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Nyoni T, Evers EC, Pérez M, Jeffe DB, Fritz SA, Colditz GA, Burnham JP. Perceived barriers and facilitators to the adoption of telemedicine infectious diseases consultations in southeastern Missouri hospitals. J Telemed Telecare 2024; 30:1462-1474. [PMID: 36659820 PMCID: PMC10354216 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x221149461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telemedicine infectious diseases consultations (tele-ID consults) improves access to healthcare for underserved/resource-limited communities. However, factors promoting or hindering implementation of tele-ID consults in low-resource settings are understudied. This study sought to fill this gap by describing perceived barriers and facilitators tele-ID consults at three rural hospitals in southeastern Missouri. METHODS Twelve in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposively sampled group of information-rich hospital stakeholders from three rural, southeastern Missouri hospitals with partial or no on-site availability of ID physicians. Our literature-informed interview guide elicited participants' knowledge and experience with tele-ID consults, perceptions on ID consultation needs, and perceived barriers to and facilitators of tele-ID consults. Interview transcripts were coded using an iterative process of inductive analysis to identify core themes related to barriers and facilitators. RESULTS Perceived barriers to adopting and implementing tele-ID consults included logistical challenges, technology and devices, negative emotional responses, patient-related factors, concerns about reduced quality of care when using telemedicine, lack of acceptance or buy-in from physicians or staff, and legal concerns. Key facilitators included perceived need, perceived benefits to patients and physicians, flexibility and openness to change among staff members and patients, telemedicine champions, prior experiences, and enthusiasm. DISCUSSION Our findings demonstrate that rural hospitals need tele-ID consults and have the capacity to implement tele-ID consults, but operational and technical feasibility challenges remain. Adoption and implementation of tele-ID consults may reduce ID-physician shortage-related service gaps by permitting ID physician's greater geographic reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thabani Nyoni
- Brown School, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Emily C. Evers
- Brown School, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Maria Pérez
- Division of General Medical Sciences, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Donna B. Jeffe
- Division of General Medical Sciences, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Stephanie A. Fritz
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Graham A. Colditz
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jason P. Burnham
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Dauda BJ, Offor MC, Adebusuyi O, Owolabi CP. Adopting telemedicine in the fight against antimicrobial resistance in West Africa. Int J Health Plann Manage 2024; 39:1626-1632. [PMID: 38520202 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3799] [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: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The detrimental effects of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) have called for several approaches in the fight against it in West Africa, where telemedicine is still in its infancy. In West Africa, self-medication is prevalent because the majority of these medications are easily accessible due to insufficient regulatory structures that control their production, distribution, and consumption. Also, access to healthcare facilities and professionals is limited. All of these and other inadequacies consequently result in the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant organisms. AMR, which is now a major global health crisis according to the WHO, may cause the deaths of about 10 million people before 2050, and Africa may make up 41% of these deaths, with the Western part of this continent affected the most. While several approaches have been adopted, unlike in other regions of the world, the use of telemedicine in West Africa to fight AMR has rarely been studied or considered and where it is now in partial use, its efficacy is constrained by several factors. This paper discusses the roles of telemedicine, the limitations to its application in the fight against AMR, and suggests remedies for these limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babatunde Jamiu Dauda
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - Michael Chukwubuikem Offor
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | | | - Caleb Promise Owolabi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
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Moreira FT, Accorsi TAD, Amicis KD, Köhler KF, Morbeck RA, Cordioli E, Pedrotti CHS. Multidrug stewardship and adherence to guidelines in >200,000 direct-to-consumer Telemedicine encounters. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2024; 22:eAO0707. [PMID: 38985017 PMCID: PMC11213559 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2024ao0707] [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: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The quality of care and safety for Telemedicine-discharged patients with suspected respiratory infections are closely related to low rates of prescriptions of unjustified and high-risk medications. This retrospective study aimed to assess adherence to the current COVID-19 guidelines in direct-to-consumer telemedicine encounters at a large center using multidrug stewardship protocols. METHODS A quarterly electronic survey utilizing medical records of individual physician care assessed various quality indicators. Physicians received ongoing adaptive feedback based on personal metrics, with Telemedicine Center recommendations derived from the 2020 Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines. The study included all consecutive adults with new respiratory symptoms in the last 14 days who sought spontaneous Telemedicine consultations between March 2020 and August 2021. This study analyzed patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 and other airway infections. RESULTS Of the 221,128 evaluated patients, 42,042 (19%) had confirmed COVID-19; 104,021 (47%) were suspected to have COVID-19; and, 75,065 (33%) had other diagnoses. Patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 had a mean (+DP) age of 35±12 years. A total of 125,107 (85.65%) patients were managed at home, 2,552 (1.74%) were referred for non-urgent in-office reassessment, and 17,185 (11.7%) were referred to the emergency department for whom there was no further treatment recommendation. The antibiotic rate in confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases was 0.46%/0.65% and that for non-evidence-based prescriptions was 0.01%/0.005%. CONCLUSION Guideline training and Telemedicine consultation feedback may lead to lower antibiotic and antimicrobial prescriptions in suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases. Multidrug stewardship protocols may improve guideline adherence and reinforce the quality of care and safety in Telemedicine encounters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavio Tocci Moreira
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinTelemedicine DepartmentSão PauloSPBrazilTelemedicine Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Tarso Augusto Duenhas Accorsi
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinTelemedicine DepartmentSão PauloSPBrazilTelemedicine Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Karine De Amicis
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinTelemedicine DepartmentSão PauloSPBrazilTelemedicine Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Karen Francine Köhler
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinTelemedicine DepartmentSão PauloSPBrazilTelemedicine Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Renata Albaladejo Morbeck
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinTelemedicine DepartmentSão PauloSPBrazilTelemedicine Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Eduardo Cordioli
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinTelemedicine DepartmentSão PauloSPBrazilTelemedicine Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Carlos Henrique Sartorato Pedrotti
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinTelemedicine DepartmentSão PauloSPBrazilTelemedicine Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Kassamali Escobar Z, Shively NR. Health System and Tele-Antimicrobial Stewardship: The Role of Building Networks. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2023; 37:873-900. [PMID: 37657974 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2023.07.005] [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: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Tele-antimicrobial stewardship programs (tele-ASPs) use technology and remote access to resources and clinical expertise to expand antimicrobial services within and outside of health systems. Models of tele-ASPs are workforce multiplying and workforce extending, depending on how they are structured. Building rapport and strong interpersonal networks are essential for successful ASPs. The available evidence suggests that an optimal model for tele-ASP includes hands-on involvement from remote infectious disease (ID) expertise with implementation by local pharmacists. However, this model remains limited by the available time and cost of ID-trained specialists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Kassamali Escobar
- University of Washington Center for Stewardship in Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA; Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 825 Eastlake Avenue, Mail Stop G5-900, P.O. Box 19023, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Nathan R Shively
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allegheny Health Network, 320 E North Avenue, Fourth Floor, East Wing, Suite 406, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA.
