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Moore LC, Woodruff NA, Seal KH, Feinberg T, Purcell N. Natural Product Use Among Veterans with Chronic Pain: A Qualitative Study of Attitudes and Communication with Healthcare Providers. J Gen Intern Med 2024; 39:2206-2214. [PMID: 38689119 PMCID: PMC11347536 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-024-08746-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite mixed evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of natural products, many are marketed for pain and related symptoms. Use of these products is prevalent among veterans, who have disproportionately high rates of chronic pain. To date, however, there is limited research on veterans' beliefs and attitudes about natural products and their communication with healthcare providers about their natural product use. OBJECTIVE To explore how veterans experiencing chronic pain make decisions about natural product use, to investigate veterans' beliefs about the safety and efficacy of these products, and to examine veterans' experiences discussing natural products with their providers. DESIGN Qualitative sub-study conducted as a supplement to a pragmatic randomized controlled trial for chronic pain management. PARTICIPANTS Twenty veterans experiencing chronic pain who reported using natural products for pain management or related health concerns. APPROACH Qualitative interviews with veterans were conducted over the phone and audio-recorded. Interviews were guided by an original semi-structured interview guide and qualitative data were analyzed using a template-based rapid analysis technique. KEY RESULTS Veterans with chronic pain may perceive natural products as safer than pharmaceutical products and may prefer to use natural products. Talking with providers about natural products is important to veterans, who would like information regarding the safety and potential for interaction of natural products with pharmaceutical products. However, veterans were frequently disappointed with these conversations. Veterans felt their providers demonstrated biases against natural products, which negatively impacted patient-provider relationships. CONCLUSIONS Veterans wish to have more productive conversations with providers about natural products. They value providers' open-mindedness towards natural products and transparency about limitations in their knowledge. Suggestions for how providers and healthcare systems might better support veterans interested in natural products are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Celesia Moore
- Integrative Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Northern California Institute for Research and Education, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, 4150 Clement St. (11A1, T-31), San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Nicole A Woodruff
- Integrative Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Northern California Institute for Research and Education, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karen H Seal
- Integrative Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Termeh Feinberg
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- VA Connecticut PRIME Center, West Haven, CT, USA
- Kelly Government Solutions, Rockville, CT, USA
| | - Natalie Purcell
- Integrative Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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2
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Subramaniam S, Chen J, Wilkerson TL, Stevenson L, Kincaid C, Firestone C, Ball SL. Refining the Implementation of a Hub-and-Spoke Model for TelePain Through Qualitative Inquiry. JOURNAL OF TECHNOLOGY IN BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2022; 8:1-11. [PMID: 36530381 PMCID: PMC9734451 DOI: 10.1007/s41347-022-00288-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The hub-and-spoke telehealth model leverages centrally located providers who utilize telehealth technology to bring specialized care to medically underserved areas. This model has the potential to promote equitable access to healthcare. However, few studies address how to facilitate the adoption and implementation of hub-and-spoke telehealth. We examined spoke site providers' experiences with TelePain, a national hub-and-spoke model of interdisciplinary chronic pain care, with a focus on improving future implementation. We conducted semi-structured individual interviews (20-45 min) with 27 VA spoke site providers via teleconferencing between August 2020 and February 2021. Interview transcripts were coded in Atlas.ti 8.0 using deductive (identified a priori and used to build the interview guide) and inductive (emerging) codes. Our analysis identified the following themes stressed by the spoke sites: (1) spoke sites needed to envision how TelePain services would work at their site before deciding to adopt; (2) TelePain implementation needed to fit into local existing care processes; (3) hub sites needed to understand spoke sites' context (e.g., via needs assessment) to tailor the services accordingly, and (4) hub-and-spoke sites needed to establish bidirectional communication. Our findings provide a practical guide to improve future rollout of hub-and-spoke telehealth models. Recommendations focus on the role of the hub site in promoting program adoption by (1) developing a clear and detailed marketing plan and (2) considering how the program can be adapted to fit the local spoke site context. To improve implementation, hub-and-spoke sites must establish ongoing and consistent bidirectional communication; this is particularly critical in the everchanging post-peak pandemic healthcare system. An important next step is the development of recommendations and guidelines for implementing hub-and-spoke telehealth, as well as examining pain outcomes for patients touched by this program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Subramaniam
- VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, 10701 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| | - Jessica Chen
- Puget Sound VA Healthcare System, 1660 S, Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA
| | - Tai-Lyn Wilkerson
- VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, 10701 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| | - Lauren Stevenson
- VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, 10701 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| | - Carrie Kincaid
- Puget Sound VA Healthcare System, 1660 S, Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA
| | - Christine Firestone
- VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, 10701 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| | - Sherry L. Ball
- VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, 10701 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
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3
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Grant AD, Miller MM, Anastas TM, Quinn P, Lok B, Hirsh AT. Opioid-related risk perceptions in chronic pain: influence of patient gender and previous misuse behaviors. Pain 2022; 163:711-718. [PMID: 34285152 PMCID: PMC8761212 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Little is known about the factors that influence providers' perceptions of patient risk for aberrant opioid use. Patient gender may interact with previous opioid misuse to influence these perceptions. We asked 131 physicians to view videos and vignettes for 8 virtual patients with chronic pain. Gender (male/female) and previous prescription opioid misuse (present/absent) varied across patients; the vignettes were otherwise balanced on demographic and clinical characteristics. For each patient, providers assessed 4 risk domains: opioid-related adverse events, opioid misuse or abuse, opioid addiction, and opioid diversion. Results indicated a significant gender-by-misuse interaction for risk of opioid misuse orabuse. When previous misuse behaviors were absent, providers rated men at higher risk; there was no gender difference when previous misuse behaviors were present. A significant gender-by-misuse interaction was found for risk of opioid-related adverse events. Providers perceived men to be at higher risk when previous misuse behaviors were absent; there was no gender difference when previous misuse behaviors were present. A significant gender-by-misuse interaction was found for risk of opioid addiction. Providers rated women at higher risk when previous misuse behaviors were present and men at higher risk when previous misuse behaviors were absent. There were significant main effects of gender and misuse for risk of opioid diversion. Providers rated men and those with previous misuse behaviors at higher risk. These results demonstrate that patient gender and previous opioid misuse have unique and interactive effects on provider perceptions of prescription opioid-related risks. Studies are needed to identify the mechanisms underlying these effects, such as gender-based stereotypes about risk-taking and drug abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis D. Grant
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
| | - Megan M. Miller
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
| | - Tracy M. Anastas
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
| | - Patrick Quinn
- School of Public Health, Indiana University Bloomington
| | - Benjamin Lok
- Department of Computer and Information Science and Engineering, University of Florida
| | - Adam T. Hirsh
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
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Davidson AR, Kelly J, Ball L, Morgan M, Reidlinger DP. What do patients experience? Interprofessional collaborative practice for chronic conditions in primary care: an integrative review. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:8. [PMID: 35172731 PMCID: PMC8759162 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01595-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving the patient experience is one of the quadruple aims of healthcare. Therefore, understanding patient experiences and perceptions of healthcare interactions is paramount to quality improvement. This integrative review aimed to explore how patients with chronic conditions experience Interprofessional Collaborative Practice in primary care. METHODS An integrative review was conducted to comprehensively synthesize primary studies that used qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. Databases searched were Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Web of Science on June 1st, 2021. Eligible studies were empirical full-text studies in primary care that reported experiences or perceptions of Interprofessional Collaborative Practice by adult patients with a chronic condition, in any language published in any year. Quality appraisal was conducted on included studies using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool. Data on patients' experiences and perceptions of Interprofessional Collaborative Practice in primary care were extracted, and findings were thematically analyzed through a meta-synthesis. RESULTS Forty-eight (n = 48) studies met the inclusion criteria with a total of n = 3803 participants. Study quality of individual studies was limited by study design, incomplete reporting, and the potential for positive publication bias. Three themes and their sub-themes were developed inductively: (1) Interacting with Healthcare Teams, subthemes: widening the network, connecting with professionals, looking beyond the condition, and overcoming chronic condition collectively; (2) Valuing Convenient Healthcare, subthemes: sharing space and time, care planning creates structure, coordinating care, valuing the general practitioner role, and affording healthcare; (3) Engaging Self-care, subthemes: engaging passively is circumstantial, and, engaging actively and leading care. CONCLUSIONS Patients overwhelmingly had positive experiences of Interprofessional Collaborative Practice, signaling it is appropriate for chronic condition management in primary care. The patient role in managing their chronic condition was closely linked to their experience. Future studies should investigate how the patient role impacts the experience of patients, carers, and health professionals in this context. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO: CRD42020156536.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra R Davidson
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia.
