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Bernardo C, Hoon E, Gonzalez-Chica DA, Frank O, Black-Tiong S, Stocks N. Management of physical and psychological trauma resulting from motor vehicle crashes in Australian general practice: a mixed-methods approach. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:167. [PMID: 38755534 PMCID: PMC11100075 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02421-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Australia, motor vehicle crashes (MVC)-related health data are available from insurance claims and hospitals but not from primary care settings. This study aimed to identify the frequency of MVC-related consultations in Australian general practices, explore the pharmacological management of health conditions related to those crashes, and investigate general practitioners' (GPs) perceived barriers and enablers in managing these patients. METHODS Mixed-methods study. The quantitative component explored annual MVC-related consultation rates over seven years, the frequency of chronic pain, depression, anxiety or sleep issues after MVC, and management with opioids, antidepressants, anxiolytics or sedatives in a sample of 1,438,864 patients aged 16 + years attending 402 Australian general practices (MedicineInsight). Subsequently, we used content analysis of 81 GPs' qualitative responses to an online survey that included some of our quantitative findings to explore their experiences and attitudes to managing patients after MVC. RESULTS MVC-related consultation rates remained stable between 2012 and 2018 at around 9.0 per 10,000 consultations. In 2017/2018 compared to their peers, those experiencing a MVC had a higher frequency of chronic pain (48% vs. 26%), depression/anxiety (20% vs. 13%) and sleep issues (7% vs. 4%). In general, medications were prescribed more after MVC. Opioid prescribing was much higher among patients after MVC than their peers, whether they consulted for chronic pain (23.8% 95%CI 21.6;26.0 vs. 15.2%, 95%CI 14.5;15.8 in 2017/2018, respectively) or not (15.8%, 95%CI 13.9;17.6 vs. 6.7%, 95% CI 6.4;7.0 in 2017/2018). Qualitative analyses identified a lack of guidelines, local referral pathways and decision frameworks as critical barriers for GPs to manage patients after MVC. GPs also expressed interest in having better access to management tools for specific MVC-related consequences (e.g., whiplash/seatbelt injuries, acute/chronic pain management, mental health issues). CONCLUSION Chronic pain, mental health issues and the prescription of opioids were more frequent among patients experiencing MVC. This reinforces the relevance of appropriate management to limit the physical and psychological impact of MVC. GPs identified a lack of available resources (e.g. education, checklists and management support tools) for managing MVC-related consequences, and the need for local referral pathways and specific guidelines to escalate treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Bernardo
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, 115 Grenfell St, Level 8, Room 817.01, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia.
| | - Elizabeth Hoon
- Adelaide Medical School, School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, 115 Grenfell St, Level 8, Room 818.01, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - David Alejandro Gonzalez-Chica
- Adelaide Medical School, Adelaide Rural Clinical School, The University of Adelaide, 115 Grenfell St, Level 8, Room 811C.02, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Oliver Frank
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, 115 Grenfell St, Level 8, Room 817.09, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Sean Black-Tiong
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, 115 Grenfell St, Level 8, Room 817, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Nigel Stocks
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, 115 Grenfell St, Level 8, Room 823.01, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
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Hayashi K, Miki K, Ikemoto T, Ushida T, Shiro Y, Tetsunaga T, Takasusuki T, Hosoi M, Yukioka M. Predictors of high-cost patients with acute whiplash-associated disorder in Japan. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287676. [PMID: 37379284 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The proportion of neck injuries due to traffic accidents is increasing. Little is known about high-cost patients with acute whiplash-associated disorder (WAD). The present study aimed to investigate whether time to first visit for conventional medicine, multiple doctor visits, or alternative medicine could predict high-cost patients with acute WAD in Japan. METHODS Data from a compulsory, no-fault, government automobile liability insurance agency in Japan between 2014 and 2019 were used. The primary economic outcome was the total cost of healthcare per person. Treatment-related variables were assessed based on the time to first visit for conventional and alternative medicine, multiple doctor visits, and visits for alternative medicine. Patients were categorized according to total healthcare cost (low, medium, and high cost). The variables were subjected to univariate and multivariate analysis to compare high-cost and low-cost patients. RESULTS A total of 104,911 participants with a median age of 42 years were analyzed. The median total healthcare cost per person was 67,366 yen. The cost for consecutive medicine, for consecutive and alternative medicine, and total healthcare costs were significantly associated with all clinical outcomes. Female sex, being a homemaker, a history of WAD claim, residential area, patient responsibility in a traffic accident, multiple doctor visits, and visits for alternative medicine were identified as independent predictive factors for a high cost in multivariate analysis. Multiple doctor visits and visits for alternative medicine showed large differences between groups (odds ratios 2673 and 694, respectively). Patients with multiple doctor visits and visits for alternative medicine showed a significantly high total healthcare cost per person (292,346 yen) compared to those without (53,587 yen). CONCLUSIONS A high total healthcare cost is strongly associated with multiple doctor visits and visits for alternative medicine in patients with acute WAD in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Hayashi
