1
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Allen LA, Lowe EF, Matlock DD. The Economic Burden of Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: Living Longer but Poorer? Heart Fail Clin 2024; 20:363-372. [PMID: 39216922 DOI: 10.1016/j.hfc.2024.06.003] [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: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) has benefitted from a proliferation of new medications and devices. These treatments carry important clinical benefits, but also come with costs relevant to payers, providers, and patients. Patient out-of-pocket costs have been implicated in the avoidance of medical care, nonadherence to medications, and the exacerbation of health care disparities. In the absence of major health care policy and payment redesign, high-quality HFrEF care delivery requires transparent integration of cost considerations into system design, patient-clinician interactions, and medical decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry A Allen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Academic Office One, #7019, Mailstop B130, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Emily Fryman Lowe
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Mailstop B177, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Dan D Matlock
- Adult and Child Center for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (ACCORDS), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Children's Hospital Colorado, 1890 North Revere Court, Mailstop F44, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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2
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Gunn AH, Warraich HJ, Mentz RJ. Costs of care and financial hardship among patients with heart failure. Am Heart J 2024; 269:94-107. [PMID: 38065330 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2023.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
With the implementation of new therapies, more patients are living with heart failure (HF) as a chronic condition. Alongside these advances, out-of-pocket (OOP) medical costs have increased, and patients experience significant financial burden. Despite increasing interest in understanding and mitigating financial burdens, there is a relative paucity of data specific to HF. Here, we explore financial hardship in HF from the patient perspective, including estimated OOP costs for guideline-directed medical therapy for HF with reduced ejection fraction, hospitalizations, and total direct medical costs, as well as the consequences of high OOP costs. Studies estimate that high OOP costs are common in HF, and a large proportion are related to prescription drugs. Subsequently, the effects on patients can lead to worsening adherence, delayed care, and poor outcomes, leading to a financial toxicity spiral. Further, we summarize patients' cost preferences and outline future research that is needed to develop evidence-based solutions to reduce costs in HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander H Gunn
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC.
| | - Haider J Warraich
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Medicine, Cardiology Section, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA
| | - Robert J Mentz
- Division of Cardiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC
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3
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Allen LA, Lowe EF, Matlock DD. The Economic Burden of Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: Living Longer but Poorer? Cardiol Clin 2023; 41:501-510. [PMID: 37743073 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccl.2023.06.003] [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: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) has benefitted from a proliferation of new medications and devices. These treatments carry important clinical benefits, but also come with costs relevant to payers, providers, and patients. Patient out-of-pocket costs have been implicated in the avoidance of medical care, nonadherence to medications, and the exacerbation of health care disparities. In the absence of major health care policy and payment redesign, high-quality HFrEF care delivery requires transparent integration of cost considerations into system design, patient-clinician interactions, and medical decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry A Allen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Academic Office One, #7019, Mailstop B130, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Emily Fryman Lowe
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Mailstop B177, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Dan D Matlock
- Adult and Child Center for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (ACCORDS), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Children's Hospital Colorado, 1890 North Revere Court, Mailstop F44, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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4
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Damera N, Shah C, George B, Chapa J, Lee E, Bernhardt R, Reese L, Rao RA. Using Sacubitril/Valsartan to Decrease Health care Costs in Population Health Patients. Am J Cardiol 2023; 201:142-147. [PMID: 37385166 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2023.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Value-based care is the foundation of population health. The Health care Economic Efficiency Ratio (HEERO) scoring system is a promising new tool to measure the cost benefits of care in our Accountable Care Organization. HEERO score compares actual costs spent (utilizing insurance claims) and expected costs spent (estimated using the Centers for Medicare/Medicaid Services Risk score). Scores <1 suggest economic benefit. Sacubitril/valsartan has been shown to decrease readmissions for patients with heart failure (HF) and decrease health care costs. We explored the utility of sacubitril/valsartan in reducing HEERO scores and decreasing overall health care expenditure in patients with HF. Patients with HF in the population health cohort were enrolled. HEERO score was calculated for patients taking sacubitril/valsartan and other HF medications at 3-month intervals up to a year. We compared the average and total health care expenditure and inpatient days for patients on sacubitril/valsartan, spironolactone, β blocker (BB) along with spironolactone, BB and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker. For patients on sacubitril/valsartan, HEERO scores and inpatient days decreased (decreased health care expenditure) as the number of days of utilization increased (p <0.0001). In total, 270+ days of sacubitril/valsartan decreased health care costs by 22%. This cost reduction was mainly attributed to decreased inpatient days. Additionally, the combination of sacubitril/valsartan, spironolactone, and BB showed decreased HEERO score and inpatient days compared with spironolactone, BB and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker in male patients. Sacubitril/valsartan use beyond 270 days resulted in decreased health care expenditure in a population health cohort compared with other HF medications. This economic benefit is achieved through the reduction in hospitalizations. Sacubitril/valsartan is an integral part of value-based care providing high-value, cost-effective care, and bolstering the economic wellbeing of patient care. Payor sources should consider this in subsidizing the cost of the medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihanth Damera
- Internal Medicine Department, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.