| | - Jaimon Kelly
- Centre for Online Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lauren Ball
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Mark Morgan
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Dianne P Reidlinger
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
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Figueroa C, Hadanny A, Kroll K, DiMarzio M, Ahktar K, Gillogly M, Mitchell D, Cangero T, Pilitsis JG. Does Neuromodulation Reduce Chronic Pain Patient Emergency Department Utilization? Neurosurgery 2022; 90:131-139. [PMID: 34982880 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000001754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain (CP) affects roughly 100 million adults in the United States. These subjects present disproportionately to the emergency department (ED). Neuromodulation (NM) has been shown to reduce ED visits longitudinally in subjects. OBJECTIVE To compare ED utilization rates between subjects with CP with and without NM. METHODS Subjects with failed back surgery syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, or neuropathic pain diagnosis who visited the hospital between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2019, were included. Subjects were divided into a NM-treated cohort and a non-NM cohort. Demographic information, medications, and pain provider visits were obtained. Pain-related ED visits between 2017 and 2019 were compared. RESULTS A total of 2516 subjects were identified; 291 (11.6%) previously underwent NM. The non-NM cohort had significantly higher rate of pain-related ED visits compared with the NM cohort (15.1% vs 10.0%, P = .018). Younger age (odds ratio [OR] = 0.888 [0.843-0.935]), shorter distance to the hospital (OR = 0.807 [0.767-0.849]), lower household income (OR = 0.865 [0.831-0.901]), opioid use (OR = 1.375 [1.291-1.465]), nonopioid use (OR = 1.079 [1.033-1.128]), and non-NM therapy (OR = 1.751 [1.283-2.390]) were significant predictors of ED visits. Opioid use was the only significant predictor (OR = 6.124 [1.417-26.473]) associated with ED visits in the NM cohort. CONCLUSION Subjects who underwent NM had fewer visits to the ED when compared with similar subjects who received conventional treatment. Opioid use prompted increased ED utilization in both cohorts. We posit that NM leads to improvement in pain outcomes, integration with multidisciplinary pain specialists, and reduction in severity and frequency of acute pain exacerbations, thereby limiting health care resource utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Figueroa
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Amir Hadanny
- Department of Neurosurgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Kyle Kroll
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Marisa DiMarzio
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Kainat Ahktar
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Michael Gillogly
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Dorothy Mitchell
- Center Operations-Information Systems & Services, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Theodore Cangero
- Center Operations-Information Systems & Services, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Julie G Pilitsis
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
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6
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Purcell N, Sells J, McGrath S, Mehlman H, Bertenthal D, Seal KH. “Then COVID happened…”: Veterans’ Health, Wellbeing, and Engagement in Whole Health Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Glob Adv Health Med 2021; 10:21649561211053828. [PMID: 35174002 PMCID: PMC8842446 DOI: 10.1177/21649561211053828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on US military veterans’ health, wellbeing, and care engagement. Healthcare systems like VA need additional information about the pandemic’s biopsychosocial impacts and how a Whole Health approach may help to address them. Objective To examine how the pandemic has affected veterans’ health, wellbeing, and engagement in the VA Whole Health System of Care. Method We conducted qualitative interviews with 40 veterans at a large multicampus VA healthcare system during the pandemic. Informed by a Whole Health approach, interviews used open-ended questions to holistically explore pandemic impacts on mental and physical health, healthcare access and engagement, social support, coping strategies, and use of VA healthcare and wellness services. Interviews were conducted by telephone, audio-recorded, and analyzed using a matrix-based technique. Interviews were supplemented by an original survey assessing pandemic impacts; descriptive frequencies were calculated to describe and characterize the interviewed sample. Interview Results Nearly, all participating veterans described significant pandemic impacts on their wellbeing, especially loneliness and sorrow stemming from isolation and disruptions to ordinary routines. These emotional impacts—sometimes combined with new constraints on care access and personal mobility—disrupted veterans’ health plans and sometimes deterred engagement in both routine and wellness care. Veterans already struggling with chronic mental and physical health conditions and those who experienced transitions or losses during the pandemic described the most severe impacts on their wellbeing. Virtual VA wellness services, especially health coaching and mind-body wellness groups, were a key source of support and connection for those who engaged in them. Conclusion We discuss the implications of our findings for care systems attempting to implement a Whole Health System of Care, including how they can address postpandemic barriers to engagement in healthcare and wellness programs, and how wellness programs can be leveraged to support those most at risk after the COVID-19 pandemic and in future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Purcell