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States of America
- Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Kenji Miki
- Center for Pain Management, Hayaishi Hospital, Osaka, Japan
- Faculty of Health Science, Osaka Yukioka College of Health Science, Ibaraki, Japan
- Department Rheumatology, Yukioka Hospital, Osaka, Japan
- Japan Pain Foundation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsunori Ikemoto
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ushida
- Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
- Japan Pain Foundation, Tokyo, Japan
- Institute of Physical Fitness, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Yukiko Shiro
- Japan Pain Foundation, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Pain Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Nagoya Gakuin University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tomoko Tetsunaga
- Japan Pain Foundation, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Takasusuki
- Japan Pain Foundation, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu, Japan
| | - Masako Hosoi
- Japan Pain Foundation, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Masao Yukioka
- Faculty of Health Science, Osaka Yukioka College of Health Science, Ibaraki, Japan
- Department Rheumatology, Yukioka Hospital, Osaka, Japan
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Dickson C, de Zoete RMJ, Stanton TR. From Where We've Come to Where We Need to Go: Physiotherapy Management of Chronic Whiplash-Associated Disorder. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 2:795369. [PMID: 35295440 PMCID: PMC8915571 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2021.795369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Dickson
- School of Allied Health Science and Practice, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- *Correspondence: Cameron Dickson
| | - Rutger M. J. de Zoete
- School of Allied Health Science and Practice, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Tasha R. Stanton
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation in Health, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Sorondo D, Delpierre C, Côté P, Salmi LR, Cedraschi C, Taylor-Vaisey A, Lemeunier N. Determinants of clinical practice guidelines' utilization for the management of musculoskeletal disorders: a scoping review. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2021; 22:507. [PMID: 34074285 PMCID: PMC8170973 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-021-04204-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Many clinical practice guidelines have been developed for the management of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). However, there is a gap between evidence-based knowledge and clinical practice, and reasons are poorly understood. Understanding why healthcare providers use clinical practice guidelines is essential to improve their implementation, dissemination, and adherence. Aim To identify determinants of clinical practice guidelines’ utilization by health care providers involved in the assessment and management of MSDs. Method A scoping review of the literature was conducted. Three databases were searched from inception to March 2021. Article identification, study design, methodological quality, type of healthcare providers, MSDs, barriers and facilitators associated with guidelines’ utilization were extracted from selected articles. RESULTS: 8671 citations were retrieved, and 43 articles were selected. 51% of studies were from Europe, and most were quantitative studies (64%) following a cross-sectional design (88%). Almost 80% of articles dealt with low back pain guidelines, and the most studied healthcare providers were general practitioners or physiotherapists. Five main barriers to guideline utilization were expressed by providers: 1) disagreement between recommendations and patient expectations; 2) guidelines not specific to individual patients; 3) unfamiliarity with “non-specific” term, or with the bio psychosocial model of MSDs; 4) time consuming; and 5) heterogeneity in guideline methods. Four main facilitators to guideline utilization were cited: 1) clinician’s interest in evidence-based practice; 2) perception from clinicians that the guideline will improve triage, diagnosis and management; 3) time efficiency; and 4) standardized language. Conclusion Identifying modifiable determinants is the first step in developing implementation strategies to improve guideline utilization in clinical practice. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-021-04204-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Sorondo
- UMR1295, Toulouse III University, Inserm, Equipe EQUITY, Equipe constitutive du CERPOP, Toulouse, France. .,Institut Franco-Européen de Chiropraxie, 72 chemin de la Flambère-31,300, Toulouse, France.
