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Hao A, Sadrolashrafi K, Kikuchi R, Guo L, Yamamoto RK, Tolson HC, Bilimoria S, Yee D, Hu JC, Armstrong AW. Teledermatology Use in the Elderly: An Analysis of Teledermatology Utilization Patterns Across Age Groups. Telemed J E Health 2024. [PMID: 39119704 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2024.0169] [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: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Telehealth is an emerging tool used to improve access to care for patients. However, there is a lack of literature comparing the use of telehealth between patients of different age groups in dermatology. Our study aims to determine whether differences exist in teledermatology usage between elderly and younger dermatology patients. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using the 2020-2021 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Our study population included a weighted total of 150,290,604 patients: Of these, 16.35% were young adults (18-44 years old), 26.32% were midlife adults (45-64 years old), and 57.33% were elderly (65+ years old). Results: Our results showed that elderly patients had significantly lower rates of teledermatology use than young adults (odds ratio [OR] = 0.184, (confidence interval [CI]: 0.081-0.421)), p < 0.000) and midlife adults (OR = 0.193, [CI: 0.091-0.406], p < 0.000). Midlife adults had similar rates of telehealth use when compared with young adults (OR = 1.044, [CI: 0.508-2.145], p = 0.907). Our results were adjusted for sex, race, ethnicity, insurance type, education level, income, travel time, and medical comorbidities. Discussion: We found that elderly patients seeking dermatology care are less likely to use telehealth than younger dermatology patients. Our results demonstrate that barriers to telehealth use for the elderly may be more prohibitive than expected. Understanding these differences in teledermatology use is essential for improving teledermatology delivery across all age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Hao
- Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Robin Kikuchi
- Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lily Guo
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rebecca K Yamamoto
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Hannah C Tolson
- University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Sara Bilimoria
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Danielle Yee
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jenny C Hu
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - April W Armstrong
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Colburn DA. The Impact of Telehealth Expansion on Health Care Utilization, Access, and Outcomes During the Pandemic: A Systematic Review. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:1401-1410. [PMID: 38100326 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented change to the health care industry, including a large and rapid shift to providing care through telehealth technologies. Although the expansion of telehealth services was successful in continuing to provide patients with care while preventing the spread of disease, it is less clear how patient sociodemographic characteristics influenced telehealth use during this time. This study aims to systematically review the published literature on demographic differences in telehealth access, utilization, and health outcomes among a variety of adult patient types in the United States. Methods: Litcovid, PubMed, Web of Science, and MEDLINE databases were searched, resulting in a final sample of n = 32 studies. Results: Results found that studies could be categorized as addressing at least one of eight different areas of inquiry: sociodemographic differences in telehealth use (1) during and (2) before the pandemic, telehealth use versus nonuse (3) during and (4) before the pandemic, (5) telehealth modality, (6) satisfaction with telehealth, (7) outcomes associated with telehealth use, and (8) perceived or actual access to telehealth services. Discussion: Findings are robust across included studies with respect to racial, age, and socioeconomic differences in telehealth utilization and health outcomes, reflecting sociodemographic differences in health care access, utilization, and outcomes more broadly that persist despite this expansion of telehealth services owing to COVID-19. Additional findings across studies are summarized and areas for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre A Colburn
- Crimes against Children Research Center, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA
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Yang E, Kim MJ, Lee KH. Internet use and difficulties in acquiring health resources among older adults with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:534. [PMID: 38378508 PMCID: PMC10880240 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17922-2] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The various restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic may have worsened the digital divide and health inequality. However, research to ascertain the association between Internet use and difficulties in acquiring health resources among older adults with disabilities is scarce. This study aimed to explore the relationship between Internet use and difficulties in acquiring health resources among older adults with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore the associated factors by disability severity. METHODS Data from the 2020 survey of people with disabilities in South Korea were used. This secondary analysis study included 4,871 older adults aged 55 and above among 7,025 total responders. Complex sample logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the association between Internet use and difficulties in acquiring health resources during the pandemic. RESULTS Only 23.66% of older adults with disabilities used the Internet. Internet non-users were more likely to experience difficulties in obtaining health resources than Internet users. The relationship between Internet non-use and difficulties in acquiring COVID-19-related information (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.28-1.92) and buying and using personal protective equipment (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.11-1.65) were statistically significant in the overall sample. Whereas, difficulties with using medical services were not statistically significantly associated with Internet use. Additionally, factors associated with difficulties in acquiring health resources differed by disability severity. CONCLUSIONS Considering that older adults with disabilities experience triple the burden amid COVID-19 due to old age, disabilities, and the digital divide, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and engineers should aim to narrow the gaps between Internet users and Internet non-users among this population. Narrowing the gaps will make decreasing health gaps and increasing well-being among older adults with disabilities more attainable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunjin Yang