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Northern California Institute for Research and Education, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Joanna Sells
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sarah McGrath
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Northern California Institute for Research and Education, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Haley Mehlman
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Northern California Institute for Research and Education, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Karen H Seal
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Northern California Institute for Research and Education, San Francisco, CA, USA
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7
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Nicosia FM, Gibson CJ, Purcell N, Zamora K, Tighe J, Seal KH. Women Veterans' Experiences with Integrated, Biopsychosocial Pain Care: A Qualitative Study. PAIN MEDICINE 2021; 22:1954-1961. [PMID: 33547797 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnaa481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Biopsychosocial, integrated pain care models are increasingly implemented in the Veterans Health Administration to improve chronic pain care and reduce opioid-related risks, but little is known about how well these models address women veterans' needs. DESIGN Qualitative, interview-based study. SETTING San Francisco VA Health Care System Integrated Pain Team (IPT), an interdisciplinary team that provides short-term, personalized chronic pain care emphasizing functional goals and active self-management. SUBJECTS Women with chronic pain who completed ≥3 IPT sessions. METHODS Semistructured phone interviews focused on overall experience with IPT, perceived effectiveness of IPT care, pain care preferences, and suggested changes for improving gender-sensitive pain care. We used a rapid approach to qualitative thematic analysis to analyze interviews. RESULTS Fourteen women veterans (mean age 51 years; range 33-67 years) completed interviews. Interviews revealed several factors impacting women veterans' experiences: 1) an overall preference for receiving both primary and IPT care in gender-specific settings, 2) varying levels of confidence that IPT could adequately address gender-specific pain issues, 3) barriers to participating in pain groups, and 4) barriers to IPT self-management recommendations due to caregiving responsibilities. CONCLUSIONS Women veterans reported varied experiences with IPT. Recommendations to improve gender-sensitive pain care include increased provider training; increased knowledge of and sensitivity to women's health concerns; and improved accommodations for prior trauma, family and work obligations, and geographic barriers. To better meet the needs of women veterans with chronic pain, integrated pain care models must be informed by an understanding of gender-specific needs, challenges, and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca M Nicosia
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California.,Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Carolyn J Gibson
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California.,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Natalie Purcell
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California.,Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.,Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Kara Zamora
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California.,Department of Anthropology, History, and Social Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jennifer Tighe
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
| | - Karen H Seal
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California.,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.,Department of Anthropology, History, and Social Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.,Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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8
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Declercq J. Talking about chronic pain: Misalignment in discussions of the body, mind and social aspects in pain clinic consultations. Health (London) 2021; 27:378-397. [PMID: 34291691 PMCID: PMC10088036 DOI: 10.1177/13634593211032875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In Western societies, human existence and illness are mostly constructed from the perspective of mind-body dualism: body and mind are considered to function independently, and the body/the physical as primary and more real. Research shows, however, that mind-body dualism is no longer tenable, especially in healthcare contexts. This led to the rise the biopsychosocial model, in which bodily experiences, including illness, are seen an interplay of the physical and the psychological, and the social. This model is the current gold standard for treating chronic pain. As these perspectives on the body and illness are potentially conflicting, and discursively constructed, this paper examines whether they are a source of misalignment in interactions between chronic pain patients and their doctors in a pain clinic. The analysis shows these perspectives indeed lead to misalignment, for instance when discussing the relevance of psychotherapy, and lead to intricate uses of argumentative resources to account for the differing perspectives on (the treatment of) pain.