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Restrepo-Arbeláez N, Garcia-Betancur JC, Pallares CJ, Villegas MV. Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Latin America and the Caribbean: A Story of Perseverance, Challenges, and Goals. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1342. [PMID: 37627762 PMCID: PMC10452019 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12081342] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is one of the major global health threats. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) has been set as a priority within international action plans to combat this issue. The region of Latin America and the Caribbean are recognized for their high antimicrobial resistance rates; nevertheless, a low number of studies describing implemented interventions for this topic have been published. This review aims to provide an overview of the status of AMS in our region, focusing on the main progress achieved and describing the different published efforts made by countries towards the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP). Common areas of intervention included were (a) education approaches, (b) antimicrobial guideline implementation and monitoring, (c) diagnostic stewardship, (d) technological tools: electronic clinical decision support systems in AMS, (e) pharmacy-driven protocols and collaborative practice agreements, and (f) economic impact. The search demonstrated the varied interventions implemented in diverse healthcare settings; the results accentuate their influence on antimicrobial consumption, antimicrobial resistance, clinical outcomes, and direct economic impact. The integration of multiple strategies within each hospital was highlighted as an essential key to ASP success. Even though the literature found demonstrated clear progress, there is still a special need for strengthening leadership from the top down, defining goals based on needs, and gaining support through policy and financing in LAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Restrepo-Arbeláez
- Grupo de Investigación en Resistencia Antimicrobiana y Epidemiología Hospitalaria (RAEH), Universidad El Bosque, Bogotá 110121, Colombia; (N.R.-A.); (J.C.G.-B.); (C.J.P.)
| | - Juan Carlos Garcia-Betancur
- Grupo de Investigación en Resistencia Antimicrobiana y Epidemiología Hospitalaria (RAEH), Universidad El Bosque, Bogotá 110121, Colombia; (N.R.-A.); (J.C.G.-B.); (C.J.P.)
| | - Christian Jose Pallares
- Grupo de Investigación en Resistencia Antimicrobiana y Epidemiología Hospitalaria (RAEH), Universidad El Bosque, Bogotá 110121, Colombia; (N.R.-A.); (J.C.G.-B.); (C.J.P.)
- Clínica Imbanaco Grupo Quirónsalud, Cali 760042, Colombia
| | - María Virginia Villegas
- Grupo de Investigación en Resistencia Antimicrobiana y Epidemiología Hospitalaria (RAEH), Universidad El Bosque, Bogotá 110121, Colombia; (N.R.-A.); (J.C.G.-B.); (C.J.P.)
- Clínica Imbanaco Grupo Quirónsalud, Cali 760042, Colombia
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Hollingshead CM, Khazan AE, Franco JH, Ciricillo JA, Haddad MN, Berry JT, Kammeyer JA. A Needs Assessment for Infectious Diseases Consultation in Community Hospitals. Infect Dis Ther 2023:10.1007/s40121-023-00810-4. [PMID: 37243912 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-023-00810-4] [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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infectious diseases (ID) consultations have been demonstrated to improve patient outcomes in the treatment of severe infections. However, ID consultation is often unavailable to patients that live in rural communities. Little is known regarding the treatment of infections in rural hospitals with no coverage from an ID specialist. We characterized the outcomes of patients cared for in hospitals without coverage from an ID physician. METHODS Patients aged 18 years or older admitted to eight community hospitals without access to ID consultation during a 6.5-month period were assessed. All patients had received at least three days of continuous antimicrobial therapy. The primary outcome was the need for transfer to a tertiary facility for ID services. The secondary outcome was the characterization of antimicrobials received. Antimicrobial courses were evaluated independently by two board-certified ID physicians. RESULTS 3706 encounters were evaluated. Transfers for ID consultation occurred in 0.01% of patients. The ID physician would have made modifications in 68.5% of patients. Areas for improvement included treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations, broad-spectrum treatment of skin and soft tissue infection, long courses of azithromycin, and management of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, including choice and length of therapy, as well as obtaining echocardiography. Patients evaluated received 22,807 days of antimicrobial therapy. CONCLUSIONS Patients hospitalized in community hospitals are rarely transferred for ID consultation. Our work demonstrates a need for ID consultation in community hospitals, identifying opportunities to enhance patient care by modifying antimicrobial regimens to improve antimicrobial stewardship and avoid inappropriate antimicrobials. Efforts to expand the ID workforce to include coverage at rural hospitals will likely improve antibiotic utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn M Hollingshead
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, 3000 Arlington Avenue, Mail Stop: 1186, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA.
| | - Ana E Khazan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Justin H Franco
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Jacob A Ciricillo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Michael N Haddad
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Vincent Charity Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Julia T Berry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | - Joel A Kammeyer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, 3000 Arlington Avenue, Mail Stop: 1186, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA.