- College of Nursing, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Min Jung Kim
- Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Nursing, 50-1 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Hee Lee
- Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Nursing, 50-1 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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Chen S, Niu M, Ngai CSB. What is the next step of ICT development? The changes of ICT use in promoting elderly healthcare access: A systematic literature review. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25197. [PMID: 38371988 PMCID: PMC10873661 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to undertake a comprehensive review of the evidence published, with a focus on understanding the experiences of the elderly in leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for their healthcare needs during the COVID-19 period. In compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, this review scrutinized all peer-reviewed articles in English sourced from PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science, targeting studies that focused exclusively on the elderly within the COVID-19 timeframe, incorporated ICT-based technology as intervention, and were associated with the assessment of the process of employing ICT for healthcare needs. The search strategy identified 1752 records, of which 34 studies met the inclusion criteria. The functionality of ICT was categorized, types of barriers were identified, and the subsequent changes that the elderly population underwent were synthesized and deliberated. This review offers valuable insights into the elderly's subjective experiences in utilizing ICT, which may offer guidance for future ICT development geared towards enhancing the well-being of the elderly. Future research should incorporate the perspectives of relevant healthcare providers in evaluating the effectiveness of ICT usage. Further studies are also needed on underserved elderly groups to provide a more holistic view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihui Chen
- The Department of Chinese and Bilingual Studies, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Mengyuan Niu
- Division of Public Policy, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong
| | - Cindy Sing Bik Ngai
- The Department of Chinese and Bilingual Studies, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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Angelopoulou E, Kontaxopoulou D, Fragkiadaki S, Stanitsa E, Pavlou D, Papatriantafyllou J, Koros C, Dimovski V, Šemrov D, Papageorgiou SG. Perceptions of Patients, Caregivers, and Healthcare Professionals toward Telemedicine Use for Cognitive and Movement Disorders in the Aegean Islands, Greece: A Pilot Study of the SI4CARE European Project. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 9:3. [PMID: 38247978 PMCID: PMC10801565 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics9010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with neurodegenerative diseases who live in remote areas often have limited access to specialized healthcare, and telemedicine represents a useful solution. The aim of this study was to investigate the perceptions toward the use of a specialized-tertiary telemedicine service of patients with cognitive and movement disorders, caregivers, and local healthcare professionals (HPs) in the Aegean Islands. METHODS Data were derived from the "Specialized Outpatient Clinic of Memory, Dementia and Parkinson's disease through the National Telemedicine Network", March 2021-March 2023. The survey included 10 questions (5-point Likert scale). RESULTS We received 64 questionnaires (25 patients, 18 caregivers, 21 HPs). Most participants positively perceived all aspects of telemedicine, including comfort (mean ± standard deviation: patients 4.5 ± 0.9, caregivers: 4.8 ± 0.5, HPs: 4.6 ± 0.7), access to specialized care (4.7 ± 0.6, 4.7 ± 0.5, 4.9 ± 0.4), number of transportations (4.6 ± 0.8, 4.6 ± 0.9, 4.8 ± 0.5), adequacy of follow-up (4.6 ± 0.7, 4.4 ± 0.8, 4.2 ± 0.7), future telemedicine selection (4.8 ± 0.4, 4.8 ± 0.4, 4.6 ± 0.6), perceived reliable medical assessment (4.7 ± 0.5, 4.6 ± 0.6, 4.3 ± 0.6), information delivery (4.7 ± 0.6, 4.6 ± 0.5, 4.4 ± 0.9), health status improvement (4.6 ± 0.7, 4.6 ± 0.6, 4.0 ± 0.7), cost (4.6 ± 1, 4.6 ± 1, 5.0 ± 0.2), and general satisfaction (4.8 ± 0.4, 4.7 ± 0.5, 4.5 ± 0.6). The commonest recommendations were more frequent visits, medical specialties, and dissemination of information. CONCLUSIONS The positive perception of participants highlights the value of telemedicine for specialized healthcare for neurodegenerative disorders, especially in remote areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthalia Angelopoulou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Dionysia Kontaxopoulou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Stella Fragkiadaki
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Evangelia Stanitsa
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Dimosthenis Pavlou
- School of Topography and Geoinformatics, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 12243 Aigalew, Greece;
| | - John Papatriantafyllou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Christos Koros
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Vlado Dimovski
- School of Economics and Business, University of Ljubljana, Kardeljeva ploščad 17, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Darja Šemrov
- Faculty of Civic and Geodetic Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Jamova Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sokratis G. Papageorgiou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
