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Jesus TS, Stern BZ, Lee D, Zhang M, Struhar J, Heinemann AW, Jordan N, Deutsch A. Systematic review of contemporary interventions for improving discharge support and transitions of care from the patient experience perspective. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299176. [PMID: 38771768 PMCID: PMC11108181 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM To synthesize the impact of improvement interventions related to care coordination, discharge support and care transitions on patient experience measures. METHOD Systematic review. Searches were completed in six scientific databases, five specialty journals, and through snowballing. Eligibility included studies published in English (2015-2023) focused on improving care coordination, discharge support, or transitional care assessed by standardized patient experience measures as a primary outcome. Two independent reviewers made eligibility decisions and performed quality appraisals. RESULTS Of 1240 papers initially screened, 16 were included. Seven studies focused on care coordination activities, including three randomized controlled trials [RCTs]. These studies used enhanced supports such as improvement coaching or tailoring for vulnerable populations within Patient-Centered Medical Homes or other primary care sites. Intervention effectiveness was mixed or neutral relative to standard or models of care or simpler supports (e.g., improvement tool). Eight studies, including three RCTs, focused on enhanced discharge support, including patient education (e.g., teach back) and telephone follow-up; mixed or neutral results on the patient experience were also found and with more substantive risks of bias. One pragmatic trial on a transitional care intervention, using a navigator support, found significant changes only for the subset of uninsured patients and in one patient experience outcome, and had challenges with implementation fidelity. CONCLUSION Enhanced supports for improving care coordination, discharge education, and post-discharge follow-up had mixed or neutral effectiveness for improving the patient experience with care, compared to standard care or simpler improvement approaches. There is a need to advance the body of evidence on how to improve the patient experience with discharge support and transitional approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago S. Jesus
- Division of Occupational Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
- Center for Education in Health Science, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Brocha Z. Stern
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Dongwook Lee
- Center for Child Development & Research, Sensory EL, ROK, Dept. of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine, Korehab Clinic, Dubai, UAE
| | - Manrui Zhang
- Center for Education in Health Science, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Jan Struhar
- Nerve, Muscle and Bone Innovation Center & Oncology Innovation Center, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Allen W. Heinemann
- Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Neil Jordan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Dept. of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare, Hines VA Hospital, Hines, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Anne Deutsch
- Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Center for Health Care Outcomes, RTI International, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
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Serchen J, Hilden DR, Beachy MW. Meeting the Health and Social Needs of America's Unhoused and Housing-Unstable Populations: A Position Paper From the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 2024; 177:514-517. [PMID: 38408358 DOI: 10.7326/m23-2795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Access to safe and stable housing has both a direct and indirect effect on health. Experiencing homelessness and housing instability can induce stress and trauma, worsening behavioral health and substance use. The absence of safe and stable living conditions can make it challenging to rest, recuperate, and recover from health ailments and can pose barriers to treatment adherence. Homelessness and housing instability is associated with high rates of numerous diseases and chronic conditions. Its cyclical relationship with other social drivers of health can exacerbate health disparities. As a result, unhoused persons experience unique health challenges and require a health care system and professionals designed to meet their distinct needs. Physicians and other health professionals have a role in educating themselves about the needs of unhoused patients as well as making themselves aware of community and government resources available to these populations. Policymakers must support health professionals in these efforts by supporting the data infrastructure needed to facilitate these referrals to resources, supporting research into best practices for caring for these populations, and investing in community-based organization capacity. Policy action is needed to address the underlying drivers of homelessness, including a dearth of affordable housing, while also addressing the short-term need for safe shelter now. In this position paper, the American College of Physicians (ACP) recognizes the need to address universal access to housing to fulfill one's right to health. ACP offers several recommendations to prevent homelessness and promote the necessary health care and social needs of unhoused populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Serchen
- American College of Physicians, Washington, DC (J.S.)
| | | | - Micah W Beachy
- Nebraska Medicine-University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (M.W.B.)
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Gin JL, Balut MD, Dobalian A. COVID-19 vaccination uptake and receptivity among veterans enrolled in homelessness-tailored primary health care clinics: provider trust vs. misinformation. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:24. [PMID: 38216894 PMCID: PMC10785369 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02251-x] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compared to the general population, individuals experiencing homelessness are at greater risk of excess morbidity and mortality from COVID-19 but have been vaccinated at lower rates. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)'s Homeless Patient Aligned Care Team (HPACT) program integrates health care and social services for Veterans experiencing homelessness to improve access to and utilization of care. METHODS This study explores the vaccination uptake behavior and attitudes through a qualitative comparative case study of two HPACT clinics, one in California (CA) and one in North Dakota (ND). Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with Veterans enrolled in the two VA HPACT clinics from August to December 2021 with 20 Veterans (10 at each clinic). RESULTS Four themes emerged from the interviews: (1) Vaccination uptake and timing- While half of the Veterans interviewed were vaccinated, ND Veterans were more likely to be vaccinated and got vaccinated earlier than CA Veterans; (2) Housing- Unsheltered or precariously housed Veterans were less likely to be vaccinated; (3) Health Care- Veterans reporting positive experiences with VA health care and those who trusted health providers were more likely to vaccinate than those with negative or nuanced satisfaction with health care; (4) Refusers' Conspiracy Theories and Objectivity Claims- Veterans refusing the vaccine frequently mentioned belief in conspiracy theories while simultaneously asserting their search for objective information from unbiased sources. CONCLUSIONS These findings amplify the importance of improving access to population-tailored care for individuals experiencing homelessness by reducing patient loads, expanding housing program enrollment, and increasing the provider workforce to ensure personalized care. Health care providers, and housing providers, social workers, and peers, who offer information without discrediting or criticizing Veterans' beliefs, are also key to effectively delivering vaccine messaging to this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- June L Gin
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, 16111 Plummer St. MS-152, North Hills, CA, 91343, USA.
