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Alshimemeri S, Alabandi F, Binabbad RS, Elmutawi HS, Alabdi GS, Gilmour G. Opinions and experience of neurologists and neurology trainees in Saudi Arabia on functional neurological disorders: a survey based study. BMC Neurol 2024; 24:302. [PMID: 39210327 PMCID: PMC11361174 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-024-03810-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is commonly encountered in clinical practice, causing functional impairment and poor quality of life. As there is limited data from Saudi Arabia, our study aims to explore the experience and opinions of Saudi neurologists and neurology trainees regarding FND. METHODS In our cross-sectional observational study, we included 100 neurology consultants and trainees. Data was collected using an online questionnaire from March to August 2023. RESULTS A total of one hundred neurologists participated in the survey. Although 41% of physicians encountered FND patients on a weekly basis or more frequently, only 41.7% of trainees reported receiving dedicated lectures on FND. Furthermore, only 46% of respondents felt comfortable providing a clear explanation of the FND diagnosis to their patients. While the majority (64%) used the term "Functional Neurological Disorder" in medical documentation, only 43% used this term when communicating the diagnosis to patients, with the terminology varying widely. Clinicians emphasized that inconsistent and variable neurological examinations were key indicators raising diagnostic suspicion, which aligns with the recommended reliance on detailed clinical history and neurological examination. Lastly, 61% of physicians stated that their approach to patients with FND lacked a structured management plan. CONCLUSION Our study findings emphasize that FND is commonly encountered in clinical practice and reveal a significant lack of targeted education on FND for neurology trainees. Enhancing educational programs for both trainees and practicing neurologists on this prevalent neurological condition is essential for improving patient care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohaila Alshimemeri
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Fatima Alabandi
- College of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rahaf S Binabbad
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Gabriela Gilmour
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Cumming School of medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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Zolotareva A, Khegay A, Voevodina E, Kritsky I, Ibragimov R, Nizovskih N, Konstantinov V, Malenova A, Belasheva I, Khodyreva N, Preobrazhensky V, Azanova K, Sarapultseva L, Galimova A, Atamanova I, Kulik A, Neyaskina Y, Lapshin M, Mamonova M, Kadyrov R, Volkova E, Drachkova V, Seryy A, Kosheleva N, Osin E. Optimism, Resilience, and General Self-Efficacy Predict Lower Somatic Burden during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1338. [PMID: 38998872 PMCID: PMC11241252 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12131338] [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: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
There is scarce evidence of a relationship between positive and psychosomatic characteristics. This study aimed to examine the associations of somatic burden with psychological resources such as optimism, resilience, and general self-efficacy. Russian participants (n = 1020) completed measures of psychological resources at Time 1 and somatic symptoms at Time 2. The results showed that somatic burden decreased with greater levels of optimism, resilience, and general self-efficacy. Regarding health and sociodemographic characteristics, female sex increased somatic burden in the model with optimism scores, university education decreased somatic burden in the model with resilience scores, and history of COVID-19 disease increased somatic burden in the models with optimism, resilience, and general self-efficacy scores. This study has theoretical and practical contributions. It combines positive psychology and psychosomatic medicine and highlights the value of psychological resource interventions in the treatment and prevention of somatic burden. These findings may be useful for scientists, clinicians, and practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena Zolotareva
- International Laboratory of Positive Psychology of Personality and Motivation, HSE University, 101000 Moscow, Russia; (A.K.); (E.V.); (V.P.); (K.A.); (N.K.)
| | - Anna Khegay
- International Laboratory of Positive Psychology of Personality and Motivation, HSE University, 101000 Moscow, Russia; (A.K.); (E.V.); (V.P.); (K.A.); (N.K.)
| | - Elena Voevodina
- International Laboratory of Positive Psychology of Personality and Motivation, HSE University, 101000 Moscow, Russia; (A.K.); (E.V.); (V.P.); (K.A.); (N.K.)
| | - Igor Kritsky
- Institute of Immunology and Physiology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 620049 Ekaterinburg, Russia; (I.K.); (R.I.)
| | - Roman Ibragimov
- Institute of Immunology and Physiology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 620049 Ekaterinburg, Russia; (I.K.); (R.I.)
| | - Nina Nizovskih
- Department of Psychology, Vyatka State University, 610000 Kirov, Russia;
| | | | - Arina Malenova
- Department of General and Social Psychology, Dostoevsky Omsk State University, 644077 Omsk, Russia;
| | - Irina Belasheva
- Department of General Psychology and Personality Psychology, North-Caucasus Federal University, 355017 Stavropol, Russia;
| | - Natalia Khodyreva
- Department of Psychology, Saint-Petersburg State University, 199034 Saint-Petersburg, Russia; (N.K.); (V.D.)
| | - Vladimir Preobrazhensky
- International Laboratory of Positive Psychology of Personality and Motivation, HSE University, 101000 Moscow, Russia; (A.K.); (E.V.); (V.P.); (K.A.); (N.K.)
| | - Kristina Azanova
- International Laboratory of Positive Psychology of Personality and Motivation, HSE University, 101000 Moscow, Russia; (A.K.); (E.V.); (V.P.); (K.A.); (N.K.)
| | - Lilia Sarapultseva
- Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Russian State Vocational Pedagogical University, 620143 Ekaterinburg, Russia;
| | - Almira Galimova
- Department of Theory and Technology of Social Work, Samara National Research University, 443086 Samara, Russia;
| | - Inna Atamanova
- Department of Genetic and Clinical Psychology, Tomsk State University, 634050 Tomsk, Russia;
| | - Anastasia Kulik
- Department of Theoretical and Practical Psychology, Kamchatka State University Named after Vitus Bering, 683032 Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy, Russia; (A.K.); (Y.N.)
| | - Yulia Neyaskina
- Department of Theoretical and Practical Psychology, Kamchatka State University Named after Vitus Bering, 683032 Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy, Russia; (A.K.); (Y.N.)
| | - Maksim Lapshin
- Department of Sports Improvement, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia;
| | - Marina Mamonova
- Municipal Budgetary Educational Institution Lyceum 11, 454091 Chelyabinsk, Russia;
| | - Ruslan Kadyrov
- Department of General Psychological Disciplines, Pacific State Medical University, 690002 Vladivostok, Russia; (R.K.); (E.V.)
| | - Ekaterina Volkova
- Department of General Psychological Disciplines, Pacific State Medical University, 690002 Vladivostok, Russia; (R.K.); (E.V.)
| | - Viktoria Drachkova
- Department of Psychology, Saint-Petersburg State University, 199034 Saint-Petersburg, Russia; (N.K.); (V.D.)
| | - Andrey Seryy
- Department of Psychology, Kemerovo State University, 650000 Kemerovo, Russia;
| | - Natalia Kosheleva
- International Laboratory of Positive Psychology of Personality and Motivation, HSE University, 101000 Moscow, Russia; (A.K.); (E.V.); (V.P.); (K.A.); (N.K.)
| | - Evgeny Osin
- Laboratory LINP2, University of Paris Nanterre, 92001 Nanterre, France;
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Röhricht F, Green C, Filippidou M, Lowe S, Power N, Rassool S, Rothman K, Shah M, Papadopoulos N. Integrated care model for patients with functional somatic symptom disorder - a co-produced stakeholder exploration with recommendations for best practice. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:698. [PMID: 38831287 PMCID: PMC11145802 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11130-9] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional somatic symptoms (FFS) and bodily distress disorders are highly prevalent across all medical settings. Services for these patients are dispersed across the health care system with minimal conceptual and operational integration, and patients do not currently access therapeutic offers in significant numbers due to a mismatch between their and professionals' understanding of the nature of the symptoms. New service models are urgently needed to address patients' needs and to align with advances in aetiological evidence and diagnostic classification systems to overcome the body-mind dichotomy. METHOD A panel of clinical experts from different clinical services involved in providing aspects of health care for patients with functional symptoms reviewed the current care provision. This review and the results from a focus group exploration of patients with lived experience of functional symptoms were explored by the multidisciplinary expert group, and the conclusions are summarised as recommendations for best practice. RESULTS The mapping exercise and multidisciplinary expert consultation revealed five themes for service improvement and pathway development: time/access, communication, barrier-free care, choice and governance. Service users identified four meta-themes for best practice recommendations: focus on healthcare professional communication and listening skills as well as professional attributes and knowledge base to help patients being both believed and understood in order to accept their condition; systemic and care pathway issues such as stronger emphasis on primary care as the first point of contact for patients, resources to reduce the length of the patient journey from initial assessment to diagnosis and treatment. CONCLUSION We propose a novel, integrated care pathway for patients with 'functional somatic disorder', which delivers care according to and working with patients' explanatory beliefs. The therapeutic model should operate based upon an understanding of the embodied nature of patient's complaints and provide flexible access points to the care pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Röhricht
- East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT), London, United Kingdom.
- Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Carole Green
- Bedfordshire Community Health Services (BCHS), Bedford, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Filippidou
- Bedford Liaison Psychiatry Service, ELFT, Bedford, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Lowe
- Circle Bedfordshire Integrated Care Musculoskeletal Service, Bedford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicki Power
- East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT), London, United Kingdom
- Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Rassool
- Clinical Health Psychology Services Bedfordshire & Luton, ELFT, Dunstable, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine Rothman
- Bedfordshire & Luton Community Adult Mental Health & Learning Disability Services , ELFT, Clapham, United Kingdom
| | - Meera Shah
- Clinical Health Psychology Service, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Périard IAC, Dierolf AM, Lutz A, Vögele C, Voderholzer U, Koch S, Bach M, Asenstorfer C, Michaux G, Mertens VC, Schulz A. Frontal alpha asymmetry is associated with chronic stress and depression, but not with somatoform disorders. Int J Psychophysiol 2024; 200:112342. [PMID: 38614440 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2024.112342] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Cardinal characteristics of somatoform disorders (SFDs) are worry of illness, and impaired affective processing. We used relative frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA), a method to measure functional lateralization of affective processing, to investigate psychobiological correlates of SFDs. With alpha activity being inversely related to cortical network activity, relative FAA refers to alpha activity on the right frontal lobe minus alpha activity on the left frontal lobe. Less relative left frontal activity, reflected by negative FAA scores, is associated with lower positive and greater negative affectivity, such as observed in depression. Due to its negative affective component (illness anxiety), we expected to find less relative left frontal activity pattern in SFDs, and positive associations with self-reported chronic stress and depression symptoms. We recorded resting-state EEG activity with 64 electrodes, placed in a 10-10 system in 26 patients with a primary SFD, 23 patients with a major depressive disorder and 25 healthy control participants. The groups did not differ in FAA. Nevertheless, across all participants, less relative left frontal activity was associated with chronic stress and depression symptoms. We concluded that FAA may not serve as an indicator of SFDs. As the relationship of FAA and depressive symptoms was fully mediated by chronic stress, future studies have to clarify whether the association between FAA and chronic stress may represent a shared underlying factor for the manifestation of mental health complaints, such as depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Anne-Claire Périard
- Research Group 'Brain-Body Interaction', Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg; Institute of Medical Psychology, Charité University Medical Center Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Department of Developmental and Cognitive Psychology, University of Regensburg. Regensburg, Germany
| | - Angelika Margarete Dierolf
- Research Group 'Brain-Body Interaction', Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Annika Lutz
- Research Group 'Brain-Body Interaction', Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Claus Vögele
- Research Group 'Brain-Body Interaction', Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Ulrich Voderholzer
- Schoen Clinic Roseneck, Prien am Chiemsee, Germany; Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Koch
- Schoen Clinic Roseneck, Prien am Chiemsee, Germany
| | - Michael Bach
- Practice for Psychosomatics and Stress Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Gilles Michaux
- Research Group 'Brain-Body Interaction', Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg; GesondheetsZentrum, Fondation Hôpitaux Robert Schuman, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Vera-Christina Mertens
- Research Group 'Brain-Body Interaction', Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - André Schulz
- Research Group 'Brain-Body Interaction', Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg; Institute for Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, Trier University, Trier, Germany.