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Choi SL, Carr D, Namkung EH. Telehealth Use Among Older Adults With Sensory, Cognitive, and Physical Impairments: A Substitute or Supplement to Traditional Care? J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2023; 78:1735-1746. [PMID: 37422799 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbad098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Telehealth use flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic, as older patients faced obstacles to seeking in-person care. Heavy reliance on telehealth may continue postpandemic, due to increased Medicare investments in its use. However, it is unclear if older adults with disabilities face obstacles to effective telehealth use. We evaluate (a) how sensory, physical, and cognitive impairments affect older adults' use of telehealth only, traditional in-person care only, neither, or both (i.e., combined care); and (b) whether these patterns differ on the basis of socioeconomic and social resources that may facilitate telehealth use. METHOD Data are from the Self-Administered Questionnaire in the 2020 wave of the Health and Retirement Study (n = 4,453). We estimated multinomial logistic regression models to evaluate associations between impairments and health care service use and tested 2-way interaction terms to evaluate moderation effects. RESULTS Persons without impairments were most likely to use combined care, considered the optimal form of care. Persons with vision or cognitive impairment were more likely to use telehealth or traditional care only, whereas persons with 3 or more physical limitations were least likely to use telehealth alone, relative to combined care. Patterns did not differ significantly on the basis of any of the potential moderators. DISCUSSION We discuss implications for health care policy and practice, in light of reimbursement changes proposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for telehealth services. These proposals include the elimination of voice-only services which may be particularly beneficial to vision-impaired older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinae L Choi
- Department of Consumer Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Deborah Carr
- Department of Sociology and Center for Innovation in Social Science, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eun Ha Namkung
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
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7
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Le R, Mendez I, Ponce SA, Green A, El-Toukhy S, Nápoles AM, Strassle PD. Telehealth access, willingness, and barriers during the COVID-19 pandemic among a nationally representative diverse sample of U.S. adults with and without chronic health conditions. J Telemed Telecare 2023:1357633X231199522. [PMID: 37709268 PMCID: PMC10937324 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x231199522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth services represented a critical tool in maintaining continuity and access to care for adults in the USA. However, despite improvements in access and utilization during the pandemic, disparities in telehealth utilization have persisted. It is unclear what role access and willingness to use telehealth play in telehealth disparities. METHODS We used data from the nationally representative COVID-19's Unequal Racial Burden (CURB) survey, an online survey conducted between December 2020 and February 2021, n = 5500. Multivariable Poisson regression was used to estimate the prevalence of perceived telehealth access and willingness to use telehealth services among adults with and without chronic conditions. RESULTS Overall, 60.1% of adults with and 38.7% of adults without chronic conditions reported having access to telehealth. After adjustment, adults with chronic conditions were more likely to report telehealth access (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.21-1.50). Most adults with and without chronic conditions reported being willing to use telehealth services (85.1% and 79.8%, respectively), and no significant differences in willingness were observed across chronic condition status (aPR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.95-1.13). Perceived telehealth access appeared to be a predictor of telehealth willingness in both groups (chronic conditions: aPR = 1.22, 95% CI = 0.97-1.54; no chronic conditions: aPR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.22-1.54). The prevalence of perceived barriers to telehealth was low, with the majority reporting no barriers (chronic conditions = 51.4%; no chronic conditions = 61.4%). DISCUSSION Perceived access to telehealth was associated with telehealth willingness. Investing in approaches that increase telehealth accessibility and awareness is needed to improve access to telehealth for adults with and without chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy Le
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Izabelle Mendez
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Stephanie A Ponce
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alexis Green
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sherine El-Toukhy
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anna M Nápoles
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Paula D Strassle
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Liu L, Alford-Teaster J, Onega T, Wang F. Refining 2SVCA Method for Measuring Telehealth Accessibility of Primary Care Physicians in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. CITIES (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 138:104364. [PMID: 37274944 PMCID: PMC10237453 DOI: 10.1016/j.cities.2023.104364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Equity in health care delivery is a longstanding concern of public health policy. Telehealth is considered an important way to level the playing field by broadening health services access and improving quality of care and health outcomes. This study refines the recently developed "2-Step Virtual Catchment Area (2SVCA) method" to assess the telehealth accessibility of primary care in the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Statistical Area, Louisiana. The result is compared to that of spatial accessibility via physical visits to care providers based on the popular 2-Step Floating Catchment Area (2SFCA) method. The study shows that both spatial and telehealth accessibilities decline from urban to low-density and then rural areas. Moreover, disproportionally higher percentages of African Americans are in areas with higher spatial accessibility scores; but such an advantage is not realized in telehealth accessibility. In the study area, absence of broadband availability is mainly a rural problem and leads to a lower average telehealth accessibility than physical accessibility in rural areas. On the other side, lack of broadband affordability is a challenge across the rural-urban continuum and is disproportionally associated with high concentrations of disadvantaged population groups such as households under the poverty level and Blacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingbo Liu
