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Hu X, Jiang H, Liu P, Li Z, Zhang R. Continued stepped care model improves early-stage self-report quality of life and knee function after total knee arthroplasty. Technol Health Care 2024:THC240780. [PMID: 39031415 DOI: 10.3233/thc-240780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Stepped Care Model (SCM) is an evidence-based treatment approach that tailors treatment intensity based on patients' health status, aiming to achieve the most positive treatment outcomes with the least intensive and cost-effective interventions. Currently, the effectiveness of the Stepped Care Model in postoperative rehabilitation for TKA (Total Knee Arthroplasty) patients has not been reported. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to investigate whether the stepped care model could improve early-stage self-report quality of life and knee function after total knee arthroplasty via a prospective randomized controlled design. METHODS It was a mono-center, parallel-group, open-label, prospective randomized controlled study. Patients who aging from 60-75 years old as well as underwent unilateral primary total knee arthroplasty due to end-stage knee osteoarthritis between 2020.06 to 2022.02 were enrolled. Participants were randomized and arranged into two groups in a 1:1 allocation. The control group was given traditional rehabilitation guidance, while the stepped care model group was given continued stepped care. Hospital for special surgery knee score, daily living ability (ADL), knee flexion range, and adverse events at 1, 3, and 6 months after total knee arthroplasty were recorded. RESULTS 88 patients proceeded to the final analysis. There was no significant difference of age, gender, length of stay, BMI, and educational level between the two groups at the baseline. After specific stepped care model interventions, patients showed significant improvements in HHS in 1 month (85.00 (82.25, 86.00) vs. 80.00 (75.00, 83.00), p< 0.001), 3 months (88.00 (86.00, 92.00) vs. 83.00 (76.75, 85.00), p< 0.001), and 6 months (93.00 (90.25, 98.00) vs. 88.00 (84.25, 91.75), p< 0.001) when compared with the control group. Similar results were also found in both daily living ability and knee flexion angle measurements. No adverse event was observed during the follow-up. CONCLUSION The present study found that the stepped care model intervention significantly improved early-stage knee function and self-reported life quality after total knee arthroplasty due to knee osteoarthritis. Female patients and those less than 70 years old benefit more from the stepped care model intervention after total knee arthroplasty.
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Seeralan T, Magaard JL, Engels A, Meister R, Kriston L, Liebherz S, König HH, Härter M. Effectiveness of a coordinated ambulatory care program for patients with mental disorders or multiple sclerosis: results of a prospective non-randomized controlled trial in South Germany. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1183710. [PMID: 38179252 PMCID: PMC10766382 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1183710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The Psychiatry, Neurology, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy (PNP) program of the German statutory health insurance AOK BW promotes coordinated and evidence-based specialist care with the aim of providing individualized, guideline-based outpatient care, strengthening the collaboration between health care providers, as well as reducing care costs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate its effectiveness regarding patient-reported outcomes compared to the less specialized general practitioner program (GP) and usual care (UC). Materials and methods AOK insured patients, who were on sick leave due to a mental disorder (affective disorder, anxiety disorder, adjustment disorder, somatoform disorder, alcohol abuse disorder, schizophrenia) or multiple sclerosis were included in the prospective non-randomized controlled study. All patients either participated in the PNP program (intervention group, IG-PNP), the general practitioner program (control group, CG-GP) or usual care (control group, CG-UC). Entropy balancing was used to adjust for baseline imbalance between groups. Primary outcome was health-related quality of life, assessed by the Short-form health survey (SF-36) 12 months after diagnosis. Secondary outcomes included symptom severity, functional health, and treatment satisfaction. Results Of the 14,483 insured patients who were contacted, 1,104 patients participated at baseline and 725 at follow-up. The adjusted mean differences of SF-36 sum score did not significantly differ between groups: -1.89 (95%-CI = -4.60; 0.81, p = 0.170) between IG-PNP and CG-GP, and -1.42 (95%-CI = -4.05; 1.22, p = 0.293) between PNP and CG-UC. The adjusted mean differences of secondary outcomes did not differ between groups, except for a slightly higher increase of functional health in CG-UC. Conclusion We found no evidence that the PNP program is superior to the GP program or to usual care in terms of patient-reported outcomes or treatment satisfaction. The results are limited by the low response rate. Accordingly, future studies should strive for more representative samples. To improve the program, an integration of further collaborative care elements and guideline recommendations might be useful. Clinical trial registration DRKS (German Clinical Trials Register https://drks.de/search/en); identifier (DRKS00013114).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tharanya Seeralan
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julia L. Magaard
- Evangelisches Krankenhaus Ginsterhof GmbH, Psychosomatic Clinic, Rosengarten, Germany
| | - Alexander Engels
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ramona Meister
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Levente Kriston
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sarah Liebherz
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Härter