| | - Michelle D Balut
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, 16111 Plummer St. MS-152, North Hills, CA, 91343, USA
| | - Aram Dobalian
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, 16111 Plummer St. MS-152, North Hills, CA, 91343, USA
- Division of Health Services Management and Policy, The Ohio State University College of Public Health, 202 Cunz Hall, 1841 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
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Daaleman TP, Johnson J, Gelberg L, Agans R, Biederman DJ. Protocol of a mixed method research design to study medical respite programs for persons experiencing homelessness. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295543. [PMID: 38206961 PMCID: PMC10783722 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Medical Respite Programs (MRPs) characterize a care model that has been developed to address the health care and social needs of persons experiencing homelessness by providing post-acute hospital care in a safe environment. Although this model has been shown to reduce hospitalizations, improve health outcomes and increase access to health services, prior studies of MRP programs and outcomes have been limited to individual sites and may not generalize to the population of individuals receiving MRP care. This study protocol describes a mixed method design to collect organizational, provider, and patient-level data from a sample of MRPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy P. Daaleman
- Department of Family Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Joanne Johnson
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Lillian Gelberg
- Department of Family Medicine, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
- Department of Health Policy & Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Robert Agans
- Department of Biostatistics, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Donna J. Biederman
- School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
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Chan B, Edwards ST, Srikanth P, Mitchell M, Devoe M, Nicolaidis C, Kansagara D, Korthuis PT, Solotaroff R, Saha S. Ambulatory Intensive Care for Medically Complex Patients at a Health Care Clinic for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness: The SUMMIT Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2342012. [PMID: 37948081 PMCID: PMC10638646 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.42012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Intensive primary care interventions have been promoted to reduce hospitalization rates and improve health outcomes for medically complex patients, but evidence of their efficacy is limited. Objective To assess the efficacy of a multidisciplinary ambulatory intensive care unit (A-ICU) intervention on health care utilization and patient-reported outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants The Streamlined Unified Meaningfully Managed Interdisciplinary Team (SUMMIT) randomized clinical trial used a wait-list control design and was conducted at a health care clinic for patients experiencing homelessness in Portland, Oregon. The first patient was enrolled in August 2016, and the last patient was enrolled in November 2019. Included patients had 1 or more hospitalizations in the prior 6 months and 2 or more chronic medical conditions, substance use disorder, or mental illness. Data analysis was performed between March and May 2021. Intervention The A-ICU included a team manager, a pharmacist, a nurse, care coordinators, social workers, and physicians. Activities included comprehensive 90-minute intake, transitional care coordination, and flexible appointments, with reduced panel size. Enhanced usual care (EUC), consisting of team-based primary care with access to community health workers and mental health, addiction treatment, and pharmacy services, served as the comparator. Participants who received EUC joined the A-ICU intervention after 6 months. Main Outcomes and Measures The main outcome was the difference in rates of hospitalization (primary outcome), emergency department (ED) visits, and primary care physician (PCP) visits per person over 6 months (vs the prior 6 months). Patient-reported outcomes included changes in patient activation, experience, health-related quality of life, and self-rated health at 6 months (vs baseline). We performed an intention-to-treat analysis using a linear mixed-effects model with a random intercept for each patient to examine the association between study group and outcomes. Results This study randomized 159 participants (mean [SD] age, 54.9 [9.8] years) to the A-ICU SUMMIT intervention (n = 80) or to EUC (n = 79). The majority of participants were men (102 [65.8%]) and most were White (121 [76.1%]). A total of 64 participants (41.0%) reported having unstable housing at baseline. Six-month hospitalizations decreased in both the A-ICU and EUC groups, with no difference between them (mean [SE], -0.6 [0.5] vs -0.9 [0.5]; difference, 0.3 [95% CI, -1.0 to 1.5]). Emergency department use did not differ between groups (mean [SE], -2.0 [1.0] vs 0.9 [1.0] visits per person; difference, -1.1 [95% CI, -3.7 to 1.6]). Primary care physician visits increased in the A-ICU group (mean [SE], 4.2 [1.6] vs -2.0 [1.6] per person; difference, 6.1 [95% CI, 1.8 to 10.4]). Patients in the A-ICU group reported improved social functioning (mean [SE], 4.7 [2.0] vs -1.1 [2.0]; difference, 5.8 [95% CI, 0.3 to 11.2]) and self-rated health (mean [SE], 0.7 [0.3] vs -0.2 [0.3]; difference, 1.0 [95% CI, 0.1 to 1.8]) compared with patients in the EUC group. No differences in patient activation or experience were observed. Conclusions and Relevance The A-ICU intervention did not change hospital or ED utilization at 6 months but increased PCP visits and improved patient well-being. Longer-term studies are needed to evaluate whether these observed improvements lead to eventual changes in acute care utilization. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03224858.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Chan
- Section of Addiction Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
- Central City Concern, Portland, Oregon
| | - Samuel T. Edwards
- Section of Addiction Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon
| | - Priya Srikanth
- Biostatistics Design Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | | | - Meg Devoe
- Section of Addiction Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
- Central City Concern, Portland, Oregon
| | - Christina Nicolaidis
- Section of Addiction Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
- School of Social Work, Portland State University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Devan Kansagara
- Section of Addiction Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon
| | - P. Todd Korthuis
- Section of Addiction Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University–Portland State University, Portland
| | | | - Somnath Saha
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