| | - Chirag Shah
- Internal Medicine Department, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Bistees George
- Internal Medicine Department, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jeffrey Chapa
- Internal Medicine Department, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Ed Lee
- Internal Medicine Department, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Richard Bernhardt
- Internal Medicine Department, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Lindsey Reese
- Internal Medicine Department, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Roopa A Rao
- Internal Medicine Department, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
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5
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Sukumar S, Wasfy JH, Januzzi JL, Peppercorn J, Chino F, Warraich HJ. Financial Toxicity of Medical Management of Heart Failure: JACC Review Topic of the Week. J Am Coll Cardiol 2023; 81:2043-2055. [PMID: 37197848 PMCID: PMC11317790 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.03.402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Optimal medical management of heart failure (HF) improves quality of life, decreases mortality, and decreases hospitalizations. Cost may contribute to suboptimal adherence to HF medications, especially angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors. Patients' experiences with HF medication cost include financial burden, financial strain, and financial toxicity. Although there has been research studying financial toxicity in patients with some chronic diseases, there are no validated tools for measuring financial toxicity of HF, and very few data on the subjective experiences of patients with HF and financial toxicity. Strategies to decrease HF-associated financial toxicity include making systemic changes to minimize cost sharing, optimizing shared decision-making, implementing policies to lower drug costs, broadening insurance coverage, and using financial navigation services and discount programs. Clinicians may also improve patient financial wellness through various strategies in routine clinical care. Future research is needed to study financial toxicity and associated patient experiences for HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smrithi Sukumar
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. https://twitter.com/SmrithiSukumar
| | - Jason H Wasfy
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James L Januzzi
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey Peppercorn
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Fumiko Chino
- Memorial Sloan Kettering, New York, New York, USA
| | - Haider J Warraich
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Medicine, Cardiology Section, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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6
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Rao BR, Akrobetu DJ, Dickert NW, Nguyen T, Davis JK, Campagna A, Mitchell AR, Sharma A, Speight CD, Barks MC, Farley S, Gutterman S, Santanam T, Ubel PA. Deciding Whether to Take Sacubitril/Valsartan: How Cardiologists and Patients Discuss Out-of-Pocket Costs. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e028278. [PMID: 36974764 PMCID: PMC10122884 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.028278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Out-of-pocket costs have significant implications for patients with heart failure and should ideally be incorporated into shared decision-making for clinical care. High out-of-pocket cost is one potential reason for the slow uptake of newer guideline-directed medical therapies for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. This study aims to characterize patient-cardiologist discussions involving out-of-pocket costs associated with sacubitril/valsartan during the early postapproval period. Methods and Results We conducted content analysis on 222 deidentified transcripts of audio-recorded outpatient encounters taking place between 2015 and 2018 in which cardiologists (n=16) and their patients discussed whether to initiate, continue, or discontinue sacubitril/valsartan. In the 222 included encounters, 100 (45%) contained discussions about cost. Cost was discussed in a variety of contexts: when sacubitril/valsartan was initiated, not initiated, continued, and discontinued. Of the 97 cost conversations analyzed, the majority involved isolated discussions about insurance coverage (64/97 encounters; 66%) and few addressed specific out-of-pocket costs or affordability (28/97 encounters; 29%). Discussion of free samples of sacubitril/valsartan was common (52/97 encounters; 54%), often with no discussion of a longer-term plan for addressing cost. Conclusions Although cost conversations were somewhat common in patient-cardiologist encounters in which sacubitril/valsartan was discussed, these conversations were generally superficial, rarely addressing affordability or cost-value judgments. Cardiologists frequently provided patients with a course of free sacubitril/valsartan samples without a plan to address the cost after the samples ran out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birju R. Rao
- Department of Medicine, Division of CardiologyEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGAUSA
| | | | - Neal W. Dickert
- Department of Medicine, Division of CardiologyEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGAUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyEmory University Rollins School of Public HealthAtlantaGAUSA
| | | | | | - Ada Campagna
