1
|
Tan TC, Roslan NEB, Li JW, Zou X, Chen X, Santosa A. Patient Acceptability of Symptom Screening and Patient Education Using a Chatbot for Autoimmune Inflammatory Diseases: Survey Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e49239. [PMID: 37219234 PMCID: PMC11019963 DOI: 10.2196/49239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chatbots have the potential to enhance health care interaction, satisfaction, and service delivery. However, data regarding their acceptance across diverse patient populations are limited. In-depth studies on the reception of chatbots by patients with chronic autoimmune inflammatory diseases are lacking, although such studies are vital for facilitating the effective integration of chatbots in rheumatology care. OBJECTIVE We aim to assess patient perceptions and acceptance of a chatbot designed for autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRDs). METHODS We administered a comprehensive survey in an outpatient setting at a top-tier rheumatology referral center. The target cohort included patients who interacted with a chatbot explicitly tailored to facilitate diagnosis and obtain information on AIIRDs. Following the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance) framework, the survey was designed to gauge the effectiveness, user acceptability, and implementation of the chatbot. RESULTS Between June and October 2022, we received survey responses from 200 patients, with an equal number of 100 initial consultations and 100 follow-up (FU) visits. The mean scores on a 5-point acceptability scale ranged from 4.01 (SD 0.63) to 4.41 (SD 0.54), indicating consistently high ratings across the different aspects of chatbot performance. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that having a FU visit was significantly associated with a greater willingness to reuse the chatbot for symptom determination (P=.01). Further, patients' comfort with chatbot diagnosis increased significantly after meeting physicians (P<.001). We observed no significant differences in chatbot acceptance according to sex, education level, or diagnosis category. CONCLUSIONS This study underscores that chatbots tailored to AIIRDs have a favorable reception. The inclination of FU patients to engage with the chatbot signifies the possible influence of past clinical encounters and physician affirmation on its use. Although further exploration is required to refine their integration, the prevalent positive perceptions suggest that chatbots have the potential to strengthen the bridge between patients and health care providers, thus enhancing the delivery of rheumatology care to various cohorts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tze Chin Tan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Medicine Academic Clinical Programme, SingHealth-Duke-NUS, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nur Emillia Binte Roslan
- Medicine Academic Clinical Programme, SingHealth-Duke-NUS, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of General Medicine, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - James Weiquan Li
- Medicine Academic Clinical Programme, SingHealth-Duke-NUS, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xinying Zou
- Internal Medicine Clinic, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiangmei Chen
- Internal Medicine Clinic, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Anindita Santosa
- Medicine Academic Clinical Programme, SingHealth-Duke-NUS, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kayaalp GK, Akgün Ö, Demirkan FG, Tanatar A, Çakmak F, Ayaz NA. Parent Views on Telemedicine in Pediatric Rheumatology: A Survey Study. Telemed J E Health 2023; 29:1548-1556. [PMID: 36800172 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The rapid expansion in the use of telemedicine after the COVID-19 pandemic has led many patients with chronic diseases to seek alternative ways for follow-ups. This study aimed to investigate the demands and opinions of parents of children with rheumatic diseases toward telemedicine and to examine the factors affecting telemedicine preference. Methods: A single-center, cross-sectional, Web-based survey study was conducted. Sociodemographic data, characteristics of the disease, access to the clinic, internet use, and views on telemedicine were assessed. Factors effecting telemedicine preference were evaluated by multivariate analysis. Results: A total of 245 parents have completed the survey. The diagnoses of patients were recurrent fever syndromes (55.1%), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (31.0%), systemic connective tissue diseases (8.2%), and vasculitis (5.7%). The majority of patients came to the clinic by public transport (n = 190, 77.6%). Sixty-eight (27.8%) patients missed at least one outpatient appointment in the last year. Majority (n = 172, 70.2%) of parents stated that they would prefer telemedicine visits if it becomes available. Multivariate analysis revealed that the most related factors to telemedicine preference were higher education level (odds ratio [OR]: 6.69, confidence interval [95% CI]: 2.21-20.25, p = 0.001), missing an appointment (OR: 3.04, 95% CI: 1.41-6.56, p = 0.004), and travel time longer than 1 h (OR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.13-3.86, p = 0.012). Conclusion: Telemedicine visits are in demand in pediatric rheumatology and should be considered an alternative method to ensure continuity of patient follow-up. A personal approach should be followed when selecting patients for telemedicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gülşah Kavrul Kayaalp
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Özlem Akgün
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatma Gül Demirkan
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Tanatar
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Figen Çakmak