| | - Cyrille Delpierre
- UMR1295, Toulouse III University, Inserm, Equipe EQUITY, Equipe constitutive du CERPOP, Toulouse, France
| | - Pierre Côté
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation at Ontario Tech University and the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Oshawa and Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Louis-Rachid Salmi
- Univ. Bordeaux, ISPED, Centre INSERM U1219-Bordeaux Population Health, F-33000, Bordeaux, France.,CHU de Bordeaux, Pôle de santé publique, Service d'Information Médicale, F-33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Christine Cedraschi
- Division of General Medical Rehabilitation, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Multidisciplinary Pain Centre, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Anne Taylor-Vaisey
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation at Ontario Tech University and the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Oshawa and Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nadège Lemeunier
- UMR1295, Toulouse III University, Inserm, Equipe EQUITY, Equipe constitutive du CERPOP, Toulouse, France.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
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Divergent and Convergent Attitudes and Views of General Practitioners and Community Pharmacists to Collaboratively Implement Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Australia: A Nationwide Study. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10010047. [PMID: 33466476 PMCID: PMC7824809 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10010047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Setting up an interprofessional team for antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) to improve the quality and safety of antimicrobial use in primary care is essential but challenging. This study aimed to investigate the convergent and divergent attitudes and views of general practitioners (GPs) and community pharmacists (CPs) about AMS implementation and their perceived challenges of collaboration to design a GP–pharmacist collaborative AMS (GPPAS) model. Nationwide surveys of GPs and CPs across Australia were conducted January-October 2019. Chi square statistics and a theoretical framework were used for comparative analyses of quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. In total, 999 participants responded to the surveys with 15.4% (n = 386) response rates for GPs and 30.7% (n = 613) for CPs. GPs and CPs were aware about AMS however their interprofessional perceptions varied to the benefits of AMS programs. CPs indicated that they would need AMS training; significantly higher than GPs (GP vs. CP; 46.4% vs. 76.5%; p < 0.0001). GPs’ use of the Therapeutic Guideline Antibiotic was much higher than CPs (83.2% vs. 45.5%; p < 0.0001). No interprofessional difference was found in the very-limited use of patient information leaflets (p < 0.1162) and point-of-care tests (p < 0.7848). While CPs were more willing (p < 0.0001) to collaborate with GPs, both groups were convergent in views that policies that support GP–CP collaboration are needed to implement GPPAS strategies. GP–pharmacist collaborative group meetings (54.9% vs. 82.5%) and antimicrobial audit (46.1% vs. 86.5%) models were inter-professionally supported to optimise antimicrobial therapy, but an attitudinal divergence was significant (p < 0.001). The challenges towards GP–CP collaboration in AMS were identified by both at personal, logistical and organisational environment level. There are opportunities for GP–CP collaboration to improve AMS in Australian primary care. However, strengthening GP–pharmacy collaborative system structure and practice agreements is a priority to improve interprofessional trust, competencies, and communications for AMS and to establish a GPPAS model in future.
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Alalawi A, Luque-Suarez A, Fernandez-Sanchez M, Gallina A, Evans D, Falla D. Do measures of physical function enhance the prediction of persistent pain and disability following a whiplash injury? Protocol for a prospective observational study in Spain. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035736. [PMID: 33033010 PMCID: PMC7542919 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Not all factors that predict persistent pain and disability following whiplash injury are known. In particular, few physical factors, such as changes in movement and muscle behaviour, have been investigated. The aim of this study is to identify predictive factors that are associated with the development of persistent pain and disability following a whiplash injury by combining contemporary measures of physical function together with established psychological and pain-related predictive factors. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A prospective observational study will recruit 150 consecutive eligible patients experiencing whiplash-related symptoms, admitted to a private physiotherapy clinic in Spain within 15 days of their whiplash injury. Poor outcome will be measured using the Neck Disability Index (NDI), defined as an NDI score of 30% or greater at 6 months post injury. Candidate predictors, including demographic characteristics, injury characteristics, pain characteristics, self-reported psychosocial factors and physical factors, will be collected at baseline (within 15 days of inception). Regression analyses will be performed to identify factors that are associated with persistent neck pain and disability over the study period. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The project has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the province of Malaga, Spain (#30052019). The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Alalawi
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Manuel Fernandez-Sanchez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Educacion Enfermeria y Fisioterapia, Universidad De Almeria, Almeria, Spain
| | - Alessio Gallina
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - David Evans
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Deborah Falla
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Return to Work Pathways Following Injury in Road Traffic Crashes: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 62:e630-e635. [PMID: 32941346 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine: 1) different return to work (RTW) pathways among road traffic crash (RTC) survivors; 2) RTW differences between RTC and workers' compensation schemes, and; 3) factors associated with relapse and attempting graduated RTW. METHODS Administrative income support data from RTC survivors with compensated work absence in Victoria, Australia were arranged as daily income payments, pattern recognition determined RTW pathways. Multivariable logistic regression showed odds of relapse or attempting graduated RTW by covariate. RESULTS Most had successful RTWs without relapse (66.7% full, 7.2% graduated), 22% relapsed at least once, and 17% attempted gradual RTW. Sex, injury type, length of hospital stay, road user group, and compensation scheme were associated with relapse and graduated RTW attempt likelihood. CONCLUSIONS Results help identify people likely to benefit from RTW interventions, such as programs that incentivise graduated RTW.