- Duke‐Margolis Center for Health PolicyDurhamNCUSA
| | - Andrea R. Mitchell
- Department of Medicine, Division of CardiologyEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGAUSA
| | - Anu Sharma
- Duke‐Margolis Center for Health PolicyDurhamNCUSA
| | - Candace D. Speight
- Department of Medicine, Division of CardiologyEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGAUSA
| | | | | | | | | | - Peter A. Ubel
- Duke University School of MedicineDurhamNCUSA
- Duke‐Margolis Center for Health PolicyDurhamNCUSA
- Duke University’s Fuqua School of BusinessDurhamNCUSA
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7
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MacDonald BJ, Barry AR, Turgeon RD. Decisional Needs and Patient Treatment Preferences for Heart Failure Medications: A Scoping Review. CJC Open 2023; 5:136-147. [PMID: 36880079 PMCID: PMC9984897 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2022.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacologic management of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) involves several medications. Decision aids informed by patient decisional needs and treatment preferences could assist in making HFrEF medication choices; however, these are largely unknown. Methods We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), without language restriction, for qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method studies that included patients with HFrEF or clinicians providing HFrEF care, and reported data on decisional needs or treatment preferences applicable to HFrEF medications. We classified decisional needs using a modified version of the Ottawa Decision Support Framework (ODSF). Results From 3996 records, we included 16 reports describing 13 studies (n = 854). No study explicitly assessed ODSF decisional needs; however, 11 studies reported ODSF-classifiable data. Patients commonly reported having inadequate knowledge or information, and difficult decisional roles. No study systematically assessed treatment preferences, but 6 studies reported on attribute preferences. Reducing mortality and improving symptoms frequently were ranked as being important, whereas cost importance rankings varied, and adverse events generally were ranked as being less important. Conclusion This scoping review identified key decisional needs regarding HFrEF medications, notably inadequate knowledge or information, and difficult decisional roles, which can readily be addressed by decision aids. Future studies should systematically explore the full scope of ODSF-based decisional needs in patients with HFrEF, along with relative preferences among treatment attributes to further inform development of individualized decision aids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair J MacDonald
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Arden R Barry
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ricky D Turgeon
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Politi MC, Housten AJ, Forcino RC, Jansen J, Elwyn G. Discussing Cost and Value in Patient Decision Aids and Shared Decision Making: A Call to Action. MDM Policy Pract 2023; 8:23814683221148651. [PMID: 36643615 PMCID: PMC9834940 DOI: 10.1177/23814683221148651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Direct and indirect costs of care influence patients' health choices and the ability to implement those choices. Despite the significant impact of care costs on patients' health and daily lives, patient decision aid (PtDA) and shared decision-making (SDM) guidelines almost never mention a discussion of costs of treatment options as part of minimum standards or quality criteria. Given the growing study of the impact of costs in health decisions and the rising costs of care more broadly, in fall 2021 we organized a symposium at the Society for Medical Decision Making's annual meeting. The focus was on the role of cost information in PtDAs and SDM. Panelists gave an overview of work in this space at this virtual meeting, and attendees engaged in rich discussion with the panelists about the state of the problem as well as ideas and challenges in incorporating cost-related issues into routine care. This article summarizes and extends our discussion based on the literature in this area and calls for action. We recommend that PtDA and SDM guidelines routinely include a discussion of direct and indirect care costs and that researchers measure the frequency, quality, and response to this information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary C. Politi
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department
of Surgery, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ashley J. Housten
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department
of Surgery, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rachel C. Forcino
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and
Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon,
NH, USA
| | - Jesse Jansen
- School for Public Health and Primary Care
CAPHRI, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Glyn Elwyn
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and
Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon,
NH, USA
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9