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nuray Aktay Ayaz
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Parlindungan F, Sumariyono S, Hidayat R, Wibowo SAK, Ariane A, Damanik J, Araminta AP, Yunita KC. Learning from the COVID-19 pandemic: health care disturbances and telemedicine as an alternative rheumatology practice in Indonesia. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:451. [PMID: 37158873 PMCID: PMC10165285 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09389-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects health care services. Our aim was to assess health care disruptions, treatment interruptions, and telemedicine reception regarding autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) in Indonesia. METHOD A cross-sectional population online-based questionnaire was conducted in Indonesia from September to December 2021. RESULTS A total of 311 ARD patients were included, of whom 81 (26.0%) underwent consultations via telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. The respondents showed increased concern about their susceptibility to COVID-19 (score of 3.9/5). Approximately 81 (26.0%) avoided hospital visits, and 76 (24.4%) stopped taking the medication without medical advice. Respondents' concerns correlated with their social distancing behaviors (p value 0.000, r 0.458). Respondent concerns, behaviors, and blocked access to the hospital during the pandemic were associated with avoiding hospital visits (p value 0.014; 0.001; 0.045; 0.008). Sex was associated with stopping medication (p value 0.005). In multivariate analysis, blocked access and sex remained significant. Approximately 81 (26%) respondents who used telemedicine services during the COVID-19 pandemic as an alternative medical consultation method showed high satisfaction (3.8/5). CONCLUSION Health care disruptions and treatment interruptions were affected by patients' internal and external factors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine may be the best option to address barriers to health care access in Indonesia's rheumatology practice during and after the pandemic situation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Parlindungan
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Indonesia Hospital, Depok, Indonesia.
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Sumariyono Sumariyono
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Rudy Hidayat
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Suryo Anggoro Kusumo Wibowo
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Anna Ariane
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Johanda Damanik
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Abirianty Priandani Araminta
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
French O, Mattacola E. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected patients' experience of pain management therapy? Br J Pain 2023; 17:46-57. [PMID: 36820057 PMCID: PMC9703013 DOI: 10.1177/20494637221121703] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The current service evaluation aimed to explore the impact of COVID-19 on patients' experiences of pain management therapy. The study examined the barriers and benefits of the move from face-to-face to eHealth methods of delivery. Design A service evaluation was conducted in an outpatient pain clinic in an NHS Trust in the East of England. A qualitative approach was taken using semi-structured interviews. Methods Participants were recruited through a health psychology service operating as part of a multidisciplinary pain management clinic. Six patients, aged 39-67, were interviewed one-to-one using the online platform ZoomTM. During COVID-19, participants had individual or group pain management therapy via telephone or video conferencing. All interviews were transcribed using Otter.aiTM and thematic analysis was performed. The study was approved by internal clinical governance for service evaluations and the authors adhered to the BPS Code of Human Research Ethics. Results Three key themes emerged from the analysis; Benefits Aside From Pain Relief, Limited Their Experience, and COVID- 19: A D ouble-Edged Sword. Conclusion Findings suggested patients were able to benefit from pain management therapy despite the impact of COVID-19 on daily routines and pain experience. Adopting eHealth methods during the pandemic was an effective means of accessing pain management therapy. These methods allowed patients to continue to benefit from peer support and learn about skills and resources regarding self-management, whilst also improving accessibility for those with chronic pain. Yet, these methods are not without their limitations. Technical issues and difficulties creating therapeutic connections with psychologists limited patients' experience of pain management therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia French
- School of Psychology, University of Buckingham, Buckingham, UK
- Olivia French, School of Psychology, University of Buckingham, Hunter Street, Buckingham MK18 1EG, UK.
| | - Emily Mattacola
- School of Psychology, University of Buckingham, Buckingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Riaz MM, Mahmood SBZ, Nasir N. Telemedicine for Rheumatology Patients in Covid-19 Pandemic: Perspectives of Patients. J Patient Exp 2022; 9:23743735221092635. [PMID: 35441090 PMCID: PMC9008472 DOI: 10.1177/23743735221092635] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Telemedicine use for patients with autoimmune rheumatic conditions during the
pandemic mandates better characterization. We conducted a telephonic survey on
patients who consulted rheumatologists remotely to determine their attitudes
toward telemedicine. The study was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital, a
tertiary care hospital in Pakistan which is a lower-middle-income country.
