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El Aoufy K, Melis MR, Magi CE, Bellando-Randone S, Tamburini M, Bandini G, Moggi-Pignone A, Matucci-Cerinic M, Bambi S, Rasero L. Evidence for telemedicine heterogeneity in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases care: a scoping review. Clin Rheumatol 2024:10.1007/s10067-024-07052-w. [PMID: 38985235 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-024-07052-w] [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: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Telemedicine and digital health represent alternative approaches for clinical practice; indeed, its potential in healthcare services for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and disease monitoring is widely acknowledged. These are all crucial issues to consider when dealing with chronic Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (RMDs). The aim was to determine the current state of telemedicine in the field of rheumatology, considering the tools and devices in use as well as the Patient Reported Outcomes. A scoping review was performed following the PRISMA-ScR, retrieving articles through five databases from 1990 to 2022. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (I) adult patients with RMDs, (II) original research papers in the English language with available abstracts, and (III) telehealth and telemedicine are provided as healthcare services. Within the 62 included studies, multiple tools of telemedicine were used: 21/62 websites/online platforms, 18/62 mobile applications, 16/62 telephone contacts, 5/62 video-consultations, and 1/62 wearable devices. Outcomes were classified based on the economic, clinical, and humanistic framework. Clinical outcomes assessed through digital tools were pain, disease activity, and serum uric acid levels. Humanistic outcomes have been grouped according to four categories (e.g., mental and physical function, health management, and health perception). The heterogeneity of digital tools in the field of rheumatology highlights the challenge of implementing reliable research into clinical practice. Effective telerehabilitation models have been presented, and the use of a tight control strategy has also been mentioned. Future research should focus on establishing studies on other RMDs as well as summarizing and formulating clinical guidelines for RMDs. Key Points • Evidence for the usefulness of telemedicine and digital health for managing and monitoring rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases is progressively increasing. • Several digital tools effectively measure clinical and humanistic and patient reported outcomes in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. • Integrating diverse digital tools in rheumatology is challenging yet promising. • Future research should focus on developing standardized recommendations for practical use of telemedicine in daily practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadija El Aoufy
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134, Florence, Italy.
| | - Maria Ramona Melis
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Camilla Elena Magi
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Bellando-Randone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134, Florence, Italy
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Tamburini
- University of Florence, Viale Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Bandini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Alberto Moggi-Pignone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases (UnIRAR), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Università Vita Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Bambi
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Laura Rasero
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134, Florence, Italy
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Saraux A, da Mota LMH, Dixit S, Gibofsky A, Matsubara T, Mulvey A, Koehn C, Mortezavi M, Segovia M, Kessouri M. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on People Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Experiences and Preferences in Accessing Healthcare Across Five Countries. Rheumatol Ther 2024; 11:257-268. [PMID: 38217796 PMCID: PMC10920583 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-023-00629-y] [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: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The global coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic created many challenges in healthcare provision. This study aimed to evaluate the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS The RA Narrative COVID-19 survey was conducted online among people with RA who resided in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, and the US from August to September 2021. The survey examined disease management, healthcare access and experiences, and participant preferences for interactions with their doctor. RESULTS Overall, 500 participants completed the survey: 100 each resided in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, and the US. Emotional well-being was the aspect of disease management most reported to be negatively impacted by the pandemic (55% of participants); 'having more anxiety and/or stress' during the pandemic was the top factor that made controlling RA symptoms more difficult (49% of participants). In comparison, the top factor that made controlling RA symptoms easier was 'having a less busy schedule' (35% of participants). More participants had virtual appointments during versus pre-pandemic (53% vs. 13%, respectively) and participants were equally satisfied with the overall quality of care received via virtual and in-person appointments (76% of participants were 'satisfied' or 'very satisfied' with both). However, participants generally preferred in-person over virtual appointments, except for prescription refills, for which preferences were similar (39% vs. 36%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS This survey suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic did negatively impact some aspects of disease management for people living with RA but had positive impacts on the utilization of virtual care. Although participants generally preferred in-person appointments, these results position virtual care as an appropriate means for routine follow-ups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Saraux
- Rheumatology Unit, University Hospital, Hôpital de La Cavale Blanche, Brest, France
| | - Licia Maria Henrique da Mota
- Unidade de Reumatologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Sanjay Dixit
- Division of Rheumatology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Allan Gibofsky
- Department of Medicine, Hospital for Special Surgery-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tsukasa Matsubara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Matsubara Mayflower Hospital, Kato, Japan
| | | | - Cheryl Koehn
- Arthritis Consumer Experts, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | - Meriem Kessouri
- Pfizer France, 23-25 Avenue du Dr Lannelongue, 75668, Paris, France.