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Jones AL, Chu K, Rose DE, Gelberg L, Kertesz SG, Gordon AJ, Wells KB, Leung L. Quality of Depression Care for Veterans Affairs Primary Care Patients with Experiences of Homelessness. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:2436-2444. [PMID: 36810631 PMCID: PMC10465405 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08077-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons who experience homelessness (PEH) have high rates of depression and incur challenges accessing high-quality health care. Some Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities offer homeless-tailored primary care clinics, although such tailoring is not required, within or outside VA. Whether services tailoring enhances care for depression is unstudied. OBJECTIVE To determine whether PEH in homeless-tailored primary care settings receive higher quality of depression care, compared to PEH in usual VA primary care. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study of depression treatment among a regional cohort of VA primary care patients (2016-2019). PARTICIPANTS PEH diagnosed or treated for a depressive disorder. MAIN MEASURES The quality measures were timely follow-up care (3 + completed visits with a primary care or mental health specialist provider, or 3 + psychotherapy sessions) within 84 days of a positive PHQ-2 screen result, timely follow-up care within 180 days, and minimally appropriate treatment (4 + mental health visits, 3 + psychotherapy visits, 60 + days antidepressant) within 365 days. We applied multivariable mixed-effect logistic regressions to model differences in care quality for PEH in homeless-tailored versus usual primary care settings. KEY RESULTS Thirteen percent of PEH with depressive disorders received homeless-tailored primary care (n = 374), compared to usual VA primary care (n = 2469). Tailored clinics served more PEH who were Black, who were non-married, and who had low income, serious mental illness, and substance use disorders. Among all PEH, 48% received timely follow-up care within 84 days of depression screening, 67% within 180 days, and 83% received minimally appropriate treatment. Quality metric attainment was higher for PEH in homeless-tailored clinics, compared to PEH in usual VA primary care: follow-up within 84 days (63% versus 46%; adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.61, p = .001), follow-up within 180 days (78% versus 66%; AOR = 1.51, p = .003), and minimally appropriate treatment (89% versus 82%; AOR = 1.58, p = .004). CONCLUSIONS Homeless-tailored primary care approaches may improve depression care for PEH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey L Jones
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences (IDEAS) Center and Vulnerable Veteran Innovative Patient-Aligned Care Team (VIP) Initiative, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, 84148, USA.
- Program for Addiction Research, Clinical Care, Knowledge, and Advocacy (PARCKA), Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Karen Chu
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy (CSHIIP) and Veterans Assessment and Improvement Laboratory (VAIL), VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Danielle E Rose
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy (CSHIIP) and Veterans Assessment and Improvement Laboratory (VAIL), VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lillian Gelberg
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy (CSHIIP) and Veterans Assessment and Improvement Laboratory (VAIL), VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stefan G Kertesz
- Birmingham VA Health Care System, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Heersink University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Adam J Gordon
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences (IDEAS) Center and Vulnerable Veteran Innovative Patient-Aligned Care Team (VIP) Initiative, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, 84148, USA
- Program for Addiction Research, Clinical Care, Knowledge, and Advocacy (PARCKA), Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kenneth B Wells
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy (CSHIIP) and Veterans Assessment and Improvement Laboratory (VAIL), VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- UCLA Center for Health Services and Society, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lucinda Leung
- Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy (CSHIIP) and Veterans Assessment and Improvement Laboratory (VAIL), VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
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York JA, Valvano M, Hughes F, Sternke LM, Lauerer JA, Baker JA, Edlund B, Reich K, Pope C. Nursing leadership and influence in practice domains at a Veterans Affairs Health Care System. Nurs Outlook 2023; 71:101937. [PMID: 36965357 DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2023.101937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies in Veteran populations have examined disparities in health service use, care quality, outcomes and increased demands for behavioral health. PURPOSE The purpose is to describe the development of nursing leadership roles that influenced practice improvements and demonstrated outcomes related to health disparities in a Veterans Affairs (VA) population over a 12-year period. METHODS The Sundean and colleagues' concept analysis of nurse leadership influence was applied to frame the initiative process and impacts. DISCUSSION Antecedents and processes that facilitated leadership development included mentorship, disparities expertise, partnerships, consultation, scholarship, dissemination, advocacy, education, and strong coauthor collaboration. Improvements and outcomes included access to services, improved health indicators, tools, workforce, funding, innovations, and nurse investigator studies, consistent with VA priorities and policy related to disparities and equity. Limitations and barriers were addressed. CONCLUSION This initiative models' strategies to increase nurse leadership in health equity and care transformation in health systems and community practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet A York
- Ralph H. Johnson VAHCS, Charleston, SC; College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC; Even Health, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - Mary Valvano
- Ralph H. Johnson VAHCS, Charleston, SC; Lyons VAHCS, Lyons, NJ
| | - Frederica Hughes
- Ralph H. Johnson VAHCS, Charleston, SC; College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Lisa Marie Sternke
- Ralph H. Johnson VAHCS, Charleston, SC; College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Joy A Lauerer
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | | - Barbara Edlund
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC; College of Nursing, Auburn University at Montgomery, Montgomery, AL
| | | | - Charlene Pope
- Ralph H. Johnson VAHCS, Charleston, SC; College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC; College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