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Novakova L, Hedström AK, Axelsson M, Brandt AF, Alfredsson L, Olsson T, Lycke J. Medically unexplained symptoms are common in women in tertiary neurological healthcare center: A survey cohort study of persons investigated for suspected multiple sclerosis. Brain Behav 2024; 14:e3459. [PMID: 38451005 PMCID: PMC10918608 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A significant proportion of individuals with suspicious onset of multiple sclerosis (MS) does not fulfill the diagnostic criteria. Although some receive other diagnoses, many remain undiagnosed and lack healthcare follow-up. This study aimed to characterize persons with undetermined diagnosis (PwUD) through a questionnaire. METHODS Incident cases with suspected MS were consecutively admitted to a tertiary neurological healthcare center in a prospective cohort study. Those who remained undiagnosed after 40 months (mean, range 31-52) were considered PwUD. They completed a modified questionnaire, previously used in a population-based case-control study of incident MS cases. Their responses were compared with two control cohorts, persons with MS (PwMS) and healthy controls, randomly selected from national registries, matched by age, gender, and area of residence. RESULTS Out of 271 patients with suspected MS onset, 72 (20.3%) were PwUD with a female majority (79%). The response rate was 83% and 39% reported persisting MS-like symptoms. Compared to controls (n = 548) and PwMS (n = 277), fewer PwUD were currently smoking (p = .4 and p = .03), consumed less alcohol (p = .04 and p = .01), and had children (p = .02 and p = .002). PwUD reported occurrence of other autoimmune disease in 29%, higher compared to PwMS and controls (p < .001 and p < .001). CONCLUSIONS UD is common among persons investigated for suspected MS, in particular among female parents. Our data suggest that PwUD can be characterized as nonsmokers with low alcohol consumption and a higher prevalence of autoimmune disease, in particular thyroid disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Novakova
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Department of Neurology, Region Västra GötalandSahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
| | - Anna Karin Hedström
- Department of Clinical NeuroscienceKarolinska InstituteStockholmSweden
- Center for Molecular MedicineKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Markus Axelsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Department of Neurology, Region Västra GötalandSahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
| | - Anne Frandsen Brandt
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Department of Neurology, Region Västra GötalandSahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
| | - Lars Alfredsson
- Department of Clinical NeuroscienceKarolinska InstituteStockholmSweden
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region StockholmStockholmSweden
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska InstituteStockholmSweden
| | - Tomas Olsson
- Department of Clinical NeuroscienceKarolinska InstituteStockholmSweden
- Center for Molecular MedicineKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Jan Lycke
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Department of Neurology, Region Västra GötalandSahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
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Sullivan N, Schorpp H, Crosky S, Thien S, Helmer DA, Litke DR, Pigeon WR, Quigley KS, McAndrew LM. Treatment and life goals among veterans with Gulf War illness. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0295168. [PMID: 38033143 PMCID: PMC10688846 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Medically unexplained syndromes (MUS), also termed persistent physical symptoms, are both prevalent and disabling. Yet treatments for MUS are marked by high rates of patient dissatisfaction, as well as disagreement between patients and providers on the management of persistent physical symptoms. A better understanding of patient-generated goals could increase collaborative goal setting and promote person-centered care, a critical component of MUS treatment; yet research in this area is lacking. This paper aimed to develop a typology of treatment and life goals among Gulf War veterans with a medically unexplained syndrome (Gulf War Illness). We examined participants' responses to open-ended questions about treatment and life goals using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis methodology. Results showed that treatment goals could be categorized into four overarching themes: 1) Get better/healthier, 2) Improve quality of life, 3) Improve or seek additional treatment, and 4) Don't know/Don't have any. Life goals were categorized into six overarching themes: 1) Live a fulfilling life, 2) Live a happy life, 3) Live a healthy life, 4) Be productive/financially successful, 5) Manage GWI, and 6) Don't know/Don't have any. Treatment goals were largely focused on getting better/healthier (e.g., improving symptoms), whereas life goals focused on living a fulfilling life. Implications for the treatment of Gulf War Illness and patient-provider communication are discussed. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02161133.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Sullivan
- War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ, United States of America
| | - Hannah Schorpp
- War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ, United States of America
- Department of Psychology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States of America
| | - Sarah Crosky
- Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology, University at Albany, Albany, NY, United States of America
| | - Scott Thien
- War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ, United States of America
| | - Drew A. Helmer
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - David R. Litke
- War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ, United States of America
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Wilfred R. Pigeon
- Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, Canandaigua VA Medical Center, Canandaigua, NY, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States of America
| | - Karen S. Quigley
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Lisa M. McAndrew
- War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ, United States of America
- Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology, University at Albany, Albany, NY, United States of America
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Ma D, Cao J, Wei J, Fritzsche K, Toussaint AC, Li T, Zhang L, Zhang Y, Chen H, Wu H, Ma X, Li W, Ren J, Lu W, Leonhart R. The distribution of somatic symptom disorder and bodily distress syndrome in general hospital outpatients in China: A multicenter cross-sectional study. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2023; 85:171-176. [PMID: 37948794 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the distribution of somatic symptom disorder (SSD) and bodily distress syndrome (BDS) and analyze the differences in psychosocial characteristics of patients with the two diagnoses. METHODS A total of 694 general hospital outpatients completed the diagnostic interviews for SSD and BDS, and a set of questionnaires evaluating their psychosocial characteristics. A secondary analysis of these data is done. RESULTS SSD and BDS had a moderate overlap (kappa value = 0.43). Patients who fulfilled both SSD and BDS diagnosis showed significantly higher levels of symptom-related psychological distress (SSD-12), somatic symptom severity (PHQ-15), depression (PHQ-9), and general anxiety (GAD-7), as well as lower mental and physical quality of life (SF-12) compared to patients with neither diagnosis and patients with only one diagnosis. Patients with either diagnosis were associated with significantly higher psychosocial impairments as compared to those with neither diagnosis. Patients who only met SSD had higher SSD-12 scores, whereas those with only BDS had higher PHQ-15 scores (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS SSD and BDS appear to represent somewhat different psychopathologies, with SSD more associated with psychological distress and BDS associated with greater experience of somatic symptoms. Patients fulfilling both diagnosis show higher symptom severity in various psychosocial aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Ma
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, China
| | - Jinya Cao
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, China.
| | - Jing Wei
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, China.
| | - Kurt Fritzsche
- Center for Mental Health, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Centre - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Germany
| | - Anne Christin Toussaint
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- Mental Health Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China
| | - Yaoyin Zhang
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, China
| | - Hua Chen
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Zhong Shan Hospital, Fudan University, China
| | - Heng Wu
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, China
| | - Xiquan Ma
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Dongfang Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, China
| | - Wentian Li
- Department of Clinic Psychology, Wuhan Mental Health Centre, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Rehabilitation, General Hospital of Jincheng Anthracite Coal Mining Group Co. Ltd, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital University, China
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Fryer K, Sanders T, Greco M, Mooney C, Deary V, Burton C. Recognition, explanation, action, learning: Teaching and delivery of a consultation model for persistent physical symptoms. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 115:107870. [PMID: 37441925 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107870] [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: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the teaching and delivery of an extended consultation model designed for clinicians to use with patients with persistent physical symptoms and functional disorders. The model is underpinned by current scientific knowledge about persistent physical symptoms and the communication problems that arise in dealing with them. METHODS Process evaluation of training and delivery of the Recognition, Explanation, Action, Learning (REAL) model within the Multiple Symptoms Study 3: a randomised controlled trial of an extended-role GP "Symptoms Clinic". Evaluation used clinician and patient interviews and consultation transcripts. RESULTS 7 GPs were trained in the intervention and 6 of them went on to deliver the REAL model in Symptoms Clinics either face-to-face or online. The Symptoms Clinic provided a set of 4 extended consultations to approximately 170 patients. Evaluation of training indicated that there was a considerable load in terms of new knowledge and skills. Evaluation of delivery found clinicians could adapt the model to individual patients while maintaining a high level of fidelity to its core components. CONCLUSION REAL is a teachable consultation model addressing specific clinical communication issues for people with persistent physical symptoms. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS REAL enables clinicians to explain persistent physical symptoms in a beneficial way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Fryer
- Academic Unit of Primary Medical Care, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Tom Sanders
- Department of Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Monica Greco
- Department of Sociology, Goldsmiths, University of London, London, UK
| | - Cara Mooney
- School for Health & Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Vincent Deary
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Christopher Burton
- Academic Unit of Primary Medical Care, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
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Kondapura MB, Manjunatha N, Nagaraj AKM, Praharaj SK, Kumar CN, Math SB, Rao GN. Cost of Illness Analysis of Common Mental Disorders: A Study from an Indian Academic Tertiary Care Hospital. Indian J Psychol Med 2023; 45:519-525. [PMID: 37772137 PMCID: PMC10523518 DOI: 10.1177/02537176221108867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The cost of illness (COI) for common mental disorders (CMDs) that include depression, anxiety, and somatoform disorder is less studied in India. Hence, we studied the COI and disability of CMDs and their relationship in patients with depression, anxiety, and somatoform disorders. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 220 patients (110 with depression, 58 with anxiety disorders, and 52 with somatoform disorders) and evaluated disability using the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS). The schedule for the cost of illness (S-COI) was used for evaluating COI for the last year. Results The annual COI of CMDs from the patient perspective was ₹21,620 (interquartile range [IQR], ₹47,761; ≈US$290). The median annual direct COI was ₹4,907 (IQR ₹7,502), and indirect COI was ₹12,900 (IQR ₹37744). The direct COI was 18%, whereas the indirect COI was 82%. The direct and indirect COI in the three groups were similar. In all three groups with ongoing treatment, the mean scores indicated a mild level of disability. Total and indirect COI, but not the direct COI, correlated positively with the severity of illness and disability. Conclusion All the CMDs with ongoing treatment are associated with a mild level of disability and are a significant financial burden, with higher indirect costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjunatha B. Kondapura
- Dept. of Psychiatry, National
Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Narayana Manjunatha
- Dept. of Psychiatry, National
Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Anil Kumar Mysore Nagaraj
- Dept. of Psychiatry, Kasturba Medical
College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka,
India
| | - Samir Kumar Praharaj
- Dept. of Psychiatry, Kasturba Medical
College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka,
India
| | | | - Suresh Bada Math
- Dept. of Psychiatry, National
Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Girish N. Rao
- Dept. of Epidemiology, Centre for
Public Health, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru,
Karnataka, India
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10
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Yang X, Luo J, Wang P, He Y, Wang C, Yang L, Sun J, Li Z. Characteristics and economic burden of patients with somatoform disorders in Chinese general hospitals: a multicenter cross-sectional study. Ann Gen Psychiatry 2023; 22:30. [PMID: 37573334 PMCID: PMC10423408 DOI: 10.1186/s12991-023-00457-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In China, patients with somatoform disorders (SFD) often seek medical treatment repeatedly in outpatient clinics of general hospitals, which increases unreasonable medical expenses. It is imperative to provide early screening to these patients and specialized treatment to reduce the unnecessary cost. This study aimed to screen patients with SFD in general hospitals using a new Chinese questionnaire and explore the characteristics and economic burden of these patients. METHODS Patients (n = 1497) from the outpatient department of neurology, cardiology and gastroenterology of three large general hospitals were included. Participants were screened using a newly developed questionnaire, the Self-screening Questionnaire for Somatic Symptoms (SQSS), to identify the patients with SFD (total SQSS score ≥ 29 points). We compared the demographics and clinical information of patients with and without SFD. Logistic regression was used to explore potential factors related to medical expenses, visits to doctors and sick leave days taken. RESULTS The frequency of detection of patients with SFD was 17.03%. There were significant differences in employment, doctor visits, symptom duration, medical expenses, sick leave days, PHQ-15 scores, and PHQ-9 scores between patients with SFD and without SFD. General nonspecific somatic symptoms were frequently present in patients with SFD. Several potential factors were associated with higher medical expenses, repeated doctor visits, and sick leave days taken in the regression analysis. CONCLUSION The findings indicate that patients with SFD are common in general hospitals, and their direct and indirect economic burden is higher than that of non-SFD patients, which indicates that more screening effort should be made to this group to early identify their problems. Certain characteristics were identified among patients with SFD and several factors were associated with negative consequences of SFD, all of which might be prevented by developing a preventive intervention program to reduce the economic burden of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyun Yang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 5 Ankang Hutong Deshengmen Wai, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Luo
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 5 Ankang Hutong Deshengmen Wai, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Pengchong Wang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 5 Ankang Hutong Deshengmen Wai, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yue He
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 5 Ankang Hutong Deshengmen Wai, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Cong Wang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 5 Ankang Hutong Deshengmen Wai, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lijuan Yang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 5 Ankang Hutong Deshengmen Wai, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Sun
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.
- Institute of Integrated Intelligence and Systems, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.
| | - Zhanjiang Li
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 5 Ankang Hutong Deshengmen Wai, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China.