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Jelinski D, Julien D, Cook S, Harris S, Logan T, Sabuda D, Dersch-Mills D, Wong C, Webster S, Constantinescu C, Hoang H, Conly J. The Alberta Telestewardship Network: Building a platform to enable capacity building in antimicrobial stewardship-results of an initial pilot study. JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE CANADA = JOURNAL OFFICIEL DE L'ASSOCIATION POUR LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE ET L'INFECTIOLOGIE CANADA 2023; 8:90-93. [PMID: 37008585 PMCID: PMC10052904 DOI: 10.3138/jammi-2022-0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Resources to improve antimicrobial stewardship (AS) are limited, but a telestewardship platform can enable capacity building and scalability. The Alberta Telestewardship Network (ATeleNet) was designed to focus on outreach across the province of Alberta, Canada, and facilitate AS activities. Methods Outreach occurred virtually between pharmacists and physicians in hospital and long-term care settings throughout Alberta via secure, enterprise video conferencing software on both desktop and mobile devices. We used a quantitative questionnaire adapted from the telehealth usability questionnaire to capture the health provider's experience during each session. The questionnaire consisted of 39 questions, and a 5-point Likert scale was used to assess the degree of agreement and collate responses into a descriptive analysis. Results A total of 33 pilot consultations were completed between July 6, 2020 and December 15, 2021. The majority (22, 85%) of respondents agreed that video conference-based virtual sessions are an acceptable means to provide health care and that they were able to express themselves effectively to other health care professionals (23, 88%). Respondents agreed the system was simple to use (23, 96%), and that they could become productive quickly using the system (23, 88%). Overall, 24 (92%) respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with the virtual care platform. Conclusions We implemented and evaluated a telehealth consultation and collaborative care service between AS providers at multiple centres. AHS has since prioritized similar workflows, including access to specialists in acute care, as part of their virtual health strategy. Evaluation results will be shared with provincial stakeholders for further strategic planning and deployment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Jelinski
- AMR - One Health Consortium, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Danielle Julien
- AMR - One Health Consortium, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sandra Cook
- Pharmacy Services, Alberta Health Services, Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sabrina Harris
- Pharmacy Services, Alberta Health Services, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
| | - Timothy Logan
- Pharmacy Services, Alberta Health Services, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Deana Sabuda
- Pharmacy Services, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Catherine Wong
- Virtual Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sara Webster
- Virtual Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Cora Constantinescu
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Holly Hoang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, Covenant Health, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - John Conly
- AMR - One Health Consortium, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases and O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- W21C Research and Innovation Centre, O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Pierce J, Stevens MP. The Emerging Role of Telehealth in Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Systematic Review and Perspective. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2021; 13:175-191. [PMID: 34975344 PMCID: PMC8713008 DOI: 10.1007/s40506-021-00256-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The purpose of this article is to critically evaluate the available literature on telehealth and antimicrobial stewardship. Recent Findings There is limited evidence regarding the role of telehealth within the discipline of antimicrobial stewardship. A review of the available literature suggests remote antimicrobial stewardship programs conducted via telehealth can decrease antimicrobial consumption. A direct comparison between traditional antimicrobial stewardship programs and remote antimicrobial stewardship programs is lacking. Summary Telehealth is a promising tool for expanding antimicrobial stewardship, especially in small rural or community hospitals. Trust, team, and technology, the three Ts of remote antimicrobial stewardship derived from themes within the available literature, can serve as a framework for developing a remote antimicrobial stewardship program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Pierce
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1000 E Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23298 USA
| | - Michael P Stevens
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1000 E Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23298 USA
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Suzuki H, Shealy SC, Throneberry K, Stenehjem E, Livorsi D. Opportunities and challenges in improving antimicrobial use during the era of telehealth expansion: A narrative review. ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP & HEALTHCARE EPIDEMIOLOGY : ASHE 2021; 1:e26. [PMID: 36168461 PMCID: PMC9495641 DOI: 10.1017/ash.2021.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Efforts to improve antimicrobial prescribing are occurring within a changing healthcare landscape, which includes the expanded use of telehealth technology. The wider adoption of telehealth presents both challenges and opportunities for promoting antimicrobial stewardship. Telehealth provides 2 avenues for remote infectious disease (ID) specialists to improve inpatient antimicrobial prescribing: telehealth-supported antimicrobial stewardship and tele-ID consultations. Those 2 activities can work separately or synergistically. Studies on telehealth-supported antimicrobial stewardship have reported a reduction in inpatient antimicrobial prescribing, cost savings related to less antimicrobial use, a decrease in Clostridioides difficile infections, and improved antimicrobial susceptibility patterns for common organisms. Tele-ID consultation is associated with fewer hospital transfers, a shorter length of hospital stay, and decreased mortality. The implementation of these activities can be flexible depending on local needs and available resources, but several barriers may be encountered. Opportunities also exist to improve antimicrobial use in outpatient settings. Telehealth provides a more rapid mechanism for conducting outpatient ID consultations, and increasing use of telehealth for routine and urgent outpatient visits present new challenges for antimicrobial stewardship. In primary care, urgent care, and emergency care settings, unnecessary antimicrobial use for viral acute respiratory tract infections is common during telehealth encounters, as is the case for fact-to-face encounters. For some diagnoses, such as otitis media and pharyngitis, antimicrobials are further overprescribed via telehealth. Evidence is still lacking on the optimal stewardship strategies to improve antimicrobial prescribing during telehealth encounters in ambulatory care, but conventional outpatient stewardship strategies are likely transferable. Further work is warranted to fill this knowledge gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Suzuki
- Center for Access & Delivery Research & Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City Veterans’ Affairs Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Stephanie C. Shealy
- Intermountain Healthcare TeleHealth Services, Murray, Utah
- Department of Pharmacy, Intermountain Medical Center, Murray, Utah
| | - Kyle Throneberry
- Intermountain Healthcare TeleHealth Services, Murray, Utah
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Epidemiology, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Edward Stenehjem
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Epidemiology, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Daniel Livorsi