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Blonigen D, Hyde J, McInnes DK, Yoon J, Byrne T, Ngo T, Smelson D. Integrating data analytics, peer support, and whole health coaching to improve the health outcomes of homeless veterans: Study protocol for an effectiveness-implementation trial. Contemp Clin Trials 2023; 125:107065. [PMID: 36572239 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2022.107065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness is a strong determinant of acute care service utilization (inpatient hospitalization, emergency department visits) among US adults. Data analytics, peer support, and patient-centered approaches can collectively offer high-quality care for homeless patients who frequently utilize acute care ("super utilizers"). However, few outpatient programs have integrated these components and tested their effectiveness for this patient population. OBJECTIVE To test the effectiveness and implementation potential of a novel intervention that integrates data analytics with peers trained in whole health coaching ("Peer Whole Health") to reduce use of acute care among homeless adults. METHODS Using a randomized controlled trial design at two US Veterans Health Administration Medical Centers, we plan to enroll 220 veterans in primary care on VHA's Homeless Registry who are flagged on a super-utilizer clinical dashboard. Participants will complete a baseline interview, be randomized to Enhanced Usual Care (EUC; primary care and data analytics) or EUC plus 18 sessions of Peer Whole Health over 6 months, and be re-interviewed at 3, 6, and 9 months. Qualitative interviews with primary care staff and patients will identify facilitators and barriers to more widespread implementation of the intervention. DISCUSSION The primary hypothesis is that those who receive the intervention will have fewer total days of all-cause hospitalization. If confirmed, the findings can provide healthcare systems that serve homeless super-utilizers with a high-value approach to care that can be integrated into primary care services and reduce overall costs for these patients. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05176977).
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Blonigen
- HSR&D Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Justeen Hyde
- HSR&D Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - D Keith McInnes
- HSR&D Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA, USA; Department of Health Law Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jean Yoon
- HSR&D Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA; Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Thomas Byrne
- HSR&D Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Tu Ngo
- VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - David Smelson
- HSR&D Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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Tsai J, Havlik J, Howell BA, Johnson E, Rosenthal D. Primary Care for Veterans Experiencing Homelessness: a Narrative Review of the Homeless Patient Aligned Care Team (HPACT) Model. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:765-783. [PMID: 36443628 PMCID: PMC9971390 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07970-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In 2011, the U.S. Department of Veterans Health (VA) implemented a homeless-tailored primary care medical home model called the Homeless Patient Aligned Care Teams (HPACTs). The impact of HPACTs on health and healthcare outcomes of veterans experiencing homelessness has not been adequately synthesized. This narrative review summarized peer-reviewed studies published in databases Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, and APA PsycInfo from 1946 to February 2022. Only original research studies that reported outcomes of the HPACT model were included in the review. Of 575 studies that were initially identified and screened, 26 studies met inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Included studies were categorized into studies that described the following: (1) early HPACT pilot implementation; (2) HPACT's association with service quality and utilization; and (3) specialized HPACT programs. Together, studies in this review suggest HPACT is associated with reductions in emergency department utilization and improvements in primary care utilization, engagement, and positive patient experiences; however, the methodological rigor of the included studies was low, and thus, these findings should only be considered preliminary. There is a need for randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of the PACT model on key outcomes of interest, as well as to determine whether the model is a viable way to manage healthcare for persons experiencing homelessness outside of the VA system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Tsai
- Office of Homeless Programs, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington D.C., USA.
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Public Health, 1200 Pressler St, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - John Havlik
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Benjamin A Howell
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Erin Johnson
- Office of Homeless Programs, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington D.C., USA
| | - David Rosenthal
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- 4Catalyzer Inc., CT, Guilford, USA
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Flike K, Byrne T. Systematic review of access to healthcare and social services among US women Veterans experiencing homelessness. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 19:17455057231189550. [PMID: 37522527 PMCID: PMC10392165 DOI: 10.1177/17455057231189550] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies suggest female Veterans are under-identified as homeless in the VA healthcare system, which may impact their ability to access necessary services. In addition, the increasing number of female Veterans experiencing homelessness requires a better understanding of their access to necessary healthcare and social care. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the barriers and facilitators for access to healthcare and social care among women Veterans experiencing homelessness. DESIGN A mixed methods systematic review was conducted and includes quantitative and qualitative primary research studies. DATA SOURCES AND METHODS Seven databases were searched for quantitative or qualitative research studies. Studies which addressed access or use of healthcare or social services, which were focused on female Veterans or allowed for comparison between male and female Veterans were included. Data were synthesized using a convergent integrated approach. RESULTS Thirty-five studies met inclusion criteria; 27 quantitative, 6 qualitative and 2 mixed methods studies. Three main themes resulted: (1) the comparison of access and use of healthcare and social services between women and men; (2) female specific barriers to access or use of social and health services; (3) female specific facilitators to access or use of social and health services. CONCLUSIONS Results showed although women Veterans had similar or better outcomes with permanent housing programming compared to men, gaps remain in the provision of emergency and short-term housing accommodations. In addition, many studies found that homeless women Veterans were unaware of the healthcare and social services available through the VA. Programs and policies need to ensure they are maximizing their reach to women Veterans experiencing homelessness by providing outreach and education, so they understand the benefits available when they discharge from the military and to understand the unique healthcare and social needs of women Veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberlee Flike
- Center for Health Care Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Health Care System, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Thomas Byrne
- Center for Health Care Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Health Care System, Bedford, MA, USA
- School of Social Work, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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11