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11
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O'Mahony B, Nielsen G, Baxendale S, Edwards MJ, Yogarajah M. Economic Cost of Functional Neurologic Disorders: A Systematic Review. Neurology 2023; 101:e202-e214. [PMID: 37339887 PMCID: PMC10351557 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000207388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Functional neurologic disorder (FND) represents genuine involuntary neurologic symptoms and signs including seizures, weakness, and sensory disturbance, which have characteristic clinical features, and represent a problem of voluntary control and perception despite normal basic structure of the nervous system. The historical view of FND as a diagnosis of exclusion can lead to unnecessary health care resource utilization and high direct and indirect economic costs. A systematic review was performed using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to assess these economic costs and to assess for any cost-effective treatments. METHODS We searched electronic databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the National Health Service Economic Evaluations Database of the University of York) for original, primary research publications between inception of the databases and April 8, 2022. A hand search of conference abstracts was also conducted. Key search terms included "functional neurologic disorder," "conversion disorder," and "functional seizures." Reviews, case reports, case series, and qualitative studies were excluded. We performed a descriptive and qualitative thematic analysis of the resulting studies. RESULTS The search resulted in a total of 3,244 studies. Sixteen studies were included after screening and exclusion of duplicates. These included the following: cost-of-illness (COI) studies that were conducted alongside cohort studies without intervention and those that included a comparator group, for example, another neurologic disorder (n = 4); COI studies that were conducted alongside cohort studies without intervention and those that did not include a comparator group (n = 4); economic evaluations of interventions that were either pre-post cohort studies (n = 6) or randomized controlled trials (n = 2). Of these, 5 studies assessed active interventions, and 3 studies assessed costs before and after a definitive diagnosis of FND. Studies showed an excess annual cost associated with FND (range $4,964-$86,722 2021 US dollars), which consisted of both direct and large indirect costs. Studies showed promise that interventions, including provision of a definitive diagnosis, could reduce this cost (range 9%-90.7%). No cost-effective treatments were identified. Study comparison was limited by study design and location heterogeneity. DISCUSSION FND is associated with a significant use of health care resources, resulting in economic costs to both the patient and the taxpayer and intangible losses. Interventions, including accurate diagnosis, seem to offer an avenue toward reducing these costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian O'Mahony
- From the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (B.O.M.), King's College London; Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute (G.N., M.J.E.), St. George's University of London; Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (S.B., M.Y.), University College London, Institute of Neurology; Department of Neurology (S.B., M.Y.), National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery; Epilepsy Society (S.B., M.Y.), Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy; and Neurology Department (M.J.E.), Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre, St. George's University Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
| | - Glenn Nielsen
- From the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (B.O.M.), King's College London; Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute (G.N., M.J.E.), St. George's University of London; Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (S.B., M.Y.), University College London, Institute of Neurology; Department of Neurology (S.B., M.Y.), National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery; Epilepsy Society (S.B., M.Y.), Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy; and Neurology Department (M.J.E.), Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre, St. George's University Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sallie Baxendale
- From the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (B.O.M.), King's College London; Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute (G.N., M.J.E.), St. George's University of London; Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (S.B., M.Y.), University College London, Institute of Neurology; Department of Neurology (S.B., M.Y.), National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery; Epilepsy Society (S.B., M.Y.), Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy; and Neurology Department (M.J.E.), Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre, St. George's University Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J Edwards
- From the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (B.O.M.), King's College London; Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute (G.N., M.J.E.), St. George's University of London; Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (S.B., M.Y.), University College London, Institute of Neurology; Department of Neurology (S.B., M.Y.), National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery; Epilepsy Society (S.B., M.Y.), Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy; and Neurology Department (M.J.E.), Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre, St. George's University Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mahinda Yogarajah
- From the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (B.O.M.), King's College London; Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute (G.N., M.J.E.), St. George's University of London; Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (S.B., M.Y.), University College London, Institute of Neurology; Department of Neurology (S.B., M.Y.), National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery; Epilepsy Society (S.B., M.Y.), Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy; and Neurology Department (M.J.E.), Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre, St. George's University Hospitals, London, United Kingdom.
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12
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Christopher LLC, Pretorius PJ, Moodley A, Joubert G, Arendse T. Costs of adult functional neurological disorders at a tertiary hospital in central South Africa. S Afr J Psychiatr 2023; 29:2010. [PMID: 37416857 PMCID: PMC10319920 DOI: 10.4102/sajpsychiatry.v29i0.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Functional neurological disorders (FND) lead to increased care requirements and costs, negatively impacting healthcare budgets. Healthcare expenditure in FND has escalated beyond other neurologic disorders during the past decade. Objectives To assess inpatient costs in adults admitted to the neurology ward at Universitas Academic Hospital (UAH) in central South Africa. Methods A retrospective observational study with a comparative component was conducted on patients admitted during 2018 and 2019. All FND cases (n = 29) and a systematic sample of other neurological disorders were included in the comparison group (n = 29). Data were obtained from the Meditech billing system and clinical records. Results FND patients accounted for 5.5% of 530 admissions in the neurology ward during the study period. No significant differences regarding daily median cost, age categories, gender or medical comorbidity were observed between FND and the comparison group. However, the length of stay was significantly shorter for the FND patients (median of four versus eight days), translating to approximately half the total costs of patients admitted for other neurological disorders. Conclusion The daily median cost was similar for FND and other neurology-related admissions. The lower overall inpatient costs for FND patients were only related to significantly shorter durations of stay, which may reflect new diagnostic approaches resulting from changes in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) diagnostic criteria. The prevalence of FND was similar to those reported in previous studies conducted at neurology clinics. Contribution The study contributes towards better understanding the prevalence and cost of FND in local neurology inpatient care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonriche L C Christopher
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Paul J Pretorius
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Anand Moodley
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
- Department of Neurology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Gina Joubert
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Tracy Arendse
- Division of Public Health Surveillance and Response National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
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13
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Zerbinati L, Guerzoni F, Napoli N, Preti A, Esposito P, Caruso R, Bulighin F, Storari A, Grassi L, Battaglia Y. Psychosocial determinants of healthcare use costs in kidney transplant recipients. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1158387. [PMID: 37333548 PMCID: PMC10272730 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1158387] [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: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Psychosocial factors frequently occur in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), leading to behavioral alterations and reduced therapeutic adherence. However, the burden of psychosocial disorders on costs for KTRs is unknown. The aim of the study is to identify predictors of healthcare costs due to hospital admissions and emergency department access in KTRs. Methods This is a longitudinal observational study conducted on KTRs aged >18 years, excluding patients with an insufficient level of autonomy and cognitive disorder. KTRs underwent psychosocial assessment via two interviews, namely the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview 6.0 (MINI 6.0) and the Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research Interview (DCPR) and via the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System Revised (ESAS-R) scale, a self-administrated questionnaire. Sociodemographic data and healthcare costs for hospital admissions and emergency department access were collected in the 2016-2021 period. Psychosocial determinants were as follows: (1) ESAS-R psychological and physical score; (2) symptomatic clusters determined by DCPR (illness behavior cluster, somatization cluster, and personological cluster); and (3) ICD diagnosis of adjustment disorder, anxiety disorder, and mood disorder. A multivariate regression model was used to test the association between psychosocial determinants and total healthcare costs. Results A total of 134 KTRs were enrolled, of whom 90 (67%) were men with a mean age of 56 years. A preliminary analysis of healthcare costs highlighted that higher healthcare costs are correlated with worse outcomes and death (p < 0.001). Somatization clusters (p = 0.020) and mood disorder (p < 0.001) were positively associated with costs due to total healthcare costs. Conclusions This study showed somatization and mood disorders could predict costs for hospital admissions and emergency department access and be possible risk factors for poor outcomes, including death, in KTRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Zerbinati
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Franco Guerzoni
- Programming and Management Control Service, Unit of Controls, St. Anna University-Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nicola Napoli
- Programming and Management Control Service, Statistics Service, St. Anna University-Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Antonio Preti
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Pasquale Esposito
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Rosangela Caruso
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Alda Storari
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, St. Anna University-Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luigi Grassi
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Yuri Battaglia
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Pederzoli Hospital, Verona, Italy
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Toonders SAJ, van Westrienen PE, de Wit NJ, van Dongen JM, Gerrits M, Pisters MF, Veenhof C. The cost-effectiveness of an indicated blended care intervention in primary care compared to usual care in patients with moderate persistent somatic symptoms. J Psychosom Res 2023; 171:111387. [PMID: 37270910 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2023.111387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Appropriate treatment for people with an increased risk for developing chronic Persistent Somatic Symptoms (PSS) is of great importance at an early stage to improve quality of life and prevent high costs for society. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of an integrated blended care intervention compared to usual care for QALYs, subjective symptom impact and physical and mental health status in patients with moderate PSS. METHODS This economic evaluation was conducted alongside a 12-month prospective, multicenter cluster randomized controlled trial in Dutch primary care. 80 participants received the intervention and 80 participants received usual care. Seemingly unrelated regression analyzes were performed to estimate cost and effect differences. Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation. Bootstrapping techniques were used to estimate uncertainty. RESULTS We found no significant difference in total societal costs. Intervention, primary and secondary healthcare and absenteeism costs were higher for the intervention group. The ICER for QALYs demonstrated the intervention was on average less costly and less effective compared to usual care. For the subjective symptom impact and physical health, the ICER indicated that the intervention group was on average less costly and more effective. For mental health, the intervention was on average more costly and less effective. CONCLUSION We didn't find an integrated blended primary care intervention to be cost-effective compared to usual care. However, when looking on relevant, but specific outcome measures (subjective symptom impact and physical health) for this population, average costs are found to be lower and the effectiveness found to be higher.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A J Toonders
- Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, the Netherlands; Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Physical Therapy Research, Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - P E van Westrienen
- Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, the Netherlands; Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Physical Therapy Research, Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - N J de Wit
- Department of General Practice, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J M van Dongen
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M Gerrits
- Department of General Practice, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - M F Pisters
- Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, the Netherlands; Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Physical Therapy Research, Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - C Veenhof
- Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Physical Therapy Research, Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Research Group Innovation of Human Movement Care, University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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15
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Kitselaar WM, Büchner FL, van der Vaart R, Sutch SP, Bennis FC, Evers AW, Numans ME. Early identification of persistent somatic symptoms in primary care: data-driven and theory-driven predictive modelling based on electronic medical records of Dutch general practices. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e066183. [PMID: 37130660 PMCID: PMC10163476 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to early identify patients with persistent somatic symptoms (PSS) in primary care by exploring routine care data-based approaches. DESIGN/SETTING A cohort study based on routine primary care data from 76 general practices in the Netherlands was executed for predictive modelling. PARTICIPANTS Inclusion of 94 440 adult patients was based on: at least 7-year general practice enrolment, having more than one symptom/disease registration and >10 consultations. METHODS Cases were selected based on the first PSS registration in 2017-2018. Candidate predictors were selected 2-5 years prior to PSS and categorised into data-driven approaches: symptoms/diseases, medications, referrals, sequential patterns and changing lab results; and theory-driven approaches: constructed factors based on literature and terminology in free text. Of these, 12 candidate predictor categories were formed and used to develop prediction models by cross-validated least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression on 80% of the dataset. Derived models were internally validated on the remaining 20% of the dataset. RESULTS All models had comparable predictive values (area under the receiver operating characteristic curves=0.70 to 0.72). Predictors are related to genital complaints, specific symptoms (eg, digestive, fatigue and mood), healthcare utilisation, and number of complaints. Most fruitful predictor categories are literature-based and medications. Predictors often had overlapping constructs, such as digestive symptoms (symptom/disease codes) and drugs for anti-constipation (medication codes), indicating that registration is inconsistent between general practitioners (GPs). CONCLUSIONS The findings indicate low to moderate diagnostic accuracy for early identification of PSS based on routine primary care data. Nonetheless, simple clinical decision rules based on structured symptom/disease or medication codes could possibly be an efficient way to support GPs in identifying patients at risk of PSS. A full data-based prediction currently appears to be hampered by inconsistent and missing registrations. Future research on predictive modelling of PSS using routine care data should focus on data enrichment or free-text mining to overcome inconsistent registrations and improve predictive accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willeke M Kitselaar
- Health Campus The Hague/Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Department of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Frederike L Büchner
- Health Campus The Hague/Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Rosalie van der Vaart
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Department of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Stephen P Sutch
- Health Campus The Hague/Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