Descriptive analyses were performed. Fifty patients visited tele-rheumatology
clinic, 35 (70.0%) were female with a mean (SD) age of 47.6 (18.1) years.
Majority (27, 54.0%) learned about telemedicine from hospital website and
outpatient clinic desk or helpline. Lack of examination was the biggest concern
with teleconsultation (18, 22.2%). Most patients (38, 76.0%) agreed to continue
teleconsultation beyond the pandemic. Telemedicine is preferable for providing
rheumatology outpatient service during and after the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Noreen Nasir
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ahmed S, Grainger R, Santosa A, Adnan A, Alnaqbi KA, Chen YH, Kavadichanda C, Kaw NSK, Kelly A, Khan SEA, Masri B, Nakarmi S, Parlindungan F, Rahman N, So H, Soroush MG, Thilakarathne AS, Traboco L. APLAR recommendations on the practice of telemedicine in rheumatology. Int J Rheum Dis 2022; 25:247-258. [PMID: 35043576 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic led to rapid and widespread adoption of telemedicine in rheumatology care. The Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR) working group was tasked with developing evidence-based recommendations for rheumatology practice to guide maintenance of the highest possible standards of clinical care and to enable broad patient reach. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic review of English-language articles related to telehealth in rheumatology was conducted on MEDLINE/PubMed, Web Of Science and Scopus. The strength of the evidence was graded using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach as well as the Oxford Levels of Evidence. The recommendations were developed using a modified Delphi technique to establish consensus. RESULTS Three overarching principles and 13 recommendations were developed based on identified literature and consensus agreement. The overarching principles address telemedicine frameworks, decision-making, and modality. Recommendations 1-4 address patient suitability, triage, and when telemedicine should be offered to patients. Recommendations 5-10 cover the procedure, including the means, data safety, fail-safe mechanisms, and treat-to-target approach. Recommendations 11-13 focus on training and education related to telerheumatology. CONCLUSION These recommendations provide guidance for the approach and use of telemedicine in rheumatology care to guide highest possible standards of clinical care and to enable equitable patient reach. However, since evidence in telemedicine care in rheumatology is limited and emerging, most recommendations will need further consideration when more data are available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sakir Ahmed
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Rebecca Grainger
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Anindita Santosa
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Medicine Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Asal Adnan
- Department of Rheumatology, Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Khalid A Alnaqbi
- Rheumatology Department, Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, UAE.,College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Yi-Hsing Chen
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology at Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chengappa Kavadichanda
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | | | - Amy Kelly
- Department of Rheumatology, Campbelltown Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Basel Masri
- Rheumatology Division, Internal Medicine Department, Jordan Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Shweta Nakarmi
- Department of Rheumatology, National Center for Rheumatic Diseases, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Faisal Parlindungan
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Nazibur Rahman
- Department of Rheumatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ho So
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Amal Sithira Thilakarathne
- Consultant in Rheumatology & Medical Rehabilitation, Teaching Hospital Kurunegala, Kurunegala, Sri Lanka
| | - Lisa Traboco
- Section of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, St Luke's Medical Center, Global City, Philippines
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Madenidou AV, Yeoh S. Telerheumatology during the COVID-19 pandemic: Impact on clinical practice, education, and research. INDIAN JOURNAL OF RHEUMATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/injr.injr_229_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
8
|
So H, Chow E, Cheng IT, Lau SL, Li TK, Szeto CC, Tam LS. Factors Associated With Use of Telemedicine for Follow-Up of SLE in the COVID-19 Outbreak. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:790652. [PMID: 34966764 PMCID: PMC8710609 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.790652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the factors associated with telemedicine (TM) use for follow-up of Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE) patients in the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This was a single-centered cross-sectional study conducted in Hong Kong. Consecutive patients followed up at the lupus nephritis clinic were contacted for their preference in changing the coming consultation to TM in the form of videoconferencing. The demographic, socioeconomic, and disease data of the first 140 patients opted for TM and 140 control patients preferred to continue standard in-person follow-up were compared. Results: The mean age of all the participants was 45.6 ± 11.8 years, and the disease duration was 15.0 ± 9.2 years. The majority of them were on prednisolone (90.0%) and immunosuppressants (67.1%). The mean SLEDAI-2k was 3.4 ± 2.4, physician global assessment (PGA) was 0.46 ± 0.62 and Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) damage index was 0.97 ± 1.23. A significant proportion of the patients (72.1%) had 1 or more comorbidities. It was found that patients with higher mean PGA (TM: 0.54 ± 0.63 vs. control: 0.38 ± 0.59, p = 0.025) and family monthly income > USD 3,800 (TM: 36.4% vs. control: 23.6%; p = 0.028) preferred TM, while full-time employees (TM: 40.0% vs. control: 50.7%; p = 0.041) preferred in-person follow-up. These predictors remained significant in the multivariate analysis after adjusting for age and gender. No other clinical factors were found to be associated with the preference of TM follow-up. Conclusion: When choosing the mode of care delivery between TM and physical clinic visit for patients with SLE, the physician-assessed disease activity and patient's socio-economic status appeared to be important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ho So
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Evelyn Chow
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Isaac T Cheng
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sze-Lok Lau
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tena K Li
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Cheuk-Chun Szeto
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lai-Shan Tam
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Doskaliuk B, Yatsyshyn R, Klishch I, Zimba O. COVID-19 from a rheumatology perspective: bibliometric and altmetric analysis. Rheumatol Int 2021; 41:2091-2103. [PMID: 34596719 PMCID: PMC8484846 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-021-04987-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak turned out the greatest pandemic for decades. It challenged enormously the global health system, forcing it to adjust to the new realities. We aimed to analyze articles covering COVID-19 papers in the rheumatological field and outline emerging topics raising within this frame. We applied the bibliometric database Scopus for our literature search and conducted it on the 5th of June using the following keywords: "rheumatic" OR "rheumatology" OR "rheumatoid arthritis" OR "systemic lupus erythematosus" OR "myositis" OR "systemic sclerosis" OR "vasculitis" OR "arthritis" OR "ankylosing spondylitis" AND "COVID-19". We analyzed all selected articles according to various aspects: type of document, authorship, journal, citations score, rheumatology field, country of origin, language, and keywords. With the help of the software tool VOSviewer version 1.6.15, we have built the visualizing network of authors and keywords co-occurrence. The measurement of the social impact of articles was made using Altmetric data. This study included 1430 retrieved articles with open access mostly. The top five journals in this field were Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (n = 65), Rheumatology International (n = 51), Clinical Rheumatology (n = 50), Lancet Rheumatology (n = 50), and Frontiers In Immunology (n = 33). Most studies originate from countries with a high incidence of COVID-19 among the general population (the USA-387; Italy-268; UK-184; France-114; Germany-110; India-98 and Spain-96, China-94, Canada-73 Turkey-66). Original Articles (42.1%) were the most common articles' type, following by Letters (24.4%), Reviews (21.7%), Notes (6%), Editorials (4.8%), Erratum (1%). According to the citations scores, articles dedicated to the clinical course of COVID-19 in patients with rheumatic diseases were of the highest importance for the scientific rheumatologic community. Rheumatoid arthritis (n = 527), systemic lupus erythematosus (n = 393), vasculitis (n = 267), myositis (n = 71), systemic sclerosis (n = 68), and psoriatic arthritis (n = 68) were the most widely discussed rheumatic diseases in the view of COVID-19. The analysis of Altmetric and citations scores revealed a moderate correlation between them. This article provides a comprehensive bibliometric and altmetric analysis of COVID-19 related articles in the rheumatology field and summarizes data about features of rheumatology service in the time of the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bohdana Doskaliuk
- Academician Ye. M. Neiko Department of Internal Medicine #1, Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Halytska str. 2, Ivano-Frankivsk, 76000 Ukraine
| | - Roman Yatsyshyn
- Academician Ye. M. Neiko Department of Internal Medicine #1, Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Halytska str. 2, Ivano-Frankivsk, 76000 Ukraine
| | - Iryna Klishch
- Department of Pathophysiology, Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine
| | - Olena Zimba