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Blonigen D, Smelson D, Smith J, Baldwin N, McInnes DK, Raikov I, Weber J, Hyde J. Peer support and whole health coaching to address the healthcare needs of homeless veterans: a pilot study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:331. [PMID: 36529718 PMCID: PMC9760553 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01927-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness is a robust social determinant of acute care service utilization among veterans. Although intensive outpatient programs have been developed for homeless veterans who are high utilizers of acute care ("super utilizers"), few scalable programs have been implemented to address their needs. OBJECTIVE Describe the development and pilot testing of a novel intervention that integrates the roles of a peer and whole health coach ("Peer-WHC") in coordination with primary care teams to reduce homeless veterans' frequent use of acute care. DESIGN Single-arm trial in three outpatient primary care clinics at a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical center; pre/post design using mixed-methods. PARTICIPANTS Twenty veterans from VHA's homeless registry who were super-utilizers of acute care and enrolled in primary care. INTERVENTION Weekly health coaching sessions with a peer over 12 weeks, including discussions of patients' health care utilization patterns and coordination with primary care. MAIN MEASURES Rates of session attendance and intervention fidelity, patient-reported satisfaction and changes in patient engagement and perceptions of health, pre/post utilization of acute and supportive care services, and qualitative interviews with multiple stakeholders to identify barriers and facilitators to implementation. KEY RESULTS On average, patients attended 6.35 sessions (SD = 3.5, Median = 7). Satisfaction scores (M = 28.75 out of 32; SD = 2.79) exceeded a priori benchmarks. Patients' perceptions of health improved from pre to post [t(df)=-2.26(14), p = 0.04]. In the 3-months pre/post, 45% (n = 9) and 15% (n = 3) of patients, respectively, were hospitalized. Qualitative feedback from patients, providers, and peers and fidelity metrics suggested value in increasing the length of the intervention to facilitate goal-setting with patients and coordination with primary care. CONCLUSION Findings support the feasibility, acceptability, and utility of Peer-WHC to address the healthcare needs of homeless veterans. A future trial is warranted to test the impact of Peer-WHC on reducing these patients' frequent use of acute care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Blonigen
- Department of Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Health Services Research and Development Center for Innovation to Implementation, 795 Willow Road (152), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - David Smelson
- HSR&D Center for Health Care Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer Smith
- Department of Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Health Services Research and Development Center for Innovation to Implementation, 795 Willow Road (152), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
| | - Nicole Baldwin
- Clinical Psychology Program, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, USA
| | - D Keith McInnes
- HSR&D Center for Health Care Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- Department of Health Law Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ivan Raikov
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jillian Weber
- Veterans Health Administration, Homeless Program Office, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Justeen Hyde
- HSR&D Center for Health Care Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA, USA
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12
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Flike K, Hayman LL, Byrne T, Song Q, Aronowitz T. The impact of patient-centred care on the relationship between access to care and subjective health outcomes amongst people experiencing homelessness: A mediation analysis. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e5755-e5764. [PMID: 36093584 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.14007] [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: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
People experiencing homelessness (PEH) have stated that impersonal care and feelings of discrimination are barriers to accessing healthcare which is associated with poor health outcomes amongst PEH. This study examined whether patient-centred care (PCC) mediates the relationship between access to care and subjective health outcomes. Using the 2014-15 Healthcare Center Patient Survey, we identified 1873 homeless and vulnerably housed adults. Items related to the delay or inability to receive primary or mental healthcare, PCC provided by healthcare providers, general health status, and the Kessler-6 psychological distress scale were selected. Ordinary least squares analyses were used to perform mediation analysis. We found that both access to primary care and access to mental healthcare were positively associated with physical health status (β = 0.492, p < 0.001; β = 0.311, p < 0.001) and negatively associated with psychological distress (β = -2.53, p < 0.001; β = -1.85, p < 0.001). PCC partially mediated all associations, but the mediation was stronger in the relationships between access to primary care and health outcomes (ab = 0.25, 95% CI [0.002, 0.052]; ab = -0.21, 95% CI [-0.37, -0.07]) compared to mental healthcare (ab = 0.02, 95% CI [0.01, 0.04]; ab = -0.14, 95% CI [-0.25, -0.06]). The results of this study indicated access to primary and mental healthcare is important in the patient-centred health outcomes of PEH. Additionally, the partial mediation of PCC in these relationships indicated that participants' perception of collaborative, trustworthy, respectful care from healthcare providers impacted the relationship between access to healthcare and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberlee Flike
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), Bedford VA Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laura L Hayman
- Robert and Donna Manning College Nursing & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thomas Byrne
- School of Social Work, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Qian Song
- McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Teri Aronowitz
- Tan Chingfen Graduate School of Nursing, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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13
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Soncrant C, Mills PD, Pendley Louis RP, Gunnar W. Review of Reported Adverse Events Occurring Among the Homeless Veteran Population in the Veterans Health Administration. J Patient Saf 2021; 17:e821-e828. [PMID: 34406986 DOI: 10.1097/pts.0000000000000884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND United States veterans face an even greater risk of homelessness and associated medical conditions, mental health conditions, and fatal and nonfatal overdose as compared with nonveterans. Beginning 2009, the Department of Veterans Affairs developed a strategy and allocated considerable resources to address veteran homelessness and the medical conditions commonly associated with this condition. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the Veterans Health Administration National Center for Patient Safety database for patient safety events in the homeless veteran population to mitigate future risk and inform policy. METHODS This was a retrospective, descriptive quality improvement study of reported patient safety events of homeless veterans enrolled in Veterans Health Administration care between January 2012 and August 2020. A validated codebook was used to capture individual patient characteristics, location and type of event, homeless status, and root causes of the events and proposed actions for prevention. RESULTS Suicide attempt or death, elopement, delay in care, and unintentional opioid overdose were the most common adverse events reported for this population. Root causes include issues with policies, procedures, and care processes for managing and evaluating homeless patients for the risk of suicidal or overdose behaviors and discharge, poor interdisciplinary communication, and coordination of patient care. Actions included standardization of procedures for discharge, overdose and suicide risk, staff education, and purchasing new equipment. CONCLUSIONS Suicide and opioid overdose are the most serious reported health care-related adverse events in the unsheltered homeless veteran population. Failures to recognize homelessness status, communicate status, and coordinate available services are root causes of these events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Soncrant