- HSR, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Frank C Bennis
- Computer Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Andrea Wm Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Department of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Mattijs E Numans
- Health Campus The Hague/Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
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16
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Barends H, Dekker J, van Dessel NC, Twisk JWR, van der Horst HE, van der Wouden JC. Exploring maladaptive cognitions and behaviors as perpetuating factors in patients with persistent somatic symptoms: a longitudinal study. J Psychosom Res 2023; 170:111343. [PMID: 37201294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2023.111343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Maladaptive cognitions and behaviors may influence symptoms and impairment in patients with persistent somatic symptoms (PSS). Aims of this study were to examine: (i) whether maladaptive cognitions and behaviors are associated with symptom severity and functional health over time; (ii) if these associations are the result of changes within individuals over time or of differences between individuals; (iii) directions of changes within individuals over time. METHODS Longitudinal data of a heterogeneous sample of patients with PSS were analyzed (n = 322 patients enrolled in the PROSPECTS cohort study). Cognitive and behavioral responses to symptoms (CBRQ), symptom severity (PHQ-15) and physical and mental functioning (RAND-36 PCS and MCS) were assessed seven times over a five-year period (0, 6 months, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 year). Longitudinal mixed model and hybrid model analysis with and without time-lag were applied. RESULTS Maladaptive cognitions and behaviors were associated with more severe symptoms and reduced physical and mental functioning over time. Both changes within individuals over time and differences between individuals were associated with higher symptom severity and reduced physical and mental functioning. The between-subject component was about twice the effect size of the within-subject component. Changes in several specific maladaptive cognitions and behaviors were associated with more severe symptoms and reduced physical and mental functioning later in time and vice versa. CONCLUSION This study shows that maladaptive cognitions and behaviors are associated with symptom severity and reduced physical and mental functioning over time in patients with PSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hieke Barends
- Department of General Practice, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Joost Dekker
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nikki Claassen- van Dessel
- Department of General Practice, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jos W R Twisk
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, the Netherlands
| | - Henriëtte E van der Horst
- Department of General Practice, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes C van der Wouden
- Department of General Practice, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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17
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Cuoco S, Scannapieco S, Carotenuto I, Picillo M, Pellecchia MT, Barone P, Erro R. Higher Health Service Costs Associated With Delayed Diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2023; 35:86-91. [PMID: 35989570 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.21110288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Functional neurological disorder (FND) is frequently encountered in clinical practice but commonly misdiagnosed, which might lead to higher direct costs for the health care system. The investigators analyzed the direct costs associated with the diagnosis of FND compared with costs associated with other neurological conditions and explored possible cost trends related to the clinical and demographic features of FND. METHODS Consecutive patients attending a general neurology clinic were recruited and underwent a structured assessment aimed to collect information pertaining to their demographic and clinical characteristics, as well as data regarding their prior diagnostic processes (e.g., the number of consulted specialists, number and type of investigations, emergency department visits, etc.). The costs were hence calculated and compared between the study groups. RESULTS A total of 155 consecutive patients were recruited; of these, 18.6% had FND, 55.84% had one or more other neurological disorder (OND), and 27.10% presented with comorbid FND and OND. The total prediagnostic costs (in euros [€]) were higher in the FND group compared with the OND group (median=€289, interquartile range [IQR] €385 vs. median=€98, IQR €216; Mann-Whitney U=879.5, p=0.04). There was a higher diagnostic delay in the FND group compared with the OND group (median=48 months, IQR 60 months vs. median=12 months, IQR 6 months; Mann-Whitney U=162.00, p<0.01). Diagnostic delay significantly correlated with the total costs in the entire study sample (Spearman's ρ=0.25, p=0.003) but more strongly in the FND group (Spearman's ρ=0.81, p<0.001). In the FND group, higher numbers of investigations and costs were associated with the presence of a physiological or psychological trigger and multiple symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Delayed diagnosis of FND significantly affects health care system costs, and raising awareness about FND to improve the diagnostic process and outcomes is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Cuoco
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," Neuroscience Section, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Cuoco, Scannapieco, Carotenuto, Picillo, Erro); Centro Malattie Neurodegenerative, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Pellecchia, Barone)
| | - Sara Scannapieco
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," Neuroscience Section, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Cuoco, Scannapieco, Carotenuto, Picillo, Erro); Centro Malattie Neurodegenerative, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Pellecchia, Barone)
| | - Imma Carotenuto
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," Neuroscience Section, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Cuoco, Scannapieco, Carotenuto, Picillo, Erro); Centro Malattie Neurodegenerative, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Pellecchia, Barone)
| | - Marina Picillo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," Neuroscience Section, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Cuoco, Scannapieco, Carotenuto, Picillo, Erro); Centro Malattie Neurodegenerative, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Pellecchia, Barone)
| | - Maria Teresa Pellecchia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," Neuroscience Section, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Cuoco, Scannapieco, Carotenuto, Picillo, Erro); Centro Malattie Neurodegenerative, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Pellecchia, Barone)
| | - Paolo Barone
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," Neuroscience Section, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Cuoco, Scannapieco, Carotenuto, Picillo, Erro); Centro Malattie Neurodegenerative, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Pellecchia, Barone)
| | - Roberto Erro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," Neuroscience Section, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Cuoco, Scannapieco, Carotenuto, Picillo, Erro); Centro Malattie Neurodegenerative, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy (Pellecchia, Barone)
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Polakovská L, Čevelíček M, Roubal J, Řiháček T. Changes after multicomponent group-based treatment in patients with medically unexplained physical symptoms. COUNSELLING PSYCHOLOGY QUARTERLY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/09515070.2022.2142200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Polakovská
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Michal Čevelíček
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Jan Roubal
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Tomáš Řiháček
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
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Terluin B, Barends H, van der Horst HE, Dekker J, van der Wouden JC. Head-to-head comparison of somatic symptom scales: The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-15) and the somatization scale of the Four-Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire (4DSQ-S). J Psychosom Res 2022; 162:111031. [PMID: 36156343 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2022.111031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to compare the 15-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-15) and the somatization subscale of the Four-Dimensional Symptoms Questionnaire (4DSQ-S) with respect to their latent structure and reliability, and to examine whether their scores are affected by age and gender, and whether the scales measure the same construct(s). METHODS The study population consisted of individuals with a tendency to experience persistent somatic symptoms, recruited in multiple healthcare settings, who completed the PHQ-15 and 4DSQ-S concurrently. We analyzed the scales' latent factor structure using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), the scales' reliability, and differential item functioning (DIF) due to age and gender. We performed a head-to-head comparison by fitting structural equation models of the questionnaires' factors. RESULTS We included 234 participants. CFA showed that both questionnaires fitted a bifactor model with a general factor and four specific factors, three of which (labeled "musculoskeletal", "gastrointestinal", and "cardiopulmonary") were substantively similar. Both scales were essentially unidimensional. The reliability of the PHQ-15 and 4DSQ-S was equally high (omega 0.933 and 0.942, respectively). DIF-analysis showed minor DIF for age in one item of each questionnaire, with negligible impact on the scale score. Head-to-head comparison showed that the PHQ-15 and 4DSQ-S measured the same constructs. We present PHQ-15 - 4DSQ-S cross-walk tables. CONCLUSIONS Both questionnaires mainly measure a single somatic symptom burden dimension of which all symptoms (covered by the questionnaires) are adequate indicators. They do so equally accurately and they behave the same across gender and age categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berend Terluin
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Hieke Barends
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Henriëtte E van der Horst
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joost Dekker
- Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes C van der Wouden
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Jadhakhan F, Romeu D, Lindner O, Blakemore A, Guthrie E. Prevalence of medically unexplained symptoms in adults who are high users of healthcare services and magnitude of associated costs: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e059971. [PMID: 36198445 PMCID: PMC9535167 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) is a common clinical syndrome in primary and secondary healthcare service. Outcomes for patients with persistent MUS include increased disability, poorer quality of life and higher healthcare costs. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the prevalence of MUS in patients who are high users of healthcare or high-cost patients in comparison with routine users and the magnitude of associated costs. DESIGN A systematic review of the available literature. DATA SOURCES AND ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA The following electronic databases were systematically searched without language restriction from inception to June 2018 and updated on 22 October 2021: MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL and PROSPERO. Inclusion criteria included studies investigating adults aged ≥18 years, who were high healthcare users or accrued high healthcare costs, in which the prevalence and/or associated costs of MUS was quantified. Two reviewers independently extracted information on study characteristics, exposure and outcomes. RESULTS From 5622 identified publications, 25 studies from 9 countries involving 31 650 patients were selected for inclusion. Due to high risk of bias in many studies and heterogeneity between studies, results are described narratively. There were wide variations in prevalence estimates for MUS in high users of healthcare (2.9%-76%), but MUS was more prevalent in high use groups compared with low use groups in all but one of the 12 studies that included a comparator group. Only three studies investigated healthcare costs associated with MUS, and all three reported greater healthcare costs associated with MUS. CONCLUSION MUS has been found to be more prevalent in high use healthcare populations than comparator groups, but the magnitude of difference is difficult to estimate due to considerable heterogeneity between studies and potential for bias. Future studies should prioritise a standardised approach to this research area, with agreed definitions of MUS and high healthcare use. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018100388.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferozkhan Jadhakhan
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Daniel Romeu
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Leeds, UK
- Division of Psychological and Social Medicine, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Oana Lindner
- Patient-Centred Outcomes Research Group, Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. James's University Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Amy Blakemore
- Division of Nursing, Social Work and Midwifery, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Elspeth Guthrie
- School of Medicine, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Room 10.39, Worsley Building, Clarendon Way, Leeds, UK
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Affiliation(s)
- Heike Künzel
- Psychosomatische Beratungsstelle / Ambulanz, Klinikum Innenstadt d. LMU München, Pettenkoferstraße 8 a, 80336, München, Deutschland.
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22
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Jøssang IH, Aamland A, Hjörleifsson S. Discovering strengths in patients with medically unexplained symptoms - a focus group study with general practitioners. Scand J Prim Health Care 2022; 40:405-413. [PMID: 36345858 PMCID: PMC9848323 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2022.2139345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When patients suffer medically unexplained symptoms, consultations can be difficult and frustrating for both patient and GP. Acknowledging the patient as a co-subject can be particularly important when the symptoms remain unexplained. One way of seeing the patient as a co-subject is by recognizing any among their strong sides. OBJECTIVES To explore GPs' experiences with discovering strengths in their patients with medically unexplained symptoms and elicit GPs' reflections on how this might be useful. METHODS Four focus-groups with 17 GPs in Norway. Verbatim transcripts from the interviews were analyzed by systematic text condensation. RESULTS Recollecting patients' strengths was quiet challenging to the GPs. Gradually they nevertheless shared a range of examples, and many participants had experienced that knowing patients' strong sides could make consultations less demanding, and sometimes enable the GP to provide better help. Identifying strengths in patients with unexplained symptoms required a deliberate effort on the GPs' behalf, and this seemed to be a result of a strong focus on biomedical disease and loss of function. CONCLUSIONS Acknowledging patients' strong sides can bolster GPs' ability to help patients with medically unexplained symptoms. However, the epistemic disadvantage of generalist expertise makes this hard to achieve. It is difficult for GPs to integrate person-centered perspectives with biomedical knowledge due to the privileged position of the latter. This seems to indicate a need for system-level innovations to increase the status of person-centered clinical work. Key pointsMUS is challenging for both patients and GPs mainly because of the incongruence between symptoms and the dominating biomedical model.GPs' focus on pathology and loss of function can prevent them from discovering patients' strengths.Awareness of patients' strengths can make consultations less demanding for GPs and enable them to provide better help.A conscious effort is needed to discover patients' strengths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingjerd Helene Jøssang
- Department of global public health and primary care, University of Bergen, Norway
- Research unit for general practice, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Bergen, Norway
- CONTACT Ingjerd Helene Jøssang Research unit for general practice, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Årstadveien 17, Bergen5016, Norway
| | - Aase Aamland
- Research unit for general practice, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Bergen, Norway
| | - Stefan Hjörleifsson
- Department of global public health and primary care, University of Bergen, Norway
- Research unit for general practice, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Bergen, Norway
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Abasi I, Ghapanchi A, Toussaint A, Bitarafan M, Zarabi H, Derakhshan FS, Banihashem S, Mohammadi N, Ghasemzadeh MR, Derakhshan MK. Psychometric properties of the Persian version of the somatic symptom disorder-B Criteria Scale (SSD-12) in community and clinical samples. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2022; 78:1-8. [PMID: 35728363 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the DSM-5's diagnostic criteria of somatic symptom disorders (SSD), the presence of psychological problems (i.e., excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors) is emphasized more than the absence of the medical causes of patients' bothersome symptoms. In this regard, the Somatic Symptom Disorder-B Criteria Scale (SSD-12) is a screening tool for assessing these psychological features in somatic symptom disorder. This study aimed to validate the Persian version of SSD-12 in the Iranian community (non-clinical) and clinical samples. METHODS Data was gathered from 291 individuals in a community sample (aged 18 to 54, M-age = 36.62, SD = 10.56, 79.7% females) and from clinical setting, including 118 patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD, aged 18 to 60, M-age = 36.52, SD = 11.39, 75.8% females) and 120 patients diagnosed with somatic symptom disorders (aged 18 to 60, M-age = 35.17, SD = 8.77, 73.7% females). To assess the convergent validity of SSD-12 in the clinical samples, participants were asked to complete measures assessing anxiety, depression, somatic symptoms, health anxiety, and emotional regulation. RESULTS Confirmatory Factor Analyses (CFAs) showed that the three-factor model of the SSD-12 reached acceptable fit in the community and clinical samples and yielded excellent internal consistency across the samples. Also, test-retest reliability analysis results were good in the community sample. Convergent validity could be shown in the clinical samples. A cut-off score greater than 14 was in the optimal state with a sensitivity of 70.83 and a specificity of 70.07. CONCLUSION The current study provides evidence on the factor structure, reliability, and validity of the Persian SSD-12 in the Iranian community and clinical samples. A sum score of 14 can be recommended as the cut-off point. Further studies are needed to assess SSD-12 in different clinical populations and larger samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imaneh Abasi