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Peters S, Sukumar K, Blanchard S, Ramasamy A, Malinowski J, Ginex P, Senerth E, Corremans M, Munn Z, Kredo T, Remon LP, Ngeh E, Kalman L, Alhabib S, Amer YS, Gagliardi A. Trends in guideline implementation: an updated scoping review. Implement Sci 2022; 17:50. [PMID: 35870974 PMCID: PMC9308215 DOI: 10.1186/s13012-022-01223-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Guidelines aim to support evidence-informed practice but are inconsistently used without implementation strategies. Our prior scoping review revealed that guideline implementation interventions were not selected and tailored based on processes known to enhance guideline uptake and impact. The purpose of this study was to update the prior scoping review. Methods We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, CINAHL, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews for studies published from 2014 to January 2021 that evaluated guideline implementation interventions. We screened studies in triplicate and extracted data in duplicate. We reported study and intervention characteristics and studies that achieved impact with summary statistics. Results We included 118 studies that implemented guidelines on 16 clinical topics. With regard to implementation planning, 21% of studies referred to theories or frameworks, 50% pre-identified implementation barriers, and 36% engaged stakeholders in selecting or tailoring interventions. Studies that employed frameworks (n=25) most often used the theoretical domains framework (28%) or social cognitive theory (28%). Those that pre-identified barriers (n=59) most often consulted literature (60%). Those that engaged stakeholders (n=42) most often consulted healthcare professionals (79%). Common interventions included educating professionals about guidelines (44%) and information systems/technology (41%). Most studies employed multi-faceted interventions (75%). A total of 97 (82%) studies achieved impact (improvements in one or more reported outcomes) including 10 (40% of 25) studies that employed frameworks, 28 (47.45% of 59) studies that pre-identified barriers, 22 (52.38% of 42) studies that engaged stakeholders, and 21 (70% of 30) studies that employed single interventions. Conclusions Compared to our prior review, this review found that more studies used processes to select and tailor interventions, and a wider array of types of interventions across the Mazza taxonomy. Given that most studies achieved impact, this might reinforce the need for implementation planning. However, even studies that did not plan implementation achieved impact. Similarly, even single interventions achieved impact. Thus, a future systematic review based on this data is warranted to establish if the use of frameworks, barrier identification, stakeholder engagement, and multi-faceted interventions are associated with impact. Trial registration The protocol was registered with Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/4nxpr) and published in JBI Evidence Synthesis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13012-022-01223-6.
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Berezowski L, Ludwig L, Martin A, Löwe B, Shedden-Mora MC. Early Psychological Interventions for Somatic Symptom Disorder and Functional Somatic Syndromes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Psychosom Med 2022; 84:325-338. [PMID: 34524264 PMCID: PMC8983947 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000001011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Psychological treatments for somatic symptom disorder and functional somatic syndromes (SSD/FSS) achieve moderate effects only, potentially because of the high chronicity in these patients. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate whether early treatment, that is, treatment in populations at risk or with recent onset, improves outcome. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of (cluster-)randomized controlled trials evaluating early psychological interventions in the prevention and treatment of SSD/FSS in adults compared with inactive control conditions, standard care, or placebo. Individuals at risk for SSD/FSS, suffering from subthreshold symptoms or new onsets of SSD/FSS, or presenting with SSD/FSS for the first time were included. RESULTS We identified 30 eligible studies, mostly examining pain-related conditions. Interventions were diverse, ranging from bibliotherapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy. We found positive effects on depression post-treatment (Hedges' g = 0.12 [95% confidence interval = 0.03-0.2], k = 5) as well as on somatic symptom severity (g = 0.25 [0.096-0.41], k = 17) and health care utilization (g = 0.31 [0.18-0.44], k = 3) at follow-up. However, because of a high risk of bias, sensitivity to corrections for meta-bias, and missing outcome data, findings should be interpreted cautiously. CONCLUSIONS Our review shows that targeting SSD/FSS at an early stage represents a conceptual and practical challenge. Readily accessible interventions addressing transsymptomatic processes of SSD/FSS development and consolidation are highly needed. Future studies are needed to evaluate individuals with diverse symptoms, examine symptom history thoroughly, use placebo controls, and report outcomes completely to determine the efficacy of early psychological interventions for SSD/FSS.PROSPERO Registration:CRD42020140122.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Berezowski
- From the Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Movement Sciences (Berezowski, Ludwig), University of Hamburg, Hamburg; Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy (Martin), University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy (Löwe, Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; and Department of Psychology (Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf & Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lea Ludwig
- From the Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Movement Sciences (Berezowski, Ludwig), University of Hamburg, Hamburg; Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy (Martin), University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy (Löwe, Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; and Department of Psychology (Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf & Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Martin
- From the Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Movement Sciences (Berezowski, Ludwig), University of Hamburg, Hamburg; Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy (Martin), University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy (Löwe, Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; and Department of Psychology (Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf & Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- From the Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Movement Sciences (Berezowski, Ludwig), University of Hamburg, Hamburg; Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy (Martin), University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy (Löwe, Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; and Department of Psychology (Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf & Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Meike C. Shedden-Mora