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Felker G, Buttrick P, Rosenzweig A, Abel ED, Allen LA, Bristow M, Das S, DeVore AD, Drakos SG, Fang JC, Freedman JE, Hernandez AF, Li DY, McKinsey TA, Newton‐Cheh C, Rogers JG, Shah RV, Shah SH, Stehlik J, Selzman CH. Heart Failure Strategically Focused Research Network: Summary of Results and Future Directions. J Am Heart Assoc 2022; 11:e025517. [PMID: 36073647 PMCID: PMC9683647 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.025517] [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: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Heart failure remains among the most common and morbid health conditions. The Heart Failure Strategically Focused Research Network (HF SFRN) was funded by the American Heart Association to facilitate collaborative, high-impact research in the field of heart failure across the domains of basic, clinical, and population research. The Network was also charged with developing training opportunities for young investigators. Four centers were funded in 2016: Duke University, University of Colorado, University of Utah, and Massachusetts General Hospital-University of Massachusetts. This report summarizes the aims of each center and major research accomplishments, as well as training outcomes from the HF SFRN.
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Affiliation(s)
- G.Michael Felker
- Division of CardiologyDuke University School of Medicine and Duke Clinical Research InstituteDurhamNC
| | - Peter Buttrick
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | | | - E. Dale Abel
- Department of MedicineUCLA School of MedicineLos AngelesCA
| | - Larry A. Allen
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | - Michael Bristow
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | - Saumya Das
- Division of CardiologyMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMA
| | - Adam D. DeVore
- Division of CardiologyDuke University School of Medicine and Duke Clinical Research InstituteDurhamNC
| | - Stavros G. Drakos
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake CityUT
| | - James C. Fang
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake CityUT
| | - Jane E. Freedman
- Division of CardiologyVanderbilt University School of MedicineNashvilleTN
| | - Adrian F. Hernandez
- Division of CardiologyDuke University School of Medicine and Duke Clinical Research InstituteDurhamNC
| | | | | | | | | | - Ravi V. Shah
- Division of CardiologyVanderbilt University School of MedicineNashvilleTN
| | - Svati H. Shah
- Division of CardiologyDuke University School of Medicine and Duke Clinical Research InstituteDurhamNC
| | - Josef Stehlik
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake CityUT
| | - Craig H. Selzman
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake CityUT
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10
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Ali HJR, Valero-Elizondo J, Wang SY, Cainzos-Achirica M, Bhimaraj A, Khan SU, Khan MS, Mossialos E, Khera R, Nasir K. Subjective Financial Hardship from Medical Bills Among Patients with Heart Failure in the United States: The 2014-2018 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. J Card Fail 2022; 28:1424-1433. [PMID: 35839928 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2022.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart failure (HF) poses a substantial economic burden to the United States (US) healthcare system. In contrast, little is known about the financial challenges faced by patients with HF. In this study, we examined the scope and sociodemographic predictors of subjective financial hardship from medical bills in patients with HF. METHODS In the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS; years 2014-2018), a US nationally representative database, we identified all patients who reported having HF. Any subjective financial hardship from medical bills was assessed based on patients reporting either themselves or their families 1) having difficulties paying medical bills in the past 12 months, 2) paid bills late, or 3) unable to pay bills at all. Logistic regression was used to evaluate independent predictors of financial hardship among patients with HF. All analyses took into consideration the survey's complex design. RESULTS A total of 116,563 MEPS participants were included in the analysis, of whom 858 (0.7%) had a diagnosis of HF, representing 1.8 million (95% CI 1.6 to 2.0) patients annually. Overall, 33% (95% CI 29% to 38%) reported any financial hardship from medical bills with 13.2% not being able to pay bills at all. Age ≤65 years and lower educational attainment were independently associated with higher odds of subjective financial hardship from medical bills. CONCLUSION Subjective financial hardship is a prevalent issue among patients with HF in the US, particularly those who are younger and have lower educational attainment. There is a need for policies that reduce out-of-pocket costs in the care of HF, an enhanced identification of this phenomenon in the clinical setting, and approaches to help minimize financial toxicity in patients with HF while ensuring optimal quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon-Ju Ryoo Ali
- Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Javier Valero-Elizondo
- Division of Cardiovascular Prevention and Wellness, Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stephen Y Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Miguel Cainzos-Achirica
- Division of Cardiovascular Prevention and Wellness, Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Arvind Bhimaraj
- Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Safi U Khan
- Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Elias Mossialos
- London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Rohan Khera
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Khurram Nasir
- Division of Cardiovascular Prevention and Wellness, Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA.