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9
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Does fear impede the success of spinal surgery in patients with chronic Back pain? Potential prognosticative factors in spinal surgery failure. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02069-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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10
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Purcell N, Zamora K, Bertenthal D, Abadjian L, Tighe J, Seal KH. How VA Whole Health Coaching Can Impact Veterans' Health and Quality of Life: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Program Evaluation. Glob Adv Health Med 2021; 10:2164956121998283. [PMID: 33747639 PMCID: PMC7940726 DOI: 10.1177/2164956121998283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To examine the impact of a pilot VA Whole Health Coaching program, including whether and how the program helps veterans improve their health and quality of life. Intervention Whole Health Coaching is a structured program to support veterans in making healthy behavior changes to promote holistic well-being. Design This mixed-methods quality-improvement evaluation combined surveys (pre- and post-coaching) with follow-up qualitative interviews. Setting The setting was a large VA healthcare system, encompassing a medical center and six community-based clinics in Northern California. Participants 65 veterans completed surveys at both time points; 42 completed qualitative interviews. Method Telephone surveys administered at baseline and 3 months assessed global health (PROMIS-10), perceived stress (PSS-4), and perceived health competency (PHCS-2). Pre- and post-scores were compared using t-tests. A subsample of participants completed a qualitative interview evaluating program experience, goal attainment, and the coaching relationship. Results Surveys showed significant improvements over baseline in mental health (p = 0.006; d = 0.36), stress (p = 0.003; d = –0.38), and perceived health competence (p = 0.01; d = 0.35). Interviewees were highly satisfied with their coaching experience, describing both effective program components and improvement opportunities. Conclusion Whole Health Coaching can help participants make meaningful progress toward health goals, reduce stress, and improve quality of life. The Whole Health model’s emphasis on holistic self-assessment; patient-driven goal-setting; supportive, non-judgmental inquiry; and mindful awareness contributed to program success and enhanced participants’ experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Purcell
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California.,University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Kara Zamora
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California.,University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | | | - Linda Abadjian
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
| | - Jennifer Tighe
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
| | - Karen H Seal
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California.,University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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11
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Seal KH, Rife T, Li Y, Gibson C, Tighe J. Opioid Reduction and Risk Mitigation in VA Primary Care: Outcomes from the Integrated Pain Team Initiative. J Gen Intern Med 2020; 35:1238-1244. [PMID: 31848861 PMCID: PMC7174436 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-019-05572-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND National guidelines advise decreasing opioids for chronic pain, but there is no guidance on implementation. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of an Integrated Pain Team (IPT) clinic in decreasing opioid dose and mitigating opioid risk. DESIGN This study prospectively compared two matched cohorts receiving chronic pain care through IPT (N = 147) versus usual primary care (UPC, N = 147) over 6 months. Patients were matched on age, sex, psychiatric diagnoses, and baseline opioid dose. PATIENTS Veterans receiving care at a VA medical center or VA community-based clinics. INTERVENTION Interdisciplinary IPT, consisting of a collocated medical provider, psychologist, and pharmacist embedded in VA primary care providing short-term biopsychosocial management of veterans with chronic pain and problematic opioid use. MAIN MEASURES Change in opioid dose expressed as morphine equivalent daily dose (MEDD) and opioid risk mitigation evaluated at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. KEY RESULTS Compared with veterans receiving UPC, those followed by IPT had a greater mean