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Saleem MK, Sattar K, Ejaz KF, Rehman MU, Saleem H, Khursheed S, Akbar A, Ahmed J, Tariq M, Jadoon SK, Saleem Khan M, Tasneem S, Khandker SS, Kundu S, Alvi S. Use of telemedicine to tackle health problems in South Asia during the COVID-19 era and beyond: a systematic review. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:1012-1020. [PMID: 38333256 PMCID: PMC10849386 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Telemedicine (TM) and teleconsultation services flourished during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission to avoid COVID-19 infection and physical contact. Many physicians switched to the virtual treatment mode and nearly all types of health disciplines were covered. Through this systematic review, the authors tried to explore the strengths and weaknesses of TM, identify the barriers to adopting TM by population, and explain the limitations of this healthcare delivery model. Methods and results In this systematic review, 28 studies were included (>53% high-quality studies) as eligible, where nearly 75% (n=21) of the studies were from India, and the remaining 25% (n=7) were from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Advice related to cancer, autoimmune diseases, and neurological diseases were the most common among the health disciplines in which TM was used. A peak in teleconsultation was observed during the high transmission phase of COVID-19, although major queries were associated with existing health complications and comorbidities. Conclusion Other than a few concerns regarding connectivity, privacy, and diagnosis, TM was in fact affordable, timesaving, feasible, and accurate, which ensured a highly satisfying experience among the participants (>80%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad K. Saleem
- General Internal Medicine, Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, Tipperary University Hospital, Ireland
| | - Komal Sattar
- Russell’s Hall Hospital Dudley, MRCP Royal College
| | | | | | | | | | - Amna Akbar
- Poonch Medical College, Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad
| | - Jahanzeb Ahmed
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Maham Tariq
- Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Medical College Mirpur
| | | | | | - Sabahat Tasneem
- Public Health Professional (MSPH), Health Services Academy, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Shoumik Kundu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sarosh Alvi
- Teaching Faculty, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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Arumalla N, Chan CKD, Gibson M, Man YL, Adas MA, Norton S, Galloway JB, Garrood T. The Clinical Impact of Electronic Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in the Remote Monitoring of Inflammatory Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2023; 75:1892-1903. [PMID: 37204273 DOI: 10.1002/art.42559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The inflammatory arthritides (IAs) make up a significant proportion of conditions followed up in rheumatology clinics. These patients require regular monitoring, but this is increasingly difficult with rising patient numbers and demand on clinics. Our objective is to evaluate the clinical impact of electronic patient-reported outcome measures (ePROMs) as a digital remote-monitoring intervention on disease activity, treatment decisions, and health care resource use in patients with IA. METHODS Five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) were searched, with randomized controlled trials and (nonrandomized) controlled clinical trials included, and meta-analysis and forest plots conducted for each outcome. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias-2 tool and Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions. RESULTS Eight studies were included with a total of 4,473 patients, with seven studies assessing patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Compared with control, the disease activity in the ePROM group was lower (standardized mean difference [SMD] -0.15; 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.27 to -0.03) and rates of remission/low disease activity were higher (odds ratio1.65; 95% CI 1.02-2.68), but five of eight studies provided additional combined interventions (e.g., disease education). Fewer face to face visits were needed in the remote ePROM group (SMD -0.93; 95% CI -2.14-0.28). CONCLUSION Most studies were at high risk of bias with significant heterogeneity in design, but our results suggest there is an advantage in using ePROM monitoring in patients with IAs, with the potential for reduction in health care resource use without detrimental impact in disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yik L Man
- Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust, London, UK
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Jiang Y, Rudin RS, Solomon DH. Clinical Visit Frequencies in Rheumatology: A Systematic Literature Review. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2023; 75:2054-2062. [PMID: 36807719 PMCID: PMC10440366 DOI: 10.1002/acr.25106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Clinical visits are a fundamental aspect of rheumatic disease care, but recommendations for appropriate visit frequencies are largely absent from guidelines, scarcely studied, and inconsistently reported. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the evidence pertaining to visit frequencies for major rheumatic diseases. METHODS This systematic review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Title/abstract screening, full-text screening, and extraction were carried out by 2 independent authors. Annual visit frequencies were either extracted or calculated and stratified by disease type and country of study. Weighted mean annual visit frequencies were calculated. RESULTS A total of 273 relevant manuscript records were screened, and 28 were included after applying selection criteria. The included studies were equally divided between US and non-US and were published between 1985 and 2021. Most (n = 16) focused on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE; n = 5), and fibromyalgia (FM; n = 4). For RA, the average annual visit frequencies were 5.25 for US rheumatologists, 4.80 for US non-rheumatologists, 3.29 for non-US rheumatologists, and 2.74 for non-US non-rheumatologists. For SLE, annual visit frequencies for non-rheumatologists were much higher than for US rheumatologists (12.3 versus 3.24). For FM, annual visit frequencies were 1.80 for US rheumatologists and 0.40 for non-US rheumatologists. There was a decreasing trend of visit frequency to rheumatologists from 1982 to 2019. CONCLUSION Evidence for rheumatology clinical visits was limited and heterogeneous on a global scale. However, general trends suggest more frequent visits in the US and less frequent visits in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniel H Solomon
