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De Guzman KR, Snoswell CL, Caffery LJ, Smith AC. Economic evaluations of videoconference and telephone consultations in primary care: A systematic review. J Telemed Telecare 2024; 30:3-17. [PMID: 34617819 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x211043380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telehealth services using videoconference and telephone modalities have been increasing exponentially in primary care since the coronavirus pandemic. The challenge now is ensuring that these services remain sustainable. This review investigates the cost-effectiveness of videoconference and telephone consultations in primary care settings, by summarizing the available published evidence. METHODS A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and CINAHL databases was used to identify articles published from January 2000 to July 2020, using keyword synonyms for telehealth, primary care, and economic evaluation. Databases were searched, and title, abstract, and full-text reviews were conducted. Article reporting quality was assessed using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards checklist. RESULTS Twenty articles were selected for inclusion, with 12 describing telephone triage services, seven describing telehealth substitution services, and one describing another telehealth service in primary care. These services were delivered by nurses, doctors, and allied health clinicians. Of the 20 included studies, 11 used cost analyses, five used cost-minimization analyses, and four used one or more methods, including either a cost-consequence analysis, a cost-utility analysis, or a cost-effectiveness analysis. CONCLUSIONS Telephone and videoconference consultations in primary care were cost-effective to the health system when deemed clinically appropriate, clinician when time was used efficiently, and when overall demand on health services was reduced. The societal benefits of telehealth consultations should be considered an important part of telehealth planning and should influence funding reform decisions for telehealth services in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keshia R De Guzman
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Centaine L Snoswell
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Liam J Caffery
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anthony C Smith
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, The University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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2
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Thiel CL, Mehta N, Sejo CS, Qureshi L, Moyer M, Valentino V, Saleh J. Telemedicine and the environment: life cycle environmental emissions from in-person and virtual clinic visits. NPJ Digit Med 2023; 6:87. [PMID: 37160996 PMCID: PMC10169113 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-023-00818-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Concern over climate change is growing in the healthcare space, and telemedicine has been rapidly expanding since the start of the COVID19 pandemic. Understanding the various sources of environmental emissions from clinic visits-both virtual and in-person-will help create a more sustainable healthcare system. This study uses a Life Cycle Assessment with retrospective clinical data from Stanford Health Care (SHC) in 2019-2021 to determine the environmental emissions associated with in-person and virtual clinic visits. SHC saw 13% increase in clinic visits, but due to the rise in telemedicine services, the Greenhouse Gas emissions (GHGs) from these visits decreased 36% between 2019 and 2021. Telemedicine (phone and video appointments) helped SHC avoid approximately 17,000 metric tons of GHGs in 2021. Some departments, such as psychiatry and cancer achieved greater GHG reductions, as they were able to perform more virtual visits. Telemedicine is an important component for the reduction of GHGs in healthcare systems; however, telemedicine cannot replace every clinic visit and proper triaging and tracking systems should be in place to avoid duplicative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra L Thiel
- NYU Langone Health, Departments of Population Health and Ophthalmology, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Natasha Mehta
- Stanford Department of Internal Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Cory Sean Sejo
- Stanford Department of Internal Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lubna Qureshi
- Stanford Health Care, Digital Health, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Meagan Moyer
- Stanford Health Care, Digital Health, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Jason Saleh
- Palo Alto Veterans Affairs & Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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3
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Moecke DP, Holyk T, Beckett M, Chopra S, Petlitsyna P, Girt M, Kirkham A, Kamurasi I, Turner J, Sneddon D, Friesen M, McDonald I, Denson-Camp N, Crosbie S, Camp PG. Scoping review of telehealth use by Indigenous populations from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States. J Telemed Telecare 2023:1357633X231158835. [PMID: 36911983 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x231158835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telehealth has the potential to address health disparities experienced by Indigenous people, especially in remote areas. This scoping review aims to map and characterize the existing evidence on telehealth use by Indigenous people and explore the key concepts for effective use, cultural safety, and building therapeutic relationships. METHODS A search for published and gray literature, written in English, and published between 2000 and 2022 was completed in 17 electronic databases. Two reviewers independently screened retrieved records for eligibility. For included articles, data were extracted, categorized, and analyzed. Synthesis of findings was performed narratively. RESULTS A total of 321 studies were included. The most popular type of telehealth used was mHealth (44%), and the most common health focuses of the telehealth interventions were mental health (26%) and diabetes/diabetic retinopathy (13%). Frequently described barriers to effective telehealth use included concerns about privacy/confidentiality and limited internet availability; meanwhile, telehealth-usage facilitators included cultural relevance and community engagement. Although working in collaboration with Indigenous communities was the most frequently reported way to achieve cultural safety, 40% of the studies did not report Indigenous involvement. Finally, difficulty to establish trusting therapeutic relationships was a major concern raised about telehealth, and evidence suggests that having the first visit-in-person is a potential way to address this issue. CONCLUSION This comprehensive review identified critical factors to guide the development of culturally-informed telehealth services to meet the needs of Indigenous people and to achieve equitable access and positive health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Petry Moecke