- From the Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Movement Sciences (Berezowski, Ludwig), University of Hamburg, Hamburg; Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy (Martin), University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy (Löwe, Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; and Department of Psychology (Shedden-Mora), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf & Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Seesing A, Löwe B, Shedden-Mora M. [Mental and Somatic Health Care Use in Persistent Somatic Symptoms: 4-Year Follow Up of the Network for Somatoform and Functional Disorders (Sofu-Net)]. Psychother Psychosom Med Psychol 2021; 72:179-188. [PMID: 34820822 DOI: 10.1055/a-1663-6647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The stepped, coordinated, interdisciplinary Health Network for Somatoform and Functional Disorders (Sofu-Net) was developed to provide guideline-based care for patients with somatoform and functional disorders. This controlled cluster cohort study evaluated patients' mental and somatic health care use, clinical outcomes, and their predictors at 4-years follow-up. METHOD 219 patients at risk for somatoform disorders from Sofu-Net practices (n=119) and control practices (n=100) were resurveyed after 4 years using structured interviews. Outcomes were mental and somatic health care use, somatic symptom burden and depressive symptoms. RESULTS 127 patients (n=74 Sofu-Net, n=53 controls) were followed up. Compared with the control group, Sofu-Net patients were significantly more likely to be referred to psychotherapy (55.4 vs. 35.8%). Younger age and more frequent GP consultations on the occasion of psychosocial problems predicted mental health care use. No difference was found between the two groups in the severity of clinical symptoms or in the extent of somatic health care use. Significant predictors were the number of somatic diseases, increased fear of illness, female gender, increased depressive symptomatology, low physical and mental quality of life. DISCUSSION In the long term, the coordinated and interdisciplinary network structure succeeded in more successfully referring high-risk patients to psychotherapy. The role of the primary care physician proved to be important. However, this was not accompanied by an improvement in the patients' clinical condition or a decrease in outpatient physician utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Seesing
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Deutschland
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Piontek K, Wiesmann U, Apfelbacher C, Völzke H, Grabe HJ. The association of childhood maltreatment, somatization and health-related quality of life in adult age: Results from a population-based cohort study. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 120:105226. [PMID: 34352685 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Population-based data regarding the relationship between childhood maltreatment (CM), somatization and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adults are limited. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association of CM history (emotional and physical abuse and neglect, sexual abuse) with somatization and with physical and mental HRQoL in adults. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Data from 2305 participants from the population-based Study of Health in Pomerania were analyzed (aged 20 to 80 years). METHODS We applied the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Somatoform disorders were diagnosed according to the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition (DSM-IV) in a clinical interview. Using a self-administered questionnaire, we assessed the number of somatic symptoms and physical and mental HRQoL. RESULTS Sexual abuse was related to the diagnosis of a somatoform disorder (odds ratio [OR] 1.87; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29, 2.69). Emotional abuse and physical neglect were associated with the number of somatic symptoms (B = 0.93; 95% CI 0.42, 1.45 and B = 0.50; 95% CI 0.17, 1.83, respectively). Sexual abuse and physical neglect were related to lower physical HRQoL (B = -1.87; 95% CI -3.17, -0.57 and B = -1.26; 95% CI -2.02, -0.49, respectively), and emotional abuse was associated with lower mental HRQoL (B = -2.83; 95% CI -4.03, -1.62). CONCLUSIONS A history of CM, in particular sexual abuse, emotional abuse and physical neglect, is a risk factor for somatization and impaired HRQoL in adults. Individuals with somatic symptoms are an important target group for CM screening. Addressing HRQoL might be significant in psychotherapy for individuals with CM experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Piontek
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Medical Faculty Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Ulrich Wiesmann
- Institute for Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Christian Apfelbacher
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Medical Faculty Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Henry Völzke
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Hans Jörgen Grabe
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Kullgren KA, Klein EJ, Sturza J, Hutton D, Monroe K, Pardon A, Sroufe N, Malas N. Standardizing Pediatric Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders Care: Clinical Pathway Reduces Health Care Cost and Use. Hosp Pediatr 2020; 10:867-876. [PMID: 32978209 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2020-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric somatic symptom and related disorders (SSRDs) are common with high health care costs and use because of lack of standardized, evidence-based practice. Our hospital implemented a clinical pathway (CP) for SSRD evaluation and management. Our study objective was to evaluate health care cost and use associated with the organization's SSRD CP in the emergency department (ED) and inpatient settings hypothesizing lower cost and use in the CP group relative to controls. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of costs and use before and after implementation of the SSRD CP. Data were collected from the hospital's electronic health record and the Pediatric Health Information System database. Participants included pediatric patients on the CP ("P" group) and control groups with an SSRD diagnosis and mental health consultation either the year before the CP ("C" group) or during the CP study period ("T" group). Primary outcomes included costs, length of stay, diagnostic testing, imaging, subspecialty consultation, and readmission rates. RESULTS The ED P group had more lower-cost imaging, whereas the inpatient T group greater higher-cost imaging than other groups. The inpatient P group had significantly shorter length of stay, fewer subspecialty consults, and lower costs. There were no significant group differences in readmission rates. The CP reduced median total costs per patient encounter by $51 433 for the inpatient group and $6075 for the ED group. CONCLUSIONS The CP group showed significant reductions in health care cost and use after implementation of a CP for SSRD care. In future work, researchers should explore patient and practitioner experience with the SSRD CP and long-term outcomes.