- Department of Internal Medicine #2, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sloan M, Lever E, Harwood R, Gordon C, Wincup C, Blane M, Brimicombe J, Lanyon P, Howard P, Sutton S, D'Cruz D, Naughton F. Telemedicine in rheumatology: A mixed methods study exploring acceptability, preferences and experiences among patients and clinicians. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:2262-2274. [PMID: 34698822 PMCID: PMC8689882 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Covid-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid global transition towards telemedicine; yet much remains unknown about telemedicine's acceptability and safety in rheumatology. To help address this gap and inform practice, this study investigated rheumatology patient and clinician experiences and views of telemedicine. METHODS Sequential mixed methodology combined analysis of surveys and in-depth interviews. Between and within-group differences in views of telemedicine were examined for patients and clinicians using t-tests. RESULTS Surveys (Patients n = 1,340, Clinicians n = 111) and interviews (Patients n = 31, Clinicians n = 29) were completed between April 2021 and July 2021. The majority of patients were from the UK (96%) and had inflammatory arthritis (32%) or lupus (32%). Patients and clinicians rated telemedicine as worse than face-to-face consultations in almost all categories, although >60% found it more convenient. Building trusting medical relationships and assessment accuracy were great concerns (93% of clinicians and 86% of patients rated telemedicine as worse than face-to-face for assessment accuracy). Telemedicine was perceived to have increased misdiagnoses, inequalities and barriers to accessing care. Participants reported highly disparate telemedicine delivery and responsiveness from primary and secondary care. Although rheumatology clinicians highlighted the importance of a quick response to flaring patients, only 55% of patients were confident that their rheumatology department would respond within 48 hours. CONCLUSION Findings indicate a preference for face-to-face consultations. Some negative experiences may be due to the pandemic rather than telemedicine specifically, although the risk of greater diagnostic inaccuracies using telemedicine is unlikely to be fully resolved. Training, choice, careful patient selection, and further consultation with clinicians and patients is required to increase telemedicine's acceptability and safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Sloan
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Elliott Lever
- Rheumatology department, Northwick Park Hospital, UK
| | - Rupert Harwood
- Patient and Public Involvement in lupus Research Group, Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Caroline Gordon
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of inflammation and ageing, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Chris Wincup
- Department of Rheumatology, University College London, UK
| | - Moira Blane
- Patient and Public Involvement in lupus Research Group, Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - James Brimicombe
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter Lanyon
- Population and Lifespan Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Paul Howard
- LUPUS UK, St James' House, Romford, Essex, UK
| | - Stephen Sutton
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - David D'Cruz
- The Louise Coote Lupus unit, Guy's and St Thomas', NHS foundation Trust, UK
| | - Felix Naughton
- Behavioural and Implementation Science Group, School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Au Eong JTW, Lateef A, Liang S, Lim SHH, Tay SH, Mak A, Cho J. Impact of Teleconsultation on Subsequent Disease Activity and Flares in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:1911-1918. [PMID: 34554232 PMCID: PMC8500016 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Despite the widespread adoption of teleconsultations amid the COVID-19 pandemic, their safety in SLE patients has not been evaluated. Here, we examined subsequent disease activity and flares among SLE patients who received teleconsultation vs in-person consultation. To discern differences in physicians’ prescription behaviour during both forms of consultations, we compared corticosteroid dose adjustments. Methods We studied adult SLE patients who were seen between 1 February 2020 and 1 February 2021. At each patient-visit, rheumatologists utilized phone/video teleconsultation or physical consultation at their discretion. Disease activity was assessed with SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) and flares were defined by the SELENA-SLEDAI Flare Index (SFI). We derived a propensity score for patients who were chosen for physical consultation. Multivariable generalized estimation equations were used to analyse SLEDAI-2k and flare at the next visit, adjusted for the propensity score. Results A total of 435 visits were recorded, of which 343 (78.9%) were physical visits and 92 (21.1%) were teleconsultations. The modality of consultation did not predict flare [OR for physical consultation (95% CI) 0.42 (0.04, 5.04), P =0.49] or SLEDAI-2k at the next visit [estimate of coefficient for physical consultation (95% CI) −0.19 (−0.80, 0.43), P =0.55]. Adjustments of prednisolone dosages were comparable between the two forms of visits [OR for physical consultation (95% CI) 1.34 (0.77, 2.34), P =0.30]. Conclusion SLE disease activity and flares at the subsequent visit were similar between teleconsultations and physical consultations. Medication prescription behaviour, determined using adjustment in corticosteroid dosages, was not different between the two forms of visits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aisha Lateef
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, SINGAPORE.,Division of Rheumatology, University Medicine Cluster, National University Hospital, SINGAPORE.,Department of Medicine, Woodlands Health Campus, SINGAPORE