- University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Travis Holyk
- Carrier Sekani Family Services, Prince George, Canada
| | - Madelaine Beckett
- University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sunaina Chopra
- University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Mirha Girt
- 1974Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Ivan Kamurasi
- University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Justin Turner
- University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Donovan Sneddon
- University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Ian McDonald
- University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | - Pat G Camp
- University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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4
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Sommers-Olson B, Christianson J, Neumann T, Pawlikowski SA, Morgan SL, Bouchard MC, Esch KS, Andrews LK. Reducing Nonemergent Visits to the Emergency Department in a Veterans Affairs Multistate System. J Emerg Nurs 2023:S0099-1767(23)00039-9. [PMID: 36977620 DOI: 10.1016/j.jen.2023.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE The purpose of this quality improvement study was to reduce nonemergent visits to the emergency department attendance within a multistate Veterans Health Affairs network. METHODS Telephone triage protocols were developed and implemented for registered nurse staff to triage selected calls to a same-day telephonic or video virtual visit with a provider (physician or nurse practitioner). Calls, registered nurse triage dispositions, and provider visit dispositions were tracked for 3 months. RESULTS There were 1606 calls referred by registered nurses for provider visits. Of these, 192 were initially triaged as emergency department dispositions. Of these, 57.3% of calls that would have been referred to the emergency department were resolved via the virtual visit. Thirty-eight percent fewer calls were referred to the emergency department following licensed independent provider visit compared to the registered nurse triage. CONCLUSION Telephone triage services augmented by virtual provider visits may reduce emergency department disposition rates, resulting in fewer nonemergent patient presentations to the emergency department and reducing unnecessary emergency department overcrowding. Reducing nonemergent attendance to emergency departments can improve outcomes for patients with emergent dispositions.
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5
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Hilty DM, Serhal E, Crawford A. A Telehealth and Telepsychiatry Economic Cost Analysis Framework: Scoping Review. Telemed J E Health 2023; 29:23-37. [PMID: 35639444 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Despite a good evidence base for telepsychiatry (TP), economic cost analyses are infrequent and vary in quality. Methods: A scoping review was conducted based on the research question, "From the perspective of an economic cost analysis for telehealth and telepsychiatry, what are the most meaningful ways to ensure a study/intervention improved clinical care, provided value to participants, had population level impact, and is sustainable?" The search in seven databases focused on keywords in four concept areas: (1) economic cost analysis, (2) evaluation, (3) telehealth and telepsychiatry, and (4) quantifiable health status outcomes. The authors reviewed the full-text articles based on the inclusion (Medical Subject Headings [MeSH] of the keywords) and exclusion criteria. Results: Of a total of 2,585 potential references, a total of 99 articles met the inclusion criteria. The evaluation of telehealth and TP has focused on access, quality, patient outcomes, feasibility, effectiveness, outcomes, and cost. Cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit, and other analytic models are more common with telehealth than TP studies, and these studies show favorable clinical, quality of life, and economic impact. A standard framework for economic cost analysis should include: an economist for planning, implementation, and evaluation; a tool kit or guideline; comprehensive analysis (e.g., cost-effectiveness or cost-benefit) with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio; measures for health, quality of life, and utility outcomes for populations; methods to convert outcomes into economic benefits (e.g., monetary, quality of adjusted life year); broad perspective (e.g., societal perspective); sensitivity analysis for uncertainty in modeling; and adjustments for differential timing (e.g., discounting and future costs). Conclusions: Technology assessment and economic cost analysis-such as effectiveness and implementation science approaches-contribute to clinical, training, research, and other organizational missions. More research is needed with a framework that enables comparisons across studies and meta-analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald M Hilty
- Northern California Veterans Administration Health Care System, Mather, California, USA.,Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, UC Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Eva Serhal
- ECHO Ontario Mental Health and ECHO Ontario Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Allison Crawford