- From the Veterans' Health Administration National Center for Patient Safety, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Robin P Pendley Louis
- From the Veterans' Health Administration National Center for Patient Safety, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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14
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Gabrielian S, Jones AL, Hoge AE, deRussy AJ, Kim YI, Montgomery AE, Blosnich JR, Gordon AJ, Gelberg L, Austin EL, Pollio D, Holmes SK, Varley AL, Kertesz SG. Enhancing Primary Care Experiences for Homeless Patients with Serious Mental Illness: Results from a National Survey. J Prim Care Community Health 2021; 12:2150132721993654. [PMID: 33543675 PMCID: PMC7871055 DOI: 10.1177/2150132721993654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Patients experiencing homelessness (PEH) with serious mental illness (SMI) have poor satisfaction with primary care. We assessed if primary care teams tailored for homeless patients (Homeless-Patient Aligned Care Teams (H-PACTs)) provide this population with superior experiences than mainstream primary care and explored whether integrated behavioral health and social services were associated with favorable experiences. Methods: We surveyed VA PEH with SMI (n = 1095) to capture the valence of their primary care experiences in 4 domains (Access/Coordination, Patient-Clinician Relationships, Cooperation, and Homeless-Specific Needs). We surveyed clinicians (n = 52) from 29 H-PACTs to elucidate if their clinics had embedded mental health, addiction, social work, and/or housing services. We counted these services in each H-PACT (0-4) and classified H-PACTs as having high (3-4) versus low (0-2) service integration. We controlled for demographics, housing history, and needs in comparing H-PACT versus mainstream experiences; and experiences in high versus low integration H-PACTs. Results: Among respondents, 969 (91%) had complete data and 626 (62%) were in H-PACTs. After covariate adjustment, compared to mainstream respondents, H-PACT respondents were more likely (P < .01) to report favorable experiences (AORs = 1.7-2.1) and less likely to report unfavorable experiences (AORs = 0.5-0.6) in all 4 domains. Of 29 H-PACTs, 27.6% had high integration. High integration H-PACT respondents were twice as likely as low integration H-PACT respondents to report favorable access/coordination experiences (AOR = 1.7). Conclusions: Homeless-tailored clinics with highly-integrated services were associated with better care experiences among PEH with SMI. These observational data suggest that tailored primary care with integrated services may improve care perceptions among complex patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya Gabrielian
- VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Audrey L Jones
- VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - April E Hoge
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Young-Il Kim
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Ann Elizabeth Montgomery
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - John R Blosnich
- VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Adam J Gordon
- VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Lillian Gelberg
- VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Erika L Austin
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - David Pollio
- University of Alabama at Birmingham College of Letters and Sciences, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | | | - Stefan G Kertesz
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
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15
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Kertesz SG, deRussy AJ, Kim YI, Hoge AE, Austin EL, Gordon AJ, Gelberg L, Gabrielian SE, Riggs KR, Blosnich JR, Montgomery AE, Holmes SK, Varley AL, Pollio DE, Gundlapalli AV, Jones AL. Comparison of Patient Experience Between Primary Care Settings Tailored for Homeless Clientele and Mainstream Care Settings. Med Care 2021; 59:495-503. [PMID: 33827104 PMCID: PMC8567819 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 1 million Americans receive primary care from federal homeless health care programs yearly. Vulnerabilities that can make care challenging include pain, addiction, psychological distress, and a lack of shelter. Research on the effectiveness of tailoring services for this population is limited. OBJECTIVE The aim was to examine whether homeless-tailored primary care programs offer a superior patient experience compared with nontailored ("mainstream") programs overall, and for highly vulnerable patients. RESEARCH DESIGN National patient survey comparing 26 US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Centers' homeless-tailored primary care ("H-PACT"s) to mainstream primary care ("mainstream PACT"s) at the same locations. PARTICIPANTS A total of 5766 homeless-experienced veterans. MEASURES Primary care experience on 4 scales: Patient-Clinician Relationship, Cooperation, Accessibility/Coordination, and Homeless-Specific Needs. Mean scores (range: 1-4) were calculated and dichotomized as unfavorable versus not. We counted key vulnerabilities (chronic pain, unsheltered homelessness, severe psychological distress, and history of overdose, 0-4), and categorized homeless-experienced veterans as having fewer (≤1) and more (≥2) vulnerabilities. RESULTS H-PACTs outscored mainstream PACTs on all scales (all P<0.001). Unfavorable care experiences were more common in mainstream PACTs compared with H-PACTs, with adjusted risk differences of 11.9% (95% CI=6.3-17.4), 12.6% (6.2-19.1), 11.7% (6.0-17.3), and 12.6% (6.2-19.1) for Relationship, Cooperation, Access/Coordination, and Homeless-Specific Needs, respectively. For the Relationship and Cooperation scales, H-PACTs were associated with a greater reduction in unfavorable experience for patients with ≥2 vulnerabilities versus ≤1 (interaction P<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Organizations that offer primary care for persons experiencing homelessness can improve the primary care experience by tailoring the design and delivery of services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan G. Kertesz
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, 1665 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233
| | - Aerin J. deRussy
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
| | - Young-il Kim
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233
| | - April E. Hoge
