAN SOCIETY OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 13:46. [PMID: 29151840 PMCID: PMC5680749 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-017-0218-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to estimate primary adherence for epinephrine autoinjector (EA) prescriptions in primary care practices in Manitoba, Canada. METHODS A retrospective analysis of electronic medical record and administrative data was performed to determine primary adherence, defined as dispensation of a new EA prescription within 90 days of the date the prescription was written. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to test predictors of filling an EA prescription. RESULTS Of 1212 EA prescriptions written between 2012 and 2014, only 69.9% (N = 847) were filled. An increased number of prescriptions for non-EA mediations was associated with an increased odds ratio of not filling an EA prescription. INTERPRETATION This is the first study in Canada to examine adherence for EA prescriptions. The non-adherence rate identified is higher than rates previously reported in the literature, and indicates that many EA prescriptions for adults seen in primary care may never be filled. It also suggests that prescriptions of EAs for all patients at risk of anaphylaxis in community settings should consistently be accompanied by concise information about the importance of having the EA prescription filled and having the EA readily available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elissa M. Abrams
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Manitoba, FE125-685 William Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0Z2 Canada
| | | | - Lisa Lix
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Alan Katz
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Marina Yogendran
- Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - F. Estelle R. Simons
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Manitoba, FE125-685 William Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0Z2 Canada
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Bilaver LA, Kester KM, Smith BM, Gupta RS. Socioeconomic Disparities in the Economic Impact of Childhood Food Allergy. Pediatrics 2016; 137:peds.2015-3678. [PMID: 27244806 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2015-3678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We compared direct medical costs borne by the health care system and out-of-pocket costs borne by families for children with food allergy by socioeconomic characteristics. METHODS We analyzed cross-sectional survey data collected between November 2011 and January 2012 from 1643 US caregivers with a food-allergic child. We used a 2-part regression model to estimate mean costs and identified differences by levels of household income and race or ethnicity. RESULTS Children in the lowest income stratum incurred 2.5 times the amount of emergency department and hospitalization costs as a result of their food allergy than higher-income children ($1021, SE ±$209, vs $416, SE ±$94; P < .05). Costs incurred for specialist visits were lower in the lowest income group ($228, SE ±$21) compared with the highest income group ($311, SE ±$18; P < .01) as was spending on out-of-pocket medication costs ($117, SE ± $26, lowest income; $366, SE ±$44, highest income; P < .001). African American caregivers incurred the lowest amount of direct medical costs and spent the least on out-of-pocket costs, with average adjusted costs of $493 (SE ±$109) and $395 (SE ±$452), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Disparities exist in the economic impact of food allergy based on socioeconomic status. Affordable access to specialty care, medications, and allergen-free foods are critical to keep all food-allergic children safe, regardless of income and race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy A Bilaver
- Department of Public Health, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois;
| | - Kristen M Kester
- New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Bridget M Smith
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; and Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare, Edward J. Hines, Jr. Veterans Affairs Hospital, Hines, Illinois
| | - Ruchi S Gupta
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; and
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Kivistö JE, Protudjer JLP, Karjalainen J, Wickman M, Bergström A, Mattila VM. Hospitalizations due to allergic reactions in Finnish and Swedish children during 1999-2011. Allergy 2016; 71:677-83. [PMID: 26749334 DOI: 10.1111/all.12837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several authors have reported on allergic reactions that resulted in presentation to the emergency department. However, studies of the secular trend of hospitalizations for paediatric allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, are scarce. The aim of this study was to describe the secular trends of hospitalizations for allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, among children aged 0-19 years in Finland and Sweden, and to establish the trend of prescribed epinephrine auto-injectors (EAI) among paediatric populations. METHODS Using national databases, we identified hospitalizations between 1999 and 2011 with the primary diagnosis of allergic reaction per International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision. RESULTS Hospitalizations for allergic reactions totalled 1987 in Finland and 5433 in Sweden. Incidence rates increased in both countries. In Finland, the incidence of admission was 7.8 per 100 000 person-years at the start of the study period and 15.8 at the end of the study period. The corresponding numbers among Swedish children were 13.7 and 31.8 per 100 000 person-years. In Finland, 60% of children hospitalized were aged under 10 years. In Sweden, this proportion was somewhat lower, at 48%. Most hospitalizations occurred between May and September. The prevalence of EAI prescriptions in Finland increased by fourfold during the study period. In Sweden, such an increase was not identified. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of allergic reactions leading to hospitalizations between 1999 and 2011 increased in Finland and Sweden among children aged 0 to 19 years. In Finland, the incidence was lower throughout the study period compared to Sweden. Younger children constituted the majority of hospitalized children.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. E. Kivistö