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Wiegel J, Seppen BF, Nurmohamed MT, ter Wee MM, Bos WH. Predictors for response to electronic patient-reported outcomes in routine care in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a retrospective cohort study. Rheumatol Int 2023; 43:651-657. [PMID: 36715728 PMCID: PMC9885920 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-023-05278-6] [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: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Routine collection of electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) can improve clinical care. However, a low response rate may counteract the benefits. To optimize adoption, the aim of this study was to investigate which patient factors and/or timing of the invitation predicted response to ePROs sent prior to consultations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. We performed a retrospective database study with clinical data collected as part of usual care from the electronic medical records at Reade Amsterdam. The dataset comprised the email invitations to complete the ePRO sent prior to consultation. Multiple patient factors and factors defining the timing of the invitation were investigated if they predicted response to the ePRO through a multivariable logistic generalized estimating equation analysis. In total, 17.070 ePRO invitations were sent to 3194 patients (mean age 60 (SD 14), 74% female), of which 40% was completed. Patients between 55 and 73 years (OR 1.39, 95%CI 1.09-1.77) and with higher social economic status (SES) (OR 1.51, 95%CI 1.22-1.88) had significantly higher odds for completing the ePRO, while patients living in an urban area had lower odds (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.62-0.76). In year 4 after implementation, the OR was increased to 3.69 (95% CI 2.91-4.90). The implementation of ePROs in daily clinical practice needs improvement since 40% of the ePROs sent prior to consultations were completed. Patients that had higher odds to report the next ePRO were between the age of 55-73, had a higher socio-economic status, and were residents in a rural area. The adoption of reporting the PRO increased over time, but the timing of the prompt did not predict response. Additional research is needed to understand ePRO completion, especially for patients with lower socio-economic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimmy Wiegel
- Amsterdam Rheumatology & Immunology Center, Reade, Admiraal Helfrichstraat 1, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Rheumatology & Immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Methodology, Societal Participation in Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bart F. Seppen
- Amsterdam Rheumatology & Immunology Center, Reade, Admiraal Helfrichstraat 1, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Rheumatology & Immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Methodology, Societal Participation in Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michael T. Nurmohamed
- Amsterdam Rheumatology & Immunology Center, Reade, Admiraal Helfrichstraat 1, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Rheumatology & Immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit, Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke M. ter Wee
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit, Department of Epidemiology & Data Science, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Methodology, Societal Participation in Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter H. Bos
- Amsterdam Rheumatology & Immunology Center, Reade, Admiraal Helfrichstraat 1, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Rosenlund M, Kinnunen UM, Saranto K. The Use of Digital Health Services Among Patients and Citizens Living at Home: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44711. [PMID: 36972122 PMCID: PMC10131924 DOI: 10.2196/44711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of digital health services reflects not only the technical development of services but also a change in attitude and the way of thinking. It has become a cornerstone for engaging and activating patients and citizens in health management while living at home. Digital health services are also aimed at enhancing the efficiency and quality of services, while simultaneously providing services more cost-effectively. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated worldwide the development and use of digital services in response to requirements for social distancing and other regulations. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is to identify and summarize how digital health services are being used among patients and citizens while living at home. METHODS The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews was used as guidance. A search conducted in 3 databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus) resulted in 419 papers. The reporting was conducted by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR), and the analysis of the included papers was performed using a framework consisting of 5 clusters describing the use of digital health services. After screening and excluding papers that did not match the inclusion criteria, 88 (21%) papers from 2010 to 2022 were included in the final analysis. RESULTS Results indicated that digital health services are used in different situations and among different kinds of populations. In most studies, digital health services were used in the form of video visits or consultations. The telephone was also used regularly for consultations. Other services, such as remote monitoring and transmitting of recorded information and the use the of internet or portals for searching information, were observed as well. Alerts, emergency systems, and reminders were observed to offer possibilities of use, for example, among older people. The digital health services also showed to have potential for use in patient education. CONCLUSIONS The development of digital services reflects a shift toward the provision of care regardless of time and place. It also reflects a shift toward emphasis on patient-centered care, meaning activating and engaging patients in their own care as they use digital services for various health-related purposes. Despite the development of digital services, many challenges (eg, adequate infrastructure) still prevail worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milla Rosenlund