- Center for Access & Delivery Research & Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City Veterans’ Affairs Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
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Andrzejewski C, McCreary EK, Khadem T, Abdel‐Massih RC, Bariola JR. Tele‐antimicrobial
stewardship programs: A review of the literature and the role of the pharmacist. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF CLINICAL PHARMACY 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/jac5.1489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Erin K. McCreary
- Infectious Disease Connect, Incorporated Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine UPMC Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
| | - Tina Khadem
- Infectious Disease Connect, Incorporated Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine UPMC Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
- UPMC Community Hospital Antimicrobial Stewardship Efforts Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
| | - Rima C. Abdel‐Massih
- Infectious Disease Connect, Incorporated Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine UPMC Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
| | - J. Ryan Bariola
- Infectious Disease Connect, Incorporated Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine UPMC Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
- UPMC Community Hospital Antimicrobial Stewardship Efforts Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
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Pereira LB, Zanetti MOB, Sponchiado LP, Rodrigues JPV, Campos MSDA, Varallo FR, Pereira LRL. Antibiotic use in Brazilian hospitals in the 21st century: a systematic review. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2021; 54:e08612020. [PMID: 34133621 PMCID: PMC8282254 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0861-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This systematic review aimed to assess antibiotic use in Brazilian hospitals in the 21st century, as well as to understand the different drug utilization metrics adopted to assess the consumption of these drugs. METHODS We systematically reviewed five databases (MEDLINE [Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online], CENTRAL [The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials], EMBASE® [Excerpta Medica Database], Scopus [Elsevier's abstract and citation database], and LILACS [Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde]) for observational or experimental studies that assessed antibiotic utilization in Brazilian hospitals. The main outcomes were the drug utilization metrics and the consumption of antibiotics. RESULTS We included 23 studies, of which 43.5% were carried out in adult and pediatric care units, 39.1% in adult units, and 17.4% in pediatric units. Regarding the complexity of healthcare, 26.1% of the studies were performed in intensive care units. Two drug utilization metrics were used in these studies: the defined daily dose (DDD) and the percentage of antibiotic prescriptions. The most commonly used antibiotic classes were third-generation cephalosporins, carbapenems, fluoroquinolones, and combinations of penicillins when the DDD was the adopted drug utilization metric. CONCLUSIONS Although few studies have been conducted, existing data indicate a high use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. We found that the lack of standardized antibiotic utilization metrics impaired the mapping of drug consumption at the national level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Borges Pereira
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Maria Olívia Barboza Zanetti
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Larissa Pombeiro Sponchiado
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - João Paulo Vilela Rodrigues
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Marília Silveira de Almeida Campos
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Fabiana Rossi Varallo
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Leonardo Régis Leira Pereira
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
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Shively NR, Moffa MA, Paul KT, Wodusky EJ, Schipani BA, Cuccaro SL, Harmanos MS, Cratty MS, Chamovitz BN, Walsh TL. Impact of a Telehealth-Based Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in a Community Hospital Health System. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:539-545. [PMID: 31504367 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) facilitated via telehealth in the community hospital setting are limited. METHODS A telehealth-based ASP was implemented in 2 community hospitals (285 and 176 beds). Local pharmacists without residency or prior antimicrobial stewardship training were trained to conduct prospective audit and feedback. For approximately 60 minutes 3 times weekly at the 285-bed hospital and 2 times weekly at the 176-bed hospital, infectious diseases (ID) physicians remotely reviewed patients on broad-spectrum antibiotics and those admitted with lower respiratory tract infections and skin and soft tissue infections with local pharmacists. Recommendations for ASP interventions made by ID physicians were relayed to primary teams and tracked by local pharmacists. Antimicrobial utilization was collected in days of therapy (DOT) per 1000 patient-days (PD) for a 12-month baseline and 6-month intervention period, and analyzed with segmented linear regression analysis. Local ID consultations were tracked and antimicrobial cost savings were estimated. RESULTS During the 6-month intervention period, 1419 recommendations were made, of which 1262 (88.9%) were accepted. Compared to the baseline period, broad-spectrum antibiotic utilization decreased by 24.4% (342.1 vs 258.7 DOT/1000 PD; P < .001) during the intervention period. ID consultations increased by 40.2% (15.4 consultations per 1000 PD vs 21.5 consultations per 1000 PD; P = .001). Estimated annualized savings on antimicrobial expenditures were $142 629.83. CONCLUSIONS An intense ASP model, facilitated in the community hospital setting via telehealth, led to reduced broad-spectrum antimicrobial utilization, increased ID consultations, and reduced antimicrobial expenditures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan R Shively
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Matthew A Moffa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kathleen T Paul
- Department of Pharmacy, Heritage Valley Health System, Beaver and Sewickley, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eric J Wodusky
- Department of Pharmacy, Heritage Valley Health System, Beaver and Sewickley, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Beth Ann Schipani
- Department of Pharmacy, Heritage Valley Health System, Beaver and Sewickley, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Susan L Cuccaro
- Department of Pharmacy, Heritage Valley Health System, Beaver and Sewickley, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mark S Harmanos
- Department of Pharmacy, Heritage Valley Health System, Beaver and Sewickley, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael S Cratty
- Department of Medicine, Heritage Valley Health System, Beaver and Sewickley, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bruce N Chamovitz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Heritage Valley Health System, Beaver and Sewickley, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Thomas L Walsh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Pappalardo M, Fanelli U, Chiné V, Neglia C, Gramegna A, Argentiero A, Esposito S. Telemedicine in Pediatric Infectious Diseases. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8040260. [PMID: 33800549 PMCID: PMC8066295 DOI: 10.3390/children8040260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Telemedicine is the remote practice of medicine through the use of information and communication technologies for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of diseases. In this narrative review, we illustrate how telemedicine technologies are increasingly integrated into pediatric infectious disease programs with the aim of facilitating access to specialist care and reducing costs. There is widespread use of telemedicine for the management of acute and chronic infectious diseases, particularly in countries in which the majority of the population lives in rural areas, far from third-level hospital centers located in large urban centers. Obviously, telemedicine is also used in developed countries, and its importance has been further increased recently given the COVID-19 pandemic. It has many advantages for patients, such as saving time, money and working hours, and reducing cancelled appointments and delays, while there are also many advantages for doctors, allowing collaborations with specialists and continuous updating. Among the disadvantages are the limitation in carrying out an objective examination, which is particularly important for children under 2 years of age, and the need for cutting-edge technology and reliable connectivity. Telemedicine increasingly represents the future and the beginning of a new healthcare system that also will redefine medical care for the treatment of infectious diseases, both acute and chronic. However, the majority of the experience has involved adults, and its validation in pediatric care, as well as its application in real-life practices, are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Pappalardo