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A Nationwide Survey of Australian General Practitioners on Antimicrobial Stewardship: Awareness, Uptake, Collaboration with Pharmacists and Improvement Strategies. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9060310. [PMID: 32521720 PMCID: PMC7345044 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9060310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Implementing antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs is central to optimise antimicrobial use in primary care. This study aims to assess general practitioners’ (GPs’) awareness of AMS, uptake of AMS strategies, attitudes towards GP–pharmacist collaboration in AMS and future AMS improvement strategies. A paper-based survey of nationally representative GPs across Australia was conducted in 2019. Of 386 respondent GPs, 68.9% were familiar with AMS. Respondents most frequently used the Therapeutic Guidelines (TG) (83.2%, 321/385) and delayed antimicrobial prescribing (72.2%, 278/385) strategies, whereas few utilised point-of-care tests (18.4%, 71/382), patient information leaflets (20.2%, 78/384), peer prescribing reports (15.5%, 60/384) and audit and feedback (9.8%, 38/384). GPs were receptive to pharmacists’ recommendations on the choice (50.5%, 192/381) and dose (63%, 241/382) of antimicrobials, and more than 60% (235/381) supported a policy fostering increased GP–pharmacist collaboration. Most GPs agreed to have AMS training (72%, 278/386), integration of electronic TG (eTG) with prescribing software (88.3%, 341/386) and policies limiting the prescribing of selected antimicrobials (74.4%, 287/386) in the future. Conclusively, GPs are aware of the importance of judicious antimicrobial prescribing but inadequately uptake evidence-based AMS strategies. The majority of GPs support GP–pharmacist collaborative AMS approaches to optimise antimicrobial use. Developing a feasible GP–pharmacist collaborative AMS implementation model and facilitating stewardship resources and training could foster AMS activities in primary care.
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Ritchie C, Smith A, Sterling M. Medical and allied health service use during acute and chronic post-injury periods in whiplash injured individuals. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:260. [PMID: 32228573 PMCID: PMC7106620 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05146-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with whiplash associated disorder (WAD) frequently experience neck pain in addition to other physical, psychological and social symptoms. Consequently, treatment is sought from a variety of health professionals. The limited data available about health services use in this population are conflicting. This study aimed to characterise health service use in individuals with WAD from a motor vehicle crash. METHODS Medical (general practitioner (GP), medical specialist, emergency services (ED), radiology - x-ray, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound) and allied health service (physiotherapy, chiropractor, psychologist, osteopath, occupational therapy) use during acute (< 12 weeks) and chronic (12 weeks to 2 years) post-injury periods were analysed in adults claiming compensation for WAD in the no-fault jurisdiction of Victoria, Australia (n = 37,315). RESULTS Most WAD claimants had an acute post-injury health service payment (95%, n = 35,348), and approximately one-third (29%, n = 10,871) had a chronic post-injury health service payment. During an acute post-injury period, the most frequently compensated services were for: ED (82% of acute claimants), radiology (56%), and medical specialist (38%). Whereas, physiotherapy (64.4% of chronic claimants), GP (48.1%), and radiology (34.6%) were the most frequently paid services during the chronic period. Females received significantly more payments from physiotherapists (F = 23.4%, M = 18%, z = - 11.3, p < .001, r = 0.13), chiropractors (F = 7.4%, M = 5.6%, z = - 6.3, p < .001, r = 0.13), and psychologists (F = 4.2%, M = 2.8%, z = - 6.7, p < .001, r = 0.18); whereas, males received significantly more medical services payments from medical specialists (F = 41.8%, M = 43.8%, z = - 3.7, p < .001, r = 0.03), ED (F = 74.0%, M = 76.3%, z = - 4.9, p < .001, r = 0.03) and radiology (F = 58.3%, M = 60.1%, z = - 3.4, p < .001, r = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Individuals with WAD claimed for a range of health services. Radiology imaging use during the acute post-injury period, and physiotherapy and chiropractor service use during the chronic post-injury period appeared concordant with current WAD management guidelines. Conversely, low physiotherapy and chiropractic use during an acute post-injury period, and high radiology and medical specialists use during the chronic post-injury period appeared discordant with current guidelines. Strategies are needed to help inform medical health professionals of the current guidelines to promote early access to health professionals likely to provide an active approach to treatment, and to address unnecessary referral to radiology and medical specialists in individuals with on-going WAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Ritchie
- Recover Injury Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Ashley Smith
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.,Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Michele Sterling
- Recover Injury Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Road Traffic Injury Recovery, Brisbane, Australia