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ulla-Mari Kinnunen
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- The Finnish Centre for Evidence-Based Health Care: A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kaija Saranto
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- The Finnish Centre for Evidence-Based Health Care: A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Helsinki, Finland
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Hermans K, Boonen A, Vonkeman HE, van Tubergen A. Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of combined asynchronous telemonitoring and patient-initiated care for spondyloarthritis: protocol for a pragmatic multicentre randomised controlled trial (TeleSpA Study). BMJ Open 2023; 13:e067445. [PMID: 36806136 PMCID: PMC9944312 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During the COVID-19 pandemic, an accelerated uptake of remote monitoring strategies, replacing traditional face-to-face care, has been observed. However, data on the effects of remote care interventions for patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases remain scarce and interpretation is hampered by study heterogeneity and research quality concerns. High-quality evidence is required to guide future implementation in clinical practice, with health economic analyses identified as an important knowledge gap. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing telemonitoring with conventional care for patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) are currently lacking. METHODS AND ANALYSIS TeleSpA is a pragmatic, multicentre RCT investigating the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of combined asynchronous telemonitoring and patient-initiated follow-up for patients with SpA, compared with conventional care. Two-hundred patients will be recruited at two hospitals and randomised (1:1) to the study intervention or standard care. The primary endpoint is a reduction in the number of follow-up visits by ≥25% in the intervention compared with standard care group, during a 1-year period. Secondary endpoints are (a) non-inferiority of the study intervention with regard to health outcomes, quality of care and patient-reported experience with care; and (b) cost-effectiveness of the intervention, evaluated through a prospective trial-based cost-utility analysis. In addition, experiences with the study intervention will be assessed among patients and healthcare providers, and factors associated with primary and secondary endpoints will be identified. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the Academic Hospital Maastricht/Maastricht University (NL71041.068.19/METC 19-059). Results will be disseminated through publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04673825.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasper Hermans
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies Boonen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Harald E Vonkeman
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Astrid van Tubergen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Muehlensiepen F, May S, Zarbl J, Vogt E, Boy K, Heinze M, Boeltz S, Labinsky H, Bendzuck G, Korinth M, Elling-Audersch C, Vuillerme N, Schett G, Krönke G, Knitza J. At-home blood self-sampling in rheumatology: a qualitative study with patients and health care professionals. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1470. [PMID: 36461025 PMCID: PMC9718468 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08787-5] [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: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The goal of the study was to investigate patients' with systemic rheumatic diseases and healthcare professionals' experiences and preferences regarding self-sampling of capillary blood in rheumatology care. METHODS Patients performed a supervised and consecutive unsupervised capillary blood self-collection using an upper arm based device. Subsequently, patients (n = 15) and their attending health care professionals (n = 5) participated in an explorative, qualitative study using problem-centered, telephone interviews. Interview data were analyzed using structured qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Interviewed patients reported easy application and high usability. Patients and health care professionals alike reported time and cost savings, increased independence and flexibility, improved monitoring and reduction of risk of infection during Covid-19 as benefits. Reported drawbacks include limited blood volume, limited usability in case of functional restrictions, and environmental concerns. Older, immobile patients with long journeys to traditional blood collection sites and young patients with little time to spare for traditional blood collection appointments could be user groups, likely to benefit from self-sampling services. CONCLUSIONS At-home blood self-sampling could effectively complement current rheumatology telehealth care. Appropriateness and value of this service needs to be carefully discussed with patients on an individual basis. TRIAL REGISTRATION WHO International Clinical Trials Registry: DRKS00024925. Registered on 15/04/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Muehlensiepen
- grid.473452.3Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Center for Health Services Research, Seebad 82/83, Rüdersdorf Bei Berlin, 15562 Rüdersdorf, Germany ,grid.473452.3Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany ,grid.450307.50000 0001 0944 2786AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Susann May
- grid.473452.3Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Center for Health Services Research, Seebad 82/83, Rüdersdorf Bei Berlin, 15562 Rüdersdorf, Germany
| | - Joshua Zarbl
- grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany ,grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Deutsches Zentrum Für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ekaterina Vogt
- grid.424957.90000 0004 0624 9165Thermo Fisher Scientific, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Boy
- grid.473452.3Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Center for Health Services Research, Seebad 82/83, Rüdersdorf Bei Berlin, 15562 Rüdersdorf, Germany
| | - Martin Heinze
- grid.473452.3Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Center for Health Services Research, Seebad 82/83, Rüdersdorf Bei Berlin, 15562 Rüdersdorf, Germany ,grid.473452.3Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Immanuel Klinik Rüdersdorf, Rüdersdorf, Germany
| | - Sebastian Boeltz
- grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany ,grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Deutsches Zentrum Für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hannah Labinsky
- grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany ,grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Deutsches Zentrum Für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gerlinde Bendzuck
- grid.491693.00000 0000 8835 4911Deutsche Rheuma-Liga Bundesverband E.V, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marianne Korinth
- grid.491693.00000 0000 8835 4911Deutsche Rheuma-Liga Bundesverband E.V, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Nicolas Vuillerme
- grid.450307.50000 0001 0944 2786AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France ,grid.440891.00000 0001 1931 4817Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France ,grid.4444.00000 0001 2112 9282LabCom Telecom4Health, Orange Labs & Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Inria, Grenoble INP-UGA, Grenoble, France
| | - Georg Schett
- grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany ,grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Deutsches Zentrum Für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gerhard Krönke
- grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany ,grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Deutsches Zentrum Für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johannes Knitza
- grid.450307.50000 0001 0944 2786AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France ,grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany ,grid.5330.50000 0001 2107 3311Deutsches Zentrum Für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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10
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Wiegel J, Seppen BF, Nurmohamed MT, Bos WH, ter Wee MM. Who stop telemonitoring disease activity and who adhere: a prospective cohort study of patients with inflammatory arthritis. BMC Rheumatol 2022; 6:73. [PMID: 36447263 PMCID: PMC9708135 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-022-00303-w] [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: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of frequent electronic patient reported outcome measures (ePRO's) enables monitoring disease activity at a distance (telemonitoring) in patients with inflammatory arthritis. However, telemonitoring studies report declining long-term adherence to reporting ePRO's, which may oppose the benefits of telemonitoring. Therefore, the objective was to investigate what factors are associated with (non-)adherence to telemonitoring with a weekly ePRO in patients with inflammatory arthritis (IA). METHODS We performed a prospective cohort study in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) at Reade Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Patients telemonitored their disease activity weekly for 6 months with a modified Multidimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire completed in a smartphone application. The primary outcome was time to dropout, defined as ≥ 4 weeks of consecutively nonresponse. Based on literature and through expert meetings, a predefined set of 13 baseline factors were selected to assess the association with time to dropout through a multivariable Cox-regression analysis. RESULTS A total of 220 consecutive patients were included (mean age 54, SD 12; 55% females; 99 RA, 81 PsA, and 40 AS). A total of 141 patients (64%) dropped out, with a median time to dropout of 17 weeks (IQR 9-26). Women had a significant higher chance to dropout over 6 months compared to men (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.06-2.36). CONCLUSION In the set of investigated factors, women stopped reporting the weekly ePRO sooner than men. Future focus group discussions will be performed to investigate the reasons for dropout, and in specific why women dropped out sooner. Trial registration This trials was prospectively registered at www.trialregister.nl (NL8414).
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Wiegel
- grid.418029.60000 0004 0624 3484Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, Admiraal Helfrichstraat 1, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Rheumatology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,Amsterdam Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - B. F. Seppen
- grid.418029.60000 0004 0624 3484Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, Admiraal Helfrichstraat 1, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Rheumatology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,Amsterdam Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M. T. Nurmohamed
- grid.418029.60000 0004 0624 3484Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, Admiraal Helfrichstraat 1, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Rheumatology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,Amsterdam Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - W. H. Bos
- grid.418029.60000 0004 0624 3484Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, Admiraal Helfrichstraat 1, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M. M. ter Wee
- grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.16872.3a0000 0004 0435 165XSocietal Participation and Health, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,Amsterdam Public Health, Methodology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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Stenzel R, Hadaschik K, May S, Grahammer M, Labinsky H, Welcker M, Hornig J, Bendzuck G, Elling-Audersch C, Erstling U, Korbanka PS, Vuillerme N, Heinze M, Krönke G, Schett G, Pecher AC, Krusche M, Mucke J, Knitza J, Muehlensiepen F. Digitally-supported patient-centered asynchronous outpatient follow-up in rheumatoid arthritis - an explorative qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1297. [DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08619-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
A steadily increasing demand and decreasing number of rheumatologists push current rheumatology care to its limits. Long travel times and poor accessibility of rheumatologists present particular challenges for patients. Need-adapted, digitally supported, patient-centered and flexible models of care could contribute to maintaining high-quality patient care. This qualitative study was embedded in a randomized controlled trial (TELERA) investigating a new model of care consisting of the use of a medical app for ePRO (electronic patient-reported outcomes), a self-administered CRP (C-reactive protein) test, and joint self-examination in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. The qualitative study aimed to explore experiences of RA patients and rheumatology staff regarding (1) current care and (2) the new care model.