- Allergy Centre; Tampere University Hospital; Tampere Finland
- Centre for Child Health Research; Tampere University and University Hospital; Tampere Finland
- Institute of Environmental Medicine; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - J. L. P. Protudjer
- Institute of Environmental Medicine; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
- Centre for Allergy Research; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - J. Karjalainen
- Allergy Centre; Tampere University Hospital; Tampere Finland
| | - M. Wickman
- Centre for Allergy Research; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
- Sachs' Children and Youth Hospital; Stockholm Sweden
| | - A. Bergström
- Institute of Environmental Medicine; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
- Centre for Allergy Research; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - V. M. Mattila
- Department of Orthopaedics; Tampere University Hospital; Tampere Finland
- Department of Clinical Science; Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC); Division of Orthopedics and Biotechnology; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
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Exploring low-income families' financial barriers to food allergy management and treatment. J Allergy (Cairo) 2014; 2014:160363. [PMID: 24693292 PMCID: PMC3945149 DOI: 10.1155/2014/160363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2013] [Revised: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives. Low-income families may face financial barriers to management and treatment of chronic illnesses. No studies have explored how low-income individuals and families with anaphylactic food allergies cope with financial barriers to anaphylaxis management and/or treatment. This study explores qualitatively assessed direct, indirect, and intangible costs of anaphylaxis management and treatment faced by low-income families. Methods. In-depth, semistructured interviews with 23 participants were conducted to gain insight into income-related barriers to managing and treating anaphylactic food allergies. Results. Perceived direct costs included the cost of allergen-free foods and allergy medication and costs incurred as a result of misinformation about social support programs. Perceived indirect costs included those associated with lack of continuity of health care. Perceived intangible costs included the stress related to the difficulty of obtaining allergen-free foods at the food bank and feeling unsafe at discount grocery stores. These perceived costs represented barriers that were perceived as especially salient for the working poor, immigrants, youth living in poverty, and food bank users. Discussion. Low-income families report significant financial barriers to food allergy management and anaphylaxis preparedness. Clinicians, advocacy groups, and EAI manufacturers all have a role to play in ensuring equitable access to medication for low-income individuals with allergies.
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Abstract
The scope of expenditures due to anaphylaxis likely is underestimated by health care payors because anaphylaxis is underdiagnosed and, when reported, most costs of anaphylaxis borne by payors relate to direct medical expenses. Direct costs of anaphylaxis have been estimated at $1.2 billion per year, with direct expenditures of $294 million for epinephrine, and indirect costs of $609 million. More accurate diagnostic coding will allow payors to improve their understanding of the full impact of anaphylaxis on health care plans, employers, patients, and their families. Similarly, more accurate diagnosis and treatment of anaphylaxis should have a direct effect on overall cost savings achieved in this disease state. This includes savings in both direct costs, such as emergency department visits, and indirect costs, such as lost productivity of patients and caregivers. Educating medical personnel on treatment guidelines regarding the specific use of appropriate epinephrine autoinjectors will contribute to cost savings. Even though the cost of autoinjectors has been increasing, evidence indicates that the cost of improper response to, and treatment of, anaphylaxis outweighs that increase. At this time, there are several branded epinephrine autoinjectors and one generic equivalent for one of these branded products available on the US market; the branded autoinjectors are not considered equivalents for substitution. Barriers to coverage and access, such as managed care organization tier classification, medication copay, and socioeconomic status of specific patients, need to be examined more closely and addressed. Education in the proper use of epinephrine autoinjectors, including regular checking of medication expiration dates, is critical for proper management of anaphylaxis and minimizing the costs of anaphylactic events. Managed care organizations can play a role in educational initiatives.
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