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11
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Rao BR, Speight CD, Allen LA, Halpern SD, Ko Y, Matlock DD, Moore MA, Morris AA, Scherer LD, Thomson MC, Ubel P, Dickert NW. Impact of Financial Considerations on Willingness to Take Sacubitril/Valsartan for Heart Failure. J Am Heart Assoc 2022; 11:e023789. [PMID: 35723002 PMCID: PMC9238635 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.023789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background Sacubitril/valsartan improves health outcomes for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction relative to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, but it carries higher out-of-pocket costs. Neither the impact of cost nor how to integrate cost into medical decisions is well studied. Methods and Results To evaluate the impact of out-of-pocket costs and a novel cost-priming intervention on willingness to take sacubitril/valsartan for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, participants with self-reported heart disease were surveyed using the online Ipsos Knowledge Panel. Participants were presented with a modified decision aid for sacubitril/valsartan and then, in a 3×2 factorial design, randomly assigned to 1 of 3 cost conditions ($10, $50, or $100/month) and to a control group or cost-priming intervention, defined by being asked questions about their financial situation before learning about the benefits of sacubitril/valsartan. Of the 1013 participants included in the analysis, 85% of respondents were willing to take sacubitril/valsartan at $10, 62% at $50, and 33% at $100 (P<0.0001). In a multivariable logistic regression model, participants were more likely to take sacubitril/valsartan at $10 versus $100 (odds ratio [OR], 14.3 [95% CI, 9.4-21.8]) and $50 compared with $100 (OR, 3.6 [95% CI, 2.5-5.1]). Overall, participants in the cost-primed group were more willing to take sacubitril/valsartan than those not primed to consider their financial situation (63% versus 56%, P=0.04). There was no statistically significant interaction between cost conditions and cost priming. Perceived benefit of sacubitril/valsartan over angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers decreased as cost increased but did not vary by cost priming. Conclusions Commonly encountered out-of-pocket costs of sacubitril/valsartan may impact individuals' willingness to take the medication even when recommended by their physicians. Priming individuals to consider personal finances before learning about the drug increased willingness to take sacubitril/valsartan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birju R. Rao
- Division of CardiologyDepartment of MedicineEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGA
| | - Candace D. Speight
- Division of CardiologyDepartment of MedicineEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGA
| | - Larry A. Allen
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | - Scott D. Halpern
- Palliative and Advanced Illness Research (PAIR) Center and Department of MedicinePennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPA
| | - Yi‐An Ko
- Department of BiostatisticsEmory University Rollins School of Public HealthAtlantaGA
| | - Daniel D. Matlock
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | - Miranda A. Moore
- Department of Family and Preventive MedicineEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGA
| | - Alanna A. Morris
- Division of CardiologyDepartment of MedicineEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGA
| | - Laura D. Scherer
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | | | - Peter Ubel
- Duke University Fuqua School of BusinessDurhamNC
| | - Neal W. Dickert
- Division of CardiologyDepartment of MedicineEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGA
- Department of EpidemiologyEmory University Rollins School of Public HealthAtlantaGA
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12