MEDD decrease of 42 mg versus 8 mg after 3 months and 56 mg versus 17 mg after 6 months. In adjusted analysis, compared with UPC, veterans in IPT achieved a 34-mg greater mean reduction at 3 months (p = 0.002) and 38-mg greater mean reduction at 6 months (p = 0.003). Nearly twice as many patients receiving care through IPT versus UPC reduced their daily opioid dose by ≥50%, representing more than a two-fold improvement at 3 months, which was sustained at 6 months [odds ratio = 2.03; 95% CI = 1.04-3.95, p = 0.04]. Significant improvements were also demonstrated in opioid risk mitigation by 6 months, including increased urine drug screen monitoring, naloxone kit distribution, and decreased co-prescription of opioids and benzodiazepines (all p values < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Interdisciplinary biopsychosocial models of pain care can be embedded in primary care and lead to significant improvements in opioid dose and risk mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen H Seal
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Departments of Medicine and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Tessa Rife
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Departments of Medicine and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yongmei Li
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Carolyn Gibson
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Departments of Medicine and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Tighe
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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12
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Gibson CJ, Grasso J, Li Y, Purcell N, Tighe J, Zamora K, Nicosia F, Seal KH. An Integrated Pain Team Model: Impact on Pain-Related Outcomes and Opioid Misuse in Patients with Chronic Pain. PAIN MEDICINE 2020; 21:1977-1984. [DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnaa003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
Biopsychosocial integrated pain team (IPT) care models are being implemented in Veterans Health Administration (VA) and other health care systems to address chronic pain and reduce risks related to long-term opioid therapy, with little evaluation of effectiveness to date. We examined whether IPT improves self-reported pain-related outcomes and opioid misuse.
Design
Single-group quality improvement study.
Setting
Large VA health care system.
Subjects
Veterans with chronic pain (N = 99, 84% male, mean age [SD] = 60 [13] years).
Methods
Using paired t tests and Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks tests, we examined pain experience (Brief Pain Inventory, Pain Catastrophizing Scale), opioid misuse (Current Opioid Misuse Measure), treatment satisfaction (Pain Treatment Satisfaction Scale), and pain management strategies among patients with chronic pain before and after three or more IPT encounters.
Results
After an average (SD) of 14.3 (9) weeks engaged in IPT, patients reported improvement in pain interference (mean [SD] = 46.0 [15.9] vs 40.5 [16.2], P < 0.001), pain catastrophizing (mean [SD] = 22.9 [13.0] vs 19.3 [14.1], P = 0.01), treatment satisfaction (i.e., “very satisfied” = 13.1% at baseline vs 25.3% at follow-up, P = 0.01), and reduced opioid misuse (mean [SD] = 11.0 [7.5] vs 8.2 [6.1], P = 0.01). Patients reported increased use of integrative (i.e., acupuncture, 11% at baseline vs 26% at follow-up, P < 0.01) and active pain management strategies (i.e., exercise, 8% at baseline vs 16% at follow-up, P < 0.01) and were less likely to use only pharmacological pain management strategies after IPT engagement (19% at baseline vs 5% at follow-up, P < 0.01).
Conclusions
Biopsychosocial, integrated pain care may improve patient-centered outcomes related to opioid misuse and the subjective experience and nonpharmacological self-management of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn J Gibson
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Joseph Grasso
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
| | - Yongmei Li
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
| | - Natalie Purcell
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jennifer Tighe
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
| | - Kara Zamora
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
| | - Francesca Nicosia
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
- Division of Geriatrics, Institute for Health & Aging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Karen H Seal
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, California
- Departments of Medicine, Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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