| | - Shen Liang
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, SINGAPORE
| | - Sandy H H Lim
- Division of Rheumatology, University Medicine Cluster, National University Hospital, SINGAPORE
| | - Sen Hee Tay
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, SINGAPORE.,Division of Rheumatology, University Medicine Cluster, National University Hospital, SINGAPORE
| | - Anselm Mak
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, SINGAPORE.,Division of Rheumatology, University Medicine Cluster, National University Hospital, SINGAPORE
| | - Jiacai Cho
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, SINGAPORE.,Division of Rheumatology, University Medicine Cluster, National University Hospital, SINGAPORE
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tang W, Khalili L, Askanase A. Telerheumatology: A Narrative Review. RHEUMATOLOGY AND IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2021; 2:139-145. [PMID: 36465071 PMCID: PMC9524794 DOI: 10.2478/rir-2021-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Telemedicine (TM), the delivery of health care using telecommunication technologies, has been in use in rheumatology practice for over two decades to maximize access and optimize care. As a direct consequence of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in March 2020, rheumatology practice shifted from traditional in-person encounters to TM to ensure the safety of both healthcare professionals and patients. However, there is limited literature on the acceptance, feasibility, and effectiveness of TM in the management of rheumatic diseases. Additionally, there is limited guidance on the implementation of telerheumatology (TR) for both patient care and clinical trials. Here we reviewed the most recent publications related to the application of TR, in the management of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), assessed the perceptions of patients and physicians on TM in rheumatology, and identified several key barriers to TR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Tang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032, USA
| | - Leila Khalili
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032, USA
| | - Anca Askanase
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY10032, USA
- E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Tam LS, Tanaka Y, Handa R, Li Z, Lorenzo JP, Louthrenoo W, Hill C, Pile K, Robinson PC, Dans LF, Hsu LY, Lee SM, Cho J, Hasan ATMT, Salim B, Samreen S, Shaharir SS, Wong P, Chau J, Danda D, Haq SA. Updated APLAR consensus statements on care for patients with rheumatic diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. Int J Rheum Dis 2021; 24:733-745. [PMID: 33945214 PMCID: PMC8206920 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM To update previous guidance of the Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR) on the management of patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMD) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. METHODS Research questions were formulated focusing on diagnosis and treatment of adult patients with RMD within the context of the pandemic, including the management of RMD in patients who developed COVID-19. MEDLINE was searched for eligible studies to address the questions, and the APLAR COVID-19 task force convened 2 meetings through video conferencing to discuss its findings and integrate best available evidence with expert opinion. Consensus statements were finalized using the modified Delphi process. RESULTS Agreement was obtained around key aspects of screening for or diagnosis of COVID-19; management of patients with RMD without confirmed COVID-19; and management of patients with RMD with confirmed COVID-19. The task force achieved consensus on 25 statements covering the potential risk of acquiring COVID-19 in RMD patients, advice on RMD medication adjustment and continuation, the roles of telemedicine and vaccination, and the impact of the pandemic on quality of life and on treatment adherence. CONCLUSIONS Available evidence primarily from descriptive research supported new recommendations for aspects of RMD care not covered in the previous document, particularly with regard to risk factors for complicated COVID-19 in RMD patients, modifications to RMD treatment regimens in the context of the pandemic, and COVID-19 vaccination in patients with RMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lai-Shan Tam
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Yoshiya Tanaka
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | | | - Zhanguo Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jose Paulo Lorenzo
- Section of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Makati Medical Center, Makati City, Philippines
| | - Worawit Louthrenoo
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Catherine Hill
- Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kevin Pile
- Rheumatology Unit, Campbelltown Hospital, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Philip C Robinson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland School of Medicine, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Leonila F Dans
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Clinical Epidemiology, University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Li Yang Hsu
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sang-Min Lee
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jiacai Cho