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Allen LA, Teerlink JR, Gottlieb SS, Ahmad T, Lam CSP, Psotka MA. Heart Failure Spending Function: An Investment Framework for Sequencing and Intensification of Guideline-Directed Medical Therapies. Circ Heart Fail 2022; 15:e008594. [PMID: 35000432 DOI: 10.1161/circheartfailure.121.008594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction is managed with increasing numbers of guideline-directed medical therapies (GDMT). Benefits tend to be additive. Burdens can also be additive. We propose a heart failure spending function as a conceptual framework for tailored intensification of GDMT that maximizes therapeutic opportunity while limiting adverse events and patient burden. Each patient is conceptualized to have reserve in physiological and psychosocial domains, which can be spent for a future return on investment. Key domains are blood pressure, heart rate, serum creatinine, potassium, and out-of-pocket costs. For each patient, GDMT should be initiated and intensified in a sequence that prioritizes medications with the greatest expected cardiac benefit while drawing on areas where the patient has ample reserves. When reserve is underspent, patients fail to gain the full benefit of GDMT. Conversely, when a reserve is fully spent, addition of new drugs or higher doses that draw upon a domain will lead to patient harm. The benefit of multiple agents drawing upon varied physiological domains should be balanced against cost and complexity. Thresholds for overspending are explored, as are mechanisms for implementing these concepts into routine care, but further health care delivery research is needed to validate and refine clinical use of the spending function. The heart failure spending function also suggests how newer therapies may be considered in terms of relative value, prioritizing agents that draw on different spending domains from existing GDMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry A Allen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora (L.A.A.)
| | - John R Teerlink
- Section of Cardiology, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco (J.R.T.)
| | | | - Tariq Ahmad
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT (T.A.)
| | - Carolyn S P Lam
- National Heart Centre Singapore and Duke-National University of Singapore (C.S.P.L.)
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Thomson MC, Allen LA, Halpern SD, Ko YA, Matlock DD, Mitchell AR, Moore MA, Morris AA, Rao BR, Scherer LD, Speight CD, Ubel PA, Dickert NW. Framing Benefits in Decision Aids: Effects of Varying Contextualizing Statements on Decisions About Sacubitril-Valsartan for Heart Failure. MDM Policy Pract 2021; 6:23814683211041623. [PMID: 34693019 PMCID: PMC8529322 DOI: 10.1177/23814683211041623] [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: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Presenting numeric data alone may result in patients
underappreciating clinically significant benefits. Contextualizing statements to
counter this may raise concern about absence of neutrality. These issues arose
during construction of a decision aid for sacubitril-valsartan, a heart failure
medication associated with a ∼3% absolute reduction in 2-year mortality that
carries high out-of-pocket cost. A contextualizing statement framing this as a
“pretty big benefit” was incorporated. The impact of statements like this within
decision aids is unknown. Objective. This online Qualtrics survey
sought to deepen understanding of benefit framing by testing the impact of
varying contextualizing statements within a decision aid for
sacubitril-valsartan. Design. Participants were randomly assigned
to receive one of six abbreviated versions of a decision aid for
sacubitril-valsartan that varied only by contextualizing statement (ranging from
strongly neutral to strongly positive and using relative and absolute risk
reductions). Participants were asked to answer questions regarding the
likelihood of taking the medication at a cost of $50/month and their perception
of the drug’s benefits. Results. A total of 1873 participants who
were demographically similar to the heart failure population completed the
survey. Fifty-four percent were willing to take sacubitril-valsartan at
$50/month. Each of the five experimental contextualizing statements was compared
with the baseline version; no significant differences were observed in reported
likelihood of taking sacubitril-valsartan. After controlling for demographics
and covariates, group assignment did not predict likelihood of taking the
medication. Higher income, better self-reported health status, and younger age
were associated with increased likelihood of taking sacubitril-valsartan.
Limitations. This study used a hypothetical scenario and
evaluated one method of delivering contextualizing statements.