- ECHO Ontario Mental Health and ECHO Ontario Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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6
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Grigorovich A, Xi M, Lam N, Pakosh M, Chan BCF. A systematic review of economic analyses of home-based telerehabilitation. Disabil Rehabil 2022; 44:8188-8200. [PMID: 34965827 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.2019327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Telerehabilitation, or the delivery of rehabilitation using information and communication technologies, may improve timely and equitable access to rehabilitation services at home. A systematic literature review was conducted of studies that formally documented the costs and effects of home-based telerehabilitation versus in-person rehabilitation across all health conditions. MATERIALS AND METHODS Six electronic databases were searched from inception to 13 July 2021 (APA, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Embase, EmCare, Medline (Ovid), and PubMed) using a protocol developed by a medical librarian. A quality appraisal of full economic evaluation studies was conducted using the Drummond 10-point quality checklist. RESULTS Thirty-five studies were included in this review covering various rehabilitation types and diverse populations. The majority were published in the last six years. Available evidence suggests that telerehabilitation may result in similar or lower costs as compared to in-person rehabilitation for the health care system and for patients. However, the impact of telerehabilitation on long-term clinical outcomes and health-related quality of life remains unclear. CONCLUSIONS More high quality and robust economic evaluations exploring the short- and long-term costs and other impacts of telerehabilitation on patients, caregivers, and health care systems across all types of patient populations are still required.Implications for rehabilitationHome-based telerehabilitation may reduce barriers in access to care for individuals living in the community.Economic analyses can inform health care system decision-making by evaluating the costs and effects associated with telerehabilitation.This study found that telerehabilitation may result in similar or lower costs as in-person rehabilitation; however, its impact on health-related quality of life is unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisa Grigorovich
- Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, Brock University, St. Catharines, Canada.,KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Min Xi
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Natascha Lam
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Maureen Pakosh
- Library & Information Services, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Brian C F Chan
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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7
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Cai Z. Analysis of the Application of Information Technology in the Management of Rural Population Return Based on the Era of Big Data. J ORGAN END USER COM 2022. [DOI: 10.4018/joeuc.286171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Based on rural population return management, governance theory, and information technology theory, this paper analyzes the specific performance of rural areas in managing population return, and describes the overview, quantity, life status, and demographic characteristics of rural population return, as well as the current situation of rural population return management. A method of managing rural population return based on a rural population return management model constructed by a machine learning algorithm is designed. The empirical results show that the method designed in this paper is low-cost, fast, and highly accurate, and is well suited for improving and expanding the system for managing rural return flows. The research in this paper provides a reference for further promoting the transformation strategy of rural governance in the context of new urbanization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Cai
- School of Public Administration and Law, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
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8
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Shah K, Tomljenovic-Berube A. A New Dimension of Health Care: The Benefits, Limitations and Implications of Virtual Medicine. JOURNAL OF UNDERGRADUATE LIFE SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.33137/juls.v15i1.37034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: Virtual medicine has been rapidly evolving over the past several decades. However, obstacles such as data security, inadequate funding and limited technological resources have hindered its seamless incorporation into the health care system. The recent pandemic has induced a widespread adoption of virtual care practices to remove the need for physical meetings between patients and health care practitioners.
Purpose: This literature review aims to examine the current state of virtual medicine amid the COVID-19 pandemic and evaluate the benefits, limitations and implications of continuing technological advancements in the future.
Findings: Most of the available literature suggests that the recent adoption of virtual medicine has allowed practitioners to cut down on costs and secondary expenses while maintaining the quality of medical care services. Due to the growing consumer demand, researchers predict that virtual medicine may be a viable modality for patient care post-pandemic. However, concerns surrounding patient security and digital infrastructure threaten the ability of virtual medicine to provide quality and effective health care. Additionally, rural virtual medicine programs face challenges in expanding services due to the scarcity of information and communication technology specialists and inadequate funding. Comprehensive legislation and governance standards must be implemented to ensure proper data security and privacy. Additional funds may also be required to train staff, reform current digital software and improve the quality of service. The proliferation of advanced technologies and improvements in current platforms will enable more providers to render virtual medical care services.