Methods
The study included qualitative interviews with RA patients (n = 15), a focus group with patient representatives (n = 1), rheumatology nurses (n = 2), ambulatory rheumatologists (n = 2) and hospital-based rheumatologists (n = 3). Data was analyzed by qualitative content analysis.
Results
Participants described current follow-up care as burdensome. Patients in remission have to travel long distances. Despite pre-scheduled visits physicians lack questionnaire results and laboratory results to make informed shared decisions during face-to-face visits. Patients reported that using all study components (medical app for ePRO, self-performed CRP test and joint self-examination) was easy and helped them to better assess their disease condition. Parts of the validated questionnaire used in the trial (routine assessment of patient index data 3; RAPID3) seemed outdated or not clear enough for many patients. Patients wanted to be automatically contacted in case of abnormalities or at least have an app feature to request a call-back or chat. Financial and psychological barriers were identified among rheumatologists preventing them to stop automatically scheduling new appointments for patients in remission. Rheumatology nurses pointed to the potential lack of personal contact, which may limit the holistic care of RA-patients.
Conclusion
The new care model enables more patient autonomy, allowing patients more control and flexibility at the same time. All components were well accepted and easy to carry out for patients. To ensure success, the model needs to be more responsive and allow seamless integration of education material.
Trial registration
The study was prospectively registered on 2021/04/09 at the German Registry for Clinical Trials (DRKS00024928).
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12
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Doumen M, De Cock D, Van Lierde C, Betrains A, Pazmino S, Bertrand D, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. Engagement and attrition with eHealth tools for remote monitoring in chronic arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. RMD Open 2022; 8:rmdopen-2022-002625. [PMID: 36302561 PMCID: PMC9621170 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2022-002625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Although eHealth tools are potentially useful for remote disease monitoring, barriers include concerns of low engagement and high attrition. We aimed to summarise evidence on patients’ engagement and attrition with eHealth tools for remotely monitoring disease activity/impact in chronic arthritis. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted for original articles and abstracts published before September 2022. Eligible studies reported quantitative measures of patients’ engagement with eHealth instruments used for remote monitoring in chronic arthritis. Engagement rates were pooled using random effects meta-analysis. Results Of 8246 references, 45 studies were included: 23 using smartphone applications, 13 evaluating wearable activity trackers, 7 using personal digital assistants, 6 including web-based platforms and 2 using short message service. Wearable-based studies mostly reported engagement as the proportion of days the tracker was worn (70% pooled across 6 studies). For other eHealth tools, engagement was mostly reported as completion rates for remote patient-reported outcomes (PROs). The pooled completion rate was 80%, although between-study heterogeneity was high (I2 93%) with significant differences between eHealth tools and frequency of PRO-collection. Engagement significantly decreased with longer study duration, but attrition varied across studies (0%–89%). Several predictors of higher engagement were reported. Data on the influence of PRO-reporting frequency were conflicting. Conclusion Generally high patient engagement was reported with eHealth tools for remote monitoring in chronic arthritis. However, we found considerable between-study heterogeneity and a relative lack of real-world data. Future studies should use standardised measures of engagement, preferably assessed in a daily practice setting. Trial registeration number The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021267936).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Doumen
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Department of Public Health, Biostatistics and Medical Informatics Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Caroline Van Lierde
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Albrecht Betrains
- General Internal Medicine, KU Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - René Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
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13
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De Cock D, Myasoedova E, Aletaha D, Studenic P. Big data analyses and individual health profiling in the arena of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2022; 14:1759720X221105978. [PMID: 35794905 PMCID: PMC9251966 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x221105978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Health care processes are under constant development and will need to embrace advances in technology and health science aiming to provide optimal care. Considering the perspective of increasing treatment options for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases, but in many cases not reaching all treatment targets that matter to patients, care systems bare potential to improve on a holistic level. This review provides an overview of systems and technologies under evaluation over the past years that show potential to impact diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases in about 10 years from now. We summarize initiatives and studies from the field of electronic health records, biobanking, remote monitoring, and artificial intelligence. The combination and implementation of these opportunities in daily clinical care will be key for a new era in care of our patients. This aims to inform rheumatologists and healthcare providers concerned with chronic inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions about current important and promising developments in science that might substantially impact the management processes of rheumatic diseases in the 2030s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diederik De Cock
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elena Myasoedova
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Epidemiology, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Daniel Aletaha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paul Studenic
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Medical University Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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14
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Madenidou AV, Yeoh S. Telerheumatology during the COVID-19 pandemic: Impact on clinical practice, education, and research. INDIAN JOURNAL OF RHEUMATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/injr.injr_229_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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15
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Grainger R, Ung N. Digital technologies in rheumatology: new tools, new skills, and new care. INDIAN JOURNAL OF RHEUMATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/injr.injr_150_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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16