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
| | - Erika L. Austin
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, 1665 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233
| | - Adam J. Gordon
- VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, 500 Foothill Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84148
- University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
| | - Lillian Gelberg
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, 11301 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90073
- University of California Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Sonya E. Gabrielian
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, 11301 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90073
- University of California Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Kevin R. Riggs
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233
| | - John R. Blosnich
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles CA 90089
- VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, 4100 Allequippa St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
| | - Ann Elizabeth Montgomery
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, 1665 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233
| | - Sally K. Holmes
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
| | - Allyson L. Varley
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, 1670 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233
| | - David E. Pollio
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 700 19th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233
- University of Alabama at Birmingham College of Arts and Sciences, 1720 2 Ave. S., Birmingham AL 35294
| | - Adi V. Gundlapalli
- University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
| | - Audrey L. Jones
- University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, 11301 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90073
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16
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Jones AL, Kertesz SG, Hausmann LRM, Mor MK, Suo Y, Pettey WBP, Schaefer JH, Gundlapalli AV, Gordon AJ. Primary care experiences of veterans with opioid use disorder in the Veterans Health Administration. J Subst Abuse Treat 2020; 113:107996. [PMID: 32359670 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2020.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While patients with substance use disorders (SUDs) are thought to encounter poor primary care experiences, the perspectives of patients with opioid use disorder (OUD), specifically, are unknown. This study compares the primary care experiences of patients with OUD, other SUDs and no SUD in the Veterans Health Administration. METHODS The sample included Veterans who responded to the national Patient-Centered Medical Home Survey of Healthcare Experiences of Patients, 2013-2015. Respondents included 3554 patients with OUD, 36,175 with other SUDs, and 756,386 with no SUD; 742 OUD-diagnosed patients received buprenorphine. Multivariable multinomial logistic regressions estimated differences in the probability of reporting positive and negative experiences (0-100 scale) for patients with OUD, compared to patients with other SUDs and no SUD, and for OUD-diagnosed patients treated versus not treated with buprenorphine. RESULTS Of all domains, patients with OUD reported the least positive experiences with access (31%) and medication decision-making (35%), and the most negative experiences with self-management support (35%) and provider communication (23%). Compared to the other groups, patients diagnosed with OUD reported fewer positive and/or more negative experiences with access, communication, office staff, provider ratings, comprehensiveness, care coordination, and self-management support (adjusted risk differences[aRDs] range from |2.9| to |7.0|). Among OUD-diagnosed patients, buprenorphine was associated with more positive experiences with comprehensiveness (aRD = 8.3) and self-management support (aRD = 7.1), and less negative experiences with care coordination (aRD = -4.9) and medication shared decision-making (aRD = -5.4). CONCLUSIONS In a national sample, patients diagnosed with OUD encounter less positive and more negative experiences than other primary care patients, including those with other SUDs. Buprenorphine treatment relates positively to experiences with care comprehensiveness, medication decisions, and care coordination. As stakeholders encourage more primary care providers to manage OUD, it will be important for healthcare systems to attend to patient access and experiences with care in these settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey L Jones
- Informatics, Decision Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Stefan G Kertesz
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA; University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Leslie R M Hausmann
- Center for Health Equity and Promotion (CHERP), VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Maria K Mor
- Center for Health Equity and Promotion (CHERP), VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Ying Suo
- Informatics, Decision Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Warren B P Pettey
- Informatics, Decision Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - James H Schaefer
- Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Reporting, Analytics, Performance, Improvement and Deployment, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Adi V Gundlapalli
- Informatics, Decision Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Adam J Gordon
- Informatics, Decision Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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17
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Varley A, Montgomery AE, Steward J, Stringfellow E, Austin E, Gordon A, Pollio D, deRussy A, Hoge A, Gelberg L, Riggs K, Kim TW, Rubens SL, Kertesz S. Exploring Quality of Primary Care for Patients Who Experience Homelessness and the Clinicians Who Serve Them: What Are Their Aspirations? QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2020; 30:865-879. [PMID: 31894725 PMCID: PMC9271358 DOI: 10.1177/1049732319895252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
To develop and evaluate an effective model of patient-centered, high-quality, homeless-focused primary care, our team explored key domains of primary care that may be important to patients. We anchored our conceptual framework in two reports from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) that defined components of primary care and quality of care. Using questions developed from this framework, we conducted semistructured interviews with 36 homeless-experienced individuals with past-year primary care engagement and 24 health care professionals (clinicians and researchers) who serve homeless-experienced patients in the primary care setting. Template analysis revealed factors important to this population. These included stigma, respect, and perspectives on patient control of medical decision-making in regard to both pain and addiction. For patients experiencing homelessness, the results suggest that quality primary care may have different meanings for patients and professionals, and that services should be tailored to meet homeless-specific needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyson Varley
- Birmingham VA Medical Center
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | | | | | - Erin Stringfellow
- Missouri Institute of Mental Health, University of Missouri, St. Louis