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Shedden-Mora MC, Kuby A, Tönnies J, Piontek K, Löwe B. Stepped, Collaborative, Coordinated Care for Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders (Sofu-Net). ZEITSCHRIFT FUR PSYCHOLOGIE-JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1027/2151-2604/a000405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. To improve early detection and adequate treatment for patients with somatic symptom and related disorders (SSRD), we implemented Sofu-Net, a stepped, collaborative, and coordinated health care network. This mixed-methods study aimed to evaluate Sofu-Net from the health care professionals’ perspective. Network partners (primary care physicians (PCPs), psychotherapists, inpatient mental health clinics) completed an evaluation survey. Following, qualitative analysis of focus groups explored facilitating factors and barriers of Sofu-Net. Of 66 network partners who completed the survey (response 83.5%), the majority was satisfied with Sofu-Net, and perceived improvements regarding management, early detection, and referral to mental health care. Both survey and focus groups identified interdisciplinary collaboration and diagnostic screening as most relevant facilitating factors. Important barriers to implementation included challenges in patient referral and structural factors. Necessary prerequisites for future stepped collaborative care for SSRD include structures facilitating diagnosis, inter-professional collaboration and referral, availability of mental health care, inclusion of comorbidities, and adequate reimbursement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike C. Shedden-Mora
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Amina Kuby
- Department of Nursing and Management, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Justus Tönnies
- Clinic for General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Katharina Piontek
- Institute for Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Maehder K, Löwe B, Härter M, Heddaeus D, von dem Knesebeck O, Weigel A. Psychotherapists' perspectives on collaboration and stepped care in outpatient psychotherapy-A qualitative study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228748. [PMID: 32023303 PMCID: PMC7002019 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Stepped and collaborative care with outpatient psychotherapy as one treatment step is guideline-recommended for mental health care. To date, the experiences and evaluation of psychotherapists regarding collaboration and stepped care have been neglected. In order to improve collaborative mental health care, this qualitative study aimed at identifying psychotherapists’ perspectives and needs within collaboration and stepped care. Methods Semi-structured qualitative interviews with 20 German outpatient psychotherapists were conducted and analyzed applying thematic analysis. The analysis was realized in a recursive process to first identify themes and then relate these themes back to the research questions with regard to collaboration and stepped care. Results Collaboration mainly took place in small networks, with general practitioners and psychiatrists as the most important partners and psychotherapists wishing to intensify collaboration. Main barriers for collaboration were seen in deficient resources and remuneration and in a perceived lack of esteem by other medical specialties. Stepped care was appreciated for intensified collaboration and low-threshold access to care. Doubts were cast on its implementation within current health care conditions, worries concerned a primacy of economic principles instead of patient-orientation. Among further needs, psychotherapists demanded increased knowledge about psychotherapy, especially among general practitioners. Conclusion Psychotherapists expressed ambivalent attitudes towards stepped and collaborative care, substantially influenced by health care conditions and the perceived own standing among care providers. Psychotherapists’ needs within stepped care comprise intensified collaboration, sufficient time, personal and financial resources for collaboration and opportunities for a constructive interprofessional dialogue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Maehder
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Härter
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Heddaeus
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Olaf von dem Knesebeck
- Department of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Angelika Weigel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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von dem Knesebeck O, Lehmann M, Löwe B, Lüdecke D. Causal attributions for somatic symptom disorder. J Psychosom Res 2020; 129:109910. [PMID: 31887458 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2019.109910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Two research questions will be addressed: (1) What does the German public think about possible causes of somatic symptom disorder (SSD) and are there differences in causal attributions according to symptom and course of SSD? (2) Are causal attributions associated with beliefs about treatment and stigmatizing attitudes? METHODS Two vignettes with symptoms of SSD were used in a national telephone survey in Germany (N = 1004). Vignettes differed regarding main type of symptom (pain vs. fatigue) and existence of an earlier somatic disease (yes vs. no). Respondents were asked about their agreement with five causal beliefs (broken home, heredity, lack of willpower, work stress, and misinterpretation of body signals). RESULTS About 90% of the respondents agreed that work stress is a possible cause of the SSD symptoms. Agreement was significantly more pronounced in case of a person with fatigue and an earlier severe somatic disease. A quarter endorsed lack of willpower as a possible cause. Lack of willpower was associated with a significant increase of desire for social distance in both vignettes. Work stress was associated with a significantly increased likelihood of positively evaluating the effectiveness of psychotherapy in both cases of SSD. CONCLUSIONS Public beliefs about causes of SSD are associated with stigma and treatment beliefs. Emphasising work stress as a cause may promote the belief that psychotherapy is effective for treatment of SSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaf von dem Knesebeck
- Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20146 Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Marco Lehmann
- Institute and Outpatients Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Martinistr. 52, 20146 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Institute and Outpatients Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Martinistr. 52, 20146 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Lüdecke
- Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20146 Hamburg, Germany