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ala Ghapanchi
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Anne Toussaint
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maryam Bitarafan
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Zarabi
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health (Tehran Institute of Psychiatry), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Seyedshahab Banihashem
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Taleqani Hospital Research Development Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Niush Mohammadi
- Psychiatric, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Kamran Derakhshan
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Taleqani Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Ballering AV, Wardenaar KJ, olde Hartman TC, Rosmalen JGM. Female sex and femininity independently associate with common somatic symptom trajectories. Psychol Med 2022; 52:2144-2154. [PMID: 33168107 PMCID: PMC9386437 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291720004043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple predictors have been associated with persistent somatic symptoms. However, previous studies problematically defined the persistence of symptoms, conflated participants' sex and gender, and focused on patient populations. Therefore, we studied associations between predictors, especially sex and gender, and longitudinal patterns of somatic symptoms in the general adult population. We also assessed whether predictors for persisting symptoms differ between sexes. METHOD To identify developmental trajectories of somatic symptoms, assessed by the SCL-90 SOM, we used latent class trajectory modeling in the Dutch Lifelines Cohort Study [N = 150 494; 58.6% female; median time to follow-up: 46.0 (min-max: 22.0-123.0) months]. To identify predictors of trajectories, we applied multiple logistic regression analyses. Predictors were measured by surveys at baseline and a composite gender index was previously developed. RESULTS A five-class linear LCGA model fitted the data best: 93.7% of the population had a stable symptom trajectory, whereas 1.5% and 4.8% of the population had a consistently increasing or decreasing symptom trajectory, respectively. Female sex predicted severe, stable symptom severity (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.36-2.22), but not increasing symptom severity (OR 1.15, 95% CI 0.99-1.40). Femininity was protective hereof (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.44-0.82 and OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.51-0.85, respectively). Merely a few predictors of symptom severity, for instance hours of paid employment and physical functioning, differed in strength between sexes. Yet, effect sizes were small. CONCLUSION Female sex and femininity predict symptom trajectories. No large sex differences in the strength of additional predictors were found, thus it may not be clinically useful to distinguish between predictors specific to male or female patients of persistent somatic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aranka V. Ballering
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center of Groningen, Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion Regulation (ICPE), P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Klaas J. Wardenaar
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center of Groningen, Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion Regulation (ICPE), P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tim C. olde Hartman
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Judith G. M. Rosmalen
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center of Groningen, Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion Regulation (ICPE), P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB, Groningen, The Netherlands
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25
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Berg N, Nummi T, Bean CG, Westerlund H, Virtanen P, Hammarström A. Risk factors in adolescence as predictors of trajectories of somatic symptoms over 27 years. Eur J Public Health 2022; 32:696-702. [PMID: 35904464 PMCID: PMC9527955 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac081] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Somatic symptoms among adolescents are common, yet little is known about long-term trajectories of somatic symptoms and the factors in adolescence that shape them. We examined individual, family and school-based factors at age 16 as predictors of trajectories of somatic symptoms over 27 years. METHODS Participants from the Northern Swedish Cohort (n = 1001) responded to questions about individual factors (e.g. health behaviours), family factors (e.g. contact with parents, social and material adversity) and school satisfaction at age 16; as well as 10 somatic symptoms at ages 16, 18, 21, 30 and 43. Teacher assessments at age 16 included overall ability at school and peer relations. Age 16 predictors of somatic symptom trajectory group membership were analysed using multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS Poor contact with mother and poor school satisfaction were significant predictors of adverse symptom trajectories among both men and women. Low birth weight and low parental academic involvement were contributing factors for women, while smoking and social adversity were more relevant factors for men. CONCLUSIONS Our findings emphasize the importance of a holistic approach that considers the unique contributions of individual, family and school-based factors in the development of trajectories of somatic symptoms from adolescence to middle age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noora Berg
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tapio Nummi
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences/Statistics, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Christopher G Bean
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Hugo Westerlund
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pekka Virtanen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Anne Hammarström
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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den Boer C, Terluin B, van der Wouden JC, Blankenstein AH, van der Horst HE. Experiences of general practitioners explaining central sensitisation to patients with persistent physical symptoms: a focus group study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060063. [PMID: 35882464 PMCID: PMC9330311 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-060063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with persistent physical symptoms (PPS) require an explanation that is acceptable and comprehensible to them. Central sensitisation (CS) is an explanatory model for PPS and chronic pain that has been broadly applied in the context of pain medicine, but, until recently, not by general practitioners (GPs). We explored how GPs used the CS model in their consultations with patients with PPS. DESIGN AND SETTING A qualitative focus group study among GPs in the Netherlands. METHODS We instructed 33 GPs on how to explain CS to patients with PPS. After 0.5-1.5 years of using the CS model, 26 GPs participated in focus groups and interviews to report and discuss their experiences with CS as an explanatory model. Audio recordings were transcribed and two researchers independently analysed the data. The text was coded, codes were organised into themes and discussed until consensus was reached. RESULTS We identified eleven themes and grouped these into four categories.The GPs regarded the CS model as evidence-based, credible and giving recognition to the patient. On the other hand, they found explaining the CS model difficult and time-consuming. They tailored the CS model to their patients' needs and used multiple consultations to explain the model. The GPs reported that the use of the CS model seemed to improve the understanding and acceptance of the symptoms by the patients and seemed to reduce their need for more diagnostic tests. Furthermore, patients seemed to become more motivated to accept appropriate therapy. CONCLUSION GPs reported that they were able to provide explanations with the CS model to their patients with PPS. They regarded the model as evidence-based, credible and giving recognition to the patient, but explaining it difficult and time-consuming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carine den Boer
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Berend Terluin
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes C van der Wouden
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annette H Blankenstein
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henriëtte E van der Horst
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Sarter L, Heider J, Witthöft M, Rief W, Kleinstäuber M. Using clinical patient characteristics to predict treatment outcome of cognitive behavior therapies for individuals with medically unexplained symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2022; 77:11-20. [PMID: 35390568 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE For individuals with medically unexplained symptoms (MUS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the best-evaluated treatment. This systematic review and meta-analyses identify clinical patient characteristics associated with the treatment outcome of CBT for MUS. METHODS A systematic literature search (PubMed, PsycInfo, Web of Science) resulted in 53 eligible studies; of these 32 studies could be included in meta-analyses. Pooled correlation coefficients between predictors and treatment outcome were calculated with a random-effects model. Moderator analyses were conducted to examine differences between subgroups of MUS and different levels of methodological study quality. RESULTS Meta-analyses demonstrated that individuals with higher symptom intensity (r = 0.38; p < 0.001), lower physical functioning (r = -0.29; p < 0.001), lower emotional and social functioning (r = -0.37; p < 0.001), more potential symptom-related incentives (r = -0.15; p = 0.001), or longer symptom duration (r = 0.10; p = 0.033) at the beginning of treatment reported less change of symptom severity until the end of therapy or higher end-of-treatment symptom severity. The pooled effect sizes did not differ between certain subgroups of MUS or between different levels of methodological quality. CONCLUSION Our findings indicated that clinical characteristics of MUS patients are associated with treatment outcome of CBT. We discuss how the results can be used to optimize and personalize future treatments for MUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Sarter
- Philipps-University Marburg, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Gutenbergstraße 18, 35037 Marburg, Germany.
| | - Jens Heider
- University Koblenz-Landau, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ostbahnstraße 10, 76829 Landau, Germany.
| | - Michael Witthöft
- Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy and Experimental Psychopathology, Wallstraße 3, 55122 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Winfried Rief
- Philipps-University Marburg, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Gutenbergstraße 18, 35037 Marburg, Germany.
| | - Maria Kleinstäuber
- Department of Psychology, Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services, Utah State University, Logan, USA.
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Raemen L, Claes L, Verschueren M, Van Oudenhove L, Vandekerkhof S, Triangle I, Luyckx K. Personal identity, somatic symptoms, and symptom-related thoughts, feelings, and behaviors: Exploring associations and mechanisms in adolescents and emerging adults. SELF AND IDENTITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15298868.2022.2063371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leni Raemen
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laurence Claes
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (CAPRI), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Lukas Van Oudenhove
- Laboratory for Brain-Gut Axis Studies (LaBGAS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience Lab, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Sarah Vandekerkhof
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Resilient People, Ucll Research and Expertise, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Ine Triangle
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koen Luyckx
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- UNIBS, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Haun MW, Tönnies J, Graue L, Hartmann M, Wensing M, Szecsenyi J, Wild B, Friederich HC. Mental health specialist video consultations for patients with somatic symptom disorder in primary care: protocol for a randomised feasibility trial (the VISION trial). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058150. [PMID: 35410935 PMCID: PMC9003599 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION General practitioners (GP) report increasing difficulties in referring patients with somatic symptom disorder (SSD) in specialised psychosocial care. Barriers are structural conditions of the respective healthcare system and patients' reservations against receiving specialised psychosocial care. As patients with SSD often predominantly assume somatic influencing factors for the development and maintenance of their somatic complaints, close collaboration between the GP and mental health specialist (MHS) seems particularly important. Integrating internet-based video consultations by remotely located MHS and primary care can improve effective treatment of patients with SSD by overcoming structural barriers and provide low-threshold and timely care. The aim of this randomised controlled feasibility trial is to investigate the feasibility of implementing MHS video consultations in primary care practices. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Fifty primary care patients with SSD will be individually randomised in two groups receiving either enhanced treatment as usual as provided by their GP (control group) or two versus five video consultations conducted by an MHS additionally to enhanced treatment as usual. The video consultations focus on (a) diagnostic clarification, (b) the development of a biopsychosocial disorder model, and (c) development of a treatment plan against the background of a stepped-care algorithm based on clinical outcomes. We will investigate the following outcomes: effectiveness of the recruitment strategies, patient acceptance of randomisation, practicability of the technical and logistical processes related to implementing video consultations in the practices' workflows, feasibility of the data collection and clinical parameters. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This trial has undergone ethical scrutiny and has been approved by the Medical Faculty of the University of Heidelberg Ethics Committee (S-620/2021). The findings will be disseminated to the research community through presentations at conferences and publications in scientific journals. This feasibility trial will prepare the ground for a large-scale, fully powered randomised controlled trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER DRKS00026075.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus W Haun
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Justus Tönnies
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Leike Graue
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mechthild Hartmann
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michel Wensing
- Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joachim Szecsenyi
- Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Beate Wild
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans-Christoph Friederich
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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30
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Lamu AN, Robberstad B, Hamre HJ, Alræk T, Musial F, Björkman L. Validity and responsiveness of GHC-index in patients with amalgam-attributed health complaints. Acta Odontol Scand 2022; 80:226-233. [PMID: 34651557 DOI: 10.1080/00016357.2021.1989032] [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: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many patients have medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS); some of them attribute their health complaints to dental amalgam fillings. The aim of this study was to assess the validity and responsiveness of General Health Complaints index (GHC-index) for measuring the symptom load in MUPS patients compared to the widely used symptom outcome measure, Giessen Subjective Complaints List (GBB-24). METHODS Three outcome measures - GHC-index, GBB-24, and Munich Amalgam Scale (MAS) - were administered at baseline and 12 months after removal of all dental amalgam restorations. The validity and responsiveness of these symptom measures were tested against external anchors: bodily distress syndrome (BDS), SF-36 vitality, and visual analogue scale (VAS). We tested both convergent and known group validities. We also examined the predictive validity and responsiveness to changes for each instrument. RESULTS All the main outcome measures showed evidence of convergent and known group validities. The GHC-index, GBB-24 and MAS were all able to detect the anticipated differences in BDS and Energy. But the GBB-24 was more efficient in discriminating the BDS compared with the GHC-index (relative efficiency: RE = 0.69; 95% CI: 0.41-0.96) and MAS (RE = 0.59; 95% CI: 0.32-0.86). Each main outcome variable revealed good predictive validity for vitality (standardized coefficient: b ≈ 0.71 and R2 ≈ 0.50). Moderate to high sensitivity to change over time was demonstrated, with GHC-index performing better. CONCLUSION The GHC-index is a valid and responsive instrument for assessing symptom load in MUPS patients attributing their health complaints to amalgam fillings and undergoing amalgam removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Admassu N. Lamu
- Section for Ethics and Health Economics, Department of Global Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Dental Biomaterials Adverse Reaction Unit, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Bergen, Norway
| | - Bjarne Robberstad
- Section for Ethics and Health Economics, Department of Global Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Harald J. Hamre
- Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany
| | - Terje Alræk
- Department of Community Medicine, National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, NAFKAM, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Frauke Musial