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Gray SE, Brijnath B, Mazza D, Collie A. Australian General Practitioners' and Compensable Patients: Factors Affecting Claim Management and Return to Work. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2019; 29:672-678. [PMID: 30715662 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-019-09828-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose General Practitioners (GPs) play an important role in personal injury compensation systems yet system processes have been perceived as burdensome. Objectives were to (1) determine attitudes of Australian GPs on health benefits of return to work (RTW) after injury/illness and (2) identify associations between GP characteristics and agreement with issues surrounding treating compensable patients. Methods Cross-sectional postal survey of 423 Australian GPs to determine agreement with issues associated with compensable patients (including patient advocacy, conflicting opinions between GPs and compensation systems, fitness-for-work certification, and refusal to treat). Results The vast majority of GPs agreed there was a health benefit to early RTW. GPs with 16-20 years' experience had significantly higher odds of agreeing that the certificate of work capacity is the primary method of communication between RTW stakeholders (OR 2.36 [1.13-4.92]) than those with greater experience. 49% of GPs agreed they should be able to refuse to treat compensable patients. Female GPs had significantly lower odds (OR 0.60 [0.40-0.90]) of agreeing with right to refuse than male GPs, as did those from remote or regional practices (OR 0.43 [0.20-0.94]; OR 0.60 [0.39-0.92]) than GPs from urban practices. Conclusions Reducing administrative barriers identified by Australian GPs and improving communication with compensation systems will likely have a positive impact on their refusal to treat compensable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon E Gray
- Insurance Work and Health Group, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, 3004, Australia.
| | - Bianca Brijnath
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, 1/270 Ferntree Gully Rd, Notting Hill, 3168, Australia
- National Ageing Research Institute, 34-48 Poplar Rd, Parkville, 3052, Australia
- School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University, Building 108 Brand Dr, Bentley, 6102, Australia
| | - Danielle Mazza
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, 1/270 Ferntree Gully Rd, Notting Hill, 3168, Australia
| | - Alex Collie
- Insurance Work and Health Group, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, 3004, Australia
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Griffin A, Jagnoor J, Arora M, Cameron ID, Kifley A, Sterling M, Kenardy J, Rebbeck T. Evidence-based care in high- and low-risk groups following whiplash injury: a multi-centre inception cohort study. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:806. [PMID: 31694622 PMCID: PMC6836463 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4623-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies aimed at improving the provision of evidence-based care (EBC) for the management of acute whiplash injuries have been largely successful. However, whether EBC is broadly provided and whether delivery of EBC varies based on risk of non-recovery, is uncertain. Receiving EBC should improve recovery, though this relationship has yet to be established. Further, mitigating the effect of EBC is the relationship with the practitioner, a phenomenon poorly understood in WAD. This study aimed to determine the proportion of individuals with whiplash, at differing baseline risk levels, receiving EBC. This study also aimed to determine whether receiving EBC and the therapeutic relationship were associated with recovery at 3 months post injury. METHODS Participants with acute whiplash were recruited from public hospital emergency departments, private physiotherapy practices, and State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) databases. Participants completed questionnaires at baseline (demographics, risk of non-recovery) and 3-months (treatment received, risk identification, therapeutic relationship) post injury. Primary health care providers (HCPs) treating these participants also completed questionnaires at 3-months. Recovery was defined as neck disability index ≤4/50 and global perceived effect of ≥4/5. RESULTS Two-hundred and twenty-eight people with acute whiplash, and 53 primary care practitioners were recruited. The majority of the cohort reported receiving EBC, with correct application of the Canadian C-spine rule (74%), and provision of active treatments (e.g. 89% receiving advice) high. Non-recommended (passive) treatments were also received by a large proportion of the cohort (e.g. 50% receiving massage). The therapeutic relationship was associated with higher odds of recovery, which was potentially clinically significant (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.18-1.62). EBC was not significantly associated with recovery. CONCLUSIONS Guideline-based knowledge and practice has largely been retained from previous implementation strategies. However, recommendations for routine risk identification and tailored management, and reduction in the provision of passive treatment have not. The therapeutic relationship was identified as one of several important predictors of recovery, suggesting that clinicians must develop rapport and understanding with their patients to improve the likelihood of recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Griffin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, 75 East St, Lidcombe, NSW Australia
- John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute, St Leonards, NSW Australia
| | - Jagnoor Jagnoor
- John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute, St Leonards, NSW Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, The University of Sydney, Level 5, 1 King St, Newtown, NSW Australia
| | - Mohit Arora
- John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute, St Leonards, NSW Australia
| | - Ian D. Cameron
- John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute, St Leonards, NSW Australia
| | - Annette Kifley