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Evaluation of a Non-Face-to-Face Multidisciplinary Health Care Model in a Population with Rheumatoid Arthritis Vulnerable to COVID-19 in a Health Emergency Situation. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9121744. [PMID: 34946471 PMCID: PMC8701032 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9121744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated a non-face-to-face-multidisciplinary consultation model in a population with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is an analytical observational study of a prospective cohort with simple random sampling. RA patients were followed for 12 weeks (Jul-Oct 2020). Two groups were included: patients in telemedicine care (TM), and patients in the usual face-to-face care (UC). Patients could voluntarily change the care model (transition model (TR)). Activity of disease, quality of life, disability, therapeutic adherence, and self-care ability were analyzed. Bivariate analysis was performed. A qualitative descriptive exploratory study was conducted. At the beginning, 218 adults were included: (109/TM-109/UC). The groups didn't differ in general characteristics. At the end of the study, there were no differences in TM: (n = 71). A significant (p < 0.05) decrease in adherence, and increase in self-care ability were found in UC (n = 18) and TR (n = 129). Seven patients developed COVID-19. Four categories emerged from the experience of the subjects in the qualitative assessment (factors present in communication, information and communication technologies management, family support and interaction, and adherence to treatment). The telemedicine model keeps RA patients stable without major differences compared to the usual care or mixed model.
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17
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Sloan M, Lever E, Harwood R, Gordon C, Wincup C, Blane M, Brimicombe J, Lanyon P, Howard P, Sutton S, D'Cruz D, Naughton F. Telemedicine in rheumatology: A mixed methods study exploring acceptability, preferences and experiences among patients and clinicians. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:2262-2274. [PMID: 34698822 PMCID: PMC8689882 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Covid-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid global transition towards telemedicine; yet much remains unknown about telemedicine's acceptability and safety in rheumatology. To help address this gap and inform practice, this study investigated rheumatology patient and clinician experiences and views of telemedicine. METHODS Sequential mixed methodology combined analysis of surveys and in-depth interviews. Between and within-group differences in views of telemedicine were examined for patients and clinicians using t-tests. RESULTS Surveys (Patients n = 1,340, Clinicians n = 111) and interviews (Patients n = 31, Clinicians n = 29) were completed between April 2021 and July 2021. The majority of patients were from the UK (96%) and had inflammatory arthritis (32%) or lupus (32%). Patients and clinicians rated telemedicine as worse than face-to-face consultations in almost all categories, although >60% found it more convenient. Building trusting medical relationships and assessment accuracy were great concerns (93% of clinicians and 86% of patients rated telemedicine as worse than face-to-face for assessment accuracy). Telemedicine was perceived to have increased misdiagnoses, inequalities and barriers to accessing care. Participants reported highly disparate telemedicine delivery and responsiveness from primary and secondary care. Although rheumatology clinicians highlighted the importance of a quick response to flaring patients, only 55% of patients were confident that their rheumatology department would respond within 48 hours. CONCLUSION Findings indicate a preference for face-to-face consultations. Some negative experiences may be due to the pandemic rather than telemedicine specifically, although the risk of greater diagnostic inaccuracies using telemedicine is unlikely to be fully resolved. Training, choice, careful patient selection, and further consultation with clinicians and patients is required to increase telemedicine's acceptability and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Sloan
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Elliott Lever
- Rheumatology department, Northwick Park Hospital, UK
| | - Rupert Harwood
- Patient and Public Involvement in lupus Research Group, Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Caroline Gordon
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of inflammation and ageing, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Chris Wincup
- Department of Rheumatology, University College London, UK
| | - Moira Blane
- Patient and Public Involvement in lupus Research Group, Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - James Brimicombe
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter Lanyon
- Population and Lifespan Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Paul Howard
- LUPUS UK, St James' House, Romford, Essex, UK
| | - Stephen Sutton
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - David D'Cruz
- The Louise Coote Lupus unit, Guy's and St Thomas', NHS foundation Trust, UK
| | - Felix Naughton
- Behavioural and Implementation Science Group, School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, UK
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18
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Wiegel J, Seppen B, van der Leeden M, van der Esch M, de Vries R, Bos W. Adherence to Telemonitoring by Electronic Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Patients with Chronic Diseases: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph181910161. [PMID: 34639463 PMCID: PMC8508527 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background: Effective telemonitoring is possible through repetitive collection of electronic patient-reported outcome measures (ePROMs) in patients with chronic diseases. Low adherence to telemonitoring may have a negative impact on the effectiveness, but it is unknown which factors are associated with adherence to telemonitoring by ePROMs. The objective was to identify factors associated with adherence to telemonitoring by ePROMs in patients with chronic diseases. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library up to 8 June 2021. Eligibility criteria were: (1) interventional and cohort studies, (2) patients with a chronic disease, (3) repetitive ePROMs being used for telemonitoring, and (4) the study quantitatively investigating factors associated with adherence to telemonitoring by ePROMs. The Cochrane risk of bias tool and the risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions were used to assess the risk of bias. An evidence synthesis was performed assigning to the results a strong, moderate, weak, inconclusive or an inconsistent level of evidence. Results: Five studies were included, one randomized controlled trial, two prospective uncontrolled studies and two retrospective cohort studies. A total of 15 factors potentially associated with adherence to telemonitoring by ePROMs were identified in the predominate studies of low quality. We found moderate-level evidence that sex is not associated with adherence. Some studies showed associations of the remaining factors with adherence, but the overall results were inconsistent or inconclusive. Conclusions: None of the 15 studied factors had conclusive evidence to be associated with adherence. Sex was, with moderate strength, not associated with adherence. The results were conflicting or indecisive, mainly due to the low number and low quality of studies. To optimize adherence to telemonitoring with ePROMs, mixed-method studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim Wiegel
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.S.); (M.v.d.L.); (M.v.d.E.); (W.B.)