- Department of Community Medicine, National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, NAFKAM, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Lars Björkman
- Dental Biomaterials Adverse Reaction Unit, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Hammerman O, Halperin D, Tsalihin D, Greenberg D, Kushnir T, Ezra Y. Characteristics and economic burden of frequent attenders with medically unexplained symptoms in primary care in Israel. Eur J Gen Pract 2021; 27:294-302. [PMID: 34633891 PMCID: PMC8510588 DOI: 10.1080/13814788.2021.1985997] [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] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Frequent Attenders with Medically Unexplained Symptoms (FA/MUS) are common in primary care, though challenging to identify and treat. Objectives This study sought to compare FA/MUS to FA with organic illnesses (FA/OI) and the general clinic population (Non-FA) to understand their demographic characteristics and healthcare utilisation patterns. Methods For this retrospective, observational study, Electronic Medical Records (EMR) were obtained from Clalit Health Services, regarding the population of a sizeable primary care clinic in Be’er-Sheva, Israel. Electronic medical records were screened to identify the top 5% of FA. FA were stratified based on whether they had OI. FA without OI were then corroborated as having MUS by their physicians. Demographics, healthcare utilisation and costs were analysed for FA/OI, FA/MUS and Non-FA. Results Out of 594 FA, 305 (53.6%) were FA/OI and 264 (46.4%) were FA/MUS. FA/OI were older (69.1 vs. 56.4 years, p<.001) and costlier (ILS27693 vs. ILS9075, p<.001) than FA/MUS. Average costs for FA/MUS were over four times higher than Non-FA (ILS9075 vs. ILS2035, p<.001). The largest disparities between FA/OI and FA/MUS were in hospitalisations (ILS6998 vs. ILS2033) and surgical procedures (ILS8143 vs. ILS3175). Regarding laboratory tests, differences were smaller between groups of FA but significantly different between FA and Non-FA. Conclusion FA/MUS are more costly than Non-FA and exhibit unique healthcare utilisation and costs patterns. FA/OI had more severe illnesses necessitating hospitalisations and surgical interventions, while FA/MUS had more investigations and tests, attempting to find an explanation for their symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oded Hammerman
- Department of Neurology, Soroka Medical Center, Be'er-Sheva, Israel.,Department of Health Policy and Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
| | - Daniel Halperin
- Soroka Clinical Research Center, Soroka Medical Center, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
| | - Daniel Tsalihin
- Yud Alef Clinic, Clalit Health Services, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
| | - Dan Greenberg
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
| | - Talma Kushnir
- Department of Psychology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
| | - Yacov Ezra
- Department of Neurology, Soroka Medical Center, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
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32
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Toonders SAJ, van Westrienen PE, Konings S, Nieboer ME, Veenhof C, Pisters MF. Patients' Perspectives on the Usability of a Blended Approach to an Integrated Intervention for Patients With Medically Unexplained Physical Symptoms: Mixed Methods Study. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e19794. [PMID: 34581674 PMCID: PMC8512187 DOI: 10.2196/19794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Medically unexplained physical symptoms are physical symptoms, such as pain, fatigue, and dizziness, that persist for more than a few weeks and cannot be explained after adequate medical examination. Treatment for preventing the chronicity of symptoms is recommended. A promising approach is identifying patients who are at risk and subsequently offering a blended care intervention that focuses on promoting self-management while using eHealth as a supportive tool. When these interventions match with a patient’s expectations, their effectiveness grows. Objective This study aimed to obtain more insights into usability from the patient perspective to improve future interventions. Methods A mixed methods design (ie, the use of qualitative and quantitative data) was used. Through semistructured interviews, in-depth insights were gained into patients’ perspectives on usability. The analysis process was continuous and iterative. Data were synthesized and categorized into different themes. The System Usability Scale, which measures the usability of a system, was used to compare participants that found usability to be low, medium, or high. This study was approved by the Medical Ethical Committee Utrecht (approval number: 17-391/C). Results Saturation was reached after interviewing 13 participants. The following four themes emerged from the interviews: motivations and expectations prior to participating in the program, the applicability of e-coaching, the role of health care professionals, and the integrated design of the blended approach. Conclusions The successful implementation of integrated blended care interventions based on patients’ perspectives requires matching treatments to patients’ individual situations and motivations. Furthermore, personalizing the relative frequency of face-to-face appointments and e-coaching can improve usability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suze Adriana Johanna Toonders
- Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, Netherlands.,Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Leidsche Rijn Julius Health Care Centers, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Physical Therapy Research Group, Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Paula Elisabeth van Westrienen
- Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, Netherlands.,Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Leidsche Rijn Julius Health Care Centers, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Physical Therapy Research Group, Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Sophie Konings
- Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, Netherlands.,Physical Therapy Sciences Program in Clinical Health Sciences, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marianne E Nieboer
- Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Cindy Veenhof
- Physical Therapy Research Group, Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Physical Therapy Sciences Program in Clinical Health Sciences, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Research Group Innovation of Human Movement Care, University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Martijn F Pisters
- Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, Netherlands.,Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Leidsche Rijn Julius Health Care Centers, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Physical Therapy Research Group, Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Physical Therapy Sciences Program in Clinical Health Sciences, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Kitselaar WM, Numans ME, Sutch SP, Faiq A, Evers AW, van der Vaart R. Identifying persistent somatic symptoms in electronic health records: exploring multiple theory-driven methods of identification. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e049907. [PMID: 34535479 PMCID: PMC8451292 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-049907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Persistent somatic symptoms (PSSs) are defined as symptoms not fully explained by well-established pathophysiological mechanisms and are prevalent in up to 10% of patients in primary care. The present study aimed to explore methods to identify patients with a recognisable risk of having PSS in routine primary care data. DESIGN A cross-sectional study to explore four identification methods that each cover part of the broad spectrum of PSS was performed. Cases were selected based on (1) PSS-related syndrome codes, (2) PSS-related symptom codes, (3) PSS-related terminology and (4) Four-Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire scores and all methods combined. SETTING Coded electronic health record data were extracted from 76 general practices in the Netherlands. PARTICIPANTS Patients who were registered for at least 1 year during 2014-2018, were included (n=169 138). OUTCOME MEASURES Identification methods were explored based on (1) PSS sample sizes and demographics, (2) presence of chronic conditions and (3) healthcare utilisation (HCU) variables. Overlap between methods and practice specific differences were examined. RESULTS The percentage of cases identified varied between 0.3% and 7.0% across the methods. Over 58.1% of cases had chronic physical condition(s) and over 33.8% had chronic mental condition(s). HCU was generally higher for cases selected by any method compared with the total cohort. HCU was higher for method B compared with the other methods. In 26.7% of cases, cases were selected by multiple methods. Overlap between methods was low. CONCLUSIONS Different methods yielded different patient samples which were general practice specific. Therefore, for the most comprehensive data-based selection of PSS cases, a combination of methods A, C and D would be recommended. Advanced (data-driven) methods are needed to create a more sensitive algorithm for identifying the full spectrum of PSS. For clinical purposes, method B could possibly support screening of patients who are currently missed in daily practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willeke M Kitselaar
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Public Health and Primary Care / LUMC-Campus The Hague, Leiden University Medical Center, Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Mattijs E Numans
- Public Health and Primary Care / LUMC-Campus The Hague, Leiden University Medical Center, Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Stephen P Sutch
- Public Health and Primary Care / LUMC-Campus The Hague, Leiden University Medical Center, Den Haag, The Netherlands
- Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ammar Faiq
- Public Health and Primary Care / LUMC-Campus The Hague, Leiden University Medical Center, Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Wm Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Medical Delta, Leiden University, Delft University of Technology & Erasmus University, Leiden / Delft/ Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rosalie van der Vaart
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Kitselaar WM, van der Vaart R, van Tilborg-den Boeft M, Vos HMM, Numans ME, Evers AWM. The general practitioners perspective regarding registration of persistent somatic symptoms in primary care: a survey. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:182. [PMID: 34511065 PMCID: PMC8436507 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01525-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Persistent somatic symptoms (PSS) are common in primary care and often accompanied by an increasing disease burden for both the patient and healthcare. In medical practice, PSS is historically considered a diagnosis by exclusion or primarily seen as psychological. Besides, registration of PSS in electronic health records (EHR) is unambiguous and possibly does not reflect classification adequately. The present study explores how general practitioners (GPs) currently register PSS, and their view regarding the need for improvements in classification, registration, and consultations. Method Dutch GPs were invited by email to participate in a national cross-sectional online survey. The survey addressed ICPC-codes used by GPs to register PSS, PSS-related terminology added to free text areas, usage of PSS-related syndrome codes, and GPs’ need for improvement of PSS classification, registration and care. Results GPs (n = 259) were most likely to use codes specific to the symptom presented (89.3%). PSS-related terminology in free-text areas was used sparsely. PSS-related syndrome codes were reportedly used by 91.5% of GPs, but this was primarily the case for the code for irritable bowel syndrome. The ambiguous registration of PSS is reported as problematic by 47.9% of GPs. Over 56.7% of GPs reported needing additional training, tools or other support for PSS classification and consultation. GPs also reported needing other referral options and better guidelines. Conclusions Registration of PSS in primary care is currently ambiguous. Approximately half of GPs felt a need for more options for registration of PSS and reported a need for further support. In order to improve classification, registration and care for patients with PSS, there is a need for a more appropriate coding scheme and additional training. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12875-021-01525-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willeke M Kitselaar
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Department, Leiden University, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands. .,Public Health and Primary Care Department / LUMC-Campus Den Haag, Leiden University Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands.
| | - Rosalie van der Vaart
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Department, Leiden University, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Madelon van Tilborg-den Boeft
- Public Health and Primary Care Department / LUMC-Campus Den Haag, Leiden University Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Hedwig M M Vos
- Public Health and Primary Care Department / LUMC-Campus Den Haag, Leiden University Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Mattijs E Numans
- Public Health and Primary Care Department / LUMC-Campus Den Haag, Leiden University Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Andrea W M Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Department, Leiden University, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Cabral CMN, Miyamoto GC, Franco KFM, Bosmans JE. Economic evaluations of educational, physical, and psychological treatments for fibromyalgia: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Pain 2021; 162:2331-2345. [PMID: 33605655 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Nonpharmacological interventions are recommended for the treatment of fibromyalgia, but there is a lack of knowledge about the cost-effectiveness of these interventions. The aim of this study was to systematically review economic evaluations of educational, physical, and psychological interventions for the treatment of fibromyalgia. The search was performed in PUBMED, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, PsycINFO, EconLit, National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database, and Health Technology Assessment. Economic evaluations of educational, physical, and psychological interventions for adult patients with fibromyalgia were included. Primary outcomes were healthcare and societal costs, and quality-adjusted life-years, and secondary outcomes were any disease-specific clinical outcome. Costs and effects were pooled in a meta-analysis, when possible. Eleven studies were included, of which 7 compared a psychological intervention with another intervention or usual care/control. Over a 6-month time horizon, healthcare and societal costs of the psychological intervention were significantly lower than usual care (mean difference: $-2087, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -3061 to -1112; mean difference: $-2411, 95% CI: -3582 to -1240, respectively), and healthcare costs were significantly lower for the psychological intervention compared with a pharmacological intervention (mean difference: $-1443, 95% CI: -2165 to -721). Over a 12-month time horizon, healthcare costs for the psychological intervention were significantly lower than for usual care (mean difference: $-538, 95% CI: -917 to -158). Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for quality-adjusted life-years and impact of fibromyalgia showed that the psychological intervention was cost-effective compared with other interventions and control conditions. There is a need of more economic evaluations conducted alongside randomized controlled trials with interventions recommended for the treatment of fibromyalgia, such as physical exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Maria Nunes Cabral
- Masters and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, Universidade Cidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, the Netherlands
| | - Gisela Cristiane Miyamoto
- Masters and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, Universidade Cidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, the Netherlands
| | | | - Judith Ekkina Bosmans
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, the Netherlands
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Abbass A, Town J, Holmes H, Luyten P, Cooper A, Russell L, Lumley MA, Schubiner H, Allinson J, Bernier D, De Meulemeester C, Kroenke K, Kisely S. Short-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for Functional Somatic Disorders: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. PSYCHOTHERAPY AND PSYCHOSOMATICS 2021; 89:363-370. [PMID: 32428905 DOI: 10.1159/000507738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Functionalsomatic disorders (FSD) are common and costly, thereby driving the need for the development of effective brief treatment options. Short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy (STPP) is one candidate treatment method. OBJECTIVE To review and meta-analyze, where possible, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of STPP for FSD. METHODS Following a systematic search of the literature, we performed a meta-analysis of available RCT groups to determine the effects of STPP on a range of outcomes after treatment, and medium- and long-term follow-ups. RESULTS In meta-analyses of 17 RCTs, STPP significantly outperformed minimal treatment, treatment as usual, or waiting list controls on somatic symptom measures at all time frames, with small to large magnitude effect sizes. Descriptive reviews of 5 RCTs suggest that STPP performed at least as well as other bona fide psychological therapies. Limitations of this meta-analysis include small samples of studies and possible publication bias. CONCLUSIONS STPP is a valid treatment option for diverse FSD conditions resulting in somatic symptom reductions that persist over time. STPP should be included in FSD treatment guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan Abbass
- Centre for Emotions and Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada,
| | - Joel Town
- Centre for Emotions and Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Hannah Holmes
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Patrick Luyten
- University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Angela Cooper
- Centre for Emotions and Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Leo Russell
- Devon Partnership NHS Trust, Devon, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Lumley
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Howard Schubiner
- Ascension Providence Hospital and Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Southfield, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Denise Bernier