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.P.); (U.F.); (V.C.); (C.N.); (A.A.)
| | - Umberto Fanelli
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.P.); (U.F.); (V.C.); (C.N.); (A.A.)
| | - Vincenzo Chiné
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.P.); (U.F.); (V.C.); (C.N.); (A.A.)
| | - Cosimo Neglia
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.P.); (U.F.); (V.C.); (C.N.); (A.A.)
| | - Andrea Gramegna
- Respiratory Unit and Cystic Fibrosis Adult Center, Internal Medicine Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Argentiero
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.P.); (U.F.); (V.C.); (C.N.); (A.A.)
| | - Susanna Esposito
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.P.); (U.F.); (V.C.); (C.N.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0521-704790
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File TM, Jump RLP, Goff DA. The Role of Antibiotic Stewardship and Telemedicine in the Management of Multidrug-Resistant Infections. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2020; 34:903-920. [PMID: 33131574 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2020.05.002] [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: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This article summarizes the literature describing how antimicrobial stewardship and telemedicine interventions affect antimicrobial resistance. Discussion includes why we need stewardship, how to collaborate with team members, and the evidence of stewardship's and telemedicine's impact on resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M File
- Infectious Disease Division, Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, Summa Health, 75 Arch Street Suite 506, Akron, OH 44304, USA; Internal Medicine, Infectious Disease Section, Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED), Rootstown, OH, USA.
| | - Robin L P Jump
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, 10701 East Boulevard, 111C(O), Cleveland, OH 44016, USA
| | - Debra A Goff
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 368 Doan Hall, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Shafiee Hanjani L, Caffery LJ, Freeman CR, Peeters G, Peel NM. A scoping review of the use and impact of telehealth medication reviews. Res Social Adm Pharm 2019; 16:1140-1153. [PMID: 31874815 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2019.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telehealth has been proposed as a mechanism to overcome the practical difficulties associated with conducting timely and efficient medication reviews particularly in rural and remote settings. OBJECTIVE The aim was to examine the literature on the use and impact of telehealth-facilitated medication reviews. METHODS A scoping review of the literature was conducted. Articles that reported medication reviews performed by telehealth were identified by searching the Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library and CINAHL databases to January 2019 and screened using predefined inclusion criteria. Data were extracted from included articles and synthesised narratively. Findings are reported using the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. RESULTS Twenty-nine studies, including 15 descriptive and 14 quasi-experimental studies, met the inclusion criteria. Twenty studies were reports of the implementation and/or evaluation of a service and others were proof of concept, feasibility or pilot studies. Telehealth medication reviews, conducted as standalone interventions or as a part of team-based care, included medication order reviews, medication management, antimicrobial stewardship programs and geriatric services and were delivered to patients in outpatient (n = 15) or hospital (n = 12) settings, with one study conducted in residential care and one study across settings. Outcomes reported included process evaluation (n = 23), medication use (n = 8), costs (n = 6), clinical outcomes (n = 5), and healthcare use (n = 1). Positive impact was observed on clinical outcomes (e.g. reduction in haemoglobin A1c), medication use (e.g. reduction in antimicrobial medications) and costs (e.g. savings due to travel avoided). Good overall satisfaction with the interventions was seen in all studies that reported patient satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS The current evidence suggests that telehealth medication review may be a feasible model for delivering these services and potentially can save costs and improve care. However, the level of evidence may not be sufficient to reliably inform practice and policy on telehealth-facilitated medication-reviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Shafiee Hanjani
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Liam J Caffery
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Centre for Online Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Christopher R Freeman
- Centre for Optimising Pharmacy Practice-based Excellence in Research, School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Geeske Peeters
- Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Nancye M Peel
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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Qualitative study of the factors impacting antimicrobial stewardship programme delivery in regional and remote hospitals. J Hosp Infect 2018; 101:440-446. [PMID: 30267740 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many regional and remote ('regional') hospitals are without the specialist services that support antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programmes in hospitals in major cities. This can impact their ability to implement AMS activities. AIM To identify factors that impact on the delivery of AMS programmes in regional hospitals. METHODS Healthcare clinicians who have primary AMS responsibilities or provide AMS support to a health service or across health services with an Australian Statistical Geography Standard Remoteness classification of inner regional, outer regional, remote or very remote were recruited purposively and via snowballing. A series of focus groups and interviews were held, and the discussions were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were coded by two researchers, and thematic analysis was undertaken using a framework method. FINDINGS Four focus groups and one interview were conducted (22 participants). Six main themes that impacted on AMS programme delivery were identified: culture of independence and self-reliance by local clinicians, personal relationships, geographical location of the hospital influencing antimicrobial choice, local context, inability to meaningfully benchmark performance, and lack of resources. Possible strategies to support the delivery of AMS programmes in regional hospitals proposed by participants were categorized into two main themes: those that may be best developed or managed centrally, and those that should be a local responsibility. CONCLUSION AMS programme delivery in regional hospitals is influenced by factors that are not present in hospitals in major cities. These findings provide a strong basis for the development of strategies to support regional hospitals to implement sustainable AMS programmes.