- Department of Urban Planning, School of Urban Design, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Center for Geographic Analysis, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Jennifer Alford-Teaster
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Lebanon, NH 03755, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03755, USA
| | - Tracy Onega
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah; Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Fahui Wang
- Graduate School and Department of Geography and Anthropology, Louisiana State University, LA 70803, USA
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Kornblith E, Schweizer S, Abrams G, Gardner R, Barnes D, Yaffe K, Novakovic-Agopian T. Telehealth delivery of group-format cognitive rehabilitation to older veterans with TBI: a mixed-methods pilot study. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. ADULT 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37044120 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2023.2199160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common among Veterans and may interact with aging, increasing risk for negative cognitive, emotional, and functional outcomes. However, no accessible (i.e., in-home) group interventions for TBI targeted to older adults exist. Goal Oriented Attentional Self-Regulation (GOALS) is a manualized, group cognitive rehabilitation training that improves executive function and emotional regulation among Veterans with TBI and healthy older adults. Our objectives were to adapt GOALS for delivery to older Veterans via in-home video telehealth (IVT) and evaluate feasibility and participant-rated acceptability of the telehealth GOALS intervention (TeleGOALS). Six Veterans 69+, with multiple TBIs completed the 10-session intervention in groups of 2. One participant withdrew, and another completed the remaining sessions alone (total n enrolled = 8). Required adaptations were noted; questionnaire responses were quantified; and feedback was analyzed and coded to identify themes. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to examine feasibility (i.e., recruitment and retention) and participant-rated acceptability. Minimal adaptations were required for IVT delivery. Key themes emerged: (a) the importance of telehealth logistics, (b) facilitators' roles in prioritizing interpersonal connection, and (c) telehealth's capability to create opportunities for community reintegration. Thematic saturation (the point at which feedback from respondents is consistent and no further adaptations are required) was achieved. Participants stated they would likely recommend TeleGOALS to other Veterans. Although further study with a larger, more diverse sample is required, the adapted TeleGOALS intervention appears highly feasible and acceptable for older Veterans with TBI able and willing to participate in a group-format IVT intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Kornblith
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sara Schweizer
- Northern California Institute for Research and Education, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gary Abrams
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Raquel Gardner
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Deborah Barnes
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kristine Yaffe
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
- Northern California Institute for Research and Education, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tatjana Novakovic-Agopian
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
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Taylor KL, Webster MA, Philips JG, Whealan JM, Lobo T, Davis KM, Breece CJ, Wheeley JR, Childs JE, Le AQ, Williams RM, Veytsman IG, Kim C. Integrating Tobacco Use Assessment and Treatment in the Oncology Setting: Quality Improvement Results from the Georgetown Lombardi Smoking Treatment and Recovery Program. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:3755-3775. [PMID: 37185398 PMCID: PMC10136485 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30040285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
As part of the NCI’s Cancer Center Cessation (C3i) initiative, we initiated, expanded, and maintained an evidence-based tobacco treatment program at the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. We present a quality improvement (QI) assessment of the implementation process and patient-level outcomes. At two hematology/oncology outpatient clinical sites, five oncology-based teams (clinical administrators, clinical staff, pharmacy, information technology, and tobacco treatment staff) developed implementation strategies for opt-out patient assessment and enrollment, centralized tobacco treatment, audit, feedback, and staff training. Among eligible patients (tobacco use in ≤30 days), we assessed demographic, clinical, and tobacco-related characteristics to examine predictors of enrollment (baseline completed), treatment engagement (≥one sessions completed), and self-reported 7-day abstinence (6 months post-enrollment). Across both sites, medical assistants screened 19,344 (82.4%) patients for tobacco use, which identified 1345 (7.0%) current tobacco users, in addition to 213 clinician referrals. Of the 687/1256 (54.7%) eligible patients reached, 301 (43.8%) enrolled, and 199 (29.0%) engaged in treatment, of whom 74.5% were African American and 68% were female. At the larger site, significant multivariate predictors of enrollment included African American race (vs. white/other) and clinician referral (vs. MA assessment). Treatment engagement was predicted by greater nicotine dependence, and abstinence (27.4%) was predicted by greater treatment engagement. In summary, the systematic utilization of multiple oncology-based teams and implementation strategies resulted in the development and maintenance of a high-quality, population-based approach to tobacco treatment. Importantly, these strategies addressed inequities in tobacco treatment, as the program reached and engaged a majority-African-American patient population. Finally, the opt-out patient assessment strategy has been implemented in multiple oncology settings at MedStar Health through the Commission on Cancer’s Just Ask program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L Taylor