- Centre for Emotions and Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | - Kurt Kroenke
- Indiana University and Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Steve Kisely
- Centre for Emotions and Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
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Stephen CD, Fung V, Lungu CI, Espay AJ. Assessment of Emergency Department and Inpatient Use and Costs in Adult and Pediatric Functional Neurological Disorders. JAMA Neurol 2021; 78:88-101. [PMID: 33104173 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2020.3753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Importance There is limited information about health care use and costs in patients with functional neurological disorders (FNDs). Objective To assess US emergency department (ED) and inpatient use and charges for FNDs. Design, Setting, and Participants This economic evaluation used Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project data to assess all-payer (1) adult (age, ≥18 years) hospitalizations (2008-2017), (2) pediatric (age, 5-17 years) hospitalizations (2003, 2006, 2009, 2012, and 2016), and (3) adult and pediatric ED evaluations (2008-2017). International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code 300.11 (conversion disorder) or 306.0 (musculoskeletal malfunction arising from mental factors) and International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification codes for conversion disorder/functional neurological symptom disorder (F44.4 to F44.7) were used to conservatively define FNDs and to compare them with other neurological disorders that are associated with high levels of health care use. Analysis was performed between January 2019 and July 2020. Main Outcomes and Measures Admission traits (eg, demographic characteristics of patients, length of stay, and discharge disposition) and hospital charges. Results Compared with other neurological disorders in 2017, emergency FND evaluations of 36 359 adults (25 807 women [71.0%] and 3800 children (2733 girls [71.9%]) more frequently resulted in inpatient admissions (22 895 adult admissions [69.2% female] and 1264 pediatric admissions [73.4% ]). These FND admissions had a shorter mean (SEM) hospital length of stay (5.21 [0.15] days vs 6.03 [0.03] days, P < .001) but higher workup rates than admissions for comparable neurological diagnoses. Admissions for FNDs had low rates of inpatient physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language pathology, and psychiatric consultation. The total annual costs (a proxy for total costs in 2017 US dollars) were $1066 million (95% CI, $971-$1160 million) for adult FND inpatient charges in 2017 compared with $1241 million (95% CI, $1132-$1351 million) for anterior horn cell disease; $75 million (95% CI, $57-$92 million) for pediatric FND inpatient charges in 2012 compared with $86 million (95% CI, $63-$108 million) for demyelinating diseases; and $163 million (95% CI, $144-$182 million) for adult and pediatric ED visits in 2017 compared with $135 million (95% CI $111-$159 million) for refractory epilepsy. Total charges per admission for ED care of FNDs were higher than the other comparison groups in adults. Total costs and costs per admission for FNDs increased from 2008 to 2017 at a higher rate than that of other neurological disorders. Conclusions and Relevance This economic evaluation found that the more than $1.2 billion and increasing annual costs for ED and inpatient care of FNDs were similar to other investigation-intensive and pharmacologically demanding neurological disorders. Unnecessary investigations and iatrogenic harm inflate costs at the expense of necessary but neglected psychiatric and rehabilitative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Stephen
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Vicki Fung
- Health Policy Research Center, Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Codrin I Lungu
- Division of Clinical Research, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alberto J Espay
- James J. and Joan A. Gardner Center for Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Wertenbruch-Rocke T, Hüsing P, Löwe B, Toussaint A. Application and validation of the bodily distress syndrome checklist in a psychosomatic outpatient sample. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2021; 69:104-110. [PMID: 33588195 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The BDS checklist is a self-report measure to assess the most common somatic symptoms in functional somatic syndromes, based on the diagnostic concept of Bodily Distress Syndrome. The aim of the study was to examine the psychometric properties and validity of the BDS checklist in a psychosomatic sample and to investigate whether it is suitable to detect DSM-5 somatic symptom disorders (SSD). METHOD In a cross-sectional study, n = 368 patients from a psychosomatic outpatient clinic completed the BDS checklist and a semi-structured clinical interview on SSD. Item and scale characteristics and measures of reliability and validity were determined. RESULTS The BDS checklist showed good item characteristics and reliability (Cronbach α = 0.89). Factor analysis confirmed four symptom clusters (CFI = 0.95, TLI = 0.95, RMSEA = 0.091, 90% CI = 0.085-0.097). The BDS total score showed significant correlations with other measures of somatic symptom burden (r = 0.79, p < .001), health anxiety (r = 0.46, p < .001), depression (r = 0.45, p < .001), and general anxiety (r = 0.41, p < .001). Higher BDS checklist scores were associated with higher physical and mental health impairment and higher health care use. Diagnostic accuracy regarding somatic symptom disorder was moderate (AUC = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.67-0.77). CONCLUSION Findings of our study indicate that the BDS checklist is a reliable and valid measure to assess the most common somatic symptoms in a psychosomatic setting. It is however not sufficient to detect persons at risk for somatic symptom disorder. A combination with further questionnaires could probably improve diagnostic accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Wertenbruch-Rocke
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Building O25 Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Paul Hüsing
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Building O25 Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Building O25 Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anne Toussaint
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Building O25 Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Beharry J, Palmer D, Wu T, Wilson D, Le Heron C, Mason D, Reimers J, Fink J, Mulder R, Duncan R. Functional neurological disorders presenting as emergencies to secondary care. Eur J Neurol 2021; 28:1441-1445. [PMID: 33426732 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional neurological disorders (FND) represent a significant proportion of presentations to outpatient adult neurology services. There is little information relating to patients presenting to acute inpatient care. METHODS We identified patients presenting as acute admissions with FND to Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand, from 2016 to 2018. We analyzed relevant demographic and clinical data from electronic records and measured incidence of presentation to secondary care and healthcare utilization. RESULTS One hundred sixty-two patients presented on 173 occasions with FND, representing 9% of all admissions to the neurology service during the 3-year study period. The mean age was 40 (SD 17) years, 111 (69%) patients were female and the median length of stay was 3 (IQR 2-4) days. A total of 92 computed tomography brain scans, 77 magnetic resonance imaging brain scans and 42 electroencephalograms were carried out. On 22 (13%) occasions, patients were referred for outpatient psychological therapy. In the 3 years prior to each patient's last presentation in the study period, these 162 patients had a total of 671 presentations to the emergency department. Healthcare demand did not decrease after the index admission. The rate of acute inpatient admission for FND was 10 per 100,000 per year for the total Christchurch Hospital catchment, 6/100,000/year in rural areas, and 11/100,000/year in urban areas. CONCLUSION FND represented almost 1 in 10 acute neurology admissions with significant inpatient healthcare resource utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Beharry
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - David Palmer
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Teddy Wu
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.,New Zealand Brain Research Institute, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.,New Zealand Brain Research Institute, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Campbell Le Heron
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.,New Zealand Brain Research Institute, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Deborah Mason
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.,New Zealand Brain Research Institute, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Jon Reimers
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - John Fink
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Roger Mulder
- Department of Psychiatry, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Roderick Duncan
- Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
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40
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Sitnikova K, Finch AP, Leone SS, Bosmans JE, van Marwijk HWJ, van der Horst HE, van der Wouden JC. A brief cognitive behavioural intervention is cost-effective for primary care patients with medically unexplained physical symptoms compared to usual care. J Psychosom Res 2020; 138:110217. [PMID: 32920476 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.110217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the cost-effectiveness of a brief cognitive behavioural intervention for patients with medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS) provided by a mental health nurse practitioner (MHNP) in primary care in comparison with usual care. METHODS We performed an economic evaluation from a societal perspective alongside a cluster randomised controlled trial with 12 months follow-up. The primary outcome was quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Secondary outcomes were the RAND-36 physical component summary score (PCS), somatic symptom severity (Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-15), and anxiety and depression symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)). Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation. We used non-parametric bootstrapping to estimate statistical uncertainty. The bootstrapped cost-effect pairs were used to estimate cost-effectiveness planes and cost-effectiveness acceptability curves. RESULTS Mean total costs in the intervention group were significantly lower than in the usual care group (mean difference - 2300€, 95% CI -3257 to -134). The mean difference in QALYs was 0.01 (95% CI -0.01 to 0.04), in PCS 2.46 (95% CI 1.44 to 3.47), in PHQ-15 -0.26 (95% CI -0.81 to 0.28), and in HADS -0.07 (-0.81 to 0.67). At a willingness to pay of 0 € per additional unit of effect, the probability of the intervention being cost-effective was 0.93 for QALYs and 0.92 for PCS, PHQ-15 and HADS scores. CONCLUSION Our intervention is cost-effective compared to usual care for patients with MUPS. Implementation of the intervention has the potential to result in a significant decline in costs. However, large scale implementation would require increased deployment of MHNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Sitnikova
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Aureliano P Finch
- EuroQol Research Foundation, Marten Meesweg 107, 3068 AV Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stephanie S Leone
- Trimbos Institute, Da Costakade 45, 3521 VS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Judith E Bosmans
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Harm W J van Marwijk
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, 94 N - S Rd, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9PX, United Kingdom
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41
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van Tilburg ML, van Westrienen PE, Pisters MF. Demographic and health-related factors associated with reduced work functioning in people with moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1316. [PMID: 32867731 PMCID: PMC7457349 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09415-9] [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: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS) are a leading cause of reduced work functioning. It is not known which factors are associated with reduced work functioning in people with moderate MUPS. Insight in these factors can contribute to prevention of reduced work functioning, associated work-related costs and in MUPS becoming chronic. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify which demographic and health-related factors are associated with reduced work functioning, operationalized as impaired work performance and absenteeism, in people with moderate MUPS. METHODS Data of 104 participants from an ongoing study on people with moderate MUPS were used in this cross-sectional study. Ten independent variables were measured at baseline to determine their association with reduced work functioning: severity of psychosocial symptoms (four domains, measured with the Four-Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire), physical health (RAND 36-Item Health Survey), moderate or vigorous physical activity (Activ8 activity monitor), age, sex, education level and duration of complaints. Two separate multivariable linear regression analyses were performed with backward stepwise selection, for both impaired work performance and absenteeism. RESULTS Absenteeism rate rose with 2.5 and 0.6% for every increased point on the Four-Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire for domain 'depression' (B = 0.025, SE = 0.009, p = .006) and domain 'somatization' (B = 0.006, SE = 0.003, p = .086), respectively. An R2 value of 0.118 was found. Impaired work performance rate rose with 0.2 and 0.5% for every increased point on the Four-Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire for domain 'distress' (B = 0.002, SE = 0.001, p = .084) and domain 'somatization' (B = 0.005, SE = 0.001, p < .001), respectively. An R2 value of 0.252 was found. CONCLUSIONS Severity of distress, probability of a depressive disorder and probability of somatization are positively associated with higher rates of reduced work functioning in people with moderate MUPS. To prevent long-term absenteeism and highly impaired work performance severity of psychosocial symptoms seem to play a significant role. However, because of the low percentage of explained variance, additional research is necessary to gain insight in other factors that might explain the variance in reduced work functioning even better.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark L van Tilburg
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy Science and Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands. .,Expertise Center Healthy Urban Living, Research Group Innovation of Human Movement Care, University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 7, 3584 CS, Utrecht, the Netherlands. .,Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Julius Health Care Centers, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Paula Elisabeth van Westrienen
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy Science and Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Julius Health Care Centers, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Martijn F Pisters
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy Science and Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Center for Physical Therapy Research and Innovation in Primary Care, Julius Health Care Centers, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Health Innovation and Technology, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
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Barends H, Claassen-van Dessel N, van der Wouden JC, Twisk JWR, Terluin B, van der Horst HE, Dekker J. Impact of symptom focusing and somatosensory amplification on persistent physical symptoms: A three-year follow-up study. J Psychosom Res 2020; 135:110131. [PMID: 32473411 PMCID: PMC7614434 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.110131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The somatosensory amplification theory considers symptom focusing and somatosensory amplification as important perpetuating factors of persistent physical symptoms. We investigated whether symptom focusing and somatosensory amplification were associated with symptom severity and mental and physical functioning over a three-year period in patients with persistent physical symptoms (PPS). METHODS Baseline, 6-, 12-, 24- and 36-months follow-up data from the PROSPECTS study, a prospective cohort consisting of 325 patients with PPS, were used. We applied longitudinal mixed model analyses to investigate if symptom focusing (CBRQ Symptom Focusing Subscale) and somatosensory amplification (Somatosensory Amplification Scale) at baseline were associated with symptom severity (PHQ-15), mental and physical functioning (RAND-36 MCS and PCS) over three years, using all measurements. RESULTS Symptom focusing was associated with increased symptom severity and lower mental and physical functioning over time. Somatosensory amplification at baseline was associated with increased symptom severity and lower mental and physical functioning over time. Effect sizes were small. Associations with baseline symptom focusing decreased over time, associations with baseline somatosensory amplification were more stable. There was no interaction effect of both constructs, but they partly overlapped. CONCLUSION This is the first study to show that over an extended period, symptom focusing and somatosensory amplification are associated with symptom severity and lower mental and physical functioning in patients with PPS. These results support the impact of both symptom focusing and somatosensory amplification on the perpetuation of symptoms and lowered mental and physical functioning in individuals with PPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hieke Barends
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health research institute, the Netherlands.
| | - Nikki Claassen-van Dessel
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health research institute, the Netherlands.
| | - Johannes C van der Wouden
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health research institute, the Netherlands.
| | - Jos W R Twisk
- Amsterdam Public Health research institute, the Netherlands; Department of Health Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Berend Terluin
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health research institute, the Netherlands.
| | - Henriëtte E van der Horst
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health research institute, the Netherlands.
| | - Joost Dekker
- Amsterdam Public Health research institute, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, the Netherlands.