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - A T M Tanveer Hasan
- Department of Rheumatology, Enam Medical College & Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Babur Salim
- Department of Rheumatology, Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Saba Samreen
- Department of Rheumatology, Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Syahrul Sazliyana Shaharir
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Priscilla Wong
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Jeffrey Chau
- Hong Kong Psoriatic Arthritis Association, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Debashish Danda
- Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Christian Medical College & Hospital, Vellore, India
| | - Syed Atiqul Haq
- Department of Rheumatology, BSM Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Dejaco C, Alunno A, Bijlsma JW, Boonen A, Combe B, Finckh A, Machado PM, Padjen I, Sivera F, Stamm TA, Buttgereit F. Influence of COVID-19 pandemic on decisions for the management of people with inflammatory rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases: a survey among EULAR countries. Ann Rheum Dis 2021; 80:518-526. [PMID: 33158877 PMCID: PMC7650208 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-218697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate how the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic influenced decisions of rheumatologists and health professionals in rheumatology regarding the management of patients with inflammatory rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). METHODS An English-language questionnaire was developed by a EULAR working group and distributed via national rheumatology societies of EULAR countries, EMEUNET and individual working group members. Responses were collected using an online survey tool. Descriptive statistics were calculated. RESULTS We analysed 1286 responses from 35/45 EULAR countries. Due to containment measures, 82% of respondents indicated cancellation/postponement of face-to-face visits of new patients (84% of them offering remote consultation) and 91% of follow-up visits (96% with remote consultation). The majority of respondents (58%) perceived that the interval between symptom onset and first rheumatological consultations was longer during containment restrictions than before. Treatment decisions were frequently postponed (34%), and the majority (74%) of respondents stated that it was less likely to start a biological disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD)/targeted synthetic DMARD during the pandemic, mainly because of patients' fear, limited availability of screening procedures and decreased availability of rheumatological services. Use of (hydroxy)chloroquine (HCQ) and tocilizumab (TCZ) for the COVID-19 indication was reported by 47% and 42% of respondents, respectively, leading to a shortage of these drugs for RMDs indications according to 49% and 14% of respondents, respectively. CONCLUSION Measures related to containment of COVID-19 pandemic led to a perceived delay between symptom onset and a first rheumatological visit, postponement of treatment decisions, and shortage of HCQ and TCZ, thereby negatively impacting early treatment and treat-to-target strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Dejaco
- Rheumatology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Rheumatology, Hospital of Brunico (SABES-ASDAA), Brunico, Italy
| | - Alessia Alunno
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Annelies Boonen
- Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, and School for Public Health and Primary Care (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard Combe
- Department of Rheumatology, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Axel Finckh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Pedro M Machado
- Department of Rheumatology, University College London & University College London Hospitals & Northwick Park Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ivan Padjen
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb and University of Zagreb, School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Francisca Sivera
- Medicine, Miguel Hernandez University of Elche Faculty of Medicine, Sant Joan D'Alacant, Spain
- Rheumatology, Hospital General de Elda, Elda, Spain
| | - Tanja A Stamm
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics and Intelligent Systems, Section for Outcomes Research, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Rheumatology and Immunology, Charite Medical Faculty Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Affiliation(s)
- Josef S Smolen
- Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna A-1090, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Schulze-Koops H, Specker C, Krueger K. Telemedicine holds many promises but needs to be developed to be accepted by patients as an alternative to a visit to the doctor. Response to: 'Patient acceptance of using telemedicine for follow-up of lupus nephritis in the COVID-19 outbreak' by So et al. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 80:e98. [PMID: 32581084 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-218235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik Schulze-Koops
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine IV, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen, Munich, Germany
| | - Christof Specker
- Klinik für Rheumatologie und Klinische Immunologie, KEM Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|