- VU Medical Center, Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-20-2421805
| | - Bart Seppen
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.S.); (M.v.d.L.); (M.v.d.E.); (W.B.)
- VU Medical Center, Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marike van der Leeden
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.S.); (M.v.d.L.); (M.v.d.E.); (W.B.)
- VU Medical Center, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin van der Esch
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.S.); (M.v.d.L.); (M.v.d.E.); (W.B.)
- CoE Urban Vitality, Faculty Health, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ralph de Vries
- Medical Library, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Wouter Bos
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, 1056 AA Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.S.); (M.v.d.L.); (M.v.d.E.); (W.B.)
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19
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Doumen M, Westhovens R, Pazmino S, Bertrand D, Stouten V, Neys C, Creten N, Van Laeken E, Verschueren P, De Cock D. The ideal mHealth-application for rheumatoid arthritis: qualitative findings from stakeholder focus groups. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2021; 22:746. [PMID: 34461875 PMCID: PMC8406841 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-021-04624-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Shifts in treatment strategies for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have made ambulatory care more labour-intensive. These developments have prompted innovative care models, including mobile health (mHealth) applications. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of mHealth-inexperienced stakeholders concerning these applications in RA care. Methods We performed a qualitative study by focus group interviews of stakeholders including RA patients, nurses specialised in RA care and rheumatologists. The qualitative analysis guide of Leuven (QUAGOL), which is based on grounded theory principles, was used to thematically analyse the data. In addition, the Persuasive Systems Design (PSD) model was used to structure recommended app-features. Results In total, 2 focus groups with nurses (total n = 16), 2 with patients (n = 17) and 2 with rheumatologists (n = 25) took place. Six overarching themes emerged from the analysis. Efficiency of care and enabling patient empowerment were the two themes considered as expected benefits of mHealth-use in practice by the stakeholders. In contrast, 4 themes emerged as possible barriers of mHealth-use: the burden of chronic app-use, motivational aspects, target group aspects, and legal and organisational requirements. Additionally, recommendations for an ideal mHealth-app could be structured into 4 domains (Primary Task Support, Dialogue Support, Social Support and System Credibility) according to the PSD-framework. Most recommended features were related to improving ease of use (Task Support) and System Credibility. Conclusions Although mHealth-apps were expected to improve care efficiency and stimulate patient empowerment, stakeholders were concerned that mHealth-app use could reinforce negative illness behaviour. For mHealth-apps to be successful in practice, challenges according to stakeholders were avoiding long-term poor compliance, finding the target audience and tailoring a legal and organisational framework. Finally, the ideal mHealth-application should above all be trustworthy and easy to use. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-021-04624-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Doumen
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. .,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - René Westhovens
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Stouten
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Claudia Neys
- Patient Experts Rheumatology, ReumaNet, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nelly Creten
- Patient Experts Rheumatology, ReumaNet, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Patrick Verschueren
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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20
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Benavent D, Fernández-Luque L, Navarro-Compán V, Balsa A, Plasencia C. Comment on: Telemedicine in the management of rheumatoid arthritis: maintaining disease control with less health-care utilization. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2021; 5:rkab032. [PMID: 34124537 PMCID: PMC8190010 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkab032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Benavent
- Rheumatology Service, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPaz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Alejandro Balsa
- Rheumatology Service, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Chamaida Plasencia
- Rheumatology Service, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPaz, Madrid, Spain
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