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9
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Shah ND, Krupinski EA, Bernard J, Moyer MF. The evolution and utilization of telehealth in ambulatory nutrition practice. Nutr Clin Pract 2021; 36:739-749. [PMID: 33734469 DOI: 10.1002/ncp.10641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The term telehealth is often used interchangeably with telemedicine. Telemedicine involves the electronic exchange of medical information between two remote sites for the optimization of patient care, whereas telehealth is the application of all electronic communication and delivery systems in the provision of healthcare. Telehealth gives patients an opportunity to communicate with their healthcare providers and, overall, access ambulatory care that otherwise is not available in their area of residence. Several telehealth delivery systems are available for electronic communication. Telehealth and other communications technologies used in the delivery of healthcare services are regulated at both the federal and state levels. Coverage and payment policies vary among the different insurers (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid, and private plans), and policies may further be defined by state telehealth parity laws. Telenutrition involves the use of digital technology to provide nutrition care to patients and caregivers and shows potential to optimize nutrition care and outcomes. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has contributed to sweeping legislative and regulatory changes that allowed the temporary expansion of telehealth delivery and reimbursement to maintain continuity of care for patients who were not able to come in for an in-person office visit with their healthcare provider. The purpose of this review is to introduce key concepts of telehealth delivery systems including policy, legal, and regulatory considerations for ambulatory care as well as the role of telenutrition in nutrition care, and highlight the evolving role of telehealth in optimizing patient and nutrition care during a pandemic and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha D Shah
- Department of Nutrition and Food Services, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,Neha Shah Nutrition, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Krupinski
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Meagan F Moyer
- Department of Clinical Nutrition Services, Stanford Health Care, Stanford, California, USA
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10
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Zhao M, Hamadi H, Haley DR, Xu J, White-Williams C, Park S. Telehealth: Advances in Alternative Payment Models. Telemed J E Health 2020; 26:1492-1499. [DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2019.0294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Zhao
- Department of Health Administration, Brooks College of Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Hanadi Hamadi
- Department of Health Administration, Brooks College of Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - D. Rob Haley
- Department of Health Administration, Brooks College of Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Health Administration, Brooks College of Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Cynthia White-Williams
- Department of Health Administration, Brooks College of Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Sinyoung Park
- Department of Health Administration, Brooks College of Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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11
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Spencer AE, Platt RE, Bettencourt AF, Serhal E, Burkey MD, Sikov J, Vidal C, Stratton J, Polk S, Jain S, Wissow L. Implementation of Off-Site Integrated Care for Children: A Scoping Review. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2020; 27:342-353. [PMID: 31714465 PMCID: PMC7374937 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As an alternative to co-located integrated care, off-site integration (partnerships between primary care and non-embedded specialty mental health providers) can address the growing need for pediatric mental health services. Our goal is to review the existing literature on implementing off-site pediatric integrated care. METHODS We systematically searched the literature for peer-reviewed publications on off-site pediatric integrated care interventions. We included studies that involved systematic data collection and analysis, both qualitative and quantitative, of implementation outcomes (acceptability, adoption, appropriateness, feasibility, fidelity, implementation cost, penetration, and sustainability). RESULTS We found 39 original articles from 24 off-site programs with a variety of study designs, most with secondary implementation outcomes. Models of off-site integration varied primarily along two dimensions: direct vs. indirect, and in-person vs. remote. Overall, off-site models were acceptable to providers, particularly when the following were present: strong interdisciplinary communication, timely availability and reliability of services, additional support beyond one-time consultation, and standardized care algorithms. Adoption and penetration were facilitated by enhanced program visibility, including on-site champions. Certain clinical populations (e.g., school-age, less complicated ADHD) seemed more amenable to off-site integrated models than others (e.g., preschool-age, conduct disorders). Lack of funding and inadequate reimbursement limited sustainability in all models. CONCLUSIONS Off-site interventions are feasible, acceptable, and often adopted widely with adequate planning, administrative support, and interprofessional communication. Studies that focus primarily on implementation and that consider the perspectives of specialty providers and patients are needed.