- John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute, St Leonards, NSW Australia
| | - Michele Sterling
- NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Road Traffic Injury, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD Australia
- Recover Injury Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Level 7, UQ Oral Health Centre, Herston, QLD Australia
| | - Justin Kenardy
- Recover Injury Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Level 7, UQ Oral Health Centre, Herston, QLD Australia
| | - Trudy Rebbeck
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, 75 East St, Lidcombe, NSW Australia
- John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute, St Leonards, NSW Australia
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Tenenbaum A, Nordeman L, Sunnerhagen KS, Gunnarsson R. A risk stratification tool for prehospital triage of patients exposed to a whiplash trauma. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216694. [PMID: 31086405 PMCID: PMC6516661 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our aim was to develop a risk stratification model to predict the presence of a potentially more sinister injury in patients exposed to a whiplash trauma. METHODS The study base comprised of 3,115 residents who first sought healthcare contact within one week after being exposed to a whiplash trauma between 1999-2008, from within a defined geographical area, Skaraborg County in south-western Sweden. Information about gender, age, time elapsed prior to seeking care, type of health care contact, and hospitalisation was retrieved. Seventeen potential risk factors were identified and evaluated using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Of 3,115 patients, 215 (6.9%) required hospital admission so theoretically 93% could have been initially assessed by primary health care. However, only 46% had their first contact in primary health care. All patients had symptoms resulting in a diagnosis of whiplash injury. Four risk factors were found to be associated with hospital admission: commotio cerebri (OR 31, 19-51), fracture / luxation (OR 11, 5.1-22), serious injury (OR 41, 8.0-210), and the patient sought care during the same day as the trauma (OR 5.9, 3.7-9.5). These four risk factors explained 27% of the variation for hospital admission and the area under curve (AUC) was 0.77 (0.74-0.80). Ninety-six percent of patients (2,985) had only a whiplash injury with no other injury. These could be split into those attending health care the same day as the trauma, 1,737 (56%) with a 7.1% risk for hospital admission, and those attending health care later, 1,248 (40%) with a 1.3% risk for hospital admission. CONCLUSION Patients with no signs of commotio cerebri, no fracture/luxation injury, no serious injury, comprising 96% of all patients exposed to a whiplash trauma can initially be referred to primary health care for initial assessment. However, those contacting the health care the same day as the trauma should be referred to a hospital for evaluation if they can't get an appointment with a general practitioner the same day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Tenenbaum
- Hälsan & Arbetslivet, Occupational Health Care Unit, Region Västra Götaland, Alingsås, Sweden
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lena Nordeman
- Research and Development Center Södra Älvsborg, Primary Health Care, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Katharina S. Sunnerhagen
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience—Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ronny Gunnarsson
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Research and Development Center Södra Älvsborg, Primary Health Care, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Gray SE, Hassani-Mahmooei B, Cameron ID, Kendall E, Kenardy J, Collie A. Patterns and Predictors of Failed and Sustained Return-to-Work in Transport Injury Insurance Claimants. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2018; 28:740-748. [PMID: 29430592 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-018-9761-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Purpose To determine the incidence of employed people who try and fail to return-to-work (RTW) following a transport crash. To identify predictors of RTW failure. METHODS A historical cohort study was conducted in the state of Victoria, Australia. People insured through the state-based compulsory third party transport accident compensation scheme were included. Inclusion criteria included date of crash between 2003 and 2012 (inclusive), age 15-70 years at the time of crash, sustained a non-catastrophic injury and received at least 1 day of income replacement. A matrix was created from an administrative payments dataset that mapped their RTW pattern for each day up to 3 years' post-crash. A gap of 7 days of no payment followed by resumption of a payment was considered a RTW failure and was flagged. These event flags were then entered into a regression analysis to determine the odds of having a failed RTW attempt. RESULTS 17% of individuals had a RTW fail, with males having 20% lower odds of experiencing RTW failure. Those who were younger, had minor injuries (sprains, strains, contusions, abrasions, non-limb fractures), or were from more advantaged socio-economic group, were less likely to experience a RTW failure. Most likely to experience a RTW failure were individuals with whiplash, dislocations or particularly those admitted to hospital. CONCLUSIONS Understanding the causes and predictors of failed RTW can help insurers, employers and health systems identify at-risk individuals. This can enable earlier and more targeted support and more effective employment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon E Gray
- Insurance Work and Health Group, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
- Centre of Research Excellence in Recovery Following Road Traffic Injuries, Herston, Australia.