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Lehmann M, Jonas C, Pohontsch NJ, Zimmermann T, Scherer M, Löwe B. General practitioners' views on the diagnostic innovations in DSM-5 somatic symptom disorder - A focus group study. J Psychosom Res 2019; 123:109734. [PMID: 31376875 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2019.109734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The innovations concerning the new diagnosis somatic symptom disorder (SSD) in the DSM-5 include the introduction of psychological diagnostic criteria and the elimination of the need to exclude all potential somatic causes of the symptoms. Thus far, it is unknown how general practitioners (GPs) evaluate the innovations conceptually and regarding their applicability in primary care. METHOD We performed six focus groups with GPs. A semi-structured interview-guideline included a presentation of the innovations of SSD and questions about the innovations and their potential (dis-)advantages from the GPs' points of view. The material was analyzed using structuring qualitative content analysis. RESULTS A total of 41 GPs participated (mean (sd) age = 51 (8.5) years, female = 17, male = 24). The GPs assessed that the diagnostic innovations could help them to focus on symptom-related concerns and anxiety as core aspects of the patients' complaints. However, the meaning of the term excessive in the psychological diagnostic criteria (i.e., excessive worries, anxiety, time and energy) was ambiguous for the GPs. The GPs appreciated that a mental disorder can be assigned in addition to a severe physical disease. The GPs found it unlikely that diagnostic workup of somatic symptoms would be cut short if the diagnostic criteria of SSD were fulfilled in a given patient. CONCLUSION Altogether, for the GPs, the advantages of the new diagnostic criteria for SSD outweighed the disadvantages. In particular, the newly included psychological criteria were seen as an important advancement in comparison to the previous need of merely excluding a physical disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Lehmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | - Christina Jonas
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | - Nadine Janis Pohontsch
- Department of General Practice/Primary Care, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | - Thomas Zimmermann
- Department of General Practice/Primary Care, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | - Martin Scherer
- Department of General Practice/Primary Care, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
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12
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Kuby AK, Löwe B, Fabisch AB, Piontek K, Härter M, König HH, Shedden-Mora MC. Predictors of Seeking Psychotherapy in Primary Care Patients with High Somatic Symptom Burden. Behav Med 2019; 45:231-239. [PMID: 30526413 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2018.1510366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Many primary care patients with high somatic symptom burden do not initiate mental health treatment. Using a cross-sectional design, this study aimed to identify predictors of psychotherapy seeking behavior for patients with high somatic symptom burden within the last 12 months. Data from 20 primary care practices were analyzed. Patients with high somatic symptom burden were identified using the Patient Health Questionnaire, structured interviews, and information from primary care physicians (PCPs). Within the final sample of 142 patients, 54 (38.03%) had been seeking psychotherapy. More severe somatic symptoms, taking psychopharmacological medication and frequently discussing psychosocial distress with PCPs, were associated with psychotherapy seeking behavior. Depressive and anxiety symptoms, and whether PCPs had diagnosed a somatoform disorder or recommended psychotherapy, were not. The results underline the importance of patient-related factors in psychotherapy seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina K Kuby
- a Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf , Hamburg , Germany.,b Department of Nursing and Management, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences , Hamburg , Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- a Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf , Hamburg , Germany
| | - Alexandra B Fabisch
- a Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf , Hamburg , Germany
| | - Katharina Piontek
- c Institute for Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald , Greifswald , Germany
| | - Martin Härter
- d Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf , Hamburg , Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- e Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf , Hamburg , Germany
| | - Meike C Shedden-Mora
- a Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf , Hamburg , Germany
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13
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Maehder K, Löwe B, Härter M, Heddaeus D, Scherer M, Weigel A. Management of comorbid mental and somatic disorders in stepped care approaches in primary care: a systematic review. Fam Pract 2019; 36:38-52. [PMID: 30535053 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmy122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stepped care models comprise a graded treatment intensity and a systematic monitoring. For an effective implementation, stepped care models have to account for the high rates of mental and somatic comorbidity in primary care. OBJECTIVES The aim of the systematic review was to take stock of whether present stepped care models take comorbidities into consideration. A further aim was to give an overview on treatment components and involved health care professionals. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed using the databases PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library and Web of Science. Selection criteria were a randomized controlled trial of a primary-care-based stepped care intervention, adult samples, publication between 2000 and 2017 and English or German language. RESULTS Of 1009 search results, 39 studies were eligible. One-third of the trials were conceived for depressive disorders only, one-third for depression and further somatic and/or mental comorbidity and one-third for conditions other than depression. In 39% of the studies comorbidities were explicitly integrated in treatment, mainly via transdiagnostic self-management support, interprofessional collaboration and digital approaches for treatment, monitoring and communication. Most care teams were composed of a primary care physician, a care manager and a psychiatrist and/or psychologist. Due to the heterogeneity of the addressed disorders, no meta-analysis was performed. CONCLUSIONS Several stepped care models in primary care already account for comorbidities, with depression being the predominant target disorder. To determine their efficacy, the identified strategies to account for comorbidities should be investigated within stepped care models for a broader range of disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Maehder
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Martin Härter
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Daniela Heddaeus