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12
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Cowan KE, McKean AJ, Gentry MT, Hilty DM. Barriers to Use of Telepsychiatry: Clinicians as Gatekeepers. Mayo Clin Proc 2019; 94:2510-2523. [PMID: 31806104 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2019.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Telepsychiatry is effective and has generated hope and promise for improved access and enhanced quality of care with reasonable cost containment. Clinicians and organizations are informed about clinical, technological, and administrative telepsychiatric barriers via guidelines, but there are many practical patient and clinician factors that have slowed implementation and undermined sustainability. Literature describing barriers to use of telepsychiatry was reviewed. PubMed search terms with date limits from January 1, 1959, to April 25, 2019, included telepsychiatry, telemedicine, telemental health, videoconferencing, video based, Internet, synchronous, real-time, two-way, limitations, restrictions, barriers, obstacles, challenges, issues, implementation, utilization, adoption, perspectives, perceptions, attitudes, beliefs, willingness, acceptability, feasibility, culture/cultural, outcomes, satisfaction, quality, effectiveness, and efficacy. Articles were selected for inclusion on the basis of relevance. Barriers are described from both patient and clinicians' perspectives. Patients and clinicians are largely satisfied with telepsychiatry, but concerns about establishing rapport, privacy, safety, and technology limitations have slowed acceptance of telepsychiatry. Clinicians are also concerned about reimbursement/financial, legal/regulatory, licensure/credentialing, and education/learning issues. These issues point to system and policy concerns, which, in combination with other administrative concerns, raise questions about system design/workflow, efficiency of clinical care, and changing organizational culture. Although telepsychiatry service is convenient for patients, the many barriers from clinicians' perspectives are concerning, because they serve as gatekeepers for implementation and sustainability of telepsychiatry services. This suggests that solutions to overcome barriers must start by addressing the concerns of clinicians and enhancing clinical workflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten E Cowan
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Essentia Health, Duluth, MN
| | | | - Melanie T Gentry
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Donald M Hilty
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento
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13
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Gately ME, Trudeau SA, Moo LR. In-Home Video Telehealth for Dementia Management: Implications for Rehabilitation. CURRENT GERIATRICS REPORTS 2019; 8:239-249. [PMID: 32015957 PMCID: PMC6996201 DOI: 10.1007/s13670-019-00297-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The progressive nature of dementia requires ongoing care delivered by multidisciplinary teams, including rehabilitation professionals, that is individualized to patient and caregiver needs at various points on the disease trajectory. Video telehealth is a rapidly expanding model of care with the potential to expand dementia best practices by increasing the reach of dementia providers to flexible locations, including patients' homes. We review recent evidence for in-home video telehealth for patients with dementia and their caregivers with emphasis on implications for rehabilitation professionals. RECENT FINDINGS Eleven studies were identified that involved video visits into the home targeting patients with dementia and/or their family caregivers. The majority describe protocolized interventions targeting caregivers in a group format over a finite, pre-determined period. For most, the discipline of the interventionist was unclear, though two studies included rehabilitation interventions. While descriptions of utilized technology were often lacking, many reported that devices were issued to participants when needed, and that technical support was provided by study teams. Positive caregiver outcomes were noted but evidence for patient-level outcomes and cost data are mostly lacking. SUMMARY More research is needed to demonstrate implementation of dementia best care practices through in-home video telehealth. Though interventions delivered using in-home video telehealth appear to be effective at addressing caregivers' psychosocial concerns, the impact on patients and the implications for rehabilitation remain unclear. Larger, more systematic inquiries comparing in-home video telehealth to traditional visit formats are needed to better define best practices.
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14
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Roth DE, Ramtekkar U, Zeković-Roth S. Telepsychiatry: A New Treatment Venue for Pediatric Depression. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2019; 28:377-395. [PMID: 31076115 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2019.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The benefits and acceptability of using telepsychiatry to provide psychiatric treatment to youth in their homes, schools, primary care provider offices, juvenile correction centers, and residential facilities are well established. Telepsychiatry removes geographic barriers between patients and providers and improves the access to and ease of receiving quality care. Effective telepsychiatrists use strategic room staging, enhanced nonverbal communication, and technical experience to ensure sessions provide an authentic treatment experience and strong provider-patient alliances are forged. When the telepsychiatry venue is used properly, sessions feel authentic and pediatric treatment outcomes meet and sometimes exceed those of sessions conducted in traditional venues.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Roth
- Mind & Body Works, Inc., 3340 Wauke Street, Honolulu, HI 96815-4452, USA.