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A pilot study using telehealth to implement antimicrobial stewardship at two rural Veterans Affairs medical centers. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018; 39:1163-1169. [PMID: 30185238 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2018.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the feasibility of using telehealth to support antimicrobial stewardship at Veterans Affairs medical centers (VAMCs) that have limited access to infectious disease-trained specialists. DESIGN A prospective quasi-experimental pilot study. SETTING Two rural VAMCs with acute-care and long-term care units.InterventionAt each intervention site, medical providers, pharmacists, infection preventionists, staff nurses, and off-site infectious disease physicians formed a videoconference antimicrobial stewardship team (VAST) that met weekly to discuss cases and antimicrobial stewardship-related education. METHODS Descriptive measures included fidelity of implementation, number of cases discussed, infectious syndromes, types of recommendations, and acceptance rate of recommendations made by the VAST. Qualitative results stemmed from semi-structured interviews with VAST participants at the intervention sites. RESULTS Each site adapted the VAST to suit their local needs. On average, sites A and B discussed 3.5 and 3.1 cases per session, respectively. At site A, 98 of 140 cases (70%) were from the acute-care units; at site B, 59 of 119 cases (50%) were from the acute-care units. The most common clinical syndrome discussed was pneumonia or respiratory syndrome (41% and 35% for sites A and B, respectively). Providers implemented most VAST recommendations, with an acceptance rate of 73% (186 of 256 recommendations) and 65% (99 of 153 recommendations) at sites A and B, respectively. Qualitative results based on 24 interviews revealed that participants valued the multidisciplinary aspects of the VAST sessions and felt that it improved their antimicrobial stewardship efforts and patient care. CONCLUSIONS This pilot study has successfully demonstrated the feasibility of using telehealth to support antimicrobial stewardship at rural VAMCs with limited access to local infectious disease expertise.
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Dos Santos RP, Dalmora CH, Lukasewicz SA, Carvalho O, Deutschendorf C, Lima R, Leitzke T, Correa NC, Gambetta MV. Antimicrobial stewardship through telemedicine and its impact on multi-drug resistance. J Telemed Telecare 2018; 25:294-300. [PMID: 29720043 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x18767702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telemedicine technologies are increasingly being incorporated into infectious disease practice. We aimed to demonstrate the impact of antimicrobial stewardship through telemedicine on bacterial resistance rates. METHODS We conducted a quasi-experimental study in a 220-bed hospital in southern Brazil. An antimicrobial stewardship program incorporating the use of telemedicine was implemented. Resistance and antimicrobial consumption rates were determined and analysed using a segmented regression model. RESULTS After the intervention, the rate of appropriate antimicrobial prescription increased from 51.4% at baseline to 81.4%. Significant reductions in the consumption of fluoroquinolones (level change, β = -0.80; P < 0.01; trend change, β = -0.01; P = 0.98), first-generation cephalosporins (level change, β = -0.91; P < 0.01; trend change, β = +0.01; P = 0.96), vancomycin (level change, β = -0.47; P = 0.04; trend change, β = +0.17; P = 0.66) and polymyxins (level change, β = -0.15; P = 0.56; trend change, β = -1.75; P < 0.01) were identified. There was an increase in the consumption of amoxicillin + clavulanate (level change, β = +0.84; P < 0.01; trend change, β = +0.14; P = 0.41) and cefuroxime (level change, β = +0.21; P = 0.17; trend change, β = +0.66; P = 0.02). A significant decrease in the rate of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter spp. isolation (level change, β = +0.66; P = 0.01; trend change, β = -1.26; P < 0.01) was observed. CONCLUSIONS Telemedicine, which provides a tool for decision support and immediate access to experienced specialists, can promote better antibiotic selection and reductions in bacterial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo P Dos Santos
- 1 Hospital Infection Control Committee, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Brazil.,2 Hospital Infection Control Committee, 37895 Instituto de Cardiologia de Porto Alegre , Brazil.,3 Qualis, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Camila H Dalmora
- 2 Hospital Infection Control Committee, 37895 Instituto de Cardiologia de Porto Alegre , Brazil.,3 Qualis, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Otávio Carvalho
- 1 Hospital Infection Control Committee, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Brazil.,3 Qualis, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Caroline Deutschendorf
- 2 Hospital Infection Control Committee, 37895 Instituto de Cardiologia de Porto Alegre , Brazil.,3 Qualis, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Tiago Leitzke
- 4 Hospital Infection Control Committee, Hospital Regional do Alto Vale, Brazil
| | - Nilson C Correa
- 4 Hospital Infection Control Committee, Hospital Regional do Alto Vale, Brazil
| | - Marcelo V Gambetta
- 4 Hospital Infection Control Committee, Hospital Regional do Alto Vale, Brazil
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Howell CK, Jacob J, Mok S. Remote Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Solution for Meeting The Joint Commission Stewardship Standard? Hosp Pharm 2018; 54:51-56. [PMID: 30718935 DOI: 10.1177/0018578718769240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the time required for antimicrobial stewardship (AS) activities at a small community hospital (SCH) as well as barriers to remote AS to satisfy The Joint Commission (TJC)'s AS standard. Methods: This was a prospective chart review and time study conducted in patients identified by a clinical decision support application as potential opportunities for antimicrobial therapy modification at a SCH between December 12, 2016, and March 31, 2017. Potential interventions were communicated electronically to the clinical pharmacy specialist, who would then communicate the recommendations to the patient's provider. The primary endpoint was a time study for stewardship activities. Secondary endpoints included describing barriers encountered to remote AS as well as a cost-benefit analysis of remote AS. Results: The time study revealed an average of 11 alerts per day, 9 chart reviews