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Martin Scherer
- Department of General Practice/Primary Care, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Angelika Weigel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
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14
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Kop WJ, Toussaint A, Mols F, Löwe B. Somatic symptom disorder in the general population: Associations with medical status and health care utilization using the SSD-12. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2019; 56:36-41. [PMID: 30578985 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2018.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) is characterized by excessive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors associated with physical symptoms. DSM-5 criteria for SSD focus on these psychological features (criterion B) rather than the presence or absence of an identifiable medical disorder. This study examines the role of medical disorder in the assessment of SSD and associations of SSD with health care utilization. METHOD Participants (N = 448, mean age 46.7 ± 16.9 years, 53.8% women) were recruited from the general community and completed the SSD-12 to quantify DSM-5 Criterion B for SSD. Participants also provided demographic and medical background information. RESULTS The SSD-12 total score was elevated in individuals with a major medical disorder (N = 97: cardiovascular disease, cancer, pulmonary disease or other: SSD-12 = 11.6 ± 8.8), and also among those with medical conditions commonly treated in primary care (N = 46: e.g., migraine, asthma: SSD-12 = 8.3 ± 7.1), compared to those free of these disorders (SSD-12 = 5.8 ± 7.0), which remained significant in age- and sex-adjusted models. Normative values are reported. High SSD-12 scores (≥15) were associated with more health care utilization (adjusted OR primary care visits = 3.35, 95%CI = 1.64-6.87). CONCLUSIONS The SSD-12 is a useful tool for the assessment of SSD. Medical comorbidity is associated with higher SSD-12 scores. Future studies are needed to determine whether SSD is more common in medical patients or whether correction of normative values is needed for screening purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willem J Kop
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychology in Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Tilburg University, the Netherlands.
| | - Anne Toussaint
- Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Institut und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Floortje Mols
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychology in Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Tilburg University, the Netherlands
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Institut und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Hamburg, Germany
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Kohlmann S, Löwe B, Shedden-Mora MC. Health Care for Persistent Somatic Symptoms Across Europe: A Qualitative Evaluation of the EURONET-SOMA Expert Discussion. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:646. [PMID: 30581394 PMCID: PMC6292948 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Persistent somatic symptoms (PSS), referred to as somatoform disorders and lately somatic symptom disorders, are frequent but often remain under-recognized and under-treated. Although European guidelines overlap, presumably, there is large diversity in their practical use and in the actual health care situation. The aim of this qualitative evaluation was to compare health care for PSS across 9 European countries, to illustrate commonalities and differences, and to discuss challenges for a pan-European research agenda. Methods: A case vignette fulfilling ICD-10 criteria of undifferentiated somatization disorder was presented to 24 experts from 9 European countries, who completed a semi-structured assessment regarding the routine management including diagnostic procedures, treatment recommendations, and country-specific health care aspects. A qualitative evaluation was conducted using the video-transcripts of the presentations. Results were validated by additional expert interviews. Results: Across all countries, primary care physicians serve as the gate keeper for further diagnostic and treatment procedures. Apart from this commonality, there is a large variability in health care routines. Experts concluded that individuals with PSS appear to be a non-identified patient group within many European health care systems. To overcome the gap between evidence-based guidelines and clinical reality needs, three key challenges were identified: (1) Defining a clinically useful, acceptable, and non-stigmatizing diagnostic term, (2) implementing guideline recommendations into routine care, (3) developing effective dissemination strategies. Conclusions: The results advocate for more research on the actual European health care situation. A systematic European research agenda with unified goals and interdisciplinary collaboration that integrates all stakeholders could answer this challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Kohlmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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16
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Piontek K, Shedden-Mora MC, Gladigau M, Kuby A, Löwe B. Diagnosis of somatoform disorders in primary care: diagnostic agreement, predictors, and comaprisons with depression and anxiety. BMC Psychiatry 2018; 18:361. [PMID: 30419878 PMCID: PMC6233530 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-018-1940-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate (a) the diagnostic agreement between diagnoses of somatoform disorders, depressive and anxiety disorders obtained from a structured clinical interview and diagnoses reported from primary care physicians (PCPs) and (b) to identify patient and PCP-related predictors for the diagnostic agreement regarding the presence of a somatoform disorder. METHODS Data from a cross-sectional study comprising 112 primary care patients at high risk for somatoform disorders were analyzed. Diagnoses according to International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10) for somatoform, depressive and anxiety disorders were obtained from the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) and compared with the diagnoses of the patients' PCPs documented in their medical records. Using multiple regression analyses, predictors for the PCPs' diagnosis of a somatoform disorder were analyzed. RESULTS The agreement between PCP diagnoses and CIDI diagnoses was 32.3% for somatoform disorders, 48.0% for depressive disorders and 25.0% for anxiety disorders. Multiple regression analyses revealed the likelihood of being diagnosed with a somatoform disorder by PCP increased with somatic symptom severity (OR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.03-1.44). Regarding PCP-related characteristics, a specialization in internal medicine (OR = 5.95, 95% CI 1.70-20.80) and working in a solo practice (OR = 2.92, 95% CI 1.02-8.38) increased the likelihood that patients were diagnosed with a somatoform disorder. CONCLUSIONS The present results indicate that the process of diagnosing somatoform disorders in primary care needs to be improved. Findings further underline the necessity to implement appropriate strategies to improve early detection of patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN ISRCTN55870770 . Registered 22 October 2014. Retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Piontek