- , 553 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, 3004, Australia.
| | - Behrooz Hassani-Mahmooei
- Insurance Work and Health Group, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ian D Cameron
- John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, St Leonards, Australia
- Centre of Research Excellence in Recovery Following Road Traffic Injuries, Herston, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Kendall
- The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Meadowbrook, Australia
- Centre of Research Excellence in Recovery Following Road Traffic Injuries, Herston, Australia
| | - Justin Kenardy
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
- Centre of Research Excellence in Recovery Following Road Traffic Injuries, Herston, Australia
| | - Alex Collie
- Insurance Work and Health Group, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre of Research Excellence in Recovery Following Road Traffic Injuries, Herston, Australia
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Nikles J, Yelland M, Bayram C, Miller G, Sterling M. Management of Whiplash Associated Disorders in Australian general practice. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2017; 18:551. [PMID: 29284446 PMCID: PMC5747169 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-017-1899-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD) are common and costly, and are usually managed initially by general practitioners (GPs). How GPs manage WAD is largely unstudied, though there are clinical guidelines. Our aim was to ascertain the rate of management (percentage of encounters) of WAD among patients attending Australian general practice, and to review management of these problems, including imaging, medications and other treatments. Methods We analysed data from 2013 to 2016 collected by different random samples of approximately 1000 general practitioners (GPs) per year. Each GP collected data about 100 consecutive consultations for BEACH (Bettering the Evaluation and Care of Health), an Australian national study of general practice encounters. Main outcome measures were: the proportion of encounters involving management of WAD; management including imaging, medications and other treatments given; appropriateness of treatment assessed against published clinical guidelines. Results Of 291,100 encounters from 2919 GP participants (a nationally representative sample), WAD were managed at 137 encounters by 124 GPs (0.047%). Management rates were 0.050% (females) and 0.043% (males). For 63 new cases (46%), 19 imaging tests were ordered, most commonly neck/cervical spine x-ray (52.6% of tests for new cases), and neck/cervical spine CT scan (31.6%). One or more medications were prescribed/supplied for 53.3% of WAD. NSAIDs (11.7 per 100 WAD problems) and compound analgesics containing paracetamol and opioids (10.2 per 100 WAD problems) were the commonest medications used by GPs overall. Paracetamol alone was used in 8 per 100 WAD problems. The most frequent clinical/procedural treatments for WAD were physical medicine/rehabilitation (16.1 per 100 WAD problems), counselling (6.6), and general advice/education (5.8). Conclusions GPs refer about 30% of new cases for imaging (possibly overutilising imaging), and prescribe a range of drugs, approximately 22% of which are outside clinical guidelines. These findings suggest a need for further education of GPs, including indications for imaging after whiplash injury, identification of those more likely to develop chronic WAD, and medication management guidelines. WAD carry a large personal and economic burden, so the impact of improvements in GP management is potentially significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Nikles
- RECOVER Injury Research Centre NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Recovery Following Road Traffic Injuries The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia.
| | - Michael Yelland
- School of Medicine, Griffith University, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Clare Bayram
- Family Medicine Research Centre, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Graeme Miller
- Family Medicine Research Centre, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michele Sterling
- RECOVER Injury Research Centre NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Recovery Following Road Traffic Injuries The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
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