per day, 8 interventions per day, and 5 minutes per chart. Seven hundred twenty-four alerts were evaluated with the most common alerts constituting opportunities for de-escalation (29%), targeted drugs (22%), positive blood cultures (18%), Intravenous (IV) to oral (PO) (17%), and antimicrobial renal monitoring (8%).Interventions were accepted (11%), accepted modified (6%), rejected (35%), or undetermined (48%). Barriers to implementation included workflow and indirect communication. For patients with accepted interventions, there was an average savings of $279.82 per patient in pharmacy charges. Conclusion: Through remote AS, a SCH can have an antimicrobial stewardship program that is in compliance with the basic elements of the TJC standard MM.09.01.01, performs daily chart review by an infectious diseases trained pharmacist to increase the quality of patient care, and achieves a mean savings of $279.82 in pharmacy charges and $1,126.26 in hospital charges per patient with accepted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- C K Howell
- University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, USA.,Medical City Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Steve Mok
- Emory University Hospital Midtown, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Gras G. Use of telemedicine in the management of infectious diseases. Med Mal Infect 2018; 48:231-237. [PMID: 29452936 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2018.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Communication technologies have invaded our daily lives. Several studies have assessed these technologies in the management of infectious diseases (mainly HIV). Weekly short text messages and real-time compliance monitoring assessed in HIV patients are both associated with higher compliance in low-income countries. Virtual consultations to monitor stable chronic HIV patients or tuberculosis treatment in high-income countries appear to be acceptable and efficient. Although assessed in small studies, virtual monitoring seems to reinforce the doctor-patient relationship and the relation between primary care settings and hospitals in various infectious diseases (endocarditis, urinary tract infection, skin and soft tissue infection, HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis C). A better prevention of infectious diseases (mainly sexually transmitted infections) seems to be observed with telemedicine tools. As fees for teleconsultation or telemonitoring have yet to be defined, the development and evaluation (cost effectiveness) of these tools are difficult. The regulatory framework will need to be improved to encourage such developments, all the while ensuring the confidentiality of data. The development of new tools will require the collaboration of physicians, users, and healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Gras
- Maladies infectieuses, CHU Bretonneau, 2, boulevard Tonnelé, 37044 Tours cedex, France.
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Ceradini J, Tozzi AE, D'Argenio P, Bernaschi P, Manuri L, Brusco C, Raponi M. Telemedicine as an effective intervention to improve antibiotic appropriateness prescription and to reduce costs in pediatrics. Ital J Pediatr 2017; 43:105. [PMID: 29149862 PMCID: PMC5693570 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-017-0423-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Implementation of antimicrobial stewardship program is a pivotal practice element for healthcare institution. We developed a remote infectious disease consultancy program via telemedicine in a high-specialized pediatric cardiac hospital. A consultation for antibiotic strategy for each patient was available via telemedicine in addition to biweekly discussion of all clinical cases. Aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the remote stewardship program in terms of a) appropriateness of antibiotic prescription; b) incidence of multi-resistant infection; and c) cost. A ‘before - after’ study was performed comparing the period immediately before starting the program and one year after. There was a trend in the reduction of nosocomial infectious disease rate (9.5 vs 6.5 per 1000 person days), with a reduction in the overall antibiotic cost (25,000 vs 15,000 EUR) and in the average antibiotics packages used per admission (9 vs 6.7 packages). A significant reduction in the multi-drug resistant isolation rate was observed (104 vs 79 per 1000 person days, p = 0.01). In conclusion, the infectious disease meeting via telemedicine has been an effective tool for economic and professional development and multidisciplinary management of complex patients. The appropriate use of antibiotics reduced the multi-drug resistant bacteria selection, thus improving patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Ceradini
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, piazza Sant'Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Patrizia D'Argenio
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, piazza Sant'Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Bernaschi
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, piazza Sant'Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Manuri
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, piazza Sant'Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Brusco
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, piazza Sant'Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Raponi
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, piazza Sant'Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
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Murthy R, Rose G, Liddy C, Afkham A, Keely E. eConsultations to Infectious Disease Specialists: Questions Asked and Impact on Primary Care Providers' Behavior. Open Forum Infect Dis 2017; 4:ofx030. [PMID: 28470015 PMCID: PMC5407213 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofx030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since 2010, the Champlain BASE (Building Access to Specialist Advice through eConsultation) has allowed primary care providers (PCPs) to submit clinical questions to specialists through a secure web service. The study objectives are to describe questions asked to Infectious Diseases specialists through eConsultation and assess impact on physician behaviors. METHODS eConsults completed through the Champlain BASE service from April 15, 2013 to January 29, 2015 were characterized by the type of question asked and infectious disease content. Usage data and PCP responses to a closeout survey were analyzed to determine eConsult response time, change in referral plans, and change in planned course of action. RESULTS Of the 224 infectious diseases eConsults, the most common question types were as follows: interpretation of a clinical test 18.0% (41), general management 16.5 % (37), and indications/goals of treating a particular condition 16.5% (37). The most frequently consulted infectious diseases were as follows: tuberculosis 14.3% (32), Lyme disease 14.3% (32), and parasitology 12.9% (29). Within 24 hours, 63% of cases responded to the questions, and 82% of cases took under 15 minutes to complete. In 32% of cases, a face-to-face referral was originally planned by the PCP but was no longer needed. In 8% of cases, the PCP referred the patient despite originally not planning to make a referral. In 55% of cases, the PCP either received new information or changed their course of action. CONCLUSIONS An eConsult service provides PCPs with timely access to infectious disease specialists' advice that often results in a change in plans for a face-to-face referral.