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Marguerite A Webster
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Joanna G Philips
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Julia M Whealan
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Tania Lobo
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Kimberly M Davis
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Georgetown University Hospital, MedStar Health, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Chavalia J Breece
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC 20007, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Jennifer R Wheeley
- Department of Medical Oncology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Jack E Childs
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Ariel Q Le
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Randi M Williams
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Irina G Veytsman
- Department of Medical Oncology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Chul Kim
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
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11
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Rosenlund M, Kinnunen UM, Saranto K. The Use of Digital Health Services Among Patients and Citizens Living at Home: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44711. [PMID: 36972122 PMCID: PMC10131924 DOI: 10.2196/44711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of digital health services reflects not only the technical development of services but also a change in attitude and the way of thinking. It has become a cornerstone for engaging and activating patients and citizens in health management while living at home. Digital health services are also aimed at enhancing the efficiency and quality of services, while simultaneously providing services more cost-effectively. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated worldwide the development and use of digital services in response to requirements for social distancing and other regulations. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is to identify and summarize how digital health services are being used among patients and citizens while living at home. METHODS The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews was used as guidance. A search conducted in 3 databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus) resulted in 419 papers. The reporting was conducted by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR), and the analysis of the included papers was performed using a framework consisting of 5 clusters describing the use of digital health services. After screening and excluding papers that did not match the inclusion criteria, 88 (21%) papers from 2010 to 2022 were included in the final analysis. RESULTS Results indicated that digital health services are used in different situations and among different kinds of populations. In most studies, digital health services were used in the form of video visits or consultations. The telephone was also used regularly for consultations. Other services, such as remote monitoring and transmitting of recorded information and the use the of internet or portals for searching information, were observed as well. Alerts, emergency systems, and reminders were observed to offer possibilities of use, for example, among older people. The digital health services also showed to have potential for use in patient education. CONCLUSIONS The development of digital services reflects a shift toward the provision of care regardless of time and place. It also reflects a shift toward emphasis on patient-centered care, meaning activating and engaging patients in their own care as they use digital services for various health-related purposes. Despite the development of digital services, many challenges (eg, adequate infrastructure) still prevail worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milla Rosenlund
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ulla-Mari Kinnunen
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- The Finnish Centre for Evidence-Based Health Care: A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kaija Saranto
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- The Finnish Centre for Evidence-Based Health Care: A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Helsinki, Finland
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12
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He Q, Keith D, Eckhoff DO, Park C, Ng BP. Accessibility and Utilization of Telehealth Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Medicare Beneficiaries by Diabetes Status. Res Gerontol Nurs 2023; 16:134-146. [PMID: 36881008 DOI: 10.3928/19404921-20230301-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Due to the influence types of telehealth services (i.e., phone and/or video) can have on patient care and outcomes, we sought to examine factors associated with the types of telehealth services offered and used among Medicare beneficiaries. We analyzed the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey COVID-19 Public Use File (N = 1,403 and N = 2,218 for individuals with and without diabetes, respectively) and performed multinomial logit models to examine factors (e.g., sociodemographics, comorbidities, digital access/knowledge) associated with types of telehealth services offered and used among beneficiaries aged ≥65 years by diabetes status. Medicare beneficiaries seemed to prefer using telehealth via phone than video. Regardless of diabetes status, having not previously participated in video or voice calls or conferencing can be a barrier to telehealth being offered and used via video for beneficiaries. For older adults with diabetes, disparities in accessibility of telehealth via video by income and languages spoken other than English were observed. [Research in Gerontological Nursing, xx(x), xx-xx.].