| | - Ujjwal Ramtekkar
- Partners for Kids, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Way, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
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15
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Fairchild RM, Ferng-Kuo SF, Laws S, Rahmouni H, Hardesty D. Telehealth Decreases Rural Emergency Department Wait Times for Behavioral Health Patients in a Group of Critical Access Hospitals. Telemed J E Health 2019; 25:1154-1164. [PMID: 30735100 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2018.0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Telehealth has been proposed as an important care delivery strategy to increase access to behavioral health care, especially in rural and medically-underserved settings where mental health care provider shortage areas predominate, to speed access to behavioral health care, and reduce health disparities. Introduction: This study was conducted to determine the effects of telehealth-based care delivery on clinical, temporal, and cost outcomes for behavioral health patients in rural emergency departments (EDs) of four Midwestern critical access hospitals (CAHs). Materials and Methods: Observational matched cohort study of adult (age ≥18 years) behavioral health patients treated in participating CAH EDs from 2015 to 2017 (N = 287). Telehealth cases were matched 2:1 retrospectively to nontelehealth control cases based on gender, age ±10 years, diagnosis group, and CAH, before implementation of telehealth in the rural hospitals (2005-2013; N = 153). Results: The greatest number of behavioral health cases evaluated was in the mood, anxiety, and other mental health disorders category. The majority of patients in the telehealth (74%) and nontelehealth (68%) cohorts were 18-44 years. Mean ED wait time for the telehealth cohort was significantly shorter at 12 min (95% CI 11-14 min) (p < 0.001) compared to a mean time of 27 min (95% CI 22-32 min) for the nontelehealth case controls (local provider only). The ED length of stay (LOS) for the telehealth cohort was significantly longer (M = 318 min vs. 147 min, p < 0.001) compared to the nontelehealth cohort. The end of telehealth visit to departure (EOTVtD) from the ED in minutes was evaluated to highlight factors potentially influencing delivery of behavioral health care in the ED. Across three behavioral diagnostic categories, time in minutes from end of telehealth visit to disposition/discharge was significantly longer for suicide and intentional self-injury cases (n = 100; 113 min, 95% CI 88-145; p = 0.004) compared to anxiety, mood, and other mental health disorders (n = 126; 66 min, 95% CI 52-83). There was a clinically meaningful difference in EOTVtD in minutes for substance abuse-related cases, which were shorter in length on average (n = 58; 71 min, 95% CI 54-94). Total ED costs for substance abuse-related cases for the telehealth (n = 58; $4556, 95% CI $3963-$5238) cohort were significantly higher than for the two other behavioral diagnostic groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Telehealth consultation in the ED for behavioral health cases was associated with decreased wait time and longer ED LOS. Similar to recent studies, the most common behavioral health cases involved mood and anxiety disorders. Costs related to treatment were highest for substance abuse-related cases, likely due to the additional interventions needed, especially related to resuscitation There are opportunities to improve ED efficiencies and post-telehealth visit protocols related to the timeframe extending from the EOTVtD from the ED, which continues to be a focus of future research. Additional research is also needed to determine if telehealth lends itself more effectively to specific categories of behavioral health cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shiaw-Fen Ferng-Kuo
- Department of Applied Health Sciences, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana
| | - Stephanie Laws
- Union Hospital, Richard Lugar Center for Rural Health, Terre Haute, Indiana
| | - Hicham Rahmouni
- Union Hospital, Richard Lugar Center for Rural Health, Terre Haute, Indiana
| | - Daniel Hardesty
- Union Hospital, Richard Lugar Center for Rural Health, Terre Haute, Indiana
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16
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Horn BP, Li X, Mamun S, McCrady B, French MT. The economic costs of jail-based methadone maintenance treatment. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2018; 44:611-618. [DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2018.1491048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brady P. Horn
- Department of Economics and the Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions (CASAA), University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Xiaoxue Li
- Department of Economics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Saleh Mamun
- Department of Economics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Barbara McCrady
- Department of Psychology and the Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions (CASAA), University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Michael T. French
- Departments of Sociology and Health Sector Management and Policy, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
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