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Clare Liddy
- Bruyere Research Institute, Department of Family Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada; and
| | - Amir Afkham
- BEng, Champlain Local Health Integration Network, Ottawa, Canada
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Antimicrobial Stewardship in a Long-Term Acute Care Hospital Using Offsite Electronic Medical Record Audit. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2016; 37:433-9. [PMID: 26752662 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2015.319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To offer antimicrobial stewardship to a long-term acute care hospital using telemedicine. METHODS We conducted an uninterrupted time-series analysis to measure the impact of antimicrobial stewardship on hospital-acquired Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) rates and antimicrobial use. Simple linear regression was used to analyze changes in antimicrobial use; Poisson regression was used to estimate the incidence rate ratio in CDI rates. The preimplementation period was April 1, 2010-March 31, 2011; the postimplementation period was April 1, 2011-March 31, 2014. RESULTS During the preimplementation period, total antimicrobial usage was 266 defined daily doses (DDD)/1,000 patient-days (PD); it rose 4.54 (95% CI, -0.19 to 9.28) per month then significantly decreased from preimplementation to postimplementation (-6.58 DDD/1,000 PD [95% CI, -11.48 to -1.67]; P=.01). The same trend was observed for antibiotics against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (-2.97 DDD/1,000 PD per month [95% CI, -5.65 to -0.30]; P=.03). There was a decrease in usage of anti-CDI antibiotics by 50.4 DDD/1,000 PD per month (95% CI, -71.4 to -29.2; P<.001) at program implementation that was maintained afterwards. Anti-Pseudomonas antibiotics increased after implementation (30.6 DDD/1,000 PD per month [95% CI, 4.9-56.3]; P=.02) but with ongoing education this trend reversed. Intervention was associated with a decrease in hospital-acquired CDI (incidence rate ratio, 0.57 [95% CI, 0.35-0.92]; P=.02). CONCLUSION Antimicrobial stewardship using an electronic medical record via remote access led to a significant decrease in antibacterial usage and a decrease in CDI rates.
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Parmar P, Mackie D, Varghese S, Cooper C. Use of telemedicine technologies in the management of infectious diseases: a review. Clin Infect Dis 2014; 60:1084-94. [PMID: 25516192 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciu1143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Telemedicine technologies are rapidly being integrated into infectious diseases programs with the aim of increasing access to infectious diseases specialty care for isolated populations and reducing costs. We summarize the utility and effectiveness of telemedicine in the evaluation and treatment of infectious diseases patients. The use of telemedicine in the management of acute infectious diseases, chronic hepatitis C, human immunodeficiency virus, and active pulmonary tuberculosis is considered. We recapitulate and evaluate the advantages of telemedicine described in other studies, present challenges to adopting telemedicine, and identify future opportunities for the use of telemedicine within the realm of clinical infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Mackie
- Ottawa Hospital and Regional Viral Hepatitis Telemedicine Program
| | - Sunil Varghese
- Ottawa Hospital and Regional Viral Hepatitis Telemedicine Program
| | - Curtis Cooper
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa Ottawa Hospital and Regional Viral Hepatitis Telemedicine Program Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Pulcini C, Botelho-Nevers E, Dyar OJ, Harbarth S. The impact of infectious disease specialists on antibiotic prescribing in hospitals. Clin Microbiol Infect 2014; 20:963-72. [PMID: 25039787 DOI: 10.1111/1469-0691.12751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Given the current bacterial resistance crisis, antimicrobial stewardship programmes are of the utmost importance. We present a narrative review of the impact of infectious disease specialists (IDSs) on the quality and quantity of antibiotic use in acute-care hospitals, and discuss the main factors that could limit the efficacy of IDS recommendations. A total of 31 studies were included in this review, with a wide range of infections, hospital settings, and types of antibiotic prescription. Seven of 31 studies were randomized controlled trials, before/after controlled studies, or before/after uncontrolled studies with interrupted time-series analysis. In almost all studies, IDS intervention was associated with a significant improvement in the appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing as compared with prescriptions without any IDS input, and with decreased antibiotic consumption. Variability in the antibiotic prescribing practices of IDSs, informal (curbside) consultations and the involvement of junior IDSs are among the factors that could have an impact on the efficacy of IDS recommendations and on compliance rates, and deserve further investigation. We also discuss possible drawbacks of IDSs in acute-care hospitals that are rarely reported in the published literature. Overall, IDSs are valuable to antimicrobial stewardship programmes in hospitals, but their impact depends on many human and organizational factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Pulcini
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses, CHU de Nancy, Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, EA 4360 APEMAC, Nancy, France
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