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13
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Savira F, Yuen E, Ugalde A, Graham K, Peeters A. Long telephone consultations for GP appointments: evidence versus policy. Med J Aust 2023; 218:150-152. [PMID: 36682733 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Feby Savira
- Deakin Health Economics, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC.,Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC
| | - Eva Yuen
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Anna Ugalde
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC
| | | | - Anna Peeters
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC
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14
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Ekwegh T, Cobb S, Adinkrah EK, Vargas R, Kibe LW, Sanchez H, Waller J, Ameli H, Bazargan M. Factors Associated with Telehealth Utilization among Older African Americans in South Los Angeles during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2675. [PMID: 36768041 PMCID: PMC9915549 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic transformed healthcare delivery with the expansive use of telemedicine. However, health disparities may result from lower adoption of telehealth among African Americans. This study examined how under-resourced, older African Americans with chronic illnesses use telehealth, including related sociodemographic and COVID-19 factors. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, 150 middle-aged and older African Americans were recruited from faith-based centers from March 2021 to August 2022. Data collected included sociodemographics, comorbidities, technological device ownership, internet usage, and attitudes toward COVID-19 disease and vaccination. Descriptive statistics and multivariable regression models were conducted to identify factors associated with telehealth use. RESULTS Of the 150 participants, 32% had not used telehealth since the COVID-19 pandemic, with 75% reporting no home internet access and 38% having no cellular/internet network on their mobile device. Age, access to a cellular network on a mobile device, and wireless internet at home were significantly associated with the utilization of telehealth care. Higher anxiety and stress with an increased perceived threat of COVID-19 and positive attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination were associated with telehealth utilization. DISCUSSION Access and integration of telehealth services were highlighted as challenges for this population of African Americans. To reduce disparities, expansion of subsidized wireless internet access in marginalized communities is necessitated. Education outreach and training by healthcare systems and community health workers to improve uptake of telehealth currently and post-COVID-19 should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tavonia Ekwegh
- Mervyn M. Dymally School of Nursing (MMDSON), Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Sharon Cobb
- Mervyn M. Dymally School of Nursing (MMDSON), Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Edward K. Adinkrah
- Department of Family Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Roberto Vargas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Lucy W. Kibe
- Physician Assistant Program, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Humberto Sanchez
- Office of Research, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Joe Waller
- Office of Research, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Hoorolnesa Ameli
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mellie’s Bank Hospital, Tehran 1135933763, Iran
| | - Mohsen Bazargan
- Department of Family Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
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15
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Campanozzi LL, Gibelli F, Bailo P, Nittari G, Sirignano A, Ricci G. The role of digital literacy in achieving health equity in the third millennium society: A literature review. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1109323. [PMID: 36891330 PMCID: PMC9986277 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1109323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare in the third millennium is largely delivered through systems involving the use of the technological devices and services, foremost among them telemedicine. For the adequate delivery of digital medicine services, however, it is necessary for users to be digitally literate, that is, able to consciously make use of technology. In order to understand how relevant digital literacy is in determining the effectiveness of e-Health services, we performed a traditional literature review on 3 major databases by combining the terms "Digital Literacy" and "Computer Literacy" with the terms "Telemedicine" and "Telehealth". Starting from an initial library of 1,077 papers, we selected 38 articles. At the outcome of the search, we found that digital literacy is a pivotal element in conditioning the effectiveness of telemedicine and digital medicine services in general, however, with some limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Filippo Gibelli
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Paolo Bailo
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Giulio Nittari
- Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Centre, School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Ascanio Sirignano
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Giovanna Ricci
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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16
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Nedeljko AM, Bogataj PDD, Perović APDBT, Kaučič APDBM. Digital literacy during the coronavirus pandemic in older adults: Literature Review and Research Agenda. IFAC-PAPERSONLINE 2022; 55:153-158. [PMID: 38620995 PMCID: PMC9764837 DOI: 10.1016/j.ifacol.2022.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Demographic change in the developed world is leading to a higher proportion of older adults and longer life expectancy. Measures to control the coronavirus disease have affected older adults the most. Social isolation and access to remote health services has been a problem for many people. We have used the method of scientific literature review. The selection of articles was made in accordance with the following inclusion criteria: accessibility, scientificity, content relevance and topicality. After selection, the results were analysed by qualitative content analysis. With the content analysis of twenty scientific articles, we gained an insight into digital literacy of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Three content categories were identified: (1) poor digital literacy of older adults, (2) inequality in ICT access, (3) use of ICT reduces the negative impact of social isolation. We note that there is a large digital divide in digital literacy and competences among older adults which expanded during the coronavirus disease pandemic. Several factors, including socio-economic status, internet access and the poor adaptation of ICT for older adults affect digital literacy. Rapid development of remote health and social care, poor digital literacy of older adults and the poor adaptation of ICT for older adults dictate that the problem must be tackled systemically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assist Mihael Nedeljko