- Institute for Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany. .,Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Meike C. Shedden-Mora
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maria Gladigau
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Amina Kuby
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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17
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Hüsing P, Löwe B, Piontek K, Shedden-Mora M. Somatoform disorder in primary care: The influence of co-morbidity with anxiety and depression on health care utilization. J Eval Clin Pract 2018; 24:892-900. [PMID: 29498165 DOI: 10.1111/jep.12898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE, AIMS, AND OBJECTIVES Patients with somatoform disorders are frequent attenders in primary and secondary care. While co-morbid mental disorders, especially depression and anxiety, are frequently present, there is controversy on whether mental co-morbidity leads to higher health care utilization (HCU). The present paper investigates the influence of co-morbid depressive and anxiety disorders on primary, specialized somatic and mental HCU in primary care patients with somatoform disorders. Additionally, we investigated the predictive value of self-rated health and illness perception on HCU. METHODS Patients in 19 primary care practices were screened with the Patient Health Questionnaire, and patients at high risk for somatoform disorders were assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. N = 71 patients with somatoform disorders were analysed. We analysed whether having one vs two co-morbidities (depression and/or anxiety), self-rated health, and illness perception were predictors for primary, specialized somatic and mental HCU using binominal and hierarchical regression analyses. RESULTS Having both co-morbid depressive and anxiety disorder predicted higher primary HCU (IRR = 1.96, 95% CI, 1.30-2.93), and increased the odds of being in mental health care (OR = 5.16, 95% CI, 1.10-24.20), while only one co-morbidity did not. No differences were found for specialized somatic HCU. Illness perception and self-rated health did not predict HCU. CONCLUSION Not a single but only the presence of multiple co-morbidities predicts primary and mental HCU in patients with somatoform disorder. Health care utilization might be essentially influenced by the associated psychological distress, which should be considered in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Hüsing
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf & Schön Clinic Hamburg-Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf & Schön Clinic Hamburg-Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Piontek
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf & Schön Clinic Hamburg-Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany.,Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical School, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Meike Shedden-Mora
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf & Schön Clinic Hamburg-Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany
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Abstract
Functional neurological disorders are conceptualized as patterns of neurological symptoms that cannot be attributed to a clear organic etiology. The study by Wilkins et al. in this issue of Psychosomatic Medicine reveals that 8.2% of patients who were initially presented with suspected stroke were later diagnosed with functional disorders, i.e., "functional stroke mimics." However, the percentage of functional stroke mimics varied substantially with patients' nationality, age, and sex. In this editorial comment, we discuss potential reasons for the intercultural variation of the frequency of functional stroke mimics.The current models of symptom perception, in which symptom perception is guided by top-down processes of the central nervous system, are helpful in explaining the intercultural variation of functional symptoms. According to these models, cultural beliefs, previous illnesses, and stressful life situations influence patients' expectations, sensory input, and finally the perception of somatic symptoms. In addition, differences in insurance status, health literacy, and health care experiences are strong predictors of health care use in patients who experience somatic symptoms.This article provides a conceptual model that integrates sociocultural factors with symptom perception and health care use relevant to the different rates of functional somatic symptoms in emergency departments across nationalities. Considering these factors, future attempts to improve care for patients with functional disorders should enhance access to effective treatment for all patient groups, empower patients through education and early participation in the treatment process, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration among specialists from somatic and mental health disciplines.
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Duration of untreated illness in patients with somatoform disorders. J Psychosom Res 2018; 107:1-6. [PMID: 29502757 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2018.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A long duration of untreated mental illness (DUI) has been found to be associated with negative long-term outcomes. Although somatic symptom and related disorders are frequent in the general population and in primary care, data regarding the DUI of these disorders is scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate the DUI in patients with somatoform disorders. METHODS In a cross-sectional study, primary care patients at high risk of having a somatoform disorder were identified using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ). In a second step, life-time somatoform disorder diagnosis was established using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). Additionally, DUI was retrospectively assessed via self-reporting and sociodemographic information was collected. Survival analysis was used to estimate the DUI and to identify patient-related predictors of DUI. RESULTS A total of 139 patients with somatoform disorders were included in the analyses. The mean DUI in these patients was 25.2years (median 23.1years). Higher education significantly predicted shorter DUI, whereas gender and age of onset were unrelated to DUI. CONCLUSIONS The results reveal a substantial delay in adequate treatment of patients with somatoform disorders. The reported DUI emphasizes the importance of improvements in the management of patients with these disorders.