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43
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Barends H, Walstock E, Botman F, de Kruif A, Claassen N, van der Wouden JC, Olde Hartman T, Dekker J, van der Horst H. Patients' experiences with fluctuations in persistent physical symptoms: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035833. [PMID: 32665345 PMCID: PMC7359057 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore patients' experiences with fluctuations in persistent physical symptoms (PPS) and to understand which factors-from their viewpoint-play a role in these fluctuations. DESIGN Qualitative study using semistructured interviews and thematic content analysis. SETTING This qualitative study is part of a multicentre prospective cohort study on the course of PPS. Patients were recruited in general practices and specialised treatment facilities for PPS throughout the Netherlands. PARTICIPANTS Interviews were conducted with a sample of fifteen patients with PPS to explore their experiences with fluctuations in symptom severity. RESULTS We identified three themes in the analysis: (1) patterns in symptom fluctuations (2) perceived causes of symptom exacerbations and (3) Patients' strategies in gaining control over symptom exacerbations. Daily and weekly fluctuations in symptoms were an important element in patients' experiences. In particular anticipating on the worsening of symptoms impacted their daily routines and posed various challenges. Symptom exacerbations were attributed to overstepping physical limits and/or the impact of negative emotions. Resigning to physical limits, adjusting ones daily planning, weighing personal needs and learning to say 'no' were described as different strategies in gaining control over symptom exacerbations. CONCLUSIONS Fluctuations in the severity of symptoms-and in particular daily and weekly symptom exacerbations-are an important element of the symptom experience in patients with PPS and poses various challenges. Patients attributed symptom exacerbation to overstepping physical limits and/or negative emotions. Patients described different strategies in gaining control over symptom exacerbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hieke Barends
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC - VUMC location, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Ella Walstock
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC - VUMC location, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Botman
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC - VUMC location, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Anja de Kruif
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nikki Claassen
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC - VUMC location, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes C van der Wouden
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC - VUMC location, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Olde Hartman
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Dekker
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC - VUMC location, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Henriette van der Horst
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC - VUMC location, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
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Gol JM, Rosmalen JGM, Gans ROB, Voshaar RCO. The importance of contextual aspects in the care for patients with functional somatic symptoms. Med Hypotheses 2020; 142:109731. [PMID: 32335457 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.109731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Functional somatic symptoms refer to physical symptoms that cannot be (bio) medically explained. The pattern or clustering of such symptoms may lead to functional syndromes like chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, among many others. Since the underlying pathophysiology remains unknown, several explanatory models have been proposed, nearly all including social and psychological parameters. These models have stimulated effectiveness studies of several psychological and psychopharmacological therapies. While the evidence for their effectiveness is steadily growing, effect-sizes are at most moderate and many patients do not benefit. We hypothesize that the context in which interventions for functional somatic symptoms are delivered substantially influences their effectiveness. Although this hypothesis is in line with explanatory models of functional somatic symptoms, to our knowledge, studies primarily focusing on the influence of contextual aspects on treatment outcome are scarce. Contextual research in the field of somatic symptoms has (irrespective whether these symptoms can be medically explained or not), however, just begun and already yielded some valuable results. These findings can be organized according to Duranti's and Goodwin's theoretical approach to context in order to substantiate our hypothesis. Based on this approach, we categorized empirical findings in three contextual aspects, i.e. 1) the setting, 2) the behavioural environment, and 3) the language environment. Collectively, some support is found for the fact that early identification of patients with functional somatic symptoms, starting treatment as soon as possible, having a neat appearance and an organized office interior, a warm and friendly nonverbal approach and a language use without defensiveness are contextual parameters which enhance the assessment by the patient of the physician's competence to help. Nonetheless, in vivo studies addressing the most aspects, i.e. nonverbal behaviour and language, are needed for better understanding of these contextual aspect. Moreover, future research should address to what extent optimizing contextual aspects improve care for functional somatic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Gol
- University of Groningen & University Medical Center Groningen, Interdisciplinary Center for Psychopathology of Emotion Regulation (ICPE), PO Box 30.001 (CC72), 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - J G M Rosmalen
- University of Groningen & University Medical Center Groningen, Interdisciplinary Center for Psychopathology of Emotion Regulation (ICPE), PO Box 30.001 (CC72), 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - R O B Gans
- University of Groningen & University Medical Center Groningen, Interdisciplinary Center for Psychopathology of Emotion Regulation (ICPE), PO Box 30.001 (CC72), 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - R C Oude Voshaar
- University of Groningen & University Medical Center Groningen, Interdisciplinary Center for Psychopathology of Emotion Regulation (ICPE), PO Box 30.001 (CC72), 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands
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D’Amico F, Feliu-Soler A, Montero-Marín J, Peñarrubía-María MT, Navarro-Gil M, Van Gordon W, García-Campayo J, Luciano JV. Cost-Utility of Attachment-Based Compassion Therapy (ABCT) for Fibromyalgia Compared to Relaxation: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9030726. [PMID: 32156065 PMCID: PMC7141201 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9030726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent study has supported the efficacy of Attachment-Based Compassion Therapy (ABCT) compared to relaxation (REL) for the management of fibromyalgia (FM). The main objective of this paper is to examine the cost-utility of ABCT compared to REL in terms of effects on quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) as well as healthcare costs. Forty-two Spanish patients with FM received 8 weekly group sessions of ABCT or REL. Data collection took place at pre- and 3-month follow-up. Cost-utility of the two treatment groups (ABCT vs. REL) was compared by examining treatment outcomes in terms of QALYs (obtained with the EQ-5D-3L) and healthcare costs (data about service use obtained with the Client Service Receipt Inventory). Data analyses were computed from a completers, ITT, and per protocol approach. Data analysis from the healthcare perspective revealed that those patients receiving ABCT exhibited larger improvements in quality of life than those doing relaxation, while being less costly 3 months after their 8-week treatment program had ended (completers: incremental cost M, 95% CI = €−194.1 (−450.3 to 356.1); incremental effect M, 95% CI = 0.023 QALYs (0.010 to 0.141)). Results were similar using an ITT approach (incremental cost M, 95% CI = €−256.3 (−447.4 to −65.3); incremental effect M, 95% CI = 0.021 QALYs (0.009 to 0.033)). A similar pattern of results were obtained from the per protocol approach. This RCT has contributed to the evidence base of compassion-based interventions and provided useful information about the cost-utility of ABCT for FM patients when compared to relaxation. However, the small sample size and short follow-up period limited the generalizability of the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco D’Amico
- Personal Social Services Research Unit, London School of Economics and Political Science, London WC2A 2AE, UK;
| | - Albert Feliu-Soler
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain;
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, 08830 St. Boi de Llobregat, Spain
- Faculty of Psychology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Jesús Montero-Marín
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK;
| | - María T. Peñarrubía-María
- PHC Bartomeu Fabrés Anglada, DAP Baix Llobregat Litoral, Unitat Docent Costa de Ponent, Institut Català de la Salut, 08850 Gavà, Spain;
- Centre for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health, CIBERESP, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mayte Navarro-Gil
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - William Van Gordon
- Centre for Psychological Research, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK;
| | - Javier García-Campayo
- Miguel Servet Hospital, Aragon Institute of Health Sciences (I+CS), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
- Primary Care Prevention and Health Promotion Research Network, RedIAPP, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan V. Luciano
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain;
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, 08830 St. Boi de Llobregat, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-93-640-6350 (Ext. 1-2540)
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Jones B, Williams ACDC. Psychological therapists' judgments of pain and treatment decisions: The impact of 'medically unexplained symptoms'. J Psychosom Res 2020; 131:109937. [PMID: 32044519 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.109937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical judgments of pain are influenced by patient and observer factors, and affect their treatment decisions. This study investigated the factors of a lack of a medical explanation for pain, 'medically unexplained' comorbid conditions, and ethnicity, on CBT therapists' judgments of pain and treatment. METHOD An online experimental study was conducted in which participants viewed computer-generated faces expressing pain with a brief written patient history, then estimated the severity and likely exaggeration of pain, and likelihood of pain being caused by a mental or physical health problem. Participants ranked a number of treatment options for priority. RESULTS 107 CBT therapists were recruited as participants. Estimates of pain were lower, and of likely exaggeration higher, for patients with pain presented without a medical explanation or with a comorbid 'medically unexplained' condition. They were also more likely to be recommended CBT for depression over referral to a specialist service or psychological treatment for pain. Contrary to expectations, ethnicity produced no effect on pain judgments, only on treatment decisions. Participants' training also affected their treatment decisions. CONCLUSIONS Lack of medical explanation for pain and other long-term conditions biases assessment and treatment decisions by CBT therapists. As CBT therapists are increasingly referred people with 'medically unexplained' symptoms in primary care, these biases need to be addressed for better treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittni Jones
- Millfields Personality Disorder Unit, John Howard Centre, London, 12 Kenworthy Road, Homerton, London E9 5TD, United Kingdom.
| | - Amanda C de C Williams
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
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Cano-García FJ, Muñoz-Navarro R, Sesé Abad A, Moretti LS, Medrano LA, Ruiz-Rodríguez P, González-Blanch C, Moriana JA, Cano-Vindel A. Latent structure and factor invariance of somatic symptoms in the patient health questionnaire (PHQ-15). J Affect Disord 2020; 261:21-29. [PMID: 31600584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.09.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Somatic symptoms are highly prevalent in primary care although insufficiently understood. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-15) is a valuable screening test but it has not yet been possible to unequivocally demonstrate its latent structure and measurement invariance. METHODS A total of 1,255 patients from 28 primary care centres suffering symptoms of anxiety, depression or somatisation participated in a clinical trial. They completed the PHQ-15 at baseline and 374 retook it at three months. Exploratory structural equation modelling (ESEM) was used to compare three models: 1) a single global factor for somatisation, 2) four specific correlated factors, and 3) a bifactor model integrating the first two models. RESULTS A multi-group invariance analysis of the best-fit model was performed: the bifactor model (χ2=25.17, df=23, p = 0.34, RMSEA=0.009, CFI=1.00, TLI=0.999). Strict invariance was good for both gender (RMSEA = 0.046, CFI = 0.973, TLI = 0.963) and age (RMSEA = 0.048, CFI = 0.964, TLI = 0.962). Configural and metric invariance were confirmed for moment of assessment, but scalar invariance was not. LIMITATIONS The two main limitations were the sample (primary care patients with emotional disorders), which was not representative of the general population, and the utilisation of ESEM (vs. confirmatory factor analysis), which did not allow a second-order factor model to be tested. CONCLUSIONS PHQ-15 showed a bifactor structure, providing both a single global measure of somatisation and specific measures of pain, gastrointestinal, cardiopulmonary and fatigue factors. Its factor invariance with regard to both gender and age was confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Javier Cano-García
- Department of Personality, Assessment and Psychological Treatments, School of Psychology, Universidad de Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Roger Muñoz-Navarro
- Department of Basic Psychology, School of Psychology, Universidad de Valencia, Spain
| | - Albert Sesé Abad
- Department of Psychology, School of Psychology, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Palma, Spain
| | | | | | - Paloma Ruiz-Rodríguez
- Castilla La Nueva Primary Care Centre, Health Service of Madrid, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain
| | - César González-Blanch
- Mental Health Centre, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital - IDIVAL, Santander, Cantabria, Spain
| | - Juan A Moriana
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de Córdoba/Maimónides Institute for Research in Biomedicine of Cordoba (IMIBIC)/Reina Sofía University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Antonio Cano-Vindel
- Department of Experimental Psychology, School of Psychology, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Toussaint A, Hüsing P, Kohlmann S, Löwe B. Detecting DSM-5 somatic symptom disorder: criterion validity of the Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15) and the Somatic Symptom Scale-8 (SSS-8) in combination with the Somatic Symptom Disorder - B Criteria Scale (SSD-12). Psychol Med 2020; 50:324-333. [PMID: 30729902 DOI: 10.1017/s003329171900014x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) introduced somatic symptom and related disorders (SSD) to improve the diagnosis of somatoform disorders. It is unclear whether existing questionnaires are useful to identify patients with SSD. Our study investigates the diagnostic accuracy of the Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15) and the Somatic Symptom Scale-8 (SSS-8) in combination with the Somatic Symptom Disorder - B Criteria Scale (SSD-12). METHODS For this cross-sectional study, participants were recruited from a psychosomatic outpatient clinic. PHQ-15, SSS-8, and SSD-12 were administered and compared with SSD criteria from a diagnostic interview. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for optimal individual and combined cutpoints. Receiver operator curves were created and area under the curve (AUC) analyses assessed. RESULTS Data of n = 372 patients [31.2% male, mean age: 39.3 years (s.d. = 13.6)] were analyzed. A total of 56.2% fulfilled the SSD criteria. Diagnostic accuracy was moderate for each questionnaire (PHQ-15: AUC = 0.70; 95% CI = 0.65-0.76; SSS-8: AUC = 0.71; 95% CI = 0.66-0.77; SSD-12: AUC = 0.74; 95% CI = 0.69-0.80). Combining questionnaires improved diagnostic accuracy (PHQ-15 + SSD-12: AUC = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.72-0.82; SSS-8 + SSD-12: AUC = 0.79; 95% CI = 0.74-0.84). Optimal combined cutpoints were ⩾9 for the PHQ-15 or SSS-8, and ⩾23 for the SSD-12 (sensitivity and specificity = 69% and 70%). CONCLUSIONS The combination of the PHQ-15 or SSS-8 with the SSD-12 provides an easy-to-use and time- and cost-efficient opportunity to identify persons at risk for SSD. If systematically applied in routine care, effective screening and subsequent treatment might help to improve quality of life and reduce health care excess costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Toussaint
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Paul Hüsing
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kohlmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Axelsson E, Hedman-Lagerlöf E. Cognitive behavior therapy for health anxiety: systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical efficacy and health economic outcomes. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2019; 19:663-676. [DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2019.1703182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erland Axelsson
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erik Hedman-Lagerlöf
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Hornemann C, Schröder A, Ørnbøl E, Christensen NB, Høeg MD, Mehlsen M, Frostholm L. Application of ICD-11 among individuals with chronic pain: A post hoc analysis of the Stanford Self-Management Program. Eur J Pain 2019; 24:297-311. [PMID: 31556212 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic primary pain (CPP) is one of seven diagnostic groups within the proposed classification of chronic pain in ICD-11. Our aims were to apply the proposed ICD-11 criteria in a large cohort of chronic pain patients participating in the Chronic Pain Self-Management Program (CPSMP) and further investigate whether participants with CPP differed from participants with chronic secondary pain (CSP) regarding health, health expenditure and the effect of participating in the CPSMP. METHODS A secondary analysis of a randomized, controlled trial on the effect of the CPSMP. Four examiners categorized participants' pain according to ICD-11 using register-based medical diagnoses and patients' self-reported symptoms. Afterwards, differences between CPP and CSP were examined. RESULTS Out of 394 participants, 312 were successfully classified into CPP (n = 164) or CSP (n = 148) whereas 76 had a mixed pain condition. Participants with CPP were younger, more likely to be women, and had longer pain duration compared to participants with CSP. Participants with CPP reported worse health-related quality of life on the SF-36 Mental Component Summary and subscales of vitality, social functioning and bodily pain. Participants with CSP had more physical comorbidities and higher total health expenditure. None of the groups benefitted from the CPSMP. CONCLUSIONS We successfully applied the new classification of chronic pain in ICD-11 on the basis of ICD-10 medical diagnoses and symptom self-report. Participants with CPP differed significantly from participants with CSP on baseline characteristics, self-reported health measures and total health expenditure. The CPSMP was not effective in any of the groups. SIGNIFICANCE The current study applies the proposed new classification of chronic pain in ICD-11 and shares the experiences of the diagnostic rating procedure of individuals with chronic pain. Furthermore, it evaluates the effect of the Stanford Self-Management Program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Hornemann
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Andreas Schröder
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Eva Ørnbøl
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Nils Balle Christensen
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Marian Dalgaard Høeg
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Mimi Mehlsen
- The Department of Psychology and Behavioural Science, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Lisbeth Frostholm
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark
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