- Alma Mater Europaea - ECM, Research Institute of Social Gerontology, Slovenska ulica 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Prof Ddr David Bogataj
- Alma Mater Europaea - ECM, Research Institute of Social Gerontology, Slovenska ulica 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
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17
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Fischer SH, Predmore Z, Roth E, Uscher-Pines L, Baird M, Breslau J. Use Of And Willingness To Use Video Telehealth Through The COVID-19 Pandemic. Health Aff (Millwood) 2022; 41:1645-1651. [DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2022.00118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elizabeth Roth
- Elizabeth Roth, RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
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18
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Ramírez-Correa P, Grandón E, Arenas-Gaitán J, Rondán-Cataluña J, Ramírez-Santana M. Acceptance of Social Networking Sites by Older People before and after COVID-19 Confinement: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Study in Chile, Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13355. [PMID: 36293934 PMCID: PMC9602972 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to examine the capacity of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to explain the intention to use social networking sites by older people in two time periods, before and after confinement due to the COVID-19 epidemic, as well as the evolution of effects (paths) over time of TPB's determinants. Based on interviews from samples of 384 and 383 elderly Chilean adults collected before and after confinement, the evolution of the effects (paths) was analysed using the TPB model applying the PLS-SEM technique. The intention to use social networks and its association with three factors were evaluated: attitude toward the behaviour, subjective norms, and perceived control over the behaviour. The model explains the intention to use social networks by 27% before confinement, increasing its magnitude to 50% after confinement. After the period of confinement, their attitudes become more significant, their perceptions of control become less important, and social pressures remain permanent in predicting the behaviour. In conclusion, better access and greater use of social networks by older people during the lockdown period increased the predictive strength of the attitude towards these technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Grandón
- Department of Information Systems, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Concepción 4081112, Chile
| | - Jorge Arenas-Gaitán
- Department of Business Administration and Marketing, Universidad de Sevilla, 41018 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Javier Rondán-Cataluña
- Department of Business Administration and Marketing, Universidad de Sevilla, 41018 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Muriel Ramírez-Santana
- Public Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Católica del Norte, Coquimbo 1780000, Chile
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19
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Lu M, Liao X. Access to care through telehealth among U.S. Medicare beneficiaries in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2022; 10:946944. [PMID: 36148338 PMCID: PMC9485666 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.946944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency has amplified the potential value of deploying telehealth solutions. Less is known about how trends in access to care through telehealth changed over time. Objectives To investigate trends in forgone care and telehealth coverage among Medicare beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used to analyze the outcomes of 31,907 Medicare beneficiaries using data from three waves of survey data from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey COVID-19 Supplement (Summer 2020, Fall 2020, and Winter 2021). We identified informative variables through a multivariate classification analysis utilizing Random Forest machine learning techniques. Findings The rate of reported forgone medical care because of COVID-19 decreased largely (22.89-3.31%) with a small increase in telehealth coverage (56.24-61.84%) from the week of June 7, 2020, to the week of April 4 to 25, 2021. Overall, there were 21.97% of respondents did not know whether their primary care providers offered telehealth services; the rates of forgone care and telehealth coverage were 11.68 and 59.52% (11.73 and 81.18% from yes and no responses). Our machine learning model predicted the outcomes accurately utilizing 43 variables. Informative factors included Medicare beneficiaries' age, Medicare-Medicaid dual eligibility, ability to access basic needs, certain mental and physical health conditions, and interview date. Conclusions This cross-sectional survey study found proliferation and utilization of telehealth services in certain subgroups during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing important access to care. There is a need to confront traditional barriers to the proliferation of telehealth. Policymakers must continue to identify effective means of maintaining continuity of care and growth of telehealth services.
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20
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COVID-19 and Cardiometabolic Health: Lessons Gleaned from the Pandemic and Insights for the Next Wave. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2022; 24:607-617. [PMID: 35773565 PMCID: PMC9247906 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-022-01033-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review
To review the current evidence regarding the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on cardiometabolic health, with a focus on strategies to help mitigate adverse effects on population health. Recent Findings Individuals with cardiometabolic disease are particularly vulnerable to worse outcomes with COVID-19 infection. In addition, the pandemic itself has had significant deleterious impact on the cardiometabolic health of the population, including declines in physical activity, increases in smoking and alcohol use, worsening blood pressure and glycemic control, and detrimental effects on mental health. Targeted interventions at the patient and community level will be needed to mitigate the long-term consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on population cardiometabolic health. Summary The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened cardiometabolic health, but there are several opportunities and enhanced tools available to counteract these changes.