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20
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Jordan P, Shedden-Mora MC, Löwe B. Predicting suicidal ideation in primary care: An approach to identify easily assessable key variables. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2018; 51:106-111. [PMID: 29428582 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To obtain predictors of suicidal ideation, which can also be used for an indirect assessment of suicidal ideation (SI). To create a classifier for SI based on variables of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) and sociodemographic variables, and to obtain an upper bound on the best possible performance of a predictor based on those variables. METHODS From a consecutive sample of 9025 primary care patients, 6805 eligible patients (60% female; mean age = 51.5 years) participated. Advanced methods of machine learning were used to derive the prediction equation. Various classifiers were applied and the area under the curve (AUC) was computed as a performance measure. RESULTS Classifiers based on methods of machine learning outperformed ordinary regression methods and achieved AUCs around 0.87. The key variables in the prediction equation comprised four items - namely feelings of depression/hopelessness, low self-esteem, worrying, and severe sleep disturbances. The generalized anxiety disorder scale (GAD-7) and the somatic symptom subscale (PHQ-15) did not enhance prediction substantially. CONCLUSIONS In predicting suicidal ideation researchers should refrain from using ordinary regression tools. The relevant information is primarily captured by the depression subscale and should be incorporated in a nonlinear model. For clinical practice, a classification tree using only four items of the whole PHQ may be advocated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Jordan
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and Schön Klinik Hamburg Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany; Psychological Methods, Faculty for Psychology and Human Movement Science, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Meike C Shedden-Mora
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and Schön Klinik Hamburg Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and Schön Klinik Hamburg Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany.
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21
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von dem Knesebeck O, Löwe B, Lehmann M, Makowski AC. Public Beliefs About Somatic Symptom Disorders. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:616. [PMID: 30515112 PMCID: PMC6255972 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Despite satisfactory effectiveness of treatment for somatic symptom disorders (SSD), treatment rates are low and treatment is usually initiated many years after first symptoms. In order to understand whether a lack of public mental health literacy might contribute to these poor treatment rates, we aimed to focus on two research questions: (1) What does the German public know and think about SSD? (2) Are knowledge and beliefs associated with socio-demographic factors and experiences with the disorder? Methods: Two vignettes with symptoms of a SSD were used in a national telephone survey in Germany (N = 1,004). Vignettes differed regarding main type of symptom (pain vs. fatigue) and existence of an earlier somatic disease (yes vs. no). Respondents were asked concerning knowledge and beliefs about causes, symptoms, and treatment using a standardized questionnaire. Results: 66% of the respondents agreed that a possible cause of the symptoms is a misinterpretation of body signals. About 1/3 recognized a mental health problem when confronted with the vignettes of cases with SSD. This rate was lower in case of a SSD with pain as the main symptom without a comorbid somatic disease (24.8%, 95%-CI: 21.1-28.6) compared to a case with fatigue as the main symptom and an earlier severe somatic disease (44.0%, 95%-CI: 39.6-48.3). Female respondents tended to have a more positive view on treatability and effectiveness of psychotherapy, while associations of knowledge and beliefs with education and age were inconsistent. Respondents who had contact with a person with SSD were more likely to think that psychotherapy is effective and that they know a lot about SSD compared to those who never had contact. Conclusions: While most of the German public seems to be well informed about causes of SSD as well as treatability and the effectiveness of psychotherapy, the majority has problems with interpreting symptoms and does not think they know a lot about symptoms like that. Increasing knowledge about SSD by education interventions may help to promote adequate help seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaf von dem Knesebeck
- Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Institute and Outpatients Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marco Lehmann
- Institute and Outpatients Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anna C Makowski
- Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Jordan P, Shedden-Mora MC, Löwe B. Psychometric analysis of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) in primary care using modern item response theory. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0182162. [PMID: 28771530 PMCID: PMC5542568 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0182162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) is one of the most frequently used diagnostic self-report scales for screening, diagnosis and severity assessment of anxiety disorder. Its psychometric properties from the view of the Item Response Theory paradigm have rarely been investigated. We aimed to close this gap by analyzing the GAD-7 within a large sample of primary care patients with respect to its psychometric properties and its implications for scoring using Item Response Theory. METHODS Robust, nonparametric statistics were used to check unidimensionality of the GAD-7. A graded response model was fitted using a Bayesian approach. The model fit was evaluated using posterior predictive p-values, item information functions were derived and optimal predictions of anxiety were calculated. RESULTS The sample included N = 3404 primary care patients (60% female; mean age, 52,2; standard deviation 19.2) The analysis indicated no deviations of the GAD-7 scale from unidimensionality and a decent fit of a graded response model. The commonly suggested ultra-brief measure consisting of the first two items, the GAD-2, was supported by item information analysis. The first four items discriminated better than the last three items with respect to latent anxiety. CONCLUSION The information provided by the first four items should be weighted more heavily. Moreover, estimates corresponding to low to moderate levels of anxiety show greater variability. The psychometric validity of the GAD-2 was supported by our analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Jordan
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and Schön Klinik Hamburg Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Psychological Methods, Faculty of Psychology and Movement Sciences. University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Meike C. Shedden-Mora
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and Schön Klinik Hamburg Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and Schön Klinik Hamburg Eilbek, Hamburg, Germany
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Abstract
The new Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition defines somatic symptom and related disorders as long-standing somatic symptoms that are associated with disproportionate thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, irrespective of whether or not a medical cause for these symptoms can be determined. In this Special Section of Psychosomatic Medicine, several articles address diagnostic issues and the central nervous system correlates of somatic symptom and related disorder and document new developments in its treatment.
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