| | - Erika Austin
- Birmingham VA Medical Center
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kevin Riggs
- Birmingham VA Medical Center
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | | | | | - Stefan Kertesz
- Birmingham VA Medical Center
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
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18
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Riggs KR, Hoge AE, DeRussy AJ, Montgomery AE, Holmes SK, Austin EL, Pollio DE, Kim YI, Varley AL, Gelberg L, Gabrielian SE, Blosnich JR, Merlin J, Gundlapalli AV, Jones AL, Gordon AJ, Kertesz SG. Prevalence of and Risk Factors Associated With Nonfatal Overdose Among Veterans Who Have Experienced Homelessness. JAMA Netw Open 2020; 3:e201190. [PMID: 32181829 PMCID: PMC7078753 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.1190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Individuals with a history of homelessness are at increased risk for drug or alcohol overdose, although the proportion who have had recent nonfatal overdose is unknown. Understanding risk factors associated with nonfatal overdose could guide efforts to prevent fatal overdose. OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of recent overdose and the individual contributions of drugs and alcohol to overdose and to identify characteristics associated with overdose among veterans who have experienced homelessness. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This survey study was conducted from November 15, 2017, to October 1, 2018, via mailed surveys with telephone follow-up for nonrespondents. Eligible participants were selected from the records of 26 US Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers and included veterans who had received primary care at 1 of these Veterans Affairs medical centers and had a history of experiencing homelessness according to administrative data. Preliminary analyses were conducted in October 2018, and final analyses were conducted in January 2020. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Self-report of overdose (such that emergent medical care was obtained) in the previous 3 years and substances used during the most recent overdose. All percentages are weighted according to propensity to respond to the survey, modeled from clinical characteristics obtained in electronic health records. RESULTS A total of 5766 veterans completed the survey (completion rate, 40.2%), and data on overdose were available for 5694 veterans. After adjusting for the propensity to respond to the survey, the mean (SD) age was 56.4 (18.3) years; 5100 veterans (91.6%) were men, 2225 veterans (38.1%) were black, and 2345 veterans (40.7%) were white. A total of 379 veterans (7.4%) reported any overdose during the past 3 years; 228 veterans (4.6%) reported overdose involving drugs, including 83 veterans (1.7%) who reported overdose involving opioids. Overdose involving alcohol was reported by 192 veterans (3.7%). In multivariable analyses, white race (odds ratio, 2.44 [95% CI, 2.00-2.98]), self-reporting a drug problem (odds ratio, 1.66 [95% CI, 1.39-1.98]) or alcohol problem (odds ratio, 2.54 [95% CI, 2.16-2.99]), and having witnessed someone else overdose (odds ratio, 2.34 [95% CI, 1.98-2.76]) were associated with increased risk of overdose. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE These findings suggest that nonfatal overdose is relatively common among veterans who have experienced homelessness. While overdose involving alcohol was more common than any specific drug, 1.7% of veterans reported overdose involving opioids. Improving access to addiction treatment for veterans who are experiencing homelessness or who are recently housed, especially for those who have experienced or witnessed overdose, could help to protect this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin R. Riggs
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham
| | | | | | - Ann Elizabeth Montgomery
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, Birmingham
| | | | - Erika L. Austin
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, Birmingham
| | | | - Young-il Kim
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham
| | - Allyson L. Varley
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham
| | - Lillian Gelberg
- VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, California
- David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles
| | - Sonya E. Gabrielian
- VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, California
- David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles
| | | | | | - Adi V. Gundlapalli
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Audrey L. Jones
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City
- VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Adam J. Gordon
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City
- VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Stefan G. Kertesz
- Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham
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19
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Bowen ME, Rowe MA, Ji M, Cacchione P. A research proposal testing a new model of ambulation activity among long-term care residents with dementia/cognitive impairment: the study protocol of a prospective longitudinal natural history study. BMC Res Notes 2019; 12:557. [PMID: 31481129 PMCID: PMC6724297 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-019-4585-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Excessive and patterned ambulation is associated with falls, urinary tract infections, co-occurring delirium and other acute events among long-term care residents with cognitive impairment/dementia. This study will test a predictive longitudinal data model that may lead to the preservation of function of this vulnerable population. Methods/design This is a single group, longitudinal study with natural observations. Data from a real-time locating system (RTLS) will be used to objectively and continuously measure ambulation activity for up to 2 years. These data will be combined with longitudinal acute event and functional status data to capture patterns of change in health status over time. Theory-driven multilevel models will be used to test the trajectories of falls and other acute conditions as a function of the ambulation activity and demographic, functional status, gait quality and balance ability including potential mediation and/or moderation effects. Data-driven machine learning algorithms will be applied to run screening of the high dimensional RTLS data together with other variables to discover new and robust predictors of acute events. Discussion The findings from this study will lead to the early identification of older adults at risk for falls and the onset of acute medical conditions and interventions for individualized care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Elizabeth Bowen
- School of Nursing, University of Delaware, STAR Tower, 100 Discovery Blvd., Newark, DE, 19713, USA. .,Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, 3900 Woodland Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Meredeth A Rowe
- College of Nursing, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC Box 22, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Ming Ji
- College of Nursing, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC Box 22, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Pamela Cacchione
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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