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21
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Han B, Guan H. Associations between new health conditions and healthcare service utilizations among older adults in the United Kingdom: effects of COVID-19 risks, worse financial situation, and lowered income. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:356. [PMID: 35459104 PMCID: PMC9030688 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-02995-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health services are critically important for older adults, particularly during the Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, COVID-19 risks, worse financial situation, and lowered income may seriously impact health services by feasibility and accessibility. Therefore, the aim of the present study was empirically to explore how health-seeking behaviors are influenced by new health conditions through COVID-19 risks, worse financial situation, and lowered income. Methods Data were from ELSA COVID-19 waves 1 and 2 which included a sample of 6952 and 6710 older adults in the United Kingdom, respectively. The frequency distribution analyses were conducted by Chi-square analysis by gender groups. Zero-inflated Poisson regressions were used to examine how worse financial situation and lowered income were associated with COVID-19 risks and new health conditions. Logistic regressions were employed to examine the associations of COVID-19 risks, worse financial situation, and lowered income with treatment cancellation and accessible care. Cross-sectional mediation models, cross-sectional moderation models, longitudinal mediation models, and longitudinal moderation models were conducted based on Hayes model 6, Hayes model 29, Montoya model 1, and Montoya model 2, respectively. Results Most of the sample was >65 years old, females, located in urban place, and involved in long-standing condition. Regression analysis showed that COVID-19 risks, worse financial situation, and lowered income were associated with treatment cancellation and accessible care. In the longitudinal mediations, effect coefficients of ‘X’ → (treatment cancellation in wave 1 (Tcn1)- treatment cancellation in wave 2 (Tcn2))(β = −.0451, p < .0001, low limit confidence interval (LLCI) = −.0618, upper limit confidence interval (ULCI) = −.0284), ‘X’ → (COVID-19 risks in wave 1 (Csk1)- COVID-19 risks in wave 2 (Csk2)) (β = .0592, p < .0001, LLCI = .0361, ULCI = .0824), and ‘X’ → (lowered income in wave 1 (CIn1)- lowered income in wave 2 (CIn2)) (β = −.0351, p = .0001, LLCI = -.0523, ULCI = -.0179) were significant. Additionally, effect coefficients of ‘X’ → (accessible care in wave 1 (Acr1)- accessible care in wave 2 (Acr2)) (β = .3687, p < .0001, LLCI = .3350, ULCI = .4025),'X’ → (Csk1- Csk2) (β = .0676, p = .0005, LLCI = .0294, ULCI = .1058), and ‘X’ → (worse financial situation in wave 1- worse financial situation in wave 2) (β = −.0369, p = .0102, LLCI = -.0650, ULCI = -.0087) were significant. Conclusions There were longitudinal mediating effects of COVID-19 risks, worse financial situation, and lowered income on the relationship between new health conditions and treatment cancellation and relationship between new health conditions and accessible care. These findings suggest that worse financial situation, lowered income, and COVID-19 risks exerted an influence on the relationship between new health conditions and treatment cancellation and relationship between new health conditions and accessible care among older adults. Findings suggest that longitudinal mediations may be important components of interventions aiming to meet service needs. Long-term health policy implications indicate the need for reducing COVID-19 risks, improving financial situation, and increasing income among the targeted population. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-02995-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxue Han
- International Issues Center, Xuchang University, Xuchang, Henan, China. .,Family Issues Center, Xuchang University, Xuchang, Henan, China. .,Xuchang Urban Water Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration Engineering Technology Research Center, Xuchang University, Xuchang, China. .,College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Xuchang University, Xuchang, China.
| | - Hongyi Guan
- Grade 6 Class 7, Xuchang Municipal Xingye Road Primary School, Xuchang, Henan, China
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22
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Fowler Davis S, Choppin S, Kelly S. Towards an Understanding of Population Health Data in a Single NHS Trust during COVID-19. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10030447. [PMID: 35326925 PMCID: PMC8953481 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10030447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the further care needs of people discharged from the hospital following a COVID-19 illness from April–September 2020. Methods: In partnership with an NHS trust in the UK, data analysis was undertaken by linking data from the Trust, to facilitated a triage process. The intention was to provide information in a format that enabled an examination of the population data and highlight any inequality in provision. Data were mapped onto the indices of multiple deprivation, and a range of text and graphical methods were used to represent the population data to the hospital leadership. The visual representation of the demographics and deprivation of people discharged during a critical period of the pandemic was intended to support planning for community services. The results demonstrated that just under half of those discharged were from the poorest fifth of the English population and that just under half were aged 75 or older. This reflected the disproportional effect of COVID-19 on those who were poorer, older or had pre-existing multiple morbidities. Referral to community or outpatient services was informed by the analysis, and further understanding of the diversity of the population health was established in the Trust. Conclusion: By identifying the population and mapping to the IMD, it was possible to show that over half of discharged patients were from deprived communities, and there was significant organisational learning bout using data to identify inequalities.. The challenge of planning services that target underserved communities remains an important issue following the pandemic, and lessons learnt from one health system are being shared.
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