Conclusions. Contextualizing statements as tested within this
decision aid did not affect decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Larry A Allen
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Scott D Halpern
- Palliative and Advanced Illness Research (PAIR) Center and Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Yi-An Ko
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Daniel D Matlock
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Andrea R Mitchell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Miranda A Moore
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Alanna A Morris
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Birju R Rao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Laura D Scherer
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Candace D Speight
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Peter A Ubel
- Duke University Fuqua School of Business, Sanford School of Public Policy, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Neal W Dickert
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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14
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Dickert NW, Mitchell AR, Venechuk GE, Matlock DD, Moore MA, Morris AA, Pierce KJ, Speight CD, Allen LA. Show Me the Money: Patients' Perspectives on a Decision Aid for Sacubitril/Valsartan Addressing Out-of-Pocket Cost. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes 2020; 13:e007070. [PMID: 33302715 PMCID: PMC7738420 DOI: 10.1161/circoutcomes.120.007070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Out-of-pocket medication costs for patients who have heart failure with reduced ejection fraction may be an important part of shared decision-making, but cost has generally been excluded from clinical discussions. This study reports patients' perspectives on a decision aid for sacubitril/valsartan that explicitly addresses out-of-pocket costs. METHODS Structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction from 2 medical centers to elicit their views on a publicly available decision aid for sacubitril/valsartan that explicitly incorporates considerations related to out-of-pocket costs. Qualitative descriptive analysis was conducted. RESULTS Key themes identified were general enthusiasm for decision aids for medication decisions, openness on the part of patients to incorporation of cost into decision-making and the decision aid, requests for greater specificity regarding patient-specific cost, and challenges communicating evidence of benefit in a way that allows patients to make cost-benefit analyses for themselves. Patients also raised questions regarding logistical challenges of incorporating a decision aid into the normal clinical and decision-making workflow. CONCLUSIONS Patients were receptive to the inclusion of out-of-pocket cost as relevant in a decision aid for sacubitril/valsartan. Key challenges to effective integration of cost in these decisions include developing mechanisms for acquiring reliable patient-specific cost estimates and addressing patients' difficulties (and sometimes skepticism) applying trial evidence to their own situation. In addition, implementation strategies are important to develop to facilitate decision aid integration for routine medical decisions into clinic workflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal W Dickert
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, ECCRI, Atlanta, GA (N.W.D., A.R.M., A.A.M., C.D.S.).,Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA (N.W.D.).,Emory Center for Ethics, Atlanta, GA (N.W.D.)
| | - Andrea R Mitchell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, ECCRI, Atlanta, GA (N.W.D., A.R.M., A.A.M., C.D.S.)
| | - Grace E Venechuk
- Adult and Child Consortium for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (G.E.V., D.D.M., K.J.P., L.A.A.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.,Center for Demography of Health and Aging, University of Wisconsin-Madison (G.E.V.)
| | - Daniel D Matlock
- Adult and Child Consortium for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (G.E.V., D.D.M., K.J.P., L.A.A.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.,Division of Geriatric Medicine (D.D.M.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.,Veterans Affairs Eastern Colorado Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Denver (D.D.M.)
| | - Miranda A Moore
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA (M.A.M.)
| | - Alanna A Morris
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, ECCRI, Atlanta, GA (N.W.D., A.R.M., A.A.M., C.D.S.)
| | - Kenneth J Pierce
- Adult and Child Consortium for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (G.E.V., D.D.M., K.J.P., L.A.A.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Candace D Speight
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, ECCRI, Atlanta, GA (N.W.D., A.R.M., A.A.M., C.D.S.)
| | - Larry A Allen
- Adult and Child Consortium for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (G.E.V., D.D.M., K.J.P., L.A.A.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.,Division of Cardiology (L.A.A.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
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15
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Warraich HJ, Ali HJR, Nasir K. Financial Toxicity With Cardiovascular Disease Management. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes 2020; 13:e007449. [DOI: 10.1161/circoutcomes.120.007449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Haider J. Warraich
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA (H.J.W.)
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (H.J.W.)
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Section, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA (H.J.W.)
| | - Hyeon Ju R. Ali
- Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center, Houston, TX (H.J.R.A., K.N.)
| | - Khurram Nasir
- Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center, Houston, TX (H.J.R.A., K.N.)
- Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX (K.N.)
- Division of Cardiovascular Prevention and Wellness